Nasal & Sinus Cancer

Information and Medical Malpractice from Baltimore Nasal & Sinus Cancer Lawyer Mark Kopec

Nasal and sinus cancer are types of head and neck cancers that originate in the nasal cavity or the paranasal sinuses. These small, air-filled cavities located around the nose specifically play a role in drainage, mucus production, and even voice resonance. If you have been injured, then you may have a medical malpractice claim and need Baltimore nasal and sinus cancer lawyer Mark Kopec at the Kopec Law Firm.

Understanding the Anatomy

• Nasal Cavity: The nasal cavity is the hollow space behind the nose, divided by the septum. It has a pink tissue lining, and it filters and humidifies inhaled air.
• Paranasal Sinuses: These four paired cavities (frontal, maxillary, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses) surround the nasal cavity. They generally produce mucus and lighten the skull’s weight.

Types of Nasal and Sinus Cancer

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Firstly, this most common type starts in the thin, flat lining of the nasal cavity or sinuses.
• Adenocarcinoma: This cancer arises from the mucus-producing glands in the sinuses.
• Other Rare Types: Lastly, less frequent tumors include minor salivary gland carcinomas, lymphomas, and melanomas.

Symptoms of Nasal and Sinus Cancer

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Persistent nasal congestion or stuffiness that doesn’t respond to medication
• Nosebleeds that occur frequently and heavily
• Facial pain or pressure, especially around the eyes or forehead
• Loss of smell or taste
• Runny nose with pus-like discharge
• Loose teeth or numbness in the upper teeth or cheek
• Bulging of one eye
• Vision problems or double vision
• Ear pain or hearing problems

Doctors to See for Diagnosis

• Otolaryngologist (ENT): An ear, nose, and throat specialist is qualified to examine the nasal cavity and also the sinuses.
• Head and Neck Oncologist: This doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating cancers of the head and neck region.

Tests for Diagnosis

• Nasal Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the nostril to visualize the nasal cavity and sinuses.
• Biopsy: A tissue sample is collected for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence and also the type of cancer.
• Imaging Tests: CT Scans and MRI scans provide detailed pictures of the sinuses and surrounding structures to determine the extent of the cancer.

Baltimore nasal and sinus cancer lawyer Mark Kopec can review whether the appropriate tests were timely done for you.

Doctors for Treatment

• Head and Neck Oncologist: This doctor leads the treatment plan, which may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
• Radiation Oncologist: This specialist plans and delivers targeted radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells.
• Surgical Oncologist: This surgeon removes cancerous tissue during an operation.

Treatment Options

• Surgery: Doctors may use endoscopic surgery or open surgery to remove the tumor, depending on the location and size.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and kill cancer cells. Doctors can deliver externally or internally (brachytherapy).
• Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs target and destroy cancer cells throughout the body. Doctors often use it in combination with radiation therapy.

Prognosis

The prognosis for nasal and sinus cancer depends on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and response to treatment. Early detection significantly improves the chances of a successful outcome.

Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Nasal & Sinus Cancer Lawyer Mark Kopec

If a medical professional fails to diagnose nasal or sinus cancer in a timely manner, leading to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes, then you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. Here are some potential scenarios:

• Misdiagnosis: Mistaking nasal or sinus cancer symptoms for allergies or sinusitis can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
• Failure to Order Necessary Tests: A doctor who doesn’t order appropriate imaging tests or biopsies despite persistent symptoms could be negligent.
• Surgical Errors: During surgery, errors in removing all cancerous tissue or damaging surrounding structures can worsen the prognosis.
• Radiation Therapy Errors: Mistakes in radiation dosage or treatment planning can cause unnecessary side effects or leave cancer cells behind.

Finding Legal Help from Baltimore Nasal & Sinus Cancer Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you believe you or a loved one has suffered due to medical malpractice related to nasal or sinus cancer, then consulting with a medical malpractice attorney is recommended. We can review your case, determine if negligence occurred, and also guide you through the legal process.

Next Step: Call Baltimore Nasal & Sinus Cancer Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you were injured in the diagnosis or treatment of nasal or sinus cancer, then visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.