Rhinophyma

Rhinophyma is a condition causing development of a large, bulbous nose associated with granulomatous infiltration, commonly due to untreated rosacea.[1]

Rhinophyma
An Old Man and His Grandson, by Domenico Ghirlandaio
SpecialtyDermatology 

Signs and symptoms
An example of severe rhinophyma.

Rhinophyma is characterised by prominent pores and a fibrous thickening of the nose, sometimes with papules.[2] It is associated with the common skin condition rosacea. It can carry a strong psychological impact due to its effect on one's personal appearance.[3]

Causes

Alcoholism is mistakenly attributed as a cause of this issue.[4] Alcohol, however, may cause increased flushing in those affected.[4]

Pathophysiology

Rhinophyma is a slowly progressive condition due to hypertrophy of the sebaceous glands of the tip of the nose often seen in cases of long-standing rosacea; it is not a cancer. It presents as a pink, lobulated mass over the nose with dilation of the superficial blood vessels; it mostly affects men past middle age. People affected by rhinophyma typically seek advice because of the perceived unsightly appearance of the enlargement, or obstruction in breathing and vision.

Diagnosis

Rhinophyma may be diagnosed without testing, but a skin biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment consists of paring down the bulk of the tissue with a sharp instrument or carbon dioxide laser and allowing the area to re-epithelialise. Sometimes, the tissue is completely excised and the raw area skin-grafted.[5]

References
  1. Cohen AF, Tiemstra JD (2002). "Diagnosis and treatment of rosacea". J Am Board Fam Pract. 15 (3): 214–7. PMID 12038728.
  2. "Rosacea". Dermnetnz.org.
  3. "Rhinophyma". Rhinophyma. Retrieved 24 March 2011.
  4. Fitzpatrick, James E.; Morelli, Joseph G. Dermatology Secrets Plus (5th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 511. ISBN 9780323313551. Retrieved 10 May 2016.
  5. Dhingra P.L. Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 6th edition, New Delhi 2013, 490 pp. ISBN 9788131234310
Classification
External resources


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