Grover's disease

Alternate names

TAD; Transient acantholytic dermatosis; Persistent acantholytic dermatosis

Definition

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

• 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

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

• 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

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

• 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

• NIH info on Grover's disease

Grover's disease is a rare disease.

Grover's disease Resources
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