Recurrent epistaxis in a nine-year-old boy: benign or malignant?

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: We present the case of a rare cause of epistaxis in a paediatric patient, together with the diagnostic and management challenges associated with this condition. CASE REPORT A previously well nine-year-old boy presented with a six-month history of intermittent unilateral epistaxis. Radiological investigation and endoscopic biopsy confirmed a highly malignant nasopharyngeal mass consistent with carcinoma. The tumour continued to grow rapidly. Whilst awaiting intervention, the patient experienced a further significant haemorrhage requiring surgical intervention. CONCLUSION: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a rare cause of epistaxis amongst children in the UK. Early flexible nasendoscopy can help delineate both benign and sinister causes of symptoms in this region.