Identification of rhinoscleroma by immunoperoxidase technique

Rhinoscleroma is a chronic disease of the respiratory system. Its onset is insidious and its symptoms are often nonspecific. Yet rhinoscleroma is a progressive disease that can lead to significant disability. The proper diagnosis is difficult because of the nonspecific presentation and rarity of rhinoscleroma. Biopsy tissue often is not properly cultured. Diagnostic histologic features may not be readily apparent or may be overlooked by the unsuspecting pathologist. A case of rhinoscleroma is reported in which an immunoperoxidase technique was applied to retrospectively confirm the diagnosis. The usefulness of this new technique in the diagnosis of rhinoscleroma is discussed.