JAMMU: The Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) at AIIMS Jammu successfully removed a live leech, about 8 centimeters long, from the nasal cavity of a 31-year-old male patient from Ramban, who had been suffering from persistent unilateral nosebleeds for 12 days.
According to the ENT team, the patient had consulted multiple healthcare facilities with no relief. Initial examination revealed active bleeding, but a detailed endoscopic evaluation uncovered a live, blood-engorged leech lodged deep in the sphenoethmoidal recess of the nasal cavity.
The leech, identified as belonging to the Hirudinea species, was carefully removed under local anesthesia using endoscopic instruments, ensuring minimal trauma to the delicate nasal mucosa.
Dr. Darwin Kaushal, Head of the ENT Department, called the case “extremely rare in urban medical centers.” He explained that the parasite had been feeding for nearly two weeks, secreting anticoagulants, which caused intractable nosebleeds. Untreated, such infestations can lead to severe anemia and may pose life-threatening risks if the leech migrates to the throat, lungs, or other vital structures.
The source of infestation is suspected to be untreated water from natural springs, ponds, or streams in rural or hilly areas. The ENT team advised residents to avoid drinking untreated water from natural sources to prevent similar incidents.
Prof. (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu, praised the ENT team’s expertise and dedication, highlighting that the successful intervention demonstrates the institute’s ability to manage complex and rare medical emergencies effectively.
The procedure was supported by Dr. Amardeep Singh, Dr. Pooja, Dr. Youshita, Dr. Shivane, Dr. Muskan, Dr. Gunjan, Dr. Bisna, along with nursing officers Ambika and Shivkaran.
