Nasal Septum - Clinical Significance

Clinical Significance

The nasal septum can depart from the centre line of the nose in a condition is known as a deviated septum due to trauma. However, it is normal to have a slight deviation to one side. The septum generally stays in the midline until about the age of 7, at which point it will frequently deviate to the right.

A perforated nasal septum can be caused by an ulcer, trauma due to an inserted object, excessive nose-picking, long-term exposure to welding fumes, or cocaine abuse. There is a procedure that can be of help to those suffering from perforated septum. A silicone button can be inserted in the hole to close the open sore. An operation to the nasal septum is known as a septoplasty.

The nasal septum can be affected by both benign (fibroma, inflammatory hemangioma of the nasal septum - "bleeding polyp" etc.) and malign tumors (squamous cell carcinoma, esthesioneuroblastoma etc.)