Grover’s Disease

Key Points
Skin condition primarily of middle aged men affecting the chest and upper back
Exact cause is unknown, but may be related to sun damage or sweat ducts
Consists of small, red bumps, which may Itch

Grover's disease is a skin condition of unknown cause which most commonly affects the chest and upper back, though it may appear elsewhere. The condition consists of small red bumps in the affected area, which are itchy and may blister or crust. Occasional bleeding may occur. When associated with some forms of dermatitis, lesions present as larger, dry patches, also accompanied by itching, and spreads to other parts of the body.

Grover's disease most commonly affects men over the age of 50, though it does appear in both gender and all age groups. Flare ups are more common in winter. The exact cause of grover's disease is unknown, but it is thought that it may be related to sun damage, as most affect persons are sun damaged. It may also be related to a reaction or malfunction of the sweat ducts.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Miliaria
Folliculitis
Pityriasis rosea
Galli-Galli disease
Scabies
Herpes simplex
Syphilis
Herpes Zoster
Insect Bites
Milia

Diagnosis
Key Points
Diagnosis based on rash appearance
Skin biopsy may be performed to confirm diagnosis and rule out other conditions

Grover's disease will generally be diagnosed by the appearance of the rash, though a biopsy may be needed to confirm diagnosis. Additionally, a biopsy will rule out other, similar appearing conditions.

Treatment
There is no cure for the condition
Condition generally lasts six to twelve months
Several OTC and prescription therapies exist to treat symptoms with varying effectiveness
OTC Options: Hydrocortisone creams, moisturizers, antipruritic lotions

While most cases of grover's disease last from six to twelve months, in some persons it may run longer or resolve and reappear. Remaining cool to avoid sweating may reduce the appearance of new lesions. OTC remedies such as hydrocortisone creams, moisturizers, and anti-pruritic lotions may assist the relief of itching and other symptoms. Health care professionals may also prescribe an antibiotic course, antifungals, and Calcipotriol cream. Phototherapy has been shown to reduce symptoms, but has also caused