Rhinolith misdiagnosed as allergic rhinitis: case report

Abstract

Foreign body neglected in the nasal cavity for many years leads to the formation of a rhinolith, which gradually increases in size. Nasal obstruction and persistent foul smelling nasal discharge usually are the main presenting symptoms, although some might be silent. This paper presents and discuss a case of 19-year-old female patient whose main complaint was nasal obstruction for many years and treated as allergic rhinitis. Diagnosis was confirmed with computed tomography scan, and it was removed endoscopically without complications. We think that proper examination, which includes endoscopic evaluation, should be done to reach the diagnosis. A computed tomography scan confirmed the diagnosis and helped in planning the best treatment option.