Abstract
In this case report we present a live leech in the nasopharynx of a 14 years old male that caused symptoms of oral hemorrhage and epistaxis. Habitual drinking of water from spring appeared to cause leech infestation. The leech was removed endoscopically after 4% pantocain and oxmetazolin application. Leech infestation must be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of unusual respiratory distress, epistaxis, oral hemorrhage and hemoptysis especially on those who are living in rural areas where drinking water from springs is a habit.
Highlights
Leeches are invertebrates of the phylum Annelida and class Hirudinea
The most significant symptoms are hemoptysis and/or epistaxis. Serious complications such as dyspnea and hematemesis may be expected (2,6,7). In this case report we present a live leech infestation in the nasopharynx that caused symptoms of oral hemorrhage and epistaxis and treated via endoscopic removal
For over 2000 years, leeches were needlessly applied for many ailments as an adjunct to bloodletting
Summary
Leeches are invertebrates of the phylum Annelida and class Hirudinea. There are approximately 650 species, but not all pose a problem to humans (1). Nazofarinkste Sülük İnfestasyonu: Epistaksis ve Hemorajinin Nadir Bir Sebebi Habitual drinking of water from springs, which is not rare in the rural areas of Turkey, may give rise to leech infestation (4).
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