Rhinophyma is a descriptive term for a large, bulbous, ruddy appearance of the nose caused by granulomatous infiltration. This is commonly due to untreated rosacea.
Alcoholism is mistakenly attributed as one of the reasons for this disease although mass alcohol consumption aggravates the condition and consequently is suffered by many alcoholics. It is derived from the Greekrhis ('nose') and phyma ('growth'). Rhinophyma may be diagnosed without testing, but a skin biopsy can confirm the diagnosis. Surgical treatment may be beneficial.
