Prof. Dr. Gediz Murat Serin – Ear Nose Throat Specialist | Teşvikiye ENT Group
What is a Tornwaldt cyst?
Tornwaldt cyst is a benign, fluid-filled sac that occurs in the nasopharynx region located behind the nose.
It usually does not cause any symptoms and is incidentally discovered during routine nasopharyngeal examinations with a camera or on MRI or CT scans taken for other reasons.
The cyst is named after the German physician Gustav Tornwaldt who first described it.
Why does it occur?
Tornwaldt cyst is usually a remnant of congenital tissue.
This small pocket accumulates fluid over time, expands, and becomes a cyst.
In other words, it is not a disease that develops later, but rather a structure that remained during the body’s own development and filled over time.
What are the symptoms?
Most of the time it does not cause any symptoms. However, when it grows or becomes inflamed, the following complaints may be seen:
- Postnasal drip or feeling of fullness in the nasopharynx
- Nasal congestion
- Bad breath
- Neck or headache
- Sometimes pressure or feeling of blockage in the ear
These complaints are usually mild; however, if they persist for a long time, an ENT examination should be performed.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made with MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography).
On imaging methods, it appears as a round structure with smooth borders, filled with fluid, located in the center of the nasopharynx region.
In some cases, it can also be noticed during endoscopic nasal examination.
Is treatment necessary?
Most Tornwaldt cysts do not require treatment because they are small.
If the cyst becomes inflamed, grows, or causes breathing or swallowing problems, drainage or removal is performed using endoscopic methods.
This surgery is performed through the nose, there is no incision in the mouth, and the patient is usually discharged on the same day.
Should I be worried?
No. Tornwaldt cyst is not cancer and does not turn into a malignant formation.
Recovery is rapid after treatment and it usually does not recur.
In conclusion
Tornwaldt cyst is a harmless, benign formation seen in the nasopharynx region.
If it does not cause symptoms, follow-up alone is sufficient; if it causes complaints, it can be easily treated endoscopically.
Not every postnasal drip or nasal congestion is caused by this cyst, but if there is suspicion, it must be evaluated by an Ear Nose Throat specialist.
