The presentation and clinical significance of sinonasal respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma (REAH)

Abstract

Isolated REAH, which may mimic a neoplasm, appears to be a different clinical entity than the more common form encountered in association with nasal polyps and inflammation. Further investigation into the etiology and clinical significance is needed.

Predictors of respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartomas of the olfactory clefts in patients with nasal polyposis

“…6 A range of 61% to 73% of REAH is found in conjunction with an inflammatory process, especially NP. [1][2][3] REAH can also be presented in two forms: isolated lesion (less frequent) or in association with another inflammatory process. 1,2,13 In the latter form, a significant association was found between REAH-OC and the following: 1) asthma, 2) a long history of NP, and 3) previous surgery for NP.…”

Bilateral Respiratory Epithelial Adenomatoid Hamartomas Originating from the Anterior Olfactory Clefts

“…We now know that REAH is not as uncommon as originally thought and is often present with other infl ammatory processes (3). In a case series, 73% of 45 patients with REAH had an additional associated pathological process, most commonly nasal polyposis (NP) (9). Recent studies have shown that REAH was found in 35% to 47% of patients with NP who were treated surgically (10)(11)(12).…”

Difference between respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartomas and small malignant tumours of the olfactory cleft on CT scans in forty‐six patients

“…In 2006, the origin of REAHs in the olfactory cleft (REAH‐OC) was first reported . They are frequently observed inside the OC of patients with nasal polyposis, especially in those with previous sinus surgery …”

“…3 They are frequently observed inside the OC of patients with nasal polyposis, 2-5 especially in those with previous sinus surgery. 4,5 Histopathologically, REAHs can be confused with malignant tumours, especially in the case of small biopsies. 6…”