[Perforation of the nasal septum in cocaine abusers].

Cocaine has been used for centuries for its stimulating and euphoric effects, but it also possesses vasoconstrictive and thrombotic properties. The cocaine-induced lesions depend mainly on the method of administration. In the present case, in which cocaine was nasally inhaled, the perforation of the cartilaginous nasal septum propably result from a combination of factors, including the topical effects and the complications linked to the use of the drug. This clinical observation corresponds to a high level of the progressive nasal pathology associated with cocaine abuse.