Erosive pustular dermatosis of the leg mimicking lower limb cellulitis

Clin Exp Dermatol. 2015 Dec;40(8):865-7. doi: 10.1111/ced.12512. Epub 2014 Dec 5.

Abstract

Erosive pustular dermatosis (EPD) of the leg is an unusual form of amicrobial pustulosis, which typically affects elderly patients with chronic venous insufficiency. We report a patient who presented with painful erythema, crusted erosions and pustules on her right lower leg. Histology showed a dermal infiltration made up predominantly of neutrophils. Bacteria were isolated from the lesions. The condition was initially diagnosed as cellulitis, but antibiotic treatment was unsuccessful. After the correct diagnosis was made, complete resolution was obtained with betamethasone 0.05%.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acinetobacter Infections / pathology
  • Acinetobacter baumannii / isolation & purification
  • Aged
  • Cellulitis / pathology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leg Dermatoses / pathology*
  • Opportunistic Infections / pathology
  • Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous / pathology*