Successful Treatment of Acquired Perforating Dermatosis in a Peritoneal Dialysis Patient Using Oral Isotretinoin

Abstract

Acquired perforating dermatosis (APD) triggers severe itching, and is observed most often in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Various treatments, such as topical steroids, topical and oral retinoids, allopurinol, and ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy, have been used. However, as the precise etiology is unknown, there are a lack of well-established treatment guidelines. We report a peritoneal dialysis patient with a diagnosis of APD who was resistant to topical steroids, phototherapy, allopurinol, and topical retinoids. Severe pruritus persisted, which compromised his ability to lead a normal life. As a final treatment option, we used oral isotretinoin and the patient experienced a dramatic improvement.