[Skin disorder as an indication of viral infection]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dermatology
• Viral Exanthems
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Gianotti-Crosti syndrome (GCS) is a self-limiting dermatosis typically affecting children aged 2-6 years.
• Characterized by pruritic papulovesicles, GCS is associated with viral infections, notably hepatitis B virus and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
• Common symptoms include fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy, with spontaneous resolution within two months.

Observation:

• A 16-year-old female presented with characteristic itchy papulovesicles on her extremities and buttocks.
• Clinical presentation, histopathological examination, and positive EBV serology confirmed the diagnosis of GCS.
• This case expands the known age range for GCS presentation.

Findings:

• Gianotti-Crosti syndrome can manifest in individuals older than the typical pediatric age range.
• Positive EBV serology in this older patient confirmed a link between EBV infection and GCS.
• The syndrome's occurrence in an adolescent suggests GCS may be an initial manifestation of various viral infections.

Implications:

• GCS diagnosis should be considered in older children and adolescents presenting with characteristic skin lesions.
• This case underscores the importance of investigating underlying viral etiologies, including EBV, hepatitis B, and HIV, in atypical GCS presentations.
• Recognizing GCS in older individuals broadens its differential diagnosis and highlights its potential as an early sign of systemic viral illness.