Nasal Cavity Cancer

Nasal Cavity Cancer - A rare form of cancer that begins in the nasal cavity (the inside of the nose). The first chamber of the respiratory system, the nasal cavity is the air-filled space located behind the nose and above the throat. Together, the nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses (the hollow, air-filled spaces in the bones around the nose) serve to filter, moisten and warm air before it travels down into the lungs. The most common form of nasal cavity cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (which forms in flat, epithelial cells that line the nasal cavity). Other types can include melanoma, sarcoma, and midline granulomas. Prolonged exposure to chemicals or dust may increase the risk of developing nasal cavity cancer.

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