Large Soft Tissue Mass Obstructing Airway Identified on TMJ Evaluation

A 79-year-old male was referred for TMJ examination due to ear and jaw pain. During full-volume review, the radiologist identified a very large soft tissue mass extending from the middle nasal turbinate into the oropharynx, obstructing the patient's airway. The appearance was suggestive of a nasal polyp, though confirmation requires clinical visualization, biopsy, and histopathologic evaluation, as a more aggressive lesion could not be excluded. ENT referral for excision, biopsy, and histopathologic evaluation was strongly recommended. The radiologist noted that the mass was extremely large yet had gone undetected by both the patient and referring dentist, illustrating how CBCT imaging can identify findings beyond the area of clinical concern.