Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of the nose and paranasal sinuses in the pediatric population.

Paranasal and nasal neoplasms often elude early diagnosis in the pediatric population. This report examines 3 cases of nasal and paranasal sinus lymphomas out of 29 lymphomas and lymphoproliferative disorders seen from 1983 to 1990. Diagnostic delays are common. The development of orbital signs and symptoms often leads to diagnosis. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are important in delineating the extent of disease and allow appropriate staging. Transnasal biopsy yields the definitive diagnosis, with low associated morbidity. Aggressive chemotherapy and irradiation prolongs survival; with this regimen all of our patients have remained alive, although 1 has residual disease. B-cell lymphomas are more common than T-cell varieties in children. One patient demonstrated B-cell immunodeficiency and preleukemia prior to developing primary paranasal sinus non-Hodgkin's lymphoma; this case reiterates the systemic nature of lymphoma, Key differences between children and adults in the manifestations of nasal and sinus lymphomas are emphasized.