Hemangiopericytoma: A rare sinonasal tumor

Introduction: Hemangiopericytomas are rare, vascular neoplasms that are derived from Zimmerman's capillary pericytes. They are found most commonly in the retroperitoneum/pelvis and lower extremities and are known to have malignant biological behavior. Of the paranasal sinuses, ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses are most commonly involved. Case Report: We report an uncommon case of a 77-year-old man, who presented with history of nasal block, nasal discharge and epistaxis since 10. years. On examination, there was a fleshy polypoidal mass seen filling the entire right nasal cavity. CT scan of the osteomeatal complex revealed a soft tissue density lesion occupying the entire right nasal cavity, projecting through the posterior choanae into the nasopharynx. An endoscopic excision of the entire mass was done. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of Hemangiopericytoma. Discussion: Hemangiopericytoma is a rare vascular tumor. These lesions are more frequently reported in the seventh decade of life, and the usual presentation includes epistaxis and nasal obstruction. While corticosteroid use, hypertension and pregnancy have been proposed as etiological factors in the development of HPC, this is not widely accepted. It exhibits low malignant potential and distant metastasis is exceedingly rare. Conclusion: Hemangiopericytomas of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses exhibit low malignant potential and distant metastasis. The treatment of choice is wide surgical resection which is the only curative modality.