Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: September 2, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for a Crooked Nose

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Trauma: The most common cause of a crooked nose is trauma, which can cause a fracture or displacement of the nasal bones or septum, leading to a deviated or crooked appearance.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Deviated septum: A deviated septum, where the cartilage and bone that divides the nasal cavity is off-center, can cause the nose to appear crooked.
    • Nasal polyps: Large nasal polyps can cause a deviation or crookedness of the nose by pushing the nasal septum or lateral nasal wall.
    • Rhinophyma: A condition characterized by a large, red, bumpy nose, often associated with rosacea, which can give the appearance of a crooked nose.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Nasopharyngeal cancer: Although rare, nasopharyngeal cancer can cause destruction of the nasal septum or lateral nasal wall, leading to a crooked appearance.
    • Relapsing polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause destruction of the cartilage in the nose, leading to a crooked or saddle-shaped nose.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Congenital syphilis: A rare condition that can cause a saddle-shaped nose or other nasal deformities.
    • Wegener's granulomatosis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause destruction of the nasal septum or lateral nasal wall, leading to a crooked appearance.
    • Sarcoidosis: A rare condition that can cause granulomatous inflammation in the nose, leading to a crooked or deformed appearance.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.