Work

A rare case report of supernumerary nostril in an infant: clinical presentation, surgical management, and literature review

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction and Importance: Supernumerary nostril is an exceedingly rare congenital malformation characterized by the presence of an accessory nostril in addition to the normal nasal openings. The anomaly may or may not communicate with the nasal cavity. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 7-month-old female infant presenting with a tubular structure superior to the left nasal ala, consistent with a supernumerary nostril. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the face demonstrated a blind-ending soft-tissue tubular tract without communication to the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses. There were no encephaloceles, bone deformities, or other midline anomalies identified. The tract was completely excised, and the left nasal ala was reconstructed with layered primary closure. Histopathology confirmed ciliated respiratory epithelium lining the tract. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. At 12-month follow-up, the patient demonstrated satisfactory cosmetic symmetry and no evidence of recurrence. Discussion: Early recognition and surgical management of supernumerary nostrils are important to optimize functional and aesthetic outcomes. Detailed preoperative imaging is valuable to exclude intracranial or intranasal communication and to plan reconstruction. Conclusion: Given its rarity, each reported case enriches current understanding of clinical variability and management strategies.

Source: Annals of Medicine and Surgery

DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000004262

Authors: Dipesh Kumar Singh, Nitesh Pandit, Isha Dhakal, Ajay Kumar Yadav

Institution: B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Congenital Ear and Nasal Anomalies

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,850