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Terra firma-forme dermatosis revisited
1Baylor College of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
Dermatology Online Journal
|September 10, 2005
Summary
Terra firma-forme dermatosis, a dirt-like skin discoloration, is easily treated with isopropyl alcohol, not soap and water. This common condition is often underreported in medical literature.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Terra firma-forme dermatosis presents as a dirt-like cutaneous discoloration.
- The condition is cosmetically distressing but not a serious medical threat.
Observation:
- Standard soap and water washing is ineffective for removal.
- Isopropyl alcohol effectively eliminates the dyschromia.
Findings:
- This entity is more common than suggested by limited medical literature reports.
- Cases occurred across diverse demographic groups with long remission periods after treatment.
Implications:
- Highlights the prevalence of terra firma-forme dermatosis.
- Suggests isopropyl alcohol as a simple and effective treatment.
- Underscores the need for increased awareness and reporting of this condition.
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