Nasal polyps are common, affecting up to four percent of the population. Their
etiology remains unclear, but they are known to have associations with allergy, asthma, infection,
cystic fibrosis, and aspirin sensitivity. They present with nasal obstruction, anosmia, rhinorrhoea,
post nasal drip, and less commonly facial pain. Clinical examination reveals single or multiple
grey polypoid masses in the nasal cavity. Computerized tomography allows evaluation of the
extent of the disease and is essential if surgical treatment is to be considered. Management of
polyposis involves a combination of medical therapy and surgery. There is good evidence for
the use of corticosteroids (systemic and topical) both as primary treatment and as postoperative
prophylaxis against recurrence. Surgical treatment has been refined significantly over the past
twenty years with the advent of endoscopic sinus surgery and, in general, is reserved for cases
refractory to medical treatment. Recurrence of the polyposis is common with severe disease
recurring in up to ten percent of patients.