Large olfactory neuroblastoma (esthesioneuroblastoma) surgically treated with an Altemir technique modification: a case report

Introduction Olfactory neuroblastomas are rare malignant tumors that usually occur in the upper nasal cavity. The purpose of this paper is to present a case of a large olfactory neuroblastoma filling the entire nasal cavity, treated with an Altemir technique modification. Methods A 39-year-old woman presented with a large tumor of the nasal cavity. After the laboratory examinations, the tumor was classified as a Kadish stage A olfactory neuroblastoma. The selected treatment was the surgical excision after an Altemir technique modification combined with midfacial degloving and additional radiotherapy. Results Histopathology revealed a Hyams grade III olfactory neuroblastoma completely removed. Although the patient refused the additional radiotherapy, 18 months postoperatively, there were no signs of recurrence, and the patient shows big improvement on her sense of smell. Conclusions Large olfactory neuroblastomas filling the entire nasal cavity extending back to the postnasal space can be completely removed using a transfacial approach as the Altemir technique modification is.