Diagnosis
How We Can Help You
Olfactory neuroblastoma (esthesioneuroblastoma) is a very rare cancer that develops in the upper nasal cavity near the brain. While these tumors generally grow slowly, some grow quickly and are aggressive.
Stanford is a global referral center for the diagnosis and surgical treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma, using the endoscopic endonasal approach to surgery. That is a scarless surgery that uses the nostril as a natural pathway to the tumor.
WHAT WE OFFER YOU FOR OLFACTORY NEUROBLASTOMA
- Globally-recognized expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma.
- Team-based treatment planning that brings together specialists from neurosurgery, head and neck surgery, neuroradiology, radiation oncology, neuropathology, and more.
- Advanced treatment options usually begin with scarless endoscopic surgery through the nostril.
- Comprehensive support services like nutritional and emotional support to help you with your specific symptoms and the challenges of this experience.
- An active clinical research program dedicated to broadening options for the diagnosis and treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma.
- Assistance from our International Medical Services team to plan your travel and accommodations.
Treatment Options for Neuroblastoma
Olfactory neuroblastoma are rare cancers, so treatment at a high-volume academic medical center by highly specialized head and neck and skull base surgeons and radiation oncologists is important for the best outcomes.
Our team of neurosurgeons, head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists and other specialists work together to develop an individualized treatment plan for your needs. Most people with olfactory neuroblastoma are cured with treatment.
Surgery
Radiation Therapy
Drug Therapy
The primary treatment for olfactory neuroblastomas is endoscopic endonasal surgery, which is a scarless surgery that accesses the tumor through the nostril. When the tumor is large, your surgeon may combine endoscopic endonasal surgery with craniotomy to remove the tumor. The goal is to remove the tumor with a rim of normal tissue around it.
Because this surgical approach is less invasive, there are generally fewer complications and recovery is faster.
Radiation therapy may be recommended after surgery if the tumor is thought to be aggressive, if it was impossible to fully remove, or if it recurs.
Radiation therapy usually begins about 4-6 weeks after surgery with a dose every Monday through Friday for about 6 weeks.
If the tumor has spread to the brain, eye socket, or lymph nodes – or if it recurs -- a course of chemotherapy may be recommended.
The primary treatment for olfactory neuroblastomas is endoscopic endonasal surgery, which is a scarless surgery that accesses the tumor through the nostril. When the tumor is large, your surgeon may combine endoscopic endonasal surgery with craniotomy to remove the tumor. The goal is to remove the tumor with a rim of normal tissue around it.
Because this surgical approach is less invasive, there are generally fewer complications and recovery is faster.
close Surgery
Radiation therapy may be recommended after surgery if the tumor is thought to be aggressive, if it was impossible to fully remove, or if it recurs.
Radiation therapy usually begins about 4-6 weeks after surgery with a dose every Monday through Friday for about 6 weeks.
close Radiation Therapy
If the tumor has spread to the brain, eye socket, or lymph nodes – or if it recurs -- a course of chemotherapy may be recommended.
close Drug Therapy
Clinical Trials for Olfactory Neuroblastoma
Clinical trials evaluate new approaches, devices, or medications in the treatment of olfactory neuroblastoma. Ask your doctor or clinical trials coordinator about available trials that may be additional options for your care.
To learn more about the clinical trials we offer, contact Maria Coburn at 650-736-9551.
What are Olfactory Neuroblastomas?
To schedule an appointment, please call: 650-723-6469