This is a very nicely written overview of this difficult condition by two expert rhinologists with a tertiary practice. The genetic basis, pathophysiology, diagnosis, natural history and available management options are all discussed. Clearly there is a large spectrum of patients within this disorder in whom effective management can vary widely, particularly according to the availability of local resources. These patients should be managed in large specialist centres however, they do present locally to many different ENT surgeons as emergencies and all should be aware at least, of the dos and don’ts of urgent care as beautifully outlined in this paper. Avoid packing the nose if possible as this causes more trauma, use something absorbable such as Surgicell, Nasopore or even FloSeal. Do not apply silver nitrate as this causes full thickness mucosal damage. Further techniques are described to maintain these patients. Well worth a read and should stimulate some deeper thought on this interesting condition.
Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Reviewed by Suki Ahluwalia
Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia.
CONTRIBUTOR
Suki Ahluwalia
Cairns Hospital / James Cook University, Queensland, Australia.
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