Increased histopathological yield for granulomatosis with polyangiitis based on nasal endoscopy of suspected active lesions

Abstract

Purpose

To present the results of an endoscopic and histopathologic evaluation of suspected nasal active granulomatosis with polyangiits (GPA) lesions, describe them as seen by the ENT specialist, and propose a guide for tissue sampling of the nasal cavity to improve the yield of confirmatory histology.

Methods

Randomly selected patients seen from December 1997–October 2007 had a thorough endoscopic nasal evaluation, preceded by careful cleansing of the nasal cavity. Endoscopic lesions were described; sensitivities, specificities, and predictive values of the composites of endoscopic and histological activity were determined.

Results

Six lesions, some not previously described in detail, were observed: white submucosal nodules, mucosal swelling, polypoid nodules, vascular submucosal dilatations, bloody submucosal patches, and ulcers. Of these, polypoid nodules (PPV 100%), persistent white submucosal nodules (PPV 81%), and bloody submucosal patches (PPV 93%) had the better diagnostic performance with confirmed histological diagnosis.

Conclusions

Careful nasal cavity preparation, observation, and description of the nasal mucosa can guide tissue sampling documenting active GPA. This can lead to a better histological yield when definitive proof of the disease is needed.

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