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Spontaneous Nasal Septal Abscess: A Case Report
Nur Nadia Abd Rahim1, How Kit Thong2, Primuharsa Putra Sabir Husin Athar1,2
1Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, KPJ Healthcare University, Nilai, MYS.
Abstract:
Nasal septal abscess (NSA) is considered a rhinologic emergency. Fortunately, the incidence of NSA has markedly reduced due to the introduction of antibiotics and easy access to medical care. NSA commonly results from infection in the space between the nasal septum and the overlying mucoperichondrium and/or mucoperiosteum, typically secondary to nasal septal hematoma, but it can also be idiopathic. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical to avoid further complications. This paper reports the case of a 46-year-old man with no known risk factors for NSA. He was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, and the surgical treatment involved incision and drainage with the intraoperative placement of a Penrose drain and a silastic sheet on postoperative day five. The patient was discharged without complications such as septal perforation or saddle nose deformity.
Insights
Nasal septal abscess (NSA) is a serious condition requiring prompt treatment. Early diagnosis and surgical drainage, alongside antibiotics, can prevent complications like septal perforation.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Rhinology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Nasal septal abscess (NSA) is a rare but critical rhinologic emergency.
- NSA typically arises from infection between the nasal septum and its lining, often due to hematoma or idiopathic causes.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent severe complications.
Observation:
- This report details a case of a 46-year-old male with no prior risk factors presenting with NSA.
- The patient received broad-spectrum antibiotics for treatment.
- Surgical intervention included incision, drainage, and placement of a Penrose drain and silastic sheet.
Findings:
- The patient underwent successful surgical treatment for nasal septal abscess.
- Postoperative management involved a Penrose drain and silastic sheet placement.
- The patient recovered without developing septal perforation or saddle nose deformity.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of timely medical and surgical management for NSA.
- Effective treatment can avert long-term sequelae such as septal perforation and saddle nose deformity.
- Even in the absence of typical risk factors, NSA requires vigilant diagnosis and management.
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