Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC): Strong suspicion in persistent otitis media with effusion

Abstract

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an intriguing disease with unique epidemiological features. It shows a distinct geographical distribution with well-defined, high-risk ethnic groups, age and gender. This neoplasm exhibits strong associations with the Epstein-Barr virus, dietary and genetic factors. Radiation therapy is the mainstay of treatment and imaging plays a central role in tumor mapping and radiation therapy planning. The purpose of the current manuscript is to present a case of a 65-year-old male patient that examined in the outpatient ENT Department of our hospital, reported a persistent otitis media in the left ear, for about one year. It is important always to raise the suspicion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, in patients with persistent otologic symptoms, that do not improve despite therapy.