Rhinolithiasis

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: A rhinolith is a rock which forms in the nose. It occurs from the solidification of mucus and nasal debris: by mineral salts, calcium, magnesium phosphate and carbonate, and it leads to unilateral obstruction of the nasal airway followed by inflammatory changes of the nasal mucus membrane and paranasal cavities. This inflammatory process may lead to a purulent form with complications, intracranial propagation and dacryocystitis. CASE REPORT: This is a case report of a patient with rhinolithiasis, 30 years of age, complaining of breathing difficulties for 10 years, with nasal secretion, reduced olfactory function and headaches. She underwent the following procedures: frontal rhinoscopy, epipharyngoscopy, nasal mucus analysis (fungi and bacteria), x-ray check-up as well as pathohistological analysis of the removed rhinolith. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The significance of computer tomography of paranasal cavities was confirmed in coronal lines, as the most valid radiological analysis which provides adequate diagnosis, differential diagnosis and helps in making the decision on surgical treatment. Surgery is obligatory and in most cases it is endonasal endoscopy. Bigger nasal stones (rhinoliths), progressing into the surrounding anatomic structures, are treated using rhinotomy and trepanation (Caldweell-Luc). In cases of greater rhynoliths with propagation into neighboring anatomic areas, cases of surgical treatment by lateral rhynotomy and trepancy of the sinuses (Caldwel-Luc) were shown.