Presenting symptoms include nasal obstruction and epistaxis. The tumor may extend to sinuses, base of skull, and intracranially. CT scanning is critical in defining extent of tumor. The diagnosis is usually made without biopsy. The primary symptom is nasal airway obstruction.
Examination reveals nasal obstruction and fluctuation of the septum.
Treatment includes incision and drainage, followed by nasal packing to prevent reaccumulation and antibiotics. If left untreated, may result in septal abscess, cartilaginous necrosis, and saddle nose deformity. Symptoms include crusting, discharge, epistaxis, whistling on inspiration. The site of the leaks can be found by intrathecal injection of various stains followed by examination of appropriately placed pledgets. Treatment includes antibiotics, surgical closure using flaps, muscle, or fascial plugs.