Pityriasis amiantacea: a distinctive presentation of psoriasis associated with tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitor therapy.

Abstract

Pityriasis amiantacea (PA; also known as tinea amiantacea) is a relatively rare but distinctive scalp condition characterized by thick scales that adhere to each other and to the hair shaft, resulting in agglomeration and matting of hair. Temporary alopecia is a common complication. Although a specific cause remains unclear, PA is associated with several inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis. We present a case of PA as a complication of underlying psoriasis, which developed during tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitor therapy for Crohn disease. This paradoxical cutaneous reaction to anti-TNF-α therapy has been recently described as an emerging and perplexing cause of psoriasis and psoriasiform eruptions.

• Authors: J Ettler, D A Wetter, M R Pittelkow
• Journal: Clinical and experimental dermatology (Clin Exp Dermatol) Vol. 37 Issue 6 Pg. 639-41 (Aug 2012) ISSN: 1365-2230 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 22300412 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: © The Author(s). CED © 2012 British Association of Dermatologists.

Chemical References

• Anti-Inflammatory Agents
• Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Topics

• Anti-Inflammatory Agents (adverse effects)
• Crohn Disease (drug therapy)
• Drug Eruptions (etiology)
• Humans
• Male
• Pityriasis (chemically induced)
• Scalp Dermatoses (chemically induced)
• Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (antagonists & inhibitors)
• Young Adult