Pictures of Rhinolith (Nasal Calculus)
This page was last updated: October 31, 2009
Rhinolith in the right nasal cavity. Notice the concavity of the deviated nasal septum which is well demonstrated in the CT image below
Rhinoliths are rare. They are calcareous concretions that are formed by the deposition of salts on an intranasal foreign body. The foreign body, which acts as the nucleus for encrustation, can be either endogenous or exogenous. Dessicated blood clots, ectopic teeth, and bone fragments are examples of endogenous matter. Exogenous materials include fruit seeds, plant material, beads, cotton wool, and dental impression material.
Although the pathogenesis remains unclear; a number of factors are thought to be involved in the formation of rhinoliths. These include entry and impaction of a foreign body in the nasal cavity, acute and chronic inflammation, obstruction and stagnation of nasal secretions, and precipitation of mineral salts. Development and progression are believed to take a number of years.
Most patients complain of purulent rhinorrhea and/or ipsilateral nasal obstruction. Other symptoms include fetor, epistaxis, sinusitis, headache and, in rare cases, epiphora. In some patients, rhinoliths are discovered incidentally.
Endoscopic Pictures of Rhinolith of the Right Nasal Cavity
Coronal CT Image showing above rhinolith between the right inferior turbinate and the septum. In addition, the patient has bilateral sinusitis and a septal deviation.
Photo of the rhinolith after it was removed.
Otolaryngology Houston
Bechara Y. Ghorayeb, MD
8830 Long Point, Suite 806
Houston, Texas 77055
For appointments, call 713 464 2614
