Acquired reactive perforating collagenosis combined with MRSA: A case report

Acquired reactive perforating collagenosis (ARPC) is a rare chronic skin disease associated with various internal diseases, particularly diabetes and chronic renal failure. The present study describes the case of a patient with ARPC combined with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), in an aim to broaden the current understanding of ARPC. A 75-year-old female presented with a 5-year history of pruritus and ulcerative eruptions on the trunk of her body, which became more severe within 1 year. A cutaneous examination revealed a diffuse distribution of erythema and papules, and nodules of various sizes, some of which sagged at the center and had a dark brown crust. A histopathological analysis revealed typical perforations of the collagen fibers. The patient was initially treated with topical corticosteroids and oral antihistamines for skin lesions and pruritus. Medications for glucose control were also administered. Upon the second admission, a combination of antibiotics and acitretin was added. The keratin plug shrank, and the pruritus was relieved. To date, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of concurrent ARPC and MRSA.