Erythema Gyratum Repens

Cutaneous manifestations of visceral malignancy

“…In contrast to the poor prognosis of dermatomyositis, the recognition of an association between a figurate erythema and carcinoma is sometimes of benefit to the patient (Gammell, 1952;Purdy, 1959;Summerly, 1964). It is likely that such skin reactions are merely a non-specific change caused most frequently by bacterial or fungus infections or by sensitivity to drugs (Shelley & Hurley, 1960;Shelley 1962) and the association with neoplasm is unusual.…”

Skin Markers of Malignancy

“…A small adenocarcinoma was found in her left breast, and after its removal the eruption which had been present a year cleared in 10 days. Purdy (1959), when faced by the problem of a woman patient with an identical eruption, recalled Gammel's case and discovered a small breast tumour which proved to be a duct carcinoma. Surgical removal of the tumour produced clearance of the eruption in two weeks.…”