Differential Diagnosis for Maxillary Antrochoanal Polyp and Mucocele
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Maxillary antrochoanal polyp: This is the most likely diagnosis due to its characteristic appearance on radiology as a single, large, benign growth originating from the maxillary sinus and extending into the nasal cavity, often causing nasal obstruction.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Mucocele: A mucocele is a possible diagnosis, characterized by a retention cyst filled with mucous, which can occur in the maxillary sinus and cause similar symptoms. Radiology can help differentiate by showing a mucocele as a well-defined, fluid-filled lesion.
- Chronic maxillary sinusitis: This condition can mimic the symptoms of a polyp or mucocele, with radiology showing inflammation and fluid accumulation in the maxillary sinus.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although less likely, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis. Radiology might show a more aggressive, infiltrative lesion in the maxillary sinus, which could be mistaken for a polyp or mucocele.
- Invasive fungal sinusitis: This is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Radiology findings might include sinus opacification and bone destruction, which could be confused with other diagnoses.
Rare Diagnoses
- Odontogenic cysts or tumors: These are rare lesions that originate from dental tissues and can extend into the maxillary sinus, mimicking polyps or mucoceles on radiology.
- Meningoencephalocele: A rare condition where brain tissue herniates into the nasal cavity or sinuses, which could be mistaken for a soft tissue mass like a polyp or mucocele on radiologic imaging.