Life Threatening Epistaxis in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia: Surgical and Medical Management

Abstract

Objective: Provide a comprehensive review of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, surgical treatment, and advanced medical treatment of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Method: Case study of a patient with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia detailing the clinical presentation and treatment algorithm of the disease. Comprehensive literature review detailing the pathophysiology and clinical presentation, with special attention to the surgical and advanced medical management of the disease. Results: A comprehensive review of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia with special attention to the most up to date surgical and medical treatment regimens and algorithms. Conclusion: Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia creates a backdrop for life threatening epistaxis. While surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for refractory epistaxis in the setting of HHT, medical management plays a vital role in the prevention and treatment of this disease entity.