Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris and Cyclosporine

Abstract

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) has been classified into five subtypes by Griffiths. 1 Type I, classic adult PRP , is the most common subtype, representing over 50% of cases. Systemic retinoids (etretinate and isotretinoin) and antimetabolites (methotrexate and azathioprine) are effective treatments of PRP. 2 The use of cyclosporine for treatment of PRP was first discussed in 1989. 3 We present a case of successful treatment of adult-onset PRP with lose-dose cyclosporine. Complete clearance of PRP was achieved with no recurrence for over 2 years. Report of a Case. A 60-year-old white woman was evaluated by her primary dermatologist for a 1-month history of a pruritic facial rash. A preliminary diagnosis of facial dermatitis led to treatment with oral prednisone (80 mg/ d). However, the facial rash worsened, and the palms soon appeared yellowish and thickened. Within 2 months of onset, a widespread eruption of pruritic erythematous plaques appeared over much