Klebsiella pneumoniae subspecies rhinoscleromatis

Background

Microbiology

• A chronic granulomatous disease of nasal and respiratory tract caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae subspecies rhinoscleromatis
• Also known as respiratory scleroma

Epidemiology

• Primarily found in developing countries worldwide, in particular Mexico, Central America, and the Middle East
• Transmitted by close contact

Clinical Manifestations

• Presents with nodules or masses in the nasal passages or other parts of the naso- or oropharynx or respiratory tract

Diagnosis

• Biopsy shows granulomatous inflammation with foamy macrophages

Manageemnt

• Treated with 6 to 8 weeks of antibiotics, but high relapse rate