Background: Nasal septal abscess (NSA) is a rare but serious condition characterized by the accumulation of pus between the nasal septum and the perichondrium. Untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as nasal deformities, cavernous sinus thrombosis, and meningitis. While trauma is the most common cause, NSA can also result from infections like sinusitis, dental issues, or furunculosis. This case report highlights a non-traumatic NSA caused by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in an immunocompetent child, emphasizing the condition's potential even in healthy pediatric populations.
Methods: A 7-year-old girl presented with bilateral nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, snoring, fever, and a history of upper respiratory infection. Diagnostic workup included clinical examination, which revealed septal swelling and erythema, and aspiration of pus for microbiological analysis. The patient was diagnosed with MRSA infection and treated with intravenous linezolid, followed by incision and drainage under general anesthesia. Postoperative care involved nasal packing and continued antibiotic therapy.
Results: The patient showed significant improvement within days of treatment. She was discharged on oral antibiotics with no residual complications. Early intervention prevented potential severe outcomes, underscoring the efficacy of timely diagnosis and management.
Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for NSA, which can mimic other upper respiratory conditions and lead to diagnostic delays. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion in children with persistent nasal symptoms and ensure prompt referral to otolaryngology to avoid serious complications.
Keywords: Nasal septal abscess, MRSA, Pediatric, Non-traumatic, Linezolid, Early intervention.
