Rhinolith of endogenous origin: A rare entity

Abstract

An unusual case of chronic unilateral nasal obstruction and rhinorrhoea is reported in which an elderly female patient with previous cleft palate repair developed rhinoliths around a tooth within the nasal cavity. The diagnosis of rhinolith should be suspected if a calcified nasal mass is evident radiologically in a patient with unilateral nasal symptoms. Complete resolution of nasal symptoms is easily achieved with surgical removal of rhinoliths. This case highlights the importance of examining the nasal cavities in any adult patient with a unilateral nasal symptom. Computerized tomography of sinuses is a useful adjunct to determine the diagnosis. If the diagnosis is in doubt, referral for an otolaryngologist’s assessment should be made.