Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2014; 18 - a2394
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1388933

Choanal Atresia Diagnosed in an 81-Year-Old Patient

Alessandra De Oliveira Brandão Pinheiro 1, Bruno Bernardo Duarte 1, Hednaldo José Marques Bastos 1, Manayra Lourenzo Cunha e Carvalho 1, Nilesh Joriel Moniz 1, Silvio Antonio Monteiro Marone 1
  • 1Hospital e Maternidade Celso Pierro - PUC-CAMPINAS

Introduction: Choanal atresia is a rare congenital malformation with an estimated incidence of 1:8,000 live births, usually diagnosed in early childhood.

Objectives: This study aims to report a case of unilateral choanal atresia diagnosed at 81 years of age, emphasizing the late diagnosis and the benefits that it can bring a surgical correction regardless of age.

Resumed Report: An 81-year-old female patient (P. R. Z.) presented with chronic right nasal obstruction. She denied rhinorrhea, epistaxis, nasal allergy symptoms, and history of trauma. The nasopharyngolaryngoscopy has shown a mass of fibrous appearance and coloration similar to the mucosa in the region of the right choana, completely obstructing the air flow. Tomography of the paranasal sinuses has confirmed the diagnoses of mixed choanal atresia. The patient's complaint was important and she had the desire of correction; after explaining the procedure's risks and benefits, we opted for endoscopic surgery. Patient experienced complete clinical improvement.

Conclusion: The reported late diagnosis (81 years old) of unilateral choanal atresia indicates the importance of a routine nasal endoscopy in otorhinolaryngology practice and, in case of suspicion, complementation with computed tomography and the benefits of its surgical correction.