Risk factors associated with epistaxis in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Otolaryngology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, is a common pediatric concern.
• Previous research suggests a link between epistaxis and environmental factors like climate change and temperature fluctuations.
• Understanding pediatric epistaxis risk factors is crucial for prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between environmental factors and pediatric epistaxis.
• To identify specific risk factors contributing to nosebleeds in children.
• To evaluate the role of intranasal corticosteroid spray (INCS) use in pediatric epistaxis.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case-control study was conducted involving pediatric patients from August 2020 to February 2024.
• Cases were children presenting with epistaxis; controls were children with other rhinologic conditions.
• Exclusion criteria included chronic rhinosinusitis, bleeding disorders, and use of antiplatelets or anticoagulants.

Main Results:

• The study included 332 children (98 epistaxis cases, 234 controls).
• Epistaxis cases were more frequent during winter months (p=0.013).
• Reduced risk of epistaxis was associated with INCS use (OR=0.19, 95% CI=0.06-0.66), while winter seasonality increased risk (OR=1.79, 95% CI=1.07-2.99).

Conclusions:

• Pediatric epistaxis is significantly associated with colder seasons.
• Intranasal corticosteroid spray (INCS) use appears to be a protective factor against pediatric epistaxis.
• Allergic rhinitis, nasal septal deviation, age, and gender were not found to be significant risk factors.