Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH): two cases successfully treated with adalimumab

Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH), also known as dermatitis repens or acrodermatitis perstans, is a rare acropustular eruption, characterized by sterile pustules, paronychia and atrophic skin changes, onychodystrophy and osteolysis of the distal phalanges of the fingers and toes. While some consider ACH a distinct entity, many believe it to be a variant of pustular psoriasis, especially as cases of ACH progressing to generalized pustular psoriasis. The treatment options used are various; however, its typical cyclic recurrences, which induce important physical and psychological morbidity, may render this pathology difficult to treat. Hence, it was considered important to review the evolution of treatment options available thus far including use of biologics. Hereby, we report two patients with ACH who were successfully treated with adalimumab. By analogy to the efficacy of TNF-α antagonists in the treatment of generalized pustular psoriasis, the two patients we report illustrate the long-term efficacy and safety of adalimumab in the treatment of  Hallopeau's acrodermatitis refractory to therapies.

Acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau: evolution of treatment options

Ever since its inception, acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau, has been recognized as an uncommon clinical entity which has been sparingly reported from across the globe. The attempt to have cumulative information on prevalent nomenclature, definition, reminiscences, and clinical overtures has brought differential diagnosis and diagnosis in sharp focus, the highlights of which are outlined. Hence, it was considered important to review the evolution of treatment options available thus far including use of biologics.

Pustular psoriasis of the nails: treatment and long-term follow-up of 46 patients

BACKGROUND

Pustular psoriasis of the nail apparatus is a common disease that greatly influences the quality of life because of its chronic course and poor response to treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To review the clinical and histopathological features, the response to treatment and the long-term follow-up of 46 patients with pustular psoriasis of the nail unit.

METHODS

Treatments utilized included oral retinoids (n = 12), oral nimesulide (n = 13), topical calcipotriol (n = 15) and topical steroids (n = 18). Retinoids were utilized as first choice in seven patients with involvement of several digits and in five patients with severe relapses, whereas topical calcipotriol, oral nimesulide or topical steroids were utilized in patients with involvement of a single nail. Topical calcipotriol was also prescribed as maintenance therapy in patients who responded to oral treatment. Twenty-five patients were followed for more than 5 years.

RESULTS

Improvement or regression of the lesions was obtained in 23 of 46 patients. Retinoids were effective in six of 12 patients, nimesulide in four of 13, topical calcipotriol in nine of 15 and topical steroids in four of 18. The long-term follow-up showed a complete remission of the disease in only two patients, both affected by pustular psoriasis involving multiple nails. All other patients experienced periodic relapses which were in most cases controlled by regular use of topical calcipotriol.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe cases of pustular psoriasis of the nail are best treated with systemic retinoids. Topical calcipotriol is effective in about 50% of patients with localized disorder and is also useful as maintenance therapy after retinoid treatment.