Necrolytic Migratory Erythema: Case Report and Clinical Review

Abstract

Background: Necrolytic Migratory Erythema (NME) is a rarely encountered dermatologic condition. It is the characteristic feature of a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with neuroendocrine pancreatic tumors. A case of NME initially diagnosed and treated as psoriasis is reviewed. A review of the current literature regarding NME is also included. Objective: The purpose of this report is to familiarize dermatologists with a rare and potentially fatal disorder. Early recognition of NME can lead to possible cure, while delayed identification of the disease is associated with metastatic disease and a poor prognosis for the patient. Conclusion: When evaluating the patient who presents with a dermatitis and weight loss, it is important to exercise great caution. The differential diagnosis should be reevaluated in a disease that is not responsive to first-line therapy before further treatment is considered.