A Case of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Managed with Intranasal Topical Estrogen

Abstract

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia is an autosomal dominant disorder affecting blood vessels of the skin, mucous membrane and viscera. It is characterized by a clinical triad of multiple telangiectasia, recurrent hemorrhages and familial occurrence. In 80% of patients, epistaxia is the first presenting symptom. It can have a massive impact on the quality of life of those affected. Otolaryngologists should be familiar with this disease because of its potential systemic complication. Recently, we have experienced a 69 year old female complaining of melena and recurrent epistaxis for 20 years. Epistaxis was successfully managed with topical estrogen ointment.