sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma
Also written as: SNUC — sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma
An aggressive malignancy of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses characterized by poorly differentiated cells.
Full Definition
A rare, highly aggressive epithelial malignancy arising in the sinonasal tract, typically presenting with advanced local disease. SNUC is characterized by sheets of medium-sized cells with high mitotic activity and lacks the differentiation features of other sinonasal carcinomas. The tumor often presents with nasal obstruction, epistaxis, and may extend intracranially. Treatment typically requires multimodal therapy including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as SNUC in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Histopathological examination confirmed sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma with extensive necrosis." — Pathology report
- "The patient's sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma showed intracranial extension on MRI." — Imaging report