[Epistaxis and systemic disease].

We report the case of a 77-year-old man who presented nasal obstruction sensation and epistaxis. Otorhinolaryngological examination revealed occupation of the left nasal passage and the left maxillary sinus by an inflammatory tumour, the biopsy results of which were inconclusive. While diagnostic tests where being carried out, the patient presented a severe systemic condition consisting mainly of anaemia, acute renal failure, and cavitated diffuse bilateral lung infiltrates. In the light of the results of anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibodies and renal biopsy, Wegener's granulomatosis was diagnosed and treatment for the disease was instituted with a favourable response. Finally, clinical manifestations of Wegener's granulomatosis are reviewed, with especial emphasis on otolaryngologic complaints.