One Tumour, Biphasic Morphology: A Case Series of HPV-related Multiphenotypic Sinonasal Carcinoma and Diagnostic Schema

Authors

  • Adamu ZA Author
  • Mohammed A Author
  • Shofoluwe NA Author
  • Ifusumu R Author
  • Sani KO Author

Keywords:

Biphasic morphology, Case series, Diagnostic schema, HPV-related, Multiphenotypic, Sinonasal carcinoma

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related multiphenotypic sinonasal carcinoma (HMSC) is a rare malignancy displaying a biphasic histomorphology that mimics both conventional squamous cell carcinoma and true salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma, frequently leading to diagnostic confusion with these distinct entities. Herein, we present two clinical cases sharing a common histomorphological signature: a 56-year-old male presenting with an aggressive left sinonasal mass invading the orbital floor with intracranial extension of 3 months' duration, and a 65-year-old female with a destructive left external nasal mass of 2 years' duration masquerading as granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Histopathological evaluation confirmed HPV-related multiphenotypic sinonasal carcinoma in both cases, identifying the pathognomonic transition. Following confirmation, entirely non-surgical management was pursued; the first patient was commenced on a six-month chemotherapy course followed by radiotherapy, while the second patient is currently on follow-up awaiting chemotherapy. Ultimately, diagnostic precision hinges on identifying this distinct biphasic architectural pattern on routine microscopy, a prerequisite for distinguishing HMSC from its mimics.

Author Biographies

  • Adamu ZA

    Department of Pathology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University- Zaria, Kaduna State. 810001 /Department of Pathology, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), P.M.B.06, Shika-Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

  • Mohammed A

    Department of Pathology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University- Zaria, Kaduna State. 810001 /Department of Pathology, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), P.M.B.06, Shika-Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

  • Shofoluwe NA

    Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Ahmadu Bello University-Zaria/ Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika-Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria.

  • Ifusumu R

    Department of Pathology, Federal University of Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria.

  • Sani KO

    Department of Pathology, Federal University Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria

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Published

2026-09-30