Clinical Analysis of Epistaxis : Result of the Recent 10 Years

Kim, Seoung Woo; Lee, Min Hong; Maeng, Chang Hwan; Yun, Dong Gu; Kim, Choon Dong

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Epistaxis is a common occurrence and most of us have at least one episode in a life time. These episodes are usually minor events and resolved spontaneously, although those who need help can be admitted. It is important to know about etiologic factors of each case of epistaxis, sex and age distribution of patients, bleeding site, seasonal incidence and methods of management. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We performed a retrospective study of epidemiology, etiology and control methods and their effectiveness in patients of epistaxis who visited Korea Veterans Hospital out-patient department in otolaryngology and emergency room from January, 1990 to December, 1999.
RESULTS
It was more prevalent in male and commonly occured in the left nasal cavity. Incidence of epistaxis was the greatest in the month of May and the least in August. Among the age groups of patients, it was most prevalent among the fifties followed by the twenties. The most common cause was idiopathic, with the local causes being more attributable. It was found to easily occurr in the convex side with septal deformity. Kiesselbach's area was the most common bleeding site, although when compared with previous reports, the incidence rate has been decreasing. Recurrent bleeding was more common in posterior epistaxis. Most cases were adequately managed with anterior nasal packing (65.4%), but in the minority, posterior nasal packing and blood transfusion were needed.
CONCLUSION
Incidence of bleeding have increased and the most frequent bleeding sites have become more variable, because of the increasing rate of air pollution, cerebrovascular accidents and heart diseases. Epistaxis easily occurred when the atmospheric changes were severe. Further prospective studies are mandatory to clarify the correlation between epistaxis and multifactorial causes.