Nasopharyngeal carcinoma invading the lacrimal apparatus - A Case Report
Journal
Tzu Chi Medical Journal
Journal Volume
17
Journal Issue
5
Pages
349-352
Date Issued
2005
Author(s)
Abstract
Although ocular symptoms are not infrequently seen in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), direct tumor invasion into the orbital cavity is uncommon. Orbital invasion confined to the lacrimal apparatus is even rarer. We report a patient with recurrent NPC with anterior orbit/lacrimal apparatus invasion, who developed an anteromedial orbital mass at the medial canthus 5 years after the diagnosis of NPC. Epiphora occurred before the palpable orbital mass. Pathologic study proved the recurrence of NPC, and the patient subsequently underwent radiotherapy. The route of invasion remains obscure. We proposed the possibility of tumor invasion by means of tumor implantation via the nasolacrimal duct. The presence of epiphora or a mass at the medial canthus in a patient with previously treated NPC should prompt further study unless tumor recurrence in the nasal cavity or lacrimal apparatus is excluded.
Subjects
Lacrimal apparatus; Nasopharyngeal carcinoma; Orbit
SDGs
Other Subjects
adult; article; cancer invasion; cancer radiotherapy; cancer recurrence; cancer surgery; cancer transplantation; case report; diagnostic imaging; epiphora; human; lacrimal apparatus; male; nasopharynx carcinoma; neck dissection; nose cavity
Type
journal article