Psoriasiform eruption associated with graft-versus-host disease

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Hematology
• Immunology

Background:

• Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is a common complication following bone marrow transplantation (BMT).
• Acute GVHD typically presents within 3 months post-BMT with characteristic skin findings like maculopapular exanthema.
• Psoriasiform skin eruptions are an uncommon manifestation of acute GVHD.

Observation:

• A 4-year-old boy underwent allogeneic BMT.
• The patient developed a generalized psoriasiform eruption shortly after the transplantation.
• Histological examination revealed features consistent with both psoriasis and acute GVHD.

Findings:

• This case highlights a rare presentation of acute GVHD mimicking psoriasis.
• Histopathology confirmed the co-existence of GVHD and psoriatic changes in the skin.
• The patient's condition underscores the diverse cutaneous manifestations of GVHD.

Implications:

• Recognizing rare skin manifestations of GVHD is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
• This case expands the spectrum of known cutaneous GVHD presentations.
• Further research may elucidate the mechanisms behind psoriasiform GVHD.