Presentation: Ear And Nasal Discharge

Question 1

What percentage of adults in the UK have nasal polyps?

Answer 1

Around 1% of adults in the UK have nasal polyps.

Question 2

In which demographic are nasal polyps more common?

Answer 2

Nasal polyps are around 2-4 times more common in men.

Question 3

Are nasal polyps commonly seen in children or the elderly?

Answer 3

Nasal polyps are not commonly seen in children or the elderly.

Question 4

What are some associations with nasal polyps?

Answer 4

Associations include asthma (particularly late-onset asthma), aspirin sensitivity, infective sinusitis, cystic fibrosis, Kartagener’s syndrome, and Churg-Strauss syndrome.

Question 5

What is Samter’s triad?

Answer 5

The association of asthma, aspirin sensitivity, and nasal polyposis is known as Samter’s triad.

Question 6

What are common features of nasal polyps?

Answer 6

Common features include nasal obstruction, rhinorrhoea, sneezing, and poor sense of taste and smell.

Question 7

What unusual features of nasal polyps require further investigation?

Answer 7

Unilateral symptoms or bleeding are unusual features that always require further investigation.

Question 8

What should be done for patients with suspected nasal polyps?

Answer 8

All patients with suspected nasal polyps should be referred to ENT for a full examination.

Question 9

What is the effectiveness of topical corticosteroids for nasal polyps?

Answer 9

Topical corticosteroids shrink polyp size in around 80% of patients.