Ann Dermatol.  2010 May;22(2):232-234. 10.5021/ad.2010.22.2.232.

Erosive Pustular Dermatosis of the Scalp Following Herpes Zoster: Successful Treatment with Topical Tacrolimus

• Kim KR
• Lee JY
• Kim MK
• Yoon TY

• KMID: 2265404
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2010.22.2.232

Abstract

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is a rare disorder of the elderly characterized by multiple pustular lesions with erosions and crusting that result in scarring alopecia. EPDS typically develops in aged or sun-damaged skin with a history of trauma. Histopathologically, EPDS is nonspecific, showing atrophic epidermis and chronic inflammation. Bacteriological and mycological investigations of EPDS are generally negative. Although herpes zoster is a common disorder in elderly people, previously reported cases of EPDS were rarely associated with herpes zoster. We present a rare case of EPDS following herpes zoster treated successfully with topical tacrolimus.

Keyword

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp; Herpes zoster; Tacrolimus

MeSH Terms

Aged
Alopecia
Cicatrix
Epidermis
Herpes Zoster
Humans
Inflammation
Scalp
Skin
Skin Diseases
Tacrolimus
Tacrolimus

Figure

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  Fig. 1 (A) Erosions and crusted pustular lesions on the left occipital scalp. One week (B) and, 2 months (C) following treatment with topical tacrolimus.

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  Fig. 2 Ulceration, parakeratosis and serum-crust in the epidermis, and a mixed dermal infiltrate of lymphocytes, neutrophils and plasma cells (H&E stain, ×100).

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