EROSIVE PUSTULAR DERMATOSIS OF THE SCALP (EPDS) - A CASE SERIES AND SHORT REVIEW

Abstract

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is an uncommon and possibly underreported chronic inflammatory skin disease within the spectrum of neutrophilic disorders. Although it has been reported in all ages, elderly people are more common affected. The surrounding skin often shows symptoms of chronic actinic damage. Histopathology is rather unspecific. The pustules and lakes of pus are sterile. Treatment includes anti-septic, anti-inflammatory topical therapy, in more severe cases oral steroids. Rarely systemic antibiosis or surgery are necessary. EPDS is an important differential diagnosis of non-melanoma skin cancer, bullous autoimmune disease, and soft tissue infections by bacteria or fungi. When untreated, scarring alopecia develops. We report on or own case series and present a narrative review on published cases since 2010.