Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Successfully Treated with Halobetasol 0.01% and Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion

Abstract

Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is an idiopathic chronic inflammatory condition that predominantly affects African-American men and presents with follicular papules, pustules and plaques, which may eventually lead to keloid-like scarred lesions, fibrotic plaques, abscesses, sinuses, and alopecia. Conventional treatment approach focuses on avoidance of exacerbation factors, utilization of topical and oral antibiotics, and decreasing inflammation with intralesional steroids. This is the first case showing successful treatment of AKN with halobetasol 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% lotion. Although topical steroids and topical retinoids have been used as treatment options, there are no published data supporting the use of their fixed combination in patients with AKN.