Optimization of Diagnostics and Treatment of Nasopharyngeal Cysts

Abstract

Nasopharyngeal cysts are typically benign, congenital lesions filled with fluid and encapsulated from surrounding tissues. Both children and adults may present with clinical signs.
 The aim of the study was to improve the efficiency of diagnostics and treatment of nasopharyngeal cysts in adults based on the differential diagnosis.
 Materials and Methods. The study was carried out at the Department of Otolaryngology with the Course of Head and Neck Surgery, Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, Ukraine, and encompassed both outpatient and inpatient-to-outpatient observations. Fifteen (9 females, 6 males) patients with nasopharyngeal cysts at the age of 28 to 51 years were examined. All patients underwent a comprehensive assessment, including a thorough evaluation of their medical history, a standard examination of the ears, nose, and throat (ENT) using conventional and optical techniques, alongside computed tomography (CT) of the nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses, complemented by a general physical examination.
 Results. Fifteen patients with nasopharyngeal cysts were examined and treated. In nine (60%) cases, the cyst appeared as a round mass with a dense wall, partially or completely obstructed by the excretory duct and containing dense content, localized in the central region of the nasopharynx. In four (26.6%) cases, the cyst ruptured. Cysts were localized laterally, originating from the fossa of Rosenmüller in three (20%) cases. All patients underwent minimally invasive surgery.
 Conclusions. Endoscopic examination, CT, and magnetic resonance imaging are the most informative diagnostic methods for nasopharyngeal cysts. A definitive diagnosis can be made based on pathomorphological examination. The treatment of choice for nasopharyngeal cysts is endoscopic endonasal surgery with a microdebrider and laser coagulation.