Transverse Nasal Creases
A 6-year-old girl with a history of eczema presented to the dermatology clinic with horizontal lines across her nose that had developed during the preceding 2 weeks. She also reported perennial sneezing, nasal congestion and itching, and rhinorrhea, which worsened in the spring and fall. On physical examination, two transverse lines crossing the bridge of her nose were noted (Panel A, arrows), and the patient was seen upwardly rubbing her nose (Panel B), a motion known as the “allergic salute.” A clinical diagnosis of allergic rhinitis was made. Transverse nasal creases due to frequent upward pushing of the nose are a sign of allergic rhinitis, especially in children and in patients with atopic conditions. After 2 weeks of treatment with nasal glucocorticoids and oral antihistamines, the patient reported relief from her symptoms. At follow-up 3 months later, the skin changes had resolved.