Regression of a sphenochoanal polyp in a child.

OBJECTIVES

To present an unusual case of a sphenochoanal polyp that regressed and review the etiology of such polyps in comparison to the commoner antrochoanal polyp.

STUDY DESIGN

Case study.

METHODS

One was incidentally discovered in a girl aged 3 years, 8 months at postnasal mirror examination after adenotonsillectomy.

RESULTS

Computed tomography scans 1 month later confirmed the polyp, but three months later, MRI scans only revealed sphenoid sinus opacification. Sphenoidotomy revealed normal sinuses implying inflammation had resolved.

CONCLUSION

This patient is believed to be the youngest reported to have sphenochoanal polyp, and the only one where the polyp had completely regressed. This regression suggests that sphenochoanal polyps may be more common than is thought but are mostly asymptomatic.