Nose and sinus
Antrochoanal polyp
An antrochoanal polyp is a single, benign growth that starts inside the maxillary sinus and grows through its opening into the nose, sometimes reaching back toward the throat. It affects one side only and does not reliably shrink with nasal sprays, so surgery is the usual treatment.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
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What symptoms can it cause?
Blockage is usually on one side only and can feel like a lump reaching toward the back of the throat. It may cause snoring, mouth breathing, or a sensation of something moving when you breathe. It is more common in children and young adults, and there is usually little pain.
How it is checked
An ENT doctor examines the nose with an endoscope and can often see the polyp extending from the sinus opening toward the throat. A CT scan confirms where it starts and helps plan surgery. Growths on one side only are always assessed carefully to rule out other causes.
Treatment
Unlike ordinary allergic nasal polyps, this type does not respond reliably to steroid sprays. Surgery, usually done through the nostril with an endoscope, removes the polyp along with its base inside the sinus. Leaving part of the base behind is the main reason it can grow back.
Recovery and follow-up
Follow-up checks that the nose is healing well and looks for any early signs of regrowth. Saline rinses are often advised for a few weeks after surgery.
When to seek help sooner
Worsening one-sided blockage, bleeding, or a growth that returns after surgery should be reassessed.
A note on your care
“A polyp that blocks only one side, or feels like it is reaching toward the throat, is treated differently from ordinary nasal polyps. Let's look at where it is coming from before deciding on treatment.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
Is an antrochoanal polyp cancer?
No, it is a benign growth. Because it affects only one side, it is examined carefully to confirm what it is before treatment.
Will a nasal spray shrink it?
Not reliably. A spray is sometimes tried, but surgery is the usual treatment because the growth starts inside the sinus.
Can it come back after surgery?
Yes, if part of its base inside the sinus is left behind. Careful removal and follow-up reduce this risk.
Who tends to get this?
It is more common in children, teenagers and young adults, though it can occur at any age.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .