ear, nose, and throat disorders
Rhinitis
Atrophic rhinitis
Atrophic rhinitis is a form of chronic rhinitis in which the mucous membrane thins (atrophies) and hardens, causing the nasal passages to widen (dilate) and dry out. This atrophy often occurs in older people. People who have Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (formerly called Wegener granulomatosis) are also at risk. The cells normally found in the mucous membrane of the nose—cells that secrete mucus and have hairlike projections to move dirt particles out—are replaced by cells like those normally found in the skin. The disorder can also develop in people who had a significant amount of intranasal structures and mucous membranes removed during sinus surgery. A prolonged bacterial infection of the lining of the nose is also a factor. Crusts form inside the nose, and an offensive odor develops. People may have recurring severe nosebleeds and can lose their sense of smell (anosmia). Treatment is aimed at reducing the crusting, eliminating the odor, and reducing infections. Antibiotics, such asmupirocinointment applied inside the nose, kill bacteria. Estrogens sprayed into the nose or taken by mouth and vitamins A and D taken by mouth may reduce crusting by promoting mucosal secretions. 