Sinonasal Carcinoma: Updated Phenotypic and Molecular Characterization

Abstract

The most commonly encountered carcinoma of the sinonasal tract is the keratinizing/ non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. However, this complex anatomic location may represent the site of other epithelial malignant neoplasms of varying histogenesis. These tumors are clinically aggressive and often fatal; historically, treatment outcomes have been poor. Differentiating these tumor types may have clinical impact as advances in therapeutic intervention could increase survival, quality of life and occasionally result in a cure. This review focuses on recent advances in the molecular and phenotypic characterization of sinonasal carcinomas and their impact on diagnosis and treatment.