Papulosa nigra dermatosis L82

Common in African and Asian populations, rare in Caucasian populations, familial dermatosis with asymptomatic, deep brown or blackish-brown, approximately 0.2-0.3 cm, flat papules on the eyelids, cheeks, forehead, neck, and décolleté.

Often in the coloured population (up to 35%). Gynecotropia.

Start after puberty. Average first manifestation between 30 and 40 years. Occasionally already in childhood.

0.1-0.2 cm large, hyperpigmented, flat raised, round or oval, partly also elongated, soft surface-smooth or slightly sloppy papules or plaques.

Picture of pigmented Verruca seborrhoica of the acanthotic rarely reticular type. Horn cysts and pseudohorn cysts are regularly found.

Cave! Tendency to hypopigmentation and keloids!

1. Bruscino N et al (2014) Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra and 10,600-nm CO2 laser, a good choice. J Cosmet Laser Ther 16:114-116

2. Calcaterra R et al (2010) Clinical features and treatment of dermatosis papulosa nigra in migrants to Italy. Skinmed 8: 207-209

3. Castellani A (1925) Observations on some diseases of central America. J Trop Med Hyg 28: 1-14
4. Dunwell P et al (2003) Study of the skin disease spectrum occurring in an Afro-Caribbean population. Int J Dermatol 42: 287-289
5. Mayser P et al (1993) Dermatosis papulosa nigra. Z Hautkr 68: 659-660