Rhinoscleroma: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Rhinoscleroma is a chronic granulomatous disease caused by gram negative bacteria;
Klebsiellarhinoscleromatis. Respiratory mucosa is predominantly affected involving mainly the nasal cavity
and nasopharynx and further extending to the respiratory tract. Systemic involvement is rare. The bacilli can
be stained for histopathological examination by Hand E, Gram’s stain and Giemsa stain. Treatment being
antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Case Presentation: Hereby presenting a case of 52 year old male with nasal blockage; clinically found to
have a mass encasing the bilateral chonchae and nasopharyngeal wall being investigated for malignancy, but
proved to be diagnosed with rhinoscleroma on histopathology.
Conclusion: Rhinoscleroma, usually difficult to diagnose, may be confused with granulomatous disease,
carcinoma, tuberculosis and leprosy. Seen majorly affecting the respiratory tract, adequate biopsy material
sent for histopathology may prove to be useful in the diagnosis; along with a proper clinical history. The
presence of inflammatory background containing Mikulicz cells are highly suspicious of rhinoscleroma. The
disease often presents with nasal mass therefore clinically mimics with neoplastic mass. Due to its chronic
course, it often proves challenging to treat. Early diagnosis thus ensures timely treatment further avoiding
relapses and complications.