The third subtype of rosacea, the lifelong skin condition recognized by persistent redness and flushing, is called phymatous rosacea. This subtype is distinguished by thick bumpy skin and large pores most often on the nose. The thickening appears as irregular surfaces with enlargements and nodes. The most common version of phymatous rosacea is called rhinophyma, the enlargement of the nose. Famous people who were and are afflicted with this version are WC Fields and former President Bill Clinton. The associated symptoms with rhinophyma often lead observers to believe that the afflicted person with an enlarged red nose is due to alcohol abuse. This more often than not is not the case. The cheeks, chin, forehead and even ears can also be affected.
Phymatous rosacea is a more severe symptom of this chronic condition. Treatments use combinations of therapy to gain control of the symptoms and prevent the disease from getting worse. Some physicians may place sufferers for this on isotrentonin (Accutane) for treatment in the early stages. Laser skin resurfacing may be prescribed for more severe cases to soften and decrease the skin thickness. |
