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nasal septum perforation
Etiology:
- nasal piercings
- long-term topical drug use
- cocaine
- decongestant nasal sprays
- chronic epistaxis
- nose picking
- postoperative complication
- nasal septoplasty
- rhinoplasty
- Wegener's granulomatosis
- bevacizumab
Clinical manifestations:
- may be asymptomatic
- larger size & proximity to nostrils increase likilhood of symptoms
- small perforations can cause a whistling noise when breathing
- epistaxis
- dyspnea
- nasal discomfort
Management:
- surgery generally unnecessary
- repair of nasal septum perforation
- perforation with not spontaneously close
- if perforation heals, symptoms generally resolve
- open irritated & raw surface must be continuously covered with an emollient using cotton applicator until healed
- surgery may be required in minority of patients
General
anomaly
nose disease; nasal disorder
perforation
References
- Wikipedia: Nasal septum perforation
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasal_septum_perforation
- Batniji RK and Meyers AD
eMedicine: Septal Perforation - Medical Aspects
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/863325-overview