Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery

Background: Septal mucocele is very uncommon. Those reported mostly have a prior history of trauma however; idiopathic septal mucocele is even rarer.

Case presentation: We report a case of idiopathic septal mucocele who presented with bilateral, progressive nasal obstruction. Clinical examination revealed bilateral, smooth bulge on the anterior cartilaginous septum, which on radiology indicated an expansile cystic mass. As it extended to the nasal spine superiorly, an open rhinoplasty approach was taken for its complete removal. The septal cartilage was absent inside the cyst.

Discussion: Histology showed tissue lined by respiratory epithelium with mucinous glands in the stroma is confirmative of mucocele. Two months post-surgery, the septal perforation had healed well with no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusion: Although rare, septal mucocele should also be considered as differential diagnosis of long-standing septal swelling.