Middle turbinate primary mucocele in a child masquerading as a nasal tumour

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Rhinology

Background:

• Nasal obstruction is a frequent pediatric ENT complaint.
• Common causes include colds, rhinosinusitis, allergic rhinitis, and adenoid hypertrophy.
• Less common etiologies require clinician awareness for accurate diagnosis.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old girl presented with nasal obstruction.
• Imaging and clinical presentation mimicked a nasal tumor.
• The cause was identified as a primary mucocele of the middle turbinate.

Findings:

• The middle turbinate mucocele was successfully treated with endoscopic marsupialization.
• This case highlights an unusual cause of nasal obstruction in a child.
• Surgical intervention provided a definitive resolution.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider rare causes of nasal obstruction in pediatric patients.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management of nasal masses.
• Endoscopic surgery offers an effective treatment for middle turbinate mucoceles.