Leech infestation of the nasopharynx: A rare cause of epistaxis and hemorrhage

Abstract

In this case report we present a live leech in the nasopharynx of a 14 years old male that caused symptoms of oral hemorrhage and epistaxis. Habitual drinking of water from spring appeared to cause leech infestation. The leech was removed endoscopically after 4% pantocain and oxmetazolin application. Leech infestation must be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of unusual respiratory distress, epistaxis, oral hemorrhage and hemoptysis especially on those who are living in rural areas where drinking water from springs is a habit.