A Cross-sectional Study on Nasoalveolar Cyst, Its Risk Factors and Management Among Patients in West Bengal: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Nasoalveolar cysts are rare non-odontogenic soft tissue cysts located in the nasolabial fold, often underdiagnosed due to their deep anatomical location. Their exact etiology remains unclear, though several congenital and acquired factors have been proposed. Objective: To determine the clinical profile, risk factors, and management outcomes of nasoalveolar cysts in patients attending tertiary care hospitals in West Bengal. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 28 patients diagnosed with nasoalveolar cysts. Data were collected regarding demographic details, risk factors, clinical features, and management modalities. All patients underwent clinical examination, radiological investigations, and surgical management followed by histopathological confirmation. Results: Majority of patients were female (71.4%), with most cases occurring in the 30–50 year age group. Common presenting symptoms were nasal obstruction (78.6%) and swelling in the nasolabial region (85.7%). Identified risk factors included trauma (32.1%), infection (25%), and congenital predisposition (21.4%). All patients were managed surgically—85.7% underwent endoscopic marsupialization while 14.3% had cyst excision via sublabial approach. Conclusion: Nasoalveolar cysts, though rare, should be considered in patients with swelling in the nasolabial fold. Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention result in excellent prognosis and minimal recurrence.