CT and MR Findings of the Inverted Papilloma

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to describe the CT and MR findings of inverted papilloma and to determine the specific differential finding between inverted papilloma with and without coexisting malignancy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-two histopathologically proven inverted papillomas were included in this study; in six patients there was coexisting malignancy. Twenty-two CT images and eight MR images were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: On CT images, the inverted papillomas were seen as unilateral sinonasal masses with bone remodeling (n=15) rather than bone destruction (n=1) and showed iso- or slightly high attenvation. Three of the six malignant cases showed aggressive bone destruction and widespread extension into the orbit, intracranial and buccal spaces, and pterygopalatine fossa. On MR images, the inverted papillomas (n=3) were iso- (n=2) or slightly high (n=1) in signal intensity in relation to muscle on T1 weighted images, and high (n=3) on T2 weigihted images. Gadolinium enhanced images showed heterogenous moderate enhancement. In the cases of coexisting malignancy (n=5), the masses were iso- (n=5) on T1 weighted images, high (n=5) on T2 weighted images and also showed heterogenous moderate enhancement. CONCLUSION: Inverted papilloma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a bulky unilateral nasal mass extending into the adjacent paranasal sinuses, especially in an elderly patient with chronic nasal obstruction. Although there were no specific differential findings in signal intensiy and enhancement pattern on CT and MR images between benign and malignant inverted papilloma, aggressive bone destruction and widespread extension beyond the sinonasal cavity are findings which are highly suggestive of coexisting malignancy.