Lupus Miliaris Disseminatus Faciei versus Granulomatous Rosacea: A Case Report

From drug therapy failures to laser therapy victory: A case report and literature review of lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei resolution

Key Clinical Message

Pulsed dye laser (PDL) has proven effective in resolving lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF) where drug therapies have failed with a lack of treatment consensus for LMDF, considering early PDL intervention is crucial to achieve resolution without scarring, prevent relapse, and enhance overall treatment outcomes.

Abstract

Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF) is a rare inflammatory and granulomatous dermatologic disease that primarily affects the face. The optimal treatment for LMDF remains controversial, and there is a lack of consensus on the most effective therapy. This case report highlights the successful use of a 595 nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) in the treatment of LMDF following unsuccessful drug therapy. A 28-year-old male presented with reddish-brown eruptions on his face that had persisted for several months. Clinical examination revealed discrete dome-shaped eruptions in clusters on the central area of the face. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of LMDF, based on the presence of epithelioid granulomas with central caseous necrosis. Previous treatment with an oral isotretinoin and methotrexate combination also failed to yield satisfactory results. After discontinuing drug therapy, the patient underwent five sessions of PDL treatment. Ten days after the first session, the eruptions began to regress without scarring. Subsequent PDL sessions led to the complete resolution of the eruptions. The patient experienced no relapse during the follow-up period. This case report suggests that PDL treatment may be an effective option for LMDF, particularly in cases where drug therapy has failed. Early initiation of laser treatment may prevent scarring, minimize the adverse effects associated with drug therapy, and reduce the risk of disease relapse. Further research and controlled trials are needed to establish the efficacy of laser therapy in the treatment of LMDF.

Lupus Miliaris Disseminatus Faciei: A Report of a Rare Case and Its Differential Diagnosis

Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF), often known as "acne agminata," is an uncommon illness that causes facial papules. Clinically, it has monomorphic reddish-brown, dome-shaped central papules with periorbital location. Histopathologically, a cutaneous granulomatous response is common around hair follicles and is accompanied by central necrosis. In the dermatology outpatient clinic, a 51-year-old woman had many tiny papules on her right side malar area for one to two months. Few of them started to regress and demonstrated healing with superficial scarring. The pathology showed a granulomatous response on microscopy, and histology and clinical correlation confirmed the case as Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei. LMDF must be distinguished from tuberculous granuloma, granulomatous rosacea, and perioral dermatitis. The patient was prescribed systemic dapsone and topical tacrolimus therapy, and the lesion improved at the follow-up visit.

Deciphering Childhood Rosacea: A Comprehensive Review

Childhood rosacea is a lesser known, yet significant, skin condition presenting diagnostic and treatment challenges. Although often underdiagnosed due to unclear diagnostic criteria, it manifests similarly to adult rosacea, with features such as papulopustular, telangiectasia, granulomatous, idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma, and ocular rosacea. The complex pathophysiology involves genetic, immunological, and environmental factors. Distinguishing childhood rosacea from conditions like acne, steroid rosacea, sarcoidosis, and lupus vulgaris is crucial but complicated by the lack of established criteria. Treatment strategies, mainly extrapolated from adult management protocols, include topical therapies, systemic medications, and laser treatments, adapted for pediatric patients. Special attention is given to ocular rosacea, often preceding skin manifestations, necessitating multidisciplinary care. The review underscores the urgent need for clear diagnostic guidelines, increased awareness, and tailored pediatric treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes and mitigate the condition's evolution into adulthood.

Facial Granulomatous Rosacea: A Case Report

Granulomatous rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. We present the case of a 30-year-old woman with a three-month history of erythematous monomorphic papules and nodules on the cheeks and forehead. Histopathological examinations revealed tuberculoid granulomas with multinucleated giant cells. Granulomatous rosacea should be differentiated from other similar granulomatous skin diseases such as cutaneous sarcoidosis and Lupus miliaris disseminates faciei.