A bifid nose (also known as cleft nose) is an uncommon congenital malformation which is characterized by the presence of a cleft between the two nostrils of the nose. It is the result of a disturbance during embryological nose development.It is part of the Tessier classification for craniofacial clefts. Signs and symptoms
The visibility of this malformation varies from person to person; from a barely noticeable "line" in the middle of the nose to the complete clefting of the nose which results in two "half noses", the airway is usually adequate. Individuals with this birth anomaly dont have any symptoms related to their bifid nose. Complications
This condition is merely comestic, and the severity of it doesnt affect a person with the disorder (health-wise) since usually there is a normal and adequate nasal airway. Diagnosis
This condition can be diagnosed by physical examination. This difference can serve as a diagnostic method since it occurs alongside other malformations, such as frontonasal dysplasia, hypertelorbitism and cleft lips.Bifid noses can also be diagnosed prenatally via a coronal view of the face under ultrasonography, they typically have a broad appearance with "a cleavage between the nostrils resembling a double barrel gun".
Occurrence in animals
This condition can also occur in animals, such as dogs. See also
Cleft palate
Cleft lip
Cleft chin


== References ==