Rhinosporidiosis

Rhinosporidiosis
Rhinosporidiosis affecting the nasal cavity
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Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by the aquatic protistan parasite Rhinosporidium seeberi. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity, but can also involve the conjunctiva, larynx, urethra, and skin. The disease is characterized by the formation of polyps or masses that can cause obstruction and bleeding.

Etiology

Rhinosporidiosis is caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi, an organism that was historically classified as a fungus, but is now considered a member of the class Mesomycetozoea, a group of aquatic protistan parasites. The exact mode of transmission is not fully understood, but it is believed to occur through contact with contaminated water, as the organism is found in stagnant water bodies.

Clinical Presentation

The most common presentation of rhinosporidiosis is a nasal mass, which can lead to symptoms such as nasal obstruction, epistaxis (nosebleeds), and rhinorrhea. The masses are typically polypoid and friable, with a characteristic strawberry-like appearance due to the presence of sporangia filled with endospores.

In addition to nasal involvement, rhinosporidiosis can affect other mucosal sites, leading to symptoms such as:

• Conjunctival rhinosporidiosis: Redness, irritation, and a mass in the eye.
• Laryngeal rhinosporidiosis: Hoarseness and difficulty breathing.
• Cutaneous rhinosporidiosis: Nodular lesions on the skin.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of rhinosporidiosis is primarily clinical, supported by histopathological examination of the excised tissue. The presence of large sporangia containing numerous endospores is pathognomonic. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques can also be used for confirmation.

Treatment

The mainstay of treatment for rhinosporidiosis is surgical excision of the lesions. Complete removal is necessary to prevent recurrence. Adjunctive therapies, such as dapsone, have been used to reduce recurrence rates, although their efficacy is not well established.

Prognosis

With appropriate surgical treatment, the prognosis for rhinosporidiosis is generally good. However, recurrence is common if the lesions are not completely excised.

Epidemiology

Rhinosporidiosis is endemic in certain regions, particularly in India and Sri Lanka. It is considered a rare disease in other parts of the world.

Also see

• Infectious disease
• Nasal polyp
• Mesomycetozoea
• Epistaxis