Authors: Maria Victoria Rosabelle M., Rovira-Suetomi,MD, Bernardita O. Policarpio, MD,FPDS, Claudine B. Yap-Silva,MD, FPDS

Abstract

Introduction: Eosinophilic Pustular Folliculitis (EPF) is a chronic cutaneous manifestation of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which manifests as folliculo-papular lesions commonly appearing on the chest, arms, head, and neck. The associated pruritus is so intense that it has been described to be akin to scabies. Various treatment options include Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), oral antihistamines, topical corticosteroids, prednisone, isotretinoin, itraconazole, metronidazole, narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB), and ultraviolet A with and without psoralen in order to address the pruritus.

Case Summary:We report a case of a 31-year-old HIV-positive male patient who presented with an 8-month history of pruritic, erythematous to hyperpigmented follicular papules on the upper trunk and extremities. Skin punch biopsy revealed a moderately dense perifollicular infiltrate of numerous eosinophils and lymphocytes.

Conclusion:The patient had excellent response to NBUVB after being unresponsive to a multitude of topical and systemic medications and being on the ART for five months. Thus, NBUVB is an effective treatment option for both the resolution of lesions and pruritus among patients with HIV-EPF (Human Immunodeficiency Virus-associated Eosinophilic Pustular Folliculitis) who have failed ART and other therapies.

Citation

Rovira-Suetomi, MVR, Policarpio, B. & Yap-Silva, C. (2017). Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis in a 31-year-old Filipino male treated with narrowband ultraviolet B radiation: A case report. Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society, 26(2), 58-60.

Keywords

eosinophilic pustular folliculitis, HIV, AIDS, NBUVB

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