Elastosis perforans serpiginosa in a case of pseudoxanthoma elasticum: A rare association

A Systematic Review of Case Reports of a Rare Dermatological Condition: Elastosis Perforans Serpiginosa

A systematic review was carried out on a rare dermatological condition affecting papillary dermal tissue fibers of the skin known as elastosis perforans serpiginosa (EPS). The aim of this review was to highlight this skin disease, its association with other medical conditions, and its management. The search was conducted by using the keywords "elastosis perforans serpiginosa" and "case reports" in the databases. A total of 10 case reports were analyzed and presented by the parameters like age, gender, chief complaints, and medical history. The most common causes of EPS were drug-induced and occurred along with the Wilson disease. The study concluded that as EPS is an uncommon disease with few instances, there is a need for further research to analyze randomized controlled trials that have been conducted in relation to the condition.

Elastosis perforans serpiginosa induced by d-penicillamine treated with cyclosporine and allopurinol

Elastosis perforans serpiginosa (EPS) is a rare condition within the group of perforating dermatoses. It is characterized by the synthesis of anomalous elastic fibers that are eliminated through perforating channels (transepidermal elimination). It is classified into three subtypes. One of them is drug-induced by prolonged treatment with d-penicillamine. This drug is a heavy metal chelator used to treat diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, cystinuria, and Wilson's disease. Years of treatment with d-penicillamine at high doses are required for developing EPS, with occasional slow regression after drug withdrawal. There is no established treatment for EPS, with described cases using various treatment options such as corticoids, retinoids, tazarotene, cryotherapy, imiquimod, photodynamic therapy, electrosurgery, and CO2 laser among others with inconsistent results. We present a case of EPS induced by d-penicillamine with favorable response to cyclosporine and allopurinol in a patient with a history of Wilson's disease since childhood. They maybe considered as possible therapeutic options not described so far for an entity with variable response to current treatments. We highlight the extensive involvement of the case with progression, despite the suspension of d-penicillamine and failure to previous treatments with photodynamic therapy and retinoids.