Hyperkeratosis Lenticularis Perstans (Flegel): Report of a Case in Which the Application of Betamethasone‐17‐valerate Cream Caused Complete Clearing of the Lesions*

Abstract

SUMMAHYThe distinctive clinical and histological features of an extensive case of hyperlceraiosis lenticularis perstans and the rapid and complete response to topical applications of betamethasone-2 7-valerate are recorded. No previous record of effective treatment has been described in the four male cases previously recorded in the literature.A 57 year old female has also been studied with a twenty year old history of an unremitting progressive eruption showing the clinical and histological features of hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans. In this patient initial response to topical therapy with betamethasone-17-valerate is most gratifying, ai^d is the first treatment to influence the signs and symptoms of the disease state.

Hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel's disease) – successful treatment with topical corticosteroids

“…A positive effect of topical corticosteroid therapy has been reported previously only once 3 . In line with this observation, our patient also showed a good therapeutic response to topically applied betamethasone dipropionate 0.05%.…”

“…A positive effect of topical corticosteroid therapy has been reported previously only once. 3 In line with this observation, our patient also showed a good therapeutic response to topically applied betamethasone dipropionate 0.05%. Considering the dense lymphocytic infiltrate characteristic of the disease, a positive effect of topical corticosteroids seems plausible because of their anti-inflammatory potential.…”

“…Therefore, the treatment of Flegel's disease is difficult and standard therapy does not exist. Successful treatment outcomes have been reported for topical vitamin D3 derivatives, 3,8,9 5‐fluorouracil, 1,10,13 topical and systemic retinoids, 2,11 and psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) 15 . One report has described a self‐limiting course of HLP under the seasonal influence of sunlight during the summer; 13 however, this could not be confirmed by other authors.…”

“…The treatment of HLP is difficult, and a broadly accepted and successful standard therapy is not yet available. Therapeutic attempts with topical corticosteroids have been reported only sporadically 3 . Therefore, little is known about the possible beneficial effects of this therapy.…”

“…Therapeutic attempts with topical corticosteroids have been reported only sporadically. 3 Therefore, little is known about the possible beneficial effects of this therapy.…”