Clinical Characteristics of Patients With Darier Disease in Southwestern Ontario

Darier disease (DD) is a rare autosomal dominant genodermatosis characterized by keratotic papules and plaques, and associated nail and oral mucosal changes. A retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with DD and treated at the dermatology clinics at McMaster University between 2015 and 2025. The objective of the study is to describe the clinical features and comorbidities of patients with DD in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. The cohort included 24 patients (mean age = 29.5). Approximately, 79% of the cohort reported a family history of DD. Most patients exhibited keratotic lesions, primarily on the head and neck, and 67% had nail abnormalities. Oral mucosal changes were seen in 21% of patients. Notably, 71% had neuropsychiatric comorbidities, such as anxiety, depression, and epilepsy, and 12.5% had cardiovascular disease. DD patients often present with a variety of different symptoms, many of which can affect their quality of life. This study highlights the need for further research on the multifaceted presentation of DD and its associated comorbidities.