Growth obstructing throat (centre), surrounded by the open mouth of the female patient. This is an antrochoanal polyp. A polyp is usually benign, and

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Growth obstructing throat (centre), surrounded by the open mouth of the female patient. This is an antrochoanal polyp. A polyp is usually benign, and grows on a mucous membrane. An antrochoanal polyp originates from the mucous membrane that lines one of the two maxillary paranasal sinuses. These are membrane-lined hollows in each of the cheek bones (maxilla), and, like the other paranasal sinuses, are connected to the nasal cavity. The continuing growth of this polyp has caused it to expand into the choana, the connecting area between the throat and the nose, and downwards into the throat. Large polyps can obstruct breathing unless surgically removed. Photographed in Africa.

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Size: 2412px × 3727px
Photo credit: © DR M.A. ANSARY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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