Childhood lichen planus pemphigoides triggered by chickenpox

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Autoimmune Blistering Diseases

Background:

• Lichen planus pemphigoides (LPP) is a rare autoimmune bullous disorder.
• It is exceptionally rare in pediatric populations.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old girl presented with clinical features suggestive of LPP.
• The condition was potentially triggered by a preceding varicella infection.

Findings:

• Diagnosis was confirmed through histopathology and direct immunofluorescence.
• Biopsies showed lichen planus characteristics on papules and bullous pemphigoid features on blisters.
• Direct immunofluorescence revealed immunoglobulin G and C3 deposition at the basement membrane zone.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation for LPP in children.
• Understanding triggers like varicella is crucial for pediatric autoimmune blistering diseases.
• Histopathology and immunofluorescence are key for accurate LPP diagnosis.