Clinical Rhinology

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VOLUME 15 , ISSUE 2 ( May-August, 2024 ) > List of Articles

CASE REPORT

Uncovering the Hidden Rhinolith: An Interesting Case Report on the Oddity of Rhinoliths

Shashidhar TB, Dilpreet Bajwa, Shubhi Tyagi, Indresh Chandra

Keywords : Case report, Chronic rhinosinusitis, Pearl, Rhinolith

Citation Information : TB S, Bajwa D, Tyagi S, Chandra I. Uncovering the Hidden Rhinolith: An Interesting Case Report on the Oddity of Rhinoliths. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2024; 15 (2):81-83.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10013-1402

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 20-02-2025

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2024; The Author(s).


Abstract

Aim: Uncovering a surprising pearl in the rhinolith of a middle-aged man presenting with right nasal obstruction. Background: Rhinoliths (from the Greek rhino meaning nose, and lithos meaning stone) are rare. They usually remain local, sometimes destroying the surrounding turbinate and septum, causing a chemical reaction with the tissue. Complications such as naso-oral fistula and palatal perforation have been reported due to local irritation and destruction. Case description: A 50-year-old patient presents to us with right nasal obstruction. On rigid endoscopy, whitish concretions were seen occupying the right nasal cavity till the anterior end of the inferior turbinate and reaching till the floor. Patient was evaluated with NCCT PNS. We performed endoscopic sinus surgery for removal of the rhinolith. To our surprise, a pearl bead was found in the center of the rhinolith. Post-op recovery was uneventful. Conclusion: Rhinolith can be a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms, which can mimic other conditions such as sinusitis or nasal polyps. Healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for rhinolith in patients with nasal symptoms, particularly in those with a history of nasal trauma or surgery. A comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies and endoscopic examination, may be necessary to make a definitive diagnosis. Clinical significance: Overall, rhinolith can be a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity, nonspecific symptoms, imaging interpretation, patient history, and differential diagnosis.


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