Síndrome de Sweet: estudio retrospectivo de 21 pacientes

Abstract

The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological profile of patients with Sweet's syndrome and the aetiopathogenic, developmental and therapeutic features and to compare the results with previous studies. We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study of patients evaluated by the department of Dermatology of Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón in Madrid, between January 1990 and January 2009 with a clinical diagnosis of Sweet's syndrome and histopathological confirmation. After analysing the results of the 21 cases collected and comparing them with previous studies, we conclude that Sweet's syndrome is an uncommon but not rare disease that occurs predominantly in middle-aged subjects, with preferential localised in the extremities. Skin biopsy is a very cost effective diagnostic tool. Although most cases are idiopathic, the possibility of para-neoplastic process or associated systemic diseases must be carefully excluded. Special attention must be paid to screening of haemoproliferative processes. Finally, the possibility of drug-induced Sweet's syndrome should be taken into account. The treatment of choice is systemic corticosteroids, with such a good response that constitutes a diagnostic criterion. Potassium iodide can be considered a first line treatment, given its effectiveness, similar to steroids, and with fewer side effects, especially in the treatment of recurrences.