Discrete papular lichen myxedematosus | |
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Specialty | Dermatology |
Discrete papular lichen myxedematosus is a skin condition caused by fibroblasts producing abnormally large amounts of mucopolysaccharides characterized by the occurrence of waxy, flesh-colored papules..[1][2]
Discrete papular lichen myxedematosus is typically identified by the presence of violaceous, flesh-colored, or reddish, waxy papules that range in size from 2 to 5 mm and that symmetrically affect the trunk and limbs.[3]
This disease's etiology is still unknown.[4]
Histologically, a normal epidermis is covered by a diffuse or focal mucinous deposit and edema in the upper and mid dermis. Although there isn't any sclerosis or collagen deposition, fibroblast proliferation varies.[3]
Numerous therapies have been attempted, with varying degrees of success, such as dermabrasion, CO2 laser, intralesional injections of corticosteroids or hyaluronidase, oral retinoids, psoralen ultraviolet A, and pimecrolimus.[5] Given its ability to inhibit both tumor necrosis factor-a and transforming growth factor-b, thus decreasing the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans by fibroblasts, topical tacrolimus 0.1% has recently been proposed as an effective substitute.[6]