Introduction
Children often insert various objects into the nostrils while playing including pieces of plastic toys, rolled paper, foam, seeds, some metal objects, etc.
The objects may remain undetected for long periods, particularly organic items, until they become infected.
Typically result in foul smelling unilateral nasal discharge.
Some inorganic objects may (after long
periods) become coated by hard calcific
deposits and become known as rhinoliths .
Symptoms and clinical features
- Often no indication or symptom
- May be accidentally noticed by parent
- Later, complaints of foul purulent unilateral nasal discharge of unknown origin
Differential diagnoses
- Acute or chronic rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Nasal growth/polyp
Complication
- Secondary infection: rhinosinusitis
Investigation
- Radiograph of nose: for metallic or radio opaque objects
Treatment objectives
Remove object safely with little discomfort to patient
Non-drug treatment
- Careful removal with appropriate hook or forceps
- Removal under anaesthesia as necessary
Prevention
- Vigilant supervision of young children