Grover's disease
Alternate names[edit | edit source]
TAD; Transient acantholytic dermatosis; Persistent acantholytic dermatosis
Definition[edit | edit source]
Grover's disease is a skin condition that causes the appearance of small, red spots. These spots usually develop on the chest or back, but may also form on other parts of the body.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
- The prevalence (number of existing cases of a disease) and incidence (number of new cases over a period of time) have not been firmly established for Grover's disease.
- In a study from Switzerland, Grover's disease was diagnosed in 24 of more than 30,000 skin biopsies.
- This condition most commonly affects middle-aged white men, although other ages, ethnic groups, and genders may be affected.
Cause[edit | edit source]
The cause of Grover's disease is not well understood. There are certain factors that are suspected to lead to the development of Grover's disease or worsen symptoms including:
- Heat and sweating
- Sunlight
- Exposure to ionizing radiation (example sun, microwaves, X-rays)
- End-stage renal disease (kidney failure)
- Prolonged bed rest
- Organ transplantation
- Some cases of Grover's disease have been associated with certain medications, including antiviral medications, such as ribavirin and biologic agents used for cancer therapy, such as anastrozole.
- Grover's disease has additionally been found in individuals who have other similar dermatological diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.
Signs and symptoms[edit | edit source]
- Spots usually develop on the chest or back, but may also form on other parts of the body.
- This condition frequently leads to intense itching, although it may cause no symptoms.
- Most cases last six to twelve months.
- Occasionally, this condition may persist for longer periods, or it may come and go over time.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Grover's may be suspected by its appearance, but since it has such a characteristic appearance under the microscope a shave skin or punch biopsy is often performed.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
- There is no cure for Grover's disease and treatment is usually based on a person's symptoms.
- Affected individuals are usually advised to avoid strenuous exercise and excessive sun exposure, as sweating and heat may induce more itchy spots.
- Initial treatment options include topical steroid creams such as hydrocortisone, anti-itch lotions containing menthol or camphor, and calcipotriol cream.
- For more severe cases, options include tetracycline, isotretinoin, antifungal pills such as itraconazole, PUVA phototherapy, and cortisone (steroid) injections.
- These treatments have important side effects and may not be necessary for mild cases.
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Grover's disease is a rare disease.
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