Case of the Month

Case of the Month

Perf Folliculitis

31-year-old woman developed a papular rash on the right side of her back 3 months after starting Remicade (Infliximab) for Crohn’s disease. The papules were almost conical with central crust-like umbilications . She is not diabetic and has no history of renal disease.

A biopsy was performed, and here are high and low power images of the dermatopathologic findings (courtesy of Erick Jacobson, M.D., dermatopathologist)

Perforating Folliculitis/Dermatosis from infliximab
Perforating Folliculitis/Dermatosis from infliximab

What's Your Diagnosis?


Diagnosis:

Acquired (Drug Induced) Perforating Folliculitis/Dermatosis from infliximab (Remicade)

The keratotic papules are a response to constant rubbing and scratching are commonly seen in patients with chronic renal disease. It has also been seen in patients with chronic eczema, HIV disease, liver disease, Hodgkin's disease and thyroid disorders.

Additionally, drug induced Acquired Perforating Folliculitis/Dermatosis after starting one of many biologic agents such as infliximab, etanercept, and others.

In this case, the offending biologic agent was infliximab (Remicade)

Treatment:

In my experience patients benefit from narrowband UVB phototherapy and a topical class 3 steroid like triamcinolone 0.1%, applied twice daily. I also recommend a topical anti-itch lotion such as Cerave anti-itch with pramoxine.

In extreme cases caused by a biologic agent, the systemic agent should be changed. If the systemic biologic agent is working well and the papules and pruritus can be managed well, the biologic treatment may be continued.

In extreme cases of Perforating Folliculitis, I have cautiously used thalidomide with significant success.

Reference:

Taken from Andrews’ Diseases of the Skin Twelfth Edition p.770


Charles Crutchfield III M.D. Eagan Dermatologist

For more dermatology cases-of-the-month visit Dr. Crutchfield's Case of the Month Archive



Look Good, Feel Great with Beautiful Skin ™

Dr. Crutchfield is a member or graduate of these prestigious organizations.

Demonstrating his education, experience, and commitment to providing patients with the highest quality medical & cosmetic dermatologic care.
When choosing your physician, demand nothing less. Remember..... "Quality Matters"


Crutchfield Dermatology Location
Crutchfield Dermatology Logo
top 100 places to work

Crutchfield Dermatology

1185 Town Centre Drive, Suite 101
Eagan, MN 55123 USA

Phone: 651-633-6883 Fax: (651) 209-3601

Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

Newsletter Sign Up

Sent once or twice a month with the latest in skin care news and treatments.

©Crutchfield Dermatology
All Photographs copyright protected, unauthorized use is prohibited.

Web Site by Arbor Bay Marketing

Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society