Rhinolith: an unusual case and an update

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Cleft palate is a common congenital condition requiring surgical repair.
• Oronasal fistulas can occur as a complication of cleft palate repair.
• Rhinoliths are rare calcified masses in the nasal cavity, often associated with foreign bodies.

Observation:

• An unusual case of a true rhinolith developing in a patient with a pre-existing oronasal fistula secondary to cleft palate is presented.
• The rhinolith was discovered during examination for nasal symptoms.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a unique etiology for rhinolith formation, linked to the oronasal defect.
• Histopathological analysis confirmed the nature of the rhinolith.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of rhinolith pathogenesis, particularly in patients with congenital orofacial anomalies.
• Highlights the importance of considering rhinoliths in the differential diagnosis of nasal obstruction in patients with oronasal fistulas.
• Suggests potential challenges in managing rhinoliths in the presence of complex anatomical defects.