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A case of gustatory rhinorrhoea
S S Franceschini1, L Muscatello, S Berrettini
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Pisa, Italy.
Rhinology
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Gustatory rhinorrhoea, a rare condition causing a runny nose when eating, can occur after head trauma. This case suggests abnormal nerve regrowth following injury may cause this unusual symptom.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Gustatory rhinorrhoea is a rare condition characterized by nasal discharge triggered by gustatory stimuli.
- The exact pathogenesis of gustatory rhinorrhoea remains unclear, with limited case studies available.
- Head trauma is an infrequently reported cause of gustatory rhinorrhoea.
Observation:
- A patient developed gustatory rhinorrhoea one year after sustaining a skull trauma.
- The patient also experienced a delayed onset of facial palsy.
- This presentation suggests a potential link between traumatic nerve injury and subsequent autonomic dysfunction.
Findings:
- The study hypothesizes that traumatic interruption and aberrant regeneration of salivary parasympathetic fibers may underlie gustatory rhinorrhoea.
- Anatomical review of transpetrosal nerves supports the potential pathways for aberrant nerve regeneration.
- Literature review indicates a paucity of similar reported cases, highlighting the rarity of this syndrome.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of potential neurological sequelae following skull trauma.
- It highlights the importance of considering aberrant nerve regeneration in the pathogenesis of autonomic dysfunction.
- Further research into nerve injury and regeneration mechanisms could offer new therapeutic targets for related disorders.