Nasal polyposis: from pathogenesis to treatment, an update.

Nasal polyps (NP) are common benign degeneration of nasal sinus mucosa with aprevalence around 4% in the adult population. The causes are still uncertain but there is a strong association with allergy, infection, asthma and aspirinsensitivity. Histologically, the presence of a large quantity of extracellularfluid, mast cell degranulation and eosinophilia has been demonstrated. Typically the patients show nasal obstruction, anosmia and rhinorrhoea. Nasal endoscopicexamination and CT imaging allow evaluation of the disease extension. A combined medical and surgical treatment is recommended for symptoms control in preventing symptomatic NP recurrence. We will review the current knowledge in thepathogenesis and treatment of this complex disease entity.