Nasal Hirudiniasis: An Uncommon Cause of Unilateral Nasal Obstruction and Epistaxis

Alok Thakar; Rohit Verma; Kapil Sikka; C Preetam

doi:10.5005/jp-journals-10013-1070

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Nasal Hirudiniasis: An Uncommon Cause of Unilateral Nasal Obstruction and Epistaxis

Alok Thakar, Rohit Verma, Kapil Sikka, C Preetam

Keywords : Hirudo medicinalis,Hirudin,Lidocaine

Citation Information : Thakar A, Verma R, Sikka K, Preetam C. Nasal Hirudiniasis: An Uncommon Cause of Unilateral Nasal Obstruction and Epistaxis. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2011; 4 (1):51-52.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10013-1070

Published Online: 01-04-2011

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Abstract

Leech infestations are known as hirudiniasis.1 Leeches are blood-sucking hermaphroditic parasites that vary in color and range in length from a few millimeters to half a meter. They enter the human body through drinking water, and localize on the mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract.2 In this paper, we present a case with one month history of intermittent epistaxis and nasal obstruction. The cause was found to be a leech in the nose by means of endoscopic examination. We used an easy method to remove the parasite.

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