Elderly-Onset Generalized Pustular Psoriasis without a Previous History of Psoriasis Vulgaris
CASE REPORTS IN DERMATOLOGY
Authors: Aizu, Takayuki; Matsui, Akinobu; Takiyoshi, Noriko; Akasaka, Eijiro; Kaneko, Takahide; Nakano, Hajime; Sugiura, Kazumitsu; Akiyama, Masashi; Sawamura, Daisuke
Abstract
Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is characterized by sudden fever and extensive erythema with pustules and occurs in patients with or without preceding psoriasis vulgaris. We report an 83-year-old man showing irregularly shaped erythema with pustules on the trunk and extremities. He initially had no fever and came to our clinic a few days after the onset of the skin lesions because of high fever and general malaise. We found an extension and new development of erythema and pustules on the whole body. The patient also manifested night delirium. Histological examination revealed neutrophil infiltration into the upper epidermis, which formed a spongiform pustule of Kogoj. Pustular fluid cultures were negative for bacteria. We diagnosed GPP without preceding psoriasis vulgaris. Mutation analysis revealed no significant mutations in IL36RN and CARD14. Previous reports indicated that onset of GPP at the age of 83 years is definitely rare. In older individuals, general disease characteristics include an atypical clinical course, an especially slow appearance and cure, and mental disorder. Our case also revealed such characteristics. Thus, it is necessary to be aware of the clinical course and mental problems in elderly patients with GPP. (C) 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a patient with pustular psoriasis with an IL-36RN deficiency treated with infliximab: Case report and review of the literature
AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY
Authors: Podlipnik, Sebastian; de la Mora, Lorena; Alsina, Merce; Mascaro, Jose M., Jr.
Abstract
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is a relatively rare complication in non-HIV patients receiving immunosuppressive treatment. Since the introduction of tumour necrosis factor- inhibitors cases of this complication have increased. We report the case of a 54-year-old, HIV-negative patient, who presented to our department with a long history of pustular psoriasis with poor response to traditional treatments. During the last admission he developed a severe flare that was unresponsive to cyclosporine, therefore infliximab was initiated. After the third dose he developed PCP that required admission to the intensive care unit, with a positive response to i.v. administration of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. During follow up a mutation in the IL36RN gene compatible with an IL-36RN deficiency was found and anakinra was started, with rapid improvement of his psoriasis. PCP is a severe complication in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy and is probably underreported by dermatologists. There are no clinical guidelines for PCP prophylaxis in dermatological patients who will receive immunosuppressive or biological treatments. We believe that it is necessary to report the cases of PCP to assess the real impact of this complication and develop appropriate prophylaxis guidelines.