Publication:

Aetiological profile of non-traumatic epistaxis: a two-year retrospective analysis in a tertiary care hospital

Background Epistaxis is one of the commonest rhinological emergencies. Studies from different parts of the world show wide variation in aetiological profile. Idiopathic epistaxis is the most common form in most western studies while in many developing countries trauma is the predominant factor. Rhinosporidiosis is an important cause for epistaxis in certain parts of Malappuram district of Kerala. Hence this study was designed to analyze the non-traumatic causes for epistaxis in study location with a special emphasis on age and sex distribution and the role of rhinosporidium in epistaxis.

Methods Retrospective analysis of case records of epistaxis patients was done in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Malappuram district of Kerala, India. Patients with epistaxis reported through OP, IP and referrals from other departments were included as the study population. Age and sex distribution of idiopathic epistaxis and systemic and local cause of epistaxis with its age and sex distribution were analysed.

Results Total of 110 patients were studied, 74 males and 36 females, between the ages of 4 and 80. Predominant age group was 11-20 years followed by 21-30, with male dominance in almost all age ranges. Right side predominance was noted in unilateral cases. Thirty-six patients had primary epistaxis. Among the systemic causes, 15 had hypertension, four platelet dysfunction and three altered coagulation. Local causes were found in 51 cases; rhinosporidiosis being the commonest followed by infection.

Conclusions Non-traumatic epistaxis is more common among young males. Nasal rhinosporidiosis and infection are the two prominent local causes for epistaxis.