[Febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha-Habermann disease]

Abstract

Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) is an inflammatory skin disease that is unknown to pediatricians. The ulceronecrotic febrile form is a rare and potentially lethal variant. We report the case of a 7-year-old boy with a papulovesicular eruption lasting for 4 weeks, secondarily associated with ulcers and necrotic crusts, fever, and systemic signs. After exploring infectious causes such as chickenpox, we discussed and confirmed PLEVA with histological analysis. Systemic steroids and methotrexate improved the symptoms. It is necessary to mention PLEVA in case of prolonged papulovesicular eruption. Prompt diagnosis allows appropriate treatment, although there is no consensus on therapeutic guidelines.