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Terra firma-forme dermatosis in a 4-month-old girl

David R Berk1, Anna L Bruckner

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA. DBerk@dom.wustl.edu

Pediatric Dermatology
|August 27, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Terra firma-forme dermatosis (TFFD) presents as dirt-like skin plaques. This report details the youngest patient diagnosed with TFFD, a 4-month-old infant, expanding the known age range for this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pediatric Dermatology

Background:

  • Terra firma-forme dermatosis (TFFD) is an idiopathic skin condition.
  • It presents as asymptomatic, hyperpigmented, dirt-like plaques.
  • TFFD typically affects adolescents and young adults with normal hygiene.

Observation:

  • Affected areas are resistant to routine cleansing methods.
  • Plaques resolve with firm wiping using 70% isopropyl or ethyl alcohol.
  • Commonly affected sites include the neck, trunk, and umbilicus.

Findings:

  • This study reports the youngest patient diagnosed with TFFD to date.
  • The patient is a 4-month-old infant girl.
  • This finding expands the known pediatric age range for TFFD.

Implications:

  • Early identification of TFFD in infants is possible.
  • Understanding TFFD's presentation in younger populations is crucial.
  • This case highlights the need for specific cleansing techniques for TFFD.

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