Rhinitis Sicca vs Atrophic Rhinitis Quiz

Rhinitis Sicca: Rhinitis Sicca is a condition where the inside of the nose is abnormally dry, causing crusting of mucus, and nosebleeds. It can be caused by medications, radiotherapy to the nose, or long-term infections. Often, no clear cause is found.

Atrophic Rhinitis: Atrophic rhinitis is a chronic nasal condition characterized by thinning (atrophy) of the nasal mucosa and underlying bone. This leads to excessive dryness, crusting, widening of the nasal passages, and a distinctive foul odor (ozena). It may occur due to chronic infection, prior nasal surgery, or underlying conditions such as malnutrition or autoimmune disease. Secondary bacterial infections are common, and patients may experience nosebleeds and loss of smell.

Rhinitis Sicca Specific Symptoms

• Mild to moderate nasal dryness
• Irritation or burning sensation
• Crusts usually easily removed
• No significant nasal odor
• Often improves with humidification and nasal moisturizers

Atrophic Rhinitis Specific Symptoms

• Severe dryness with thick, foul-smelling crusts
• Nasal congestion despite wide nasal passages
• Frequent nosebleeds and possible secondary infections
• Decreased sense of smell (anosmia)
• Visible atrophy of nasal tissues on exam

Rhinitis Sicca Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on the cause. Keeping the nose moist with humidified air and avoiding nose picking can help.

Atrophic Rhinitis Treatment Approaches

There is no single cure, but management focuses on symptom relief and preventing infections. Regular nasal irrigation with saline helps remove crusts. Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin or rifampin) may be used for bacterial colonization. Nasal moisturizers and vitamin A ointments can soothe the mucosa. In severe cases, surgical procedures may be considered to narrow the nasal passages and improve humidity retention.