The forgotten rubber: rhinolith formation from a neglected nasal foreign body

Ahmad Shukri, Fatin Aisya and Mohamad, Adam and Johari, Ahmad Hafizuddin (2026) The forgotten rubber: rhinolith formation from a neglected nasal foreign body. Visual Journal of Emergency Medicine, 43 (1). pp. 1-3. E-ISSN 2405-4690

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Abstract

Rhinolithiasis is an uncommon condition resulting from progressive mineral deposition around an intranasal nidus, often a neglected foreign body. We report a case of a four-year-old girl who presented with a three-week history of unilateral foul-smelling nasal discharge, fever, and subsequent blood-stained rhinorrhea. She was initially treated as an upper respiratory tract infection, leading to delayed diagnosis. Examination under anesthesia revealed a hard irregular mass within the left nasal cavity. Endoscopic removal demonstrated a rubber foreign body encased in calcified material, confirming rhinolith. The patient received intravenous followed by oral antibiotics with complete clinical resolution on follow-up. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for intranasal foreign bodies in children with persistent unilateral fetid discharge. Early nasal endoscopic evaluation is essential to prevent complications and avoid misdiagnosis. Prompt endoscopic removal combined with appropriate antibiotic therapy results in excellent outcomes.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Unilateral nasal discharge, Rhinolith, Nasal foreign body,
Subjects:	R Medicine > RF Otorhinolaryngology
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Medicine Kulliyyah of Medicine > Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Depositing User:	Dr Hafizuddin Johari
Date Deposited:	02 Mar 2026 14:39
Last Modified:	02 Mar 2026 14:39
Queue Number:	2026-02-Q2376
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/127698

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