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 | |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
Signs and symptoms
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]
Controversy on Causes
Depending on the sources Alcoholism may[4] or may not[5] be attributed as a cause of this issue. Alcohol, however, may cause increased flushing in those affected.[5]
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.[citation needed]
Diagnosis
Rhinophyma may be diagnosed without testing, but a skin biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.[citation needed]
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.[6]
References
- ^ Cohen AF, Tiemstra JD (2002). "Diagnosis and treatment of rosacea". J Am Board Fam Pract. 15 (3): 214–7. PMID 12038728.
- ^ "Rosacea". Dermnetnz.org.
- ^ "Rhinophyma". Retrieved 24 March 2011.
- ^ Second J, Severac F, Paix A, Cribier B, Rhinophyma is associated with alcohol intake, J Am Acad Dermatol, 2019 pii: S0190-9622(19)30009-X
- ^ a b Fitzpatrick, James E.; Morelli, Joseph G. (4 August 2015). Dermatology Secrets Plus (5th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 511. ISBN 9780323313551. Retrieved 10 May 2016.
- ^ Dhingra P.L. Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 6th edition, New Delhi 2013, 490 pp. ISBN 9788131234310
External links