Lipoid Proteinosis Masquerading as Seborrheic Dermatitis

Abstract

We report a case of lipoid proteinosis (LP) masquerading as seborrheic dermatitis. A 35-year-old female presented to our outpatient department with complaints of itching and crust-like formation on eyelids for five years. She was treated as a case of seborrheic dermatitis elsewhere and got intermittent relief in itching with medications. Beaded lesions were found along the upper and lower eyelids involving the lash line and caruncle on removing the crust. The verrucous lesions were pathognomonic, moniliform blepharosis of LP. Systemic examination revealed hoarseness of voice, and hyperkeratosis was seen on the dorsum of both of her hands. She has been advised lid hygiene, artificial tears, and antihistaminics for itching. Skin emollients were also advised by dermatologists to decrease the chances of abrasion and bleeding from minor trauma. She was well explained about the danger signs as well as neurological and psychiatric implications of the disease. Although ophthalmologists have a rare encounter with this disease, LP is a well-known entity to dermatologists and otorhinolaryngologists, and thus it may sometimes go undiagnosed. An ophthalmologist should be well aware of the life-threatening complications associated with LP, and patients should be sensitized regarding the chronic nature, supportive measures, and danger signs of the disease.