Nasal cancer occurs when malignant cancer cells begin to grow and multiply in the nasal tissue and passageways. According to the National Cancer Institute, the most common type of nasal cavity cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which forms in the squamous cells lining the inside of the paranasal sinuses and the nasal cavity. Treatment for nasal cancer depends on the stage and grade of the cancer, whether or not it has spread, as well as the patient's overall health. There are several treatment options available for nasal cancer.
Surgery
According to the American Cancer Society, surgery to remove the cancer and some of the surrounding bone or other nearby tissues is an essential part of treatment for nasal cancer. During surgery nearby lymph nodes are usually removed. Lymph nodes are dissected and examined for the presence of cancer cells, which helps to determine if the cancer has spread. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be given prior to surgery to shrink the existing tumor.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-beam x-rays to kill cancer cells. It can be given in one of two ways. External radiation is given from a machine placed outside of the body, which delivers the radiation through the skin to the affected area. Some doctors may recommend internal radiation therapy, in which radioactive wires, rods or seeds are placed at or near the cancer. The way the radiation therapy is given for nasal cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated, explains the National Cancer Institute. Side effects of radiation therapy can include skin burns, fatigue, nausea and loss of appetite.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the use of potent medications to kill cancer cells and keep them from spreading. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously through a vein in the body or in the form of a pill. Chemotherapeutic drugs enter the bloodstream and reach all areas of the body, making this treatment useful for cancer that has spread or metastasized to organs beyond the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, says the National Cancer Institute. Side effects of chemotherapy may include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue and low blood cell count.
