From the Guidelines
A mucus retention cyst in the left nasopharynx typically requires no treatment unless it causes symptoms like nasal obstruction, recurrent infections, or persistent discomfort, and treatment options include observation, medical management, or surgical removal, with endoscopic marsupialization being the preferred surgical approach 1.
Causes of Mucus Retention Cysts
- Blockage of a mucous gland, leading to accumulation of secretions and cyst formation
- Chronic inflammation
- Allergies
- Sinus infections
- Environmental irritants that trigger excessive mucus production
Treatment Options
- Observation with saline nasal sprays to reduce irritation
- Antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids (like fluticasone 50mcg, 1-2 sprays per nostril daily) to decrease inflammation if allergies are contributing
- Antibiotics if infection is present
- Surgical removal for persistently problematic cysts, with endoscopic marsupialization being the preferred surgical approach
Importance of Consultation
You should consult an ENT specialist for proper evaluation, as they can determine the exact size and location of your cyst and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and medical history 1.
Considerations for Surgical Removal
- Large cysts may need to be treated prior to sinus floor elevation by an otorhinolaryngologist
- A cyst occupying two-thirds of the total volume of the sinus is likely to block the drainage of the sinus if the membrane is elevated
- Aspiration of mucous retention cysts can be performed at the time of the sinus floor augmentation, without a negative effect on the incidence of intra- or postoperative complications 1
From the Research
Causes of Mucus Retention Cyst
- A significant correlation between human immunodeficiency virus infection and mucous retention cysts was observed 2
- Mucous retention cysts can be caused by the blockage of the mucous glands in the nasopharynx
Treatment of Mucus Retention Cyst
- The endoscopic approach to the treatment of maxillary sinus cyst is associated with a low rate of recurrence (3% in this study) and no complications 3
- "Wait and see" may be the appropriate management strategy for these retention cysts, as most retention cysts of the maxillary sinus spontaneously regressed or showed no significant change in size over the long term 4
- Just observation is enough for most PSMCs, however, those who have a large cyst (>20 mm) or bilateral cysts at initial diagnosis were at risk for disease progression and should be regularly followed 5