Angiofibroma

Juvenile Angiofibroma

Juvenile angiofibroma is a benign nasal tumor of the back of the nose or upper throat
Juvenile angiofibroma is somewhat unusual. It characteristically is found in teenage boys. The tumor includes numerous blood vessels, is locally invasive, and can cause bone damage.
Symptoms:
Frequent nosebleeds
Stuffy nose
Difficulty breathing through the nose
Nasal discharge, usually bloody
Hearing loss
Prolonged bleeding
Easy bruising

Exams and Tests:
The doctor may see the angiofibroma when examining the upper throat.
Tests that may be done include:
X-ray or a CT scan of the head
Nasal mucosal biopsy

Treatment :
Treatment is necessary if the angiofibroma is growing larger, blocking the airway, or causing recurring nosebleeds. In some cases, no treatment is necessary.
Surgery may be needed to remove the tumor. Removal is frequently complicated because the tumor is not enclosed and may have spread to other areas.
A procedure called embolization may be done to prevent the tumor from bleeding. The procedure may correct the nosebleeds by itself, or it may be followed by surgery to remove the tumor.

Prognosis:
Although not cancerous, angiofibromas may continue to develop, even after surgery. Several may vanish by themselves.

Possible Complications:
Spread of the tumor to the nose, the sinuses, and other structures
Anemia
Pressure on the brain (rare)

Prevention:
There is no known way to avoid this condition.

References provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.