Sinus Cancer

Sinus cancer is better defined as paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer.

Paranasal Sinuses: "Paranasal" means near the nose. There are several paranasal sinuses named after the bones that surround them:

The frontal sinuses are in the lower forehead above the nose.
The maxillary sinuses are in the cheekbones on either side of the nose.
The ethmoid sinuses are beside the upper nose, between the eyes.
The sphenoid sinuses are behind the nose, in the center of the skull.

Nasal Cavity: The nose opens into the nasal cavity, which is divided into two nasal passages.

The most common type of paranasal sinus and nasal cavity cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer forms in the squamous cells (thin, flat cells) lining the inside of the paranasal sinuses and the nasal cavity.

For more information, please visit UofMHealth.org's Health Library entry: Paranasal Sinus and Nasal Cavity Cancer Treatment

There is hope, innovation and support available for those with sinus cancer here at the U-M Rogel Cancer Center. Contact us at 734-647-8902

Patient Care and Treatment
The Head and Neck Oncology Program follows a team approach to care. Our patients with sinus cancer have their situation discussed not only by our head and neck oncologists, but also by team surgeons and pathologists. By having everyone involved, a personalized treatment plan is developed. In most cases, this discussion happens the same day as the appointment.

Research and innovation: U-M researchers are at the forefront of understanding how HPV, or human papillomavirus, plays a role in the recent increase in head and neck cancers. We know patients with HPV-related tumors respond differently to treatment, and our clinical trials seek to understand how we can deliver the most effective treatments with the fewest side effects. In addition, we have a number of clinical trials open for eligible patients.

Support
Undergoing treatment for cancer -- particularly head and neck cancer -- is a difficult and sometimes painful process. To help, we've put together a page filled with Resources and Support for Patients. There are links to articles about treatment, survivor stories and information about support groups. Since our program is part of the U-M Rogel Cancer Center, our patients have access to a range of Patient Support Services. To fully understand what this means, please take time to visit the support services area of this website. We outline the services available to all of our patients at every point in their care.

Appointments/referrals

Patients, please call 734-647-8902. Healthcare professionals, please contact our M-LINE service: 800-962-3555.

For more information, visit our Head and Neck Cancer Clinic webpage.