Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis responsive to selenium sulfide

Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis of Gougerot and Carteaud (CRP) is a distinctive clinicopathologic entity, of unknown etiology, which shows some resemblance to pityriasis versicolor. A case of CRP that showed a significant therapeutic response to topical selenium sulfide is reported. In previously described cases, response to this agent and to other medications, both antifungal and keratolytic, has been variable. A review of these cases reveals conflicting evidence regarding the questionable role of Malassezia furfur in CRP.