Pemphigus herpetiformis (PH) is a rare pemphigus variant. The clinical features of this form of pemphigus resembles dermatitis herpetiformis, however, histological examination and immunofluorescence yield findings diagnostic for pemphigus. A 5-year-old female patient with clinical features suggestive of dermatitis herpetiformis is reported. Histopathological exam showed skin with subcorneous blisters, epidermal spongiosis containing predominantly neutrophils, few eosinophils and rare acantholytic cells. Direct immunofluorescence showed intercellular deposits of IgG and C3. The skin lesions responded poorly to dapsone associated with systemic corticosteroid therapy. A complete remission of bullous lesions was obtained with azathioprine and immunosuppressive doses of systemic corticosteroids (prednisone). A case of PH in childhood is reported here, emphasizing the rarity and young age of onset.

Primary cutaneous cryptococcosis has been diagnosed in both immunosuppressed and immunocompetent patients. Its peculiar clinical aspect could facilitate early diagnosis. Culture and biochemical tests should be performed in order to define the species involved.

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A HEALTHY 84-year-old Caucasian man had suffered, for 2 years, from a pearly erythematous plate in the left helix, measuring 2.0 Â 1.0 cm but not adhered to the cartilaginous tissue. After histopathologic diagnosis and confirmation as basal cell carcinoma, he was