Confluent and Reticulated Papillomatosis

Key Points
Rare
Affects the trunk area
*Characterized by dark, scaly papules and plaques

Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis of Gougerot and Carteaud, besides being a mouthful to say, is a relatively uncommon skin disease that usually affects young people. It’s characterized by gray-bluish papules (or inflamed bumps on the skin) usually limited to the central trunk area, though it can occasionally spread to the shoulders, pubic area, and face. The disease — which can be caused by an endocrine disturbance, a bad reaction to fungi or bacteria, or be heriditary — is chronic, with periods of exacerbations and remissions. Lesions group up and form a net-like pattern. Many of those who experience the disease are asymptomatic, though itching may occur in some. Those who contract the disorder usually do so right after puberty.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)
Acanthosis nigricans
Dyskeratosis Congenita
Epidermal Nevus Syndrome
Macular Amyloidosis

Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be determined by skin scrapings, fungal culture, or by wood lamp examination. A skin Biopsy might be helpful to rule out other similar conditions.

Treatment
The disorder is cosmetic only in nature. Antifungal agents, oral Antibiotics, retinoids, and Calcipotriol can sometimes be effective treatments. Lesions may also regress with weight loss.