Recurrent Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris: A Case Report

Abstract

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is an uncommon papulosquamous dermatosis characterized by follicular, erythematous, hyperkeratotic papules coalescing to salmon-coloured plaques with islands of sparing. The disease tends to be self-limited and resolves spontaneously after a few years. In some cases, the disease is persistent. However, recurrence of this disease has rarely been described. An 8-year-old male was diagnosed with type III (classic juvenile) PRP. He was treated with acitretin, and his skin was clear after 6 months. He remained disease free for 6 years. At 14 years old, he was diagnosed again with type III PRP. His cutaneous manifestations were highly similar to his initial presentation. He was treated with acitretin and methotrexate concurrently and achieved skin clearance. Recurrence of type III PRP is possible although rarely described in the literature. Acitretin ± methotrexate therapy is effective at achieving skin clearance.