[Acute pityriasis rubra pilaris in the child. Apropos of 4 cases]

Insights

Acute Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris in children presents with a distinctive rash, often following infection. This form shows a rapid onset and spontaneous resolution within months, indicating a favorable prognosis.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pediatrics

Context:

  • Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris (PRP) is a rare chronic skin disorder.
  • Juvenile PRP has several subtypes, with Type III being a classical form.
  • Acute presentations in children are less commonly documented.

Purpose:

  • To describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of four pediatric cases of acute Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris.
  • To differentiate this acute form from classical juvenile PRP.
  • To highlight the distinct clinical course and prognosis.

Summary:

  • Four children aged 3-6 years presented with acute PRP, with onset following infection in three cases (one confirmed German measles).
  • Initial facial rash evolved to a generalized dermatosis resembling scarlet fever, with follicular papules appearing in the second stage.
  • The condition resolved spontaneously within three months without recurrence, showing no associated symptoms or vitamin A deficiency.

Impact:

  • This study identifies a distinct acute variant of juvenile Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris.
  • It emphasizes the favorable prognosis and self-limiting nature of this specific presentation.
  • Findings contribute to a better understanding of PRP heterogeneity in pediatric populations.

Related Concept Videos

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives01:14

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives

The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Skin Diseases and Disorders01:23

Skin Diseases and Disorders

Skin is the first line of defense and encounters a variety of microbes. Some pathogenic strains are often the cause of a broad range of infections of the skin and other body systems. These conditions can affect people of all ages and may have different causes, including genetic factors, infections, autoimmune reactions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Skin Cancer01:30

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Acne Infection01:27

Acne Infection

Acne is a multifactorial skin condition primarily affecting adolescents and young adults, with a global prevalence estimated to exceed 75% in this demographic. The condition is characterized by the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules, and, in severe cases, cysts, particularly in areas rich in sebaceous glands such as the face, neck, chest, and back. The pathogenesis involves increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization by...
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever01:26

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a severe tick-borne illness caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, a Gram-negative, coccobacillary bacterium. This pathogen is an obligate intracellular parasite, requiring a host cell for replication. Transmission occurs through the bite of an infected tick. In the United States, the most important vectors are Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) and Dermacentor andersoni (Rocky Mountain wood tick), though other tick species may also serve as vectors.