Treatment:

Treatment is required if the angiofibroma is growing larger, blocking the airways, or causing repeated nosebleeds. In some cases, no treatment is necessary.

Surgery may be needed to remove the tumor. Removal is often difficult because the tumor is not enclosed and may have spread deeply to other areas.

A procedure called embolization may be done to prevent the tumor from bleeding. The procedure may correct the nosebleeds by itself, or it may be followed by surgery to remove the tumor.

Expectations (prognosis):

Although not cancerous, angiofibromas may continue to grow. Some may disappear on their own.

It is common for the tumor to return after surgery.

Complications:

• Anemia
• Pressure on the brain (rare)
• Spread of the tumor to the nose, sinuses, and other structures

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you often have nosebleeds.