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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

Published on: May 16, 2025

Erythrokeratoderma variabilis.

Christopher M Hunzeker¹, Anthony C Soldano, William R Levis

¹Department of Dermatology, New York University, USA.

Dermatology Online Journal

|July 17, 2008

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Erythrokeratoderma variabilis (EKV) is a rare genetic skin disorder. Treatment with acitretin effectively cleared the patient's skin lesions, suggesting its therapeutic potential.

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Last Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

Dermoscopy Aids in the Diagnosis of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus

Published on: May 16, 2025

Area of Science:

Dermatology
Genetics
Molecular Biology

Background:

Erythrokeratoderma variabilis (EKV) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by erythematous patches and hyperkeratotic plaques.
It is caused by mutations in connexin genes, which are crucial for intercellular communication in the epidermis.
Family history and clinical presentation are key diagnostic factors.

Observation:

A 51-year-old woman presented with a lifelong history of symmetrical, erythematous, and hyperkeratotic skin lesions.
Lesion intensity was exacerbated by stress and chocolate consumption.
The lesions predominantly affected the extensor surfaces of her extremities.

Findings:

The patient's presentation, histopathology, and family history were consistent with Erythrokeratoderma variabilis (EKV).
Mutations in connexin genes (e.g., connexin-31, connexin-30.3) are implicated in the pathogenesis of EKV.
Oral retinoids, specifically acitretin, showed significant efficacy in managing the patient's symptoms.

Implications:

Acitretin treatment led to near-complete clearance of skin lesions in this EKV patient.
This case supports the potential efficacy of oral retinoids for managing Erythrokeratoderma variabilis.
Further studies are warranted to establish standardized treatment protocols for EKV.