External Nasal Reconstruction in Patients With Extranodal Natural Killer (NK)/T-cell Lymphoma, Nasal Type

TL;DR

This paper discusses nasal reconstruction in patients with a rare lymphoma, highlighting challenges and outcomes of using autologous tissue.

Contribution

The study provides insights into reconstructive strategies and outcomes for nasal deformities following treatment for ENKTL-NT.

Findings

Autologous tissue reconstruction improved external nasal morphology in two patients.

Long-term follow-up showed contracture and secondary deformity, indicating incomplete satisfaction with outcomes.

Accurate assessment of nasal components is essential for effective reconstructive planning.

Abstract

Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTL-NT), is a rare and aggressive lymphoma of NK or T-cell origin, characterized by necrotizing and destructive granulomatous lesions that primarily affect facial midline structures. In the head and neck region, it often leads to extensive destruction of soft tissue, bone, and cartilage, potentially resulting in external nasal deformity and necrosis. This study reports on nasal reconstruction and its clinical course in patients with ENKTL-NT. Two patients with ENKTL-NT, who achieved remission following chemoradiotherapy, underwent external nasal reconstruction. Both cases involved autologous tissue reconstruction. Although external nasal morphology improved in both cases, long-term follow-up revealed contracture and secondary deformity, suggesting that outcomes were not entirely satisfactory. Accurate assessment of the remaining nasal components-including soft tissue and skeletal framework-is critical for selecting an appropriate reconstructive strategy.

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