What Is an Olfactory Neuroblastoma?
Olfactory neuroblastoma, also called esthesioneuroblastoma, is a very malignant, or cancerous, tumor believed to originate in the olfactory cells. The olfactory cells, located in the upper rear of the inside of the nose, are responsible for the sense of smell. Olfactory neuroblastoma often responds well to radiation therapy, but the tumor has a high tendency to recur after excision. Olfactory neuroblastoma is a relatively rare cancer. The cancer was first characterized in 1924, and there have been less than 1,000 recorded cases since then. Olfactory neuroblastoma can cause loss of smell, taste, and vision, as well as facial disfigurement in advanced cases.
