Undifferentiated carcinoma of the sinonasal cavity: A diligent diagnosis

Introduction: Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma is a scarce, highly aggressive however clinicopathologically distinctive tumor, which usually affects the superior nasal cavity or the paranasal sinuses. Case presentation: A 54-year-old man with left nasal obstruction and intermittent epistaxis was found on anterior rhinoscopy confirmed by nasal endoscopic examination with a reddish/grey friable tumor occupying the lower two thirds of the aforementioned nasal cavity. Imaging modalities showed localized disease and he underwent a successful intranasal resection of the tumor. Histopathology with the aid of immunohistochemistry finally set the diagnosis of sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma. Discussion: The lesion’s aetiology remains unknown. Nasal obstruction, epistaxis, proptosis, visual disturbances, facial pain as well as symptoms of cranial nerve involvement are the usually reported patient’s complains. Early symptoms are vague and non-specific, leading to delay in seeking and obtaining treatment. Histopathological diagnosis poses a challenge and differential diagnosis is wide, and despite multimodality treatment approach, prognosis remains dismal.