Rhinophyma

Rhinophyma is a rare skin disease characterized by the formation of a large, red mass on the nose, the exact cause of which is unknown.

However, however, this condition is seen in very severe cases of rosacea.

Rosacea is a common, chronic inflammatory skin disease. As the disease progresses, pustules (small red bumps with pus) appear on the face.

The disease usually occurs in the later stages of rosacea and the characteristic formation is formed gradually over the years. The result is usually a large mass at the base of the nose.

What are the symptoms?

• Occasional facial flushing;

• Red spots in the center of the face;

• Telangiectasias – swelling of small blood vessels on the nose and cheeks;

• Highly sensitive skin;

• Ocular rosacea – burning or gritty feeling in the eyes;

• Conjunctivitis – redness on the inside of the eyelids;

• Blepharitis – inflammation of the eyelids;

Symptoms may worsen as rosacea develops. Most symptoms occur at the onset of rhinophyma.

For example, connective tissue and secretions from the sebaceous glands in the nose may increase.

The affected person may also notice the following changes in their nose:

• Gradual growth of swollen formations;

• Multiple sebaceous glands;

• Enlarged pores;

• Reddish color of the skin;

• Thickening of the outer layers of the skin;

• Waxy, yellowish appearance;

Disease symptoms worsen if left untreated. They may also occur cyclically with periods of exacerbations and remissions.

What are the causes?

The causes of neither rosacea nor rhinophyma are known. In the past it was attributed to excessive alcohol use.

However, research denies this connection. The disease occurs in people who consume alcohol, as well as in those who abstain from its use.

What are the complications?

The most common complication is emotional stress, as the disease can cause severe facial disfigurement.

Affected people may suffer from severe anxiety about having to show themselves to other people. Some experience social isolation and solitude.

Treatment of rhinophyma

The disease responds to medication if diagnosed at an early stage.

Some medications are effective in treating various symptoms due to rosacea such as:

• Tetracycline, erythromycin, or minocycline – oral antibiotics used to reduce inflammation and redness;

• Metronidazole, tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid – topical medications to reduce swelling;

• Oral isotretinoin – used for severe acne – prevents the production of sebaceous secretions;

Surgery

Overgrowth of dilated blood vessels and tissues is very likely to cause disfigurement.

This condition may be permanent unless the affected area is removed.

Surgery is the preferred method of treatment in most cases and is considered the most effective method for achieving a long-term successful outcome.

There are a variety of surgical methods that can restore a normal appearance.

The operation can be performed by means of a scalpel, a laser, or with the tools of cryosurgery or electrosurgery. Dermabrasion is also effective.

With surgical treatment, the following are possible:

• Altering an already disfigured nose;
• Removal of overgrown tissue;
• Minimizing dilated blood vessels;
• Providing overall surgical improvement;

Although surgical treatment can improve the appearance of the affected person and help relieve symptoms of anxiety and increase self-esteem, the problem may recur.