Is the frontal sinus immune to carcinoma? A retrospective study and review of the literature

Abstract

Background Frontal sinus carcinoma is commonly seen as an extension of the ethmoid sinus, overlying skin, or lacrimal gland. The existence of this disease has been unclear. We aimed to describe the occurrence of primary frontal sinus carcinoma. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review and a retrospective review of the medical records at our institution in the past 10 years. Results Sixty-four articles were included in the literature review. Most frontal sinus carcinomas involved surrounding structures as the sphenoid or ethmoid sinus, and a primary origin in the frontal sinus could not be confirmed. No cases of primary frontal sinus carcinoma were identified at our hospital. Conclusion Isolated primary frontal sinus carcinoma, if exists, is very rare. There is uncertainty regarding the primary origin of frontal sinus carcinoma in most studies. The frontal sinus seems to be immune from primary carcinoma. Further studies are needed to explain such immunity.