Follicular mucinosis associated with nonlymphoid skin conditions

Abstract

Background: Follicular mucinosis coexisting with lymphoproliferative disorders has been thoroughly debated. However, it has been rarely reported in association with inflammatory disorders.

Methods: Thirteen cases have been retrieved, and those with cutaneous lymphoma or alopecia mucinosa were excluded.

Results: Follicular mucinosis was found in the setting of squamous cell carcinoma, seborrheic keratosis, simple prurigo, acne vulgaris, dextrometorphan-induced phototoxicity, polymorphous light eruption (2 cases), insect bite (2 cases), tick bite, discoid lupus erythematosus, drug-related vasculitis, and demodecidosis. Unexpectedly, our observations revealed a preponderating accumulation of mucin related to photo-exposed areas, sun-associated dermatoses, and histopathologic solar elastosis. The amount of mucin filling the follicles apparently correlated with the intensity of perifollicular inflammatory infiltrate, which was present in all cases. The concurrence of dermal interstitial mucin was found in 7 cases (54%).

Conclusions: The concurrence of interstitial dermal mucinosis or the potential role of both ultraviolet radiation and the perifollicular inflammatory infiltrates in its pathogenesis deserves further investigations. Precise recognition and understanding of this distinctive, reactive histological pattern may prevent our patients from unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.