Metastatic renal cell carcinoma presenting as epistaxis.

Metastatic tumors in the nasal and paranasal sinuses are very rare. The origin of metastatic tumors in the nasal or paranasal sinuses is often renal cancer. Renal cell carcinomas are known for their tendency to early metastasis, and symptoms due to the metastatic lesion may be the only initial manifestation. In this paper we deal with the case of a 73-year-old patient who presented with recurrent epistaxis. The presence of a primary renal cell carcinoma was recognized only after surgical removal of the metastatic tumor. The presentation, difficulties in diagnosis and treatment of this tumor are discussed, with a review of the literature.