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Cutaneous pseudolymphoma induced by Cimicifuga racemosa
S Meyer1, T Vogt, E C Obermann
1Department of Dermatology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 28, 2006
Summary
This study details a rare case of cutaneous pseudolymphoma (PL) linked to black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) herbal supplements. Discontinuation of the supplement led to complete remission of skin lesions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pseudolymphoma (PL) is a benign skin condition that can mimic lymphoma.
- Phytotherapeutical agents, such as black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), are widely used for menopausal symptoms.
- Adverse effects of herbal medications, though often considered mild, can include rare cutaneous reactions.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old female presented with asymptomatic erythematous plaques on her extremities.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous pseudolymphoma.
- The patient had been taking a standardized black cohosh extract for menopausal complaints for one year prior to lesion onset.
Findings:
- Skin lesions appeared six months after initiating black cohosh supplementation and progressively worsened.
- Withdrawal of the black cohosh supplement resulted in complete regression of the cutaneous pseudolymphoma within 12 weeks.
- This is the first reported case of cutaneous pseudolymphoma induced by a standardized extract of Cimicifuga racemosa rhizome.
Implications:
- Phytotherapeutical agents, including black cohosh, can induce uncommon and potentially chronic cutaneous eruptions.
- The causative agent must be identified and discontinued for effective management of drug-induced pseudolymphoma.
- Clinicians should consider herbal medications as potential triggers for dermatological conditions, even when adverse effects are considered minimal.
