Types of Encephalocele by Location
Nasopharyngeal encephalocele
A nasopharyngeal encephalocele is a basal encephalocele that protrudes into the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
In short: Nasopharyngeal encephalocele
- It protrudes into the upper throat behind the nose.
- It is internal and may cause obstruction or related symptoms.
- It must be imaged before any biopsy.
- It can cause breathing or feeding difficulties.
What it is
It is a basal encephalocele extending into the nasopharynx — the space at the top of the throat, behind the nose. Because it sits in this internal location, it may not be visible externally.
Understanding Nasopharyngeal encephalocele
Because it sits behind the nose, it can cause breathing or feeding difficulties and may be mistaken for another mass; imaging first is essential to avoid a CSF leak. In infants, obstruction in this area can affect feeding and breathing, so recognizing the lesion promptly matters. Repair is typically planned with ENT and neurosurgery, often endoscopically.
Why it matters
Understanding that a nasopharyngeal encephalocele can affect breathing and feeding — and must be imaged before any biopsy — helps families and clinicians approach an upper-throat mass cautiously and recognize why symptoms may appear before any visible sign.
Common questions
Where is the nasopharynx?
The upper throat behind the nose.
Can it cause symptoms?
Yes, such as obstruction affecting breathing or feeding.
Why image before biopsy?
It connects to the brain and contains CSF.
Bottom line
A nasopharyngeal encephalocele protrudes into the upper throat behind the nose and must be imaged before biopsy.
Browse all 265 Encephalocele definitions
Read the Encephalocele patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator