Exudative discoid and lichenoid chronic dermatosis (Sulzberger‐Garbe): presentation with a puzzling penile plaque*

Abstract

Objective: Report of two cases of exudative discoid and lichenoid dermatosis (Sulzbcrgcr-Garbc) with typical penile lesions. Differential diagnosis of persistent penile plaques. Background: Following remission of the generalized eruption of exudative discoid and lichenoid dermatosis (Sulzberger-Garbe), it is not unusual to see a single remaining lesion localized on the penis. Since Sulzberger et al. (Sulzbcrger MB, Witten VH, Hunt JA. Puzzling persistent penile plaques. Arch Dcrmatol 1956;73:101-109) reviewed dermatoses presenting with puzzling persistent penile plaques in 1955, further dermatoses have evolved as important differential diagnoses. Much controversy has arisen as to the justification of exudative discoid and lichenoid dermatosis (Sulzberger-Garbe) as a disease entity. Conclusions: Diagnosis of most cases of persistent plaques of dermatitis on the penis is possible with a careful examination of the entire skin, and a thorough history to discover past lesions. The possibility of malignancy makes a biopsy mandatory. Exudative discoid and lichenoid chronic dermatosis {Sulzberger-Garbe) typically responds well to systemic steroids. Intralesional triamcinolone acetonide has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of a persistent penile plaque in exudative discoid and lichenoid dermatosis (Sulzberger-Garbe), and may be helpful in discontinuing or reducing systemic therapy to a levei compatible with long-term treatment.SSDI 0926-9959(94)00041-W 412 "F.very practitioner undoubtedly has been consulted on more than one occasion by a patient presenting with a rather persistent plaque of dermatitis on the j^lans penis. To the patient, such a lesion is a source of considerable worr\' and concern. The lay person is inclined to think primarily of two possible causes for his penile lesion -rcnereal disease and cancer. With the physician rests the obligation of establishing the diagnosis, instituting appropriate therapy, and reassuring the patient. " M.B. Sulzberger, V.H. Witlen and J.A. Hunt. 1955 [l]

A 6-year-old boy with Sulzberger and Garbe dermatosis: a and literature review

“…This might be the source of the conviction that the disease occurs mostly in Jewish people [ 4 ]. However, the disease was later diagnosed in Europe in patients of non-Jewish background [ 5 , 6 ] and in one Indian patient as well [ 7 ]. Nevertheless, the fact of a scarcer occurrence of the disease outside the North America is still difficult to explain [ 8 ].…”

“…The presently reported boy did not develop any lesions on his penis or scrotum, either. In the course of the disease such lesions may occur later than the other ones and may last longer, in spite of regression of the exanthem on the trunk and extremities [ 6 ]. Reports of patients with the suspicion of Sulzberger and Garbe dermatosis who did not develop lesions on the genitalia can also be found in the literature [ 5 , 8 ].…”