Rhinophyma is an inflammation of the skin and blood vessels that leads to thickened skin and enlarged sebaceous glands. It primarily affects the tip of the nose but can also occur in other areas of the face. The condition is typically chronic and can last for several years.
Rhinophyma is much more common in men than in women, and it typically occurs in middle-aged and elderly men. The condition has been mistakenly referred to as "port wine nose."
The condition is characterized by an enlarged nasal tip with red or purple skin. The surface of the skin may be uneven and marked by indentations, scars, large pores, and oily skin. Some individuals may experience nasal congestion. The size of the nose can become cosmetically disfiguring. The diagnosis is based on a physical examination by a healthcare professional, and additional testing is rarely necessary.
It is believed that rhinophyma may result from inflammation of blood vessels and sebaceous glands, possibly due to leakage of tissue fluid. Androgens may also be a contributing factor, as it is more common in men. The condition is not caused by infection or excessive alcohol consumption.
For mild cases, creams used for rosacea may be sufficient. Examples of ingredients in such creams or gels include metronidazole, azelaic acid, or a retinoid. If these measures are not effective, oral medications such as tetracyclines or isotretinoin may be necessary. However, since the condition is chronic, cream or oral treatment may need to be used over a long period of time. In severe cases, surgical removal or laser treatment may be required to remove excess tissue from the nose. These procedures are performed by dermatologists or plastic surgeons in private healthcare settings, and sometimes they are offered at hospitals with a referral. Post-treatment with creams or oral medications may be necessary.
Other types of rosacea can resemble rhinophyma, and different types of skin tumors can occasionally be mistaken for it. For example, a common type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma may rarely resemble rhinophyma. To exclude this possibility, a healthcare professional may need to perform a tissue biopsy.
