This study aimed at investigating the type 1 hypersensitivity reaction frequency of children with nasal foreign body history.

From the medical records, we collected data regarding demographics (age and gender), symptoms, history of allergic diseases, physical examination, laboratory and test results, radiographic findings, the presence of any need for a second intervention, and complications. By reference to the presence of nasal foreign body history, two groups were constituted: the nasal foreign body group and the control group. Type 1 hypersensitivity frequency of the nasal foreign body group was compared with the control group.

In the nasal foreign body group, 47 of 110 patients (42.7%) had a previous history of type 1 hypersensitivity reaction, while only 15 of 100 patients (15%) had a previous history of type 1 hypersensitivity reaction in the control group. The frequency of type 1 hypersensitivity reactions was significantly higher in patients with a history of nasal foreign body, compared to the patients without (p < 0.001, X2 = 19.35).

Children with type 1 hypersensitivity reactions may be more likely to present with nasal foreign bodies. Physicians should pay more attention to the history of type 1 hypersensitivity reactions in children presenting with nasal foreign bodies.