ENT Liu Knowledge Base Head & neck tumours · physician reviewed
Sinonasal Cancer · Understanding the disease

What is an inverted papilloma and can it become cancer?

Reviewed: 8 November 2026 By: Xiangpeng Liu, MD Topic: Sinonasal Cancer Answer length: short, citable
Quick answer

An inverted papilloma is a benign but locally aggressive sinonasal tumour that recurs if incompletely removed and is associated with squamous cell carcinoma in a minority of cases — either synchronous or at a later recurrence. Complete endoscopic excision of its attachment site and long-term surveillance are therefore standard.

In detail

HPV (especially low-risk types 6 and 11) is frequently detected. Ask for the pathology review to state whether any dysplasia or carcinoma is present, and for a written schedule of follow-up nasal endoscopy and MRI.

What this means in practice: this answer is part of the “Understanding the disease” section of the Sinonasal Cancer topic. If you are comparing treatment options, also read how to compare a second opinion and which records to send.

Other common questions about sinonasal cancer

See all 13 questions in this topic →

Sources for this answer

  1. Head and Neck Cancers (patient information) US National Cancer Institute · 2025

Written and medically reviewed by Xiangpeng Liu, MD

Associate Chief Physician, ENT & Head/Neck Surgery · Chenzhou First People’s Hospital, Chenzhou, Hunan, China

Editorial policy & reviewer credentials · All sources

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Medical disclaimer: This knowledge base is general information for people researching head and neck tumours, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. It does not replace an examination by a qualified physician. Survival figures are population averages, not predictions for an individual. Treatment and cost estimates for China are illustrative only and must be confirmed in writing after your records have been reviewed. If you have a symptom lasting more than two to three weeks, see a doctor promptly.