Erythromelanosis follicularis faciei et colli L85.8

Kitamura, 1960

The disease was first described by Kitamura in Japanese males. In the meantime, there are descriptions in all ethnic groups and in both sexes. Apparently there is a preference of the Asian especially the Korean population.

0.1- O.2 cm disseminated follicular keratotic papules. The color of the efflorescences varies according to skin type. In patients with skin type I, the papules are red. In patients with darker skin color, reddish-brown papules are found, which are clearly darker than in the non-involved environment. The literature describes hyperpigmented papules.

The dark color described in the initial descriptions results from the original dark skin color combined with the follicular and perifollicular erythema confluent to a localized brownish-red area.
This makes it understandable why this clinical picture does not occur in skin type I and skin type II in the symptomatology described here. The clinical analogue in skin type I and skin type II persons are clinical pictures known as keratosis pilaris rubra faciei, keratosis pilaris rubra atrophicans faciei, keratosis pilaris faciei or Taenzer's disease. The cases described in Caucasian ethnic groups (see Fig.) confirm this assumption.

In erythromelanosis follcilaris faciei, follicular "hyperpigmented" papules on the extensor sides of the upper arms are also described.

Slight or distinct follicular hyperkeratosis with increased epidermal pigmentation. The diameter of the hair shafts is reduced. Mostly clear perifollicular lymphocytic infiltrate.

Keratolytic Externa (mostly urea-containing -5-10%) creams, lotions. A trial with vitamin A acidic topicals is indicated. Improvement under a lactic acid/hydroquinone-containing cream has been described.

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