The transformation of pityriasis lichenoides chronica into parakeratosis variegata in an 11-year-old girl

Br J Dermatol. 1997 Dec;137(6):983-7.

Abstract

Parakeratosis variegata is a rare disorder with unknown aetiology. In a few cases it arises from benign skin diseases such as pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (Mucha Habermann disease) or pityriasis lichenoides chronica. However, transformation into malignant diseases such as cutaneous T-cell lymphoma has been observed. We report an 11-year-old girl with a 10-year history of pityriasis lichenoides chronica now presenting with parakeratosis variegata. Analysis of skin infiltrating T cells showed clonally rearranged T-cell receptor gamma chains occurring with a frequency of more than 2%. This finding is compatible with the clinical observation of parakeratosis variegata transforming into a malignant T-cell disorder. We therefore suggest that patients suffering from parakeratosis variegata and other diseases such as pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta or pityriasis lichenoides chronica should be continuously monitored.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Cellular
  • Infant
  • Parapsoriasis / immunology
  • Parapsoriasis / pathology*
  • Pityriasis Lichenoides / pathology*
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta / analysis

Substances

  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell, gamma-delta