Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Nasi: A Case Report of a Rare Variant of Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis

Abstract

Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis is an inflammatory condition affecting the helix or antihelix of the ear. It is commonly described as a solitary, painful, ulcerated nodule affecting the cartilage or skin because of continuous pressure, trauma, sun exposure, or ischemic changes. In this case report, we present a rare variant of chondrodermatitis, named chondrodermatitis nodularis nasi, which affects the skin and cartilage of the nose. Clinical resemblance to neoplasms of the skin such as squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma requires that a biopsy be performed for definitive diagnosis. On histopathological examination, chondrodermatitis presents as a central ulcer bordered by epidermal hyperplasia, hypergranulosis, hyperkeratosis, and parakeratosis with fibrin deposits in the papillary dermis admixed with sparse inflammatory cells. Included in this case report is a discussion of the clinical and histopathology of chondrodermatitis nodularis nasi. With increased frequency of diagnosing this rare variant, better management and treatments can be explored.