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A destructive centrofacial granuloma: Case report
Zineb Tazi Saoud1, Fatima Zahra Elfatoiki1, Soumiya Chiheb1
1Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, Morocco.
Introduction:
Centrofacial granulomas have several etiologies, which poses diagnostic difficulties and delays in management. Herein, we report a confusing case revealing granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in its localized form.
Case Presentation:
A 76-year-old man presented with a pruritic centrofacial placard that had been evolving for 3 years. On examination, there was a centrofacial infiltrated and erythematous papulonodular placard. Skin biopsies were not conclusive. The immunological assessment was negative. The evolution was marked by the extension of the placard, the destruction of the nasal pyramid and nasal mutilation. Only surgical biopsy revealed dermohypodermal, cartilaginous and endonasal non-necrotizing granulomatous tuberculoid inflammation with leukocytoclastic and necrotizing vascularitis. The diagnosis of GPA in its localized form was retained. Treatment with prednisone was initiated combined with monthly boluses of cyclophosphamide. The assessment for systemic involvement remained negative during the follow-up.
Clinical Discussion:
Localized forms represent up to 29% of GPA cases. There are clinical, but also biological differences, since ANCA are found in more than 90% of diffuse forms and only in 50-78% of localized forms. Our case may represent a rare distinctive subset of GPA limited to the facial region and upper airway mucosa but showing a locally aggressive behaviour leading to cartilage and bony destruction.
Conclusion:
It is necessary to evoke GPA in its localized form and to perform multiple deep biopsies in front of any facial granulomatosis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment prevent mutilating and disfiguring sequelae.
Insights
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) can present as localized facial granulomas, causing significant destruction. Early diagnosis through deep biopsies is crucial to prevent disfigurement.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Centrofacial granulomas present diagnostic challenges due to diverse etiologies.
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) can manifest in localized forms, complicating diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old man developed a 3-year evolving pruritic centrofacial plaque with destructive nasal changes.
- Initial skin biopsies and immunological assessments were inconclusive.
- Surgical biopsy revealed non-necrotizing granulomatous inflammation with vasculitis, leading to a diagnosis of GPA.
Findings:
- Localized GPA constitutes up to 29% of cases, with varying ANCA positivity (50-78%) compared to diffuse forms (>90%).
- This case represents a rare subset of GPA affecting the face and upper airways, causing significant cartilage and bone destruction.
- Treatment with prednisone and cyclophosphamide was initiated, with no systemic involvement detected during follow-up.
Implications:
- Evoking localized GPA is essential for any facial granulomatosis presentation.
- Multiple deep biopsies are recommended for accurate diagnosis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent mutilating sequelae of GPA.
