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Article: Midline nasal and hard palate destruction in cocaine abusers and cocaine's role in rhinologic practice.(Brief Article)
- Article from:
- Ear, Nose and Throat Journal
- Article date:
- March 1, 2002
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2002 Vendome Group LLC. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Abstract
Intranasal cocaine abuse can lead to destruction of the palate and perforation of the nasal septum. The pathophysiology of cocaine-induced midline destructive lesions is multifactorial and includes local ischemia secondary to vasoconstriction, chemical irritation from adulterants put in "cut" cocaine, and infection secondary to trauma, impaired mucociliary transport, and decreased humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Cocaine abuse should be suspected in patients with a palatal or septal perforation of unknown etiology.
Introduction
Cocaine, which is derived from the leaves of Erythroxylon coca, has been used for its stimulating and ...