Supernumerary Nostril Associated with Dermoid Cyst: A Rare Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Supernumerary nostril is an extremely rare congenital entity which results from aberrant embryological development. The review of the literature reveals that only 31 cases of supernumerary nostril have been reported. They can be associated with other congenital anomalies. The accessory nostril may or may not communicate with the ipsilateral nasal cavity, probably depending on the degree of embryological progression of the anomaly. A case of supernumerary left nostril with no nasal cavity communication and with dermoid cyst over the right nasomaxillary groove is presented. The surgical treatment is described and the different speculative theories related to the embryogenesis of supernumerary nostrils are also reviewed.