Cancer of the maxillary sinus and its management in Kumasi, Ghana

C. W Brobby

doi:10.4314/just.v8i1.1116

C. W Brobby School of Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4314/just.v8i1.1116

Keywords: cancer, maxillary sinus, chemotherapy, management

Abstract

During the period January 1980 to January 1986, 38 patients with an admission diagnosis of suspected carcinoma of the maxillary sinus were seen at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana. The review period has been subdivided into three two year periods and patients seen in each period contrasted in terms of age, sex and presenting signs and symptoms.

Of the total of 38 patients 9 (21%) were seen between 1980- 1982, 12 (32 %) between 1982- 1984, and 18 (47%) from 1984- 86. it is difficult if not impossible to determine to what extent this represents a real increase in incidence or change in awareness of the condition.

Most of the maxillary sinus cancers were of the squamous cell type. In a country where radiotherapy is not available this type has a very poor prognosis. The mode of management (radical surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) is fully discussed.

A comparison with the existing literature has been made where possible and the data have been compared with the author’s personal experience at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), Kumasi, Ghana.