The Case of the Missing Nose: Congenital Arhinia Case Presentation and Management Recommendations

To discuss the presentation and management of infants with arhinia or congenital absence of the nose.

This case report describes an infant with arhinia that was diagnosed prenatally. In addition to a discussion of the case, a review of the literature was completed to define appropriate postnatal work-up and management.

The patient is a term male infant, diagnosed with arhinia on ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed at 21-weeks gestational age. Upon birth, the patient was subsequently intubated, followed by tracheostomy due to complete nasal obstruction. Through a genetics evaluation, the patient was found to be heterozygous for the SMCHD1 gene, with hypomethylation at the D4Z4 locus. Plans for reconstruction will be based on future imaging and the development of any nasal patency, however, the patient's family plans to utilize a prosthetic nose until the patient is older.

Arhinia is a rare condition causing respiratory distress in the neonatal period. While stabilization of the airway is the first priority, further management is not clearly defined given the rarity of the malformation. This case discusses stabilization of the airway with a review of treatment and reconstructive options.