An observational analysis of erythromelanosis follicularis faciei et colli

Erythromelanosis follicularis faciei et colli (EFFC) is characterized by well-demarcated erythema, hyperpigmentation, and follicular papules. Since the orginal description, < 50 patients have been reported in the literature. Five cases of EFFC have been seen in our outpatient department in the past 5 years. All patients except one presented with the classic triad of erythema, brown pigmentation and follicular papules on the face and keratosis pilaris lesions on the trunk. In all cases, there was no family history for related disorders or history of atopy. Histopathological examination in all cases was consistent with the diagnosis of EFFC. Age at presentation ranged from 11 to 19 years, and the male female ratio was 4 : 1. Patients had the classic lesions of keratosis pilaris on the face (5/5), trunk (2/5) and legs (4/5). All patients except one had a background of erythema. One patient (patient 2) had itching and a history of photosensitivity. Of the patients who were on treatment (4/5), complete clinical regression was seen in one patient. To our knowledge, this is the first case series of EFFC from India, and we believe that EFFC is a common but infrequently reported condition.