How to Treat Scleroma

Scleroma or rhinoscleroma is a chronic inflammation of tissues in the mucous membrane of the nose and upper respiratory tracts. It is caused by a bacterium called klebsiella rhinoscleromatis. This bacterium is encountered through a direct inhalation of contaminated droplets or agents. When infection sets in, it affects the cavities of the nose, the area of the larynx, nasopharnx, oral cavity, and the paranasal sinuses (soft tissues of the nose, lips, trachea, and bronchi). This case is not deadly unless left untreated, which may lead to obstruction of the airway. Symptoms of rhinoscleroma include obstruction on the air passage of the nose causing breathing difficulties that may lead to presence of harsh vibrating sounds during respiration (stridor), excessive mucous secretion from the nose (rhinorrhoea), bloody nose (epistaxis) associated with nasal enlargement and deformity, difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia), defective use of the voice (dysphonia), and an impaired sense of smell (anosmia).

Instructions

• 1

  Take some helpful medications. Antibacterial drugs such as clindamycin and third-generation cephalosporins is beneficial in wearing off infections caused by bacterium Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis. Ciprofloxacin is another type of drug that can effectively fight gram negative bacteria. Steroid therapy can also be administered to improve inflammatory symptoms.

• 2

  Consult your doctor for a surgical procedure. Tracheotomy (surgical procedure that involves incision over the trachea) is essential in patients with laryngeal obstruction. Plastic surgery is needed if there narrowing of the nasal cavity, larynx, pharynx, or trachea, due to a formation and contraction of fibrous tissue in a flesh wound.

• 3

  Ask your doctor about a procedure that is associated with laser therapy. Laser therapy is best to manage endangered airways and deformities of the affected tissues. A procedure known as fiberoptic intubation is excellent in treating cases where there is abnormal formation of fibrous tissues in the area of the pharynx. Promoting proper vaporization of the affected areas can also be treated through a carbon dioxide laser.