Epistaxis in Chiang Mai University Hospital
Saisaward Chaiyasate, MD*, Kannika Roongrotwattanasiri, MD*, Supranee Fooanan, MD*, Yupa Sumitsawan, MD*
Affiliation : * Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai
Objectives : Epistaxis is a common otolaryngologic emergency, and can be severe or even fatal. The causes can
be from local or systemic illnesses. The aim of this study was to review and analyze the general and specific
data causes, management and results of epistaxis in patients admitted in Chiang Mai University Hospital.
Materials and Methods : A retrospective study by reviewing charts of new epistaxis inpatients, admitted to
Chiang Mai University Hospital between January 2001 and July 2004, was done.
Results : From 55 cases reviewed, 41 were males (74.5%) and 14 females (25.5%). The mean age was 46.98 +
17 years (12-87 years). The peak of prevalence was between January and April. The average length of
hospital stay was 6.2 + 3.8 days, (1-17 days). The most common cause of epistaxis was hypertension (32.72%)
followed by tumor, local trauma and coagulopathy, subsequently. About 18 per cent of the patients had more
than one cause of the illness. According to the bleeding site, 33 patients (60%) had anterior bleeding, 14
(25.45%) had posterior bleeding, and the rest had non-identifiable bleeding sites. There were 5 abnormalities
from 52 patients (9.6%) tested for clotting profile. About one third of the patients received more than one type
of procedure, while 2 patients (3.6%) treated by a local hospital before being transfered, were observed with
successful outcome.
Conclusion : The most common and preventable causes of epistaxis in this review are hypertension and facial
and paranasal sinus injuries. The other common curable cause is tumor. Otolaryngologists and general
physicians should find out the causes and know characteristics of the patients and diseases, especially in their
own area of practice in order to be able to perform optimal management.
Keywords : Epistaxis, Chiang Mai
