Dermatosis neglecta: A series of case reports and review of other dirty-appearing dermatoses

Dermatosis neglecta

“…25 The lesions are usually asymptomatic in nature, although occasional pruritus and foul odour have been reported. 21,23 DN exhibits a polymorphous presentation, particularly in the skin of colour, depending on the nature of the material that remains on the skin surface. 10 Clinically, DN is characterized by localized, dark or yellowish-brown, waxy, adherent, verrucous papules and polygonal plaques with cornflake-like scales.…”

“…7). 5,23 Arduous investigations such as skin biopsy and laboratory investigations should be avoided. 5 Histopathological findings are usually nonspecific, generally showing epidermal acanthosis, papillomatosis, anastomosing rete ridges and prominent lamellar hyperkeratosis with orthokeratotic whorls.…”

“…24 The adherent scales in DN can result in secondary infection with Malassezia furfur (previously Pitryasporum orbiculare) as the environment is suitable for growth. 23…”

“…34 Gentle scrubbing with soap and water daily will often suffice, 8 or it can be removed with saline-soaked moist gauze, methanol swab, acetone or mild cleanser. 4,9,18,23 For more verrucous and resistant cases, emollients along with topical keratolytics such as urea, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid or retinoids can be administered. 16,18 DN on the scalp can clear with the use of mild shampoos.…”

“…DN can be secondary to pain, hyperaesthesia or prior trauma 5,10 . The various risk factors associated with the development of DN reported in the English literature (including articles from PubMed and Google Scholar) are mentioned in Table 1 1–6,8–32 …”