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Acne excoriata--look for allergy!
B Kränke1, E Brabek, J Derhaschnig
1Department of Environmental Dermatology and Allergy, University of Graz, Austria. birger.kraenke@kfunigraz.ac.at
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 10, 2001
Summary
Acne excoriata, a skin condition often linked to psychological issues, can be triggered by bird products. Identifying and avoiding these triggers, like bird eggs and feathers, offers an effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Acne excoriata (AE) is a prevalent self-inflicted dermatological condition, predominantly affecting females and often associated with psychological distress.
- Conventional dermatological treatments for AE are frequently ineffective, suggesting underlying etiological factors beyond typical acne.
- The psychological component in AE patients often complicates treatment and recovery outcomes.
Observation:
- A 37-year-old female patient presented with a 5-year history of severe AE.
- Detailed patient history revealed a correlation between skin manipulation episodes and exposure to bird products, including feathers and eggs.
- The patient's AE symptoms were directly linked to handling bird-related materials.
Findings:
- Diagnosis of a bird egg syndrome was confirmed through specific diagnostic tests.
- Skin prick tests and laboratory analyses (CAP FEIA) validated the allergic or sensitivity-based etiology.
- Complete avoidance of handling bird products led to the resolution of AE symptoms.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of thorough patient history taking in diagnosing artifactual diseases like AE.
- Identifying specific environmental triggers, such as bird products, is crucial for effective AE management.
- An interdisciplinary approach considering dermatological, allergic, and psychological factors is recommended for AE patients.