Severe retention hyperkeratosis occurring with Susac syndrome

A 50-year-old woman presented for asymptomatic yellow hyperkeratotic plaques limited to her face. The plaques reportedly arose over the six months prior to her clinic visit. She was healthy prior to the diagnosis of Susac syndrome (retinocochleocerebral vasculopathy) two years before. A punch biopsy was performed and revealed retention hyperkeratosis. Retention hyperkeratosis is a benign and commonly seen skin condition in primary care and dermatology. Retention hyperkeratosis occurs when there is abnormality of routine desquamation that can be associated with poor hygeine. It can be associated with acne or ichthyosis. Our case of retention hyperkeratosis is unique because of the profound presentation in a setting of an untreated psychiatric condition. Treatment consisted of daily topical exfoliative care. We also encouraged her family members to help her to seek medical attention for Susac syndrome.