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Self-induced ethmoidectomy from rhinotillexomania
R D Caruso1, R G Sherry, A E Rosenbaum
1Department of Radiology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Syracuse, 13210, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|December 24, 1997
Summary
Compulsive nose picking, or rhinotillexomania, can lead to severe self-inflicted nasal septal perforation. This case highlights dangerous ethmoidal sinus penetration from chronic nasal trauma.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Psychodermatology
Background:
- Rhinotillexomania, or compulsive nose picking, is a behavioral disorder.
- Chronic nasal manipulation can lead to significant self-inflicted injury.
Observation:
- A 53-year-old female patient presented with a history of chronic rhinotillexomania.
- Physical examination revealed a large nasal septal perforation.
Findings:
- The nasal septal perforation extended to penetrate the right ethmoidal sinus.
- This self-inflicted injury mimicked a surgical ethmoidectomy.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for severe structural damage from rhinotillexomania.
- Underscores the importance of addressing compulsive behaviors in otolaryngology.
- Suggests a need for integrated psychiatric and otolaryngologic care for such patients.