Antrochoanal polyp (Killian's polyp) differs from bilateral ethmoidal nasal polyps in all of the following features EXCEPT:
- A Antrochoanal polyp is unilateral; ethmoidal polyps are bilateral
- B Antrochoanal polyp arises from the maxillary antrum via the accessory ostium; ethmoidal polyps arise from the ethmoid sinuses
- C Both types can cause nasal obstruction and are removed via FESS
- D Both types are associated with eosinophilic inflammation and are markers of atopy ✓
Explanation
The feature that applies to both but distinguishes them is not correct in option D: antrochoanal polyps are NOT associated with eosinophilia or atopy — they are solitary cysts arising from the maxillary sinus mucosa (likely due to obstructed mucus gland cysts) and have a low recurrence rate after complete excision. In contrast, bilateral ethmoidal polyps ARE strongly associated with eosinophilic inflammation, type 2 hypersensitivity, aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (Samter's triad), and atopy, with high recurrence rates. Options A, B, and C are true distinguishing features.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.