Skin Manifestation Associated With Multicentric Reticulohistiocytosis

Abstract

Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis (MRH) is a rare multisystem disorder, primarily affecting the skin and joints. As severe joint damage is a possible symptom, early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are required. Cutaneous lesions present with characteristic features such as discrete reddish nodules, especially on acral locations. Additionally, the face, scalp, trunk and extremities are also affected. Xanthomatous plaques are also seen on the face. The cutaneous manifestations of MRH are various, which therefore should be differentiated from several diseases. In particular, MRH has been reported to assume clinical appearances resembling Gottron papules, periungual erythema, V-neck erythema, shawl sign, and poikiloderma associated with dermatomyositis. Histopathologic features show proliferation of multinucleated giant cells with abundant eosinophilic granular ground glass-like cytoplasm in the dermis. Multicentric reticulohistiocytosis is occasionally paraneoplastic and is associated with internal malignancies. The appropriate therapies are still challenging, and oral prednisolone, immunosuppressants, and recent biologics are used. In this article, cutaneous lesions, histopathology, and pathogenesis of MRH are mainly discussed from a dermatological perspective. It is important, not only for dermatologists but also for rheumatologists and orthopedists, to be able to distinguish between the various types of skin lesions brought on by MRH. Cutaneous signs are important diagnostic clues and assessment tools for therapeutic efficacy.