Recurrent epistaxis in a nine-year-old boy: benign or malignant?

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Recurrent epistaxis in a nine-year-old boy: benign or malignant?

J Laryngol Otol. 2015 Mar;129(3):293-5

Authors: Dean HF, Hadjisymeou S, Morrison G, Hore I

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: We present the case of a rare cause of epistaxis in a paediatric patient, together with the diagnostic and management challenges associated with this condition.
CASE REPORT: A previously well nine-year-old boy presented with a six-month history of intermittent unilateral epistaxis. Radiological investigation and endoscopic biopsy confirmed a highly malignant nasopharyngeal mass consistent with carcinoma. The tumour continued to grow rapidly. Whilst awaiting intervention, the patient experienced a further significant haemorrhage requiring surgical intervention.
CONCLUSION: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a rare cause of epistaxis amongst children in the UK. Early flexible nasendoscopy can help delineate both benign and sinister causes of symptoms in this region.

PMID: 25797451 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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