Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation
06:13

Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation

Published on: June 20, 2018

Nasal septal perforation secondary to rhinitis medicamentosa

Harold F Keyserling1, John D Grimme, Daniel L A Camacho

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill 27599-7510, USA.

Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|July 27, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Nasal septal perforation is a rare complication of rhinitis medicamentosa, often caused by overuse of nasal sprays. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this condition and its clinical, pathologic, and imaging features.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pathology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Rhinitis medicamentosa, resulting from prolonged use of topical nasal decongestants, is a common condition.
  • Nasal septal perforation is an uncommon but serious complication associated with rhinitis medicamentosa.
  • Understanding the etiology and presentation is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Observation:

  • A 54-year-old male presented with symptoms suggestive of nasal septal perforation.
  • The patient had a history of extensive use of over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays.
  • Clinical examination revealed a perforation of the nasal septum.

Findings:

  • Pathologic examination confirmed tissue changes consistent with chronic inflammation and damage.
  • Imaging studies, including CT scans, visualized the extent of the septal perforation.
  • The findings correlated with the clinical presentation and patient history.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for nasal septal perforation as a complication of rhinitis medicamentosa.
  • Early recognition and cessation of offending nasal sprays are vital.
  • Further research into preventative strategies and treatment options for this complication is warranted.

More Related Videos

Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction07:30

Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Published on: October 13, 2017

Related Concept Videos

Epistaxis01:30

Epistaxis

Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, occurs when small, swollen blood vessels in the nasal mucous membrane rupture. Typically, the anterior septum is the primary site of occurrence.
Etiology
Possible causes of this condition include high blood pressure, trauma, low humidity, upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, foreign bodies, nasal inhalation of corticosteroids or illicit drugs, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays, facial or nasal surgery, anatomic malformation, tumors, or systemic...
Nose and Nasal Cavity01:24

Nose and Nasal Cavity

The nose is composed of an observable exterior segment (external nose) and an internal segment within the skull known as the nasal cavity (internal nose). The external nose, visible on the face, consists of a framework of bone and hyaline cartilage enveloped in skin and muscle and lined with a mucous membrane. This structure is supported by the frontal bone, nasal bones, and maxillary bone and is supplemented by a cartilaginous framework comprising the septal nasal cartilage, lateral nasal...
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway01:29

Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway

Nasopharyngeal suctioning is a procedure to remove secretions from the upper part of the respiratory tract that the patient cannot clear independently. It helps maintain airway patency and prevents complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Equipment Required
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction01:22

Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction

Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:28

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...