Rhinoscleroma
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Synopsis
Rhinoscleroma, or Slavic leprosy, is a chronic granulomatous infection of the nasal mucosa, the oropharynx, and upper airways caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae ssp. rhinoscleromatis. There are endemic foci in central Europe, Africa, South America, and Central America. It is typically seen in patients from economically challenged and rural areas.
The disease is characterized by three stages: rhinitic, infiltrative, and nodular stages. The rhinitic or catarrhal stage is characterized by rhinorrhea and nasal obstruction. The discharge is typically fetid and purulent. The infiltrative or granulomatous stage is characterized by granulomatous papules and nodules in the nose and oropharynx. The nodular stage is characterized by deformity of the nose, with both fibrous and sclerotic lesions prevailing. The later aspects of this stage are sometimes referred to as a sclerotic or fibrotic stage. The entire process occurs over months to years. Usually, systemic symptoms are not seen, but chronic headache may be associated. Some evidence of intrafamilial transmission has been reported in close living quarters.
The disease is characterized by three stages: rhinitic, infiltrative, and nodular stages. The rhinitic or catarrhal stage is characterized by rhinorrhea and nasal obstruction. The discharge is typically fetid and purulent. The infiltrative or granulomatous stage is characterized by granulomatous papules and nodules in the nose and oropharynx. The nodular stage is characterized by deformity of the nose, with both fibrous and sclerotic lesions prevailing. The later aspects of this stage are sometimes referred to as a sclerotic or fibrotic stage. The entire process occurs over months to years. Usually, systemic symptoms are not seen, but chronic headache may be associated. Some evidence of intrafamilial transmission has been reported in close living quarters.
Codes
ICD10CM:
A48.8 – Other specified bacterial diseases
SNOMEDCT:
72409005 – Rhinoscleroma
A48.8 – Other specified bacterial diseases
SNOMEDCT:
72409005 – Rhinoscleroma
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Last Updated:10/01/2017