Lichenoid tissue reaction in porphyria cutanea tarda.
We report a patient presenting with lichenoid plaques on exposed skin who had the metabolic features of porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT). Histology of lesional skin demonstrated a lichenoid inflammatory cell infiltrate in the upper dermis, while direct immunofluorescence revealed immunoreactive colloid bodies. Monochromator irradiation testing demonstrated photosensitivity in the visible spectrum consistent with porphyria. Solar-simulated irradiation induced a papular reaction with lichenoid histological changes. We propose that this atypical presentation of PCT may reflect a lichenoid tissue response to a porphyrin-mediated photochemical reaction.
Department of Photobiology, St John's Institute of Dermatology, St Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, UK.
D
D
Creamer
J M
JM
McGregor
J
J
McFadden
J L
JL
Hawk
D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000473:pathology*; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008027:Light / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017119:Porphyria Cutanea Tarda / Q000473:pathology*; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology* / Q000528:radiation effects