Nasopharynx: Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Abstract

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a specific variant of squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx, is a common malignancy in Southeast Asia and Southern China. The incidence of NPC is reported to be 30 times higher among the Chinese, compared to Caucasians. Ophthalmic manifestations of NPC usually occur due to an intracranial extension of the tumour, and they include isolated or multiple cranial nerve palsies, orbital apex or cavernous sinus syndromes and papilloedema or unilateral optic disc swelling. Orbital involvement in NPC occurs in about 3% of patients, which may present as proptosis, diplopia, blurring of vision, eyelid swelling, orbital pain, and epiphora. Ophthalmic symptoms may be a presenting feature of NPC. Management is by chemo-radiation.