[Report of experiences (1974-1986) in classification and site distribution of malignant tumors of the organs of the inner nose and paranasal sinuses. A retrospective review of over 1,296 cases].

The 4th edition of the UICC classification of the TNM system came into force on 1st January 1987. New rules have been established for the classification of maxillary sinus tumors. We have compared these to the classification system used by the AO/HNO for all the sinuses and the nose. From a review of the world literature and analysis of 1296 patients registered in the years 1974 to 1986, it became clear that less than 60% of all malignant tumors of the nasal cavity and sinuses are primarily located in the maxillary sinuses. Furthermore, the primary site is often hard to define because of the high rate of T3 and T4 tumors (approx. 70%).