Porokeratosis of Mibelli with mutilation: a case report

Farhad Handjani1, Shima Shahbaz, Fatemeh Sari Aslani

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.

Cutis
|October 6, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Porokeratosis of Mibelli, a rare skin disorder, can lead to severe mutilation. This case highlights significant digital destruction, including bone loss and joint contractures, emphasizing the potential for disfigurement in this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Rare Skin Diseases
  • Keratinization Disorders

Background:

  • Porokeratosis is a rare genodermatosis characterized by abnormal keratinization.
  • It typically presents as annular plaques with a raised keratotic border and central atrophy.
  • Porokeratosis of Mibelli is a common subtype, but mutilating forms are exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A 30-year-old woman presented with classic porokeratosis of Mibelli lesions on both index fingers.
  • The lesions featured atrophic centers and raised keratotic ridges.
  • Significant digital mutilation was observed, including distal phalanx loss on the left and shortening with contracture on the right.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates a severe mutilating variant of porokeratosis of Mibelli.
  • Digital destruction, including phalangeal loss and joint deformities, occurred secondary to the skin condition.
  • This presentation underscores the potential for aggressive and destructive manifestations of porokeratosis.

Implications:

  • This case expands the known clinical spectrum of porokeratosis of Mibelli.
  • Early recognition and aggressive management may be crucial to prevent severe mutilation.
  • Further research into the pathogenesis of mutilating variants is warranted to guide treatment strategies.