Septal Abscess

Septal abscess is a collection of pus between the nasal septal cartilage and mucoperichondrium, usually after trauma/surgery, presenting with bilateral nasal obstruction, pain, fever, and fluctuant septal swelling. Risk: cartilage necrosis/saddle-nose deformity. Treatment: urgent incision and drainage; IV anti-staphylococcal/streptococcal antibiotics; cultures; close follow-up; repair septal deviation/perforation later; prevent cartilage necrosis.

Common Symptoms

Bilateral nasal obstruction; pain/fever; fluctuant septal swelling; post-traumatic/surgical

Causes and Pathogenesis

Trauma/surgery causes infection in septal space, risking cartilage necrosis and deformity.

Treatment

Urgent drainage; IV antibiotics; cultures; follow-up; prevent cartilage necrosis/deformity

Preventive Measures

Prompt treatment of septal hematoma; avoid trauma; hand hygiene.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ENT-Emergency department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.