A Review on Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris

Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018 Jun;19(3):377-390. doi: 10.1007/s40257-017-0338-1.

Abstract

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is an idiopathic, papulosquamous inflammatory dermatosis. It is characterized by hyperkeratotic follicular papules coalescing into orange-red scaly plaques, islands of sparing, and palmoplantar keratoderma. PRP can be subdivided into six clinical subtypes according to Griffiths' classification, based on age of onset, disease extent, prognosis, and other associated features. The sixth subtype of PRP occurs in individuals affected by HIV infection, and retroviral screening in all de novo cases of PRP is advised. Other reported associations include various infections, autoimmunity, drugs, and malignancies, although the true significance of these is still unclear. The genetic basis for familial cases, most commonly categorized under the fifth subtype, has been mapped to gain of function mutations in the caspase recruitment domain family, member 14 (CARD14) gene. Treatment of PRP remains a challenge to this day due to a paucity of high-quality evidence. Therapeutic regimens have been guided mostly by case reports and case series, with the mainstay of treatment being oral retinoids. Recently, biologics have emerged as a promising treatment for PRP. We present a review of the clinicopathologic features, pathogenesis, associated disorders, and treatment of PRP, with an emphasis and critical appraisal of the existing literature on the latter.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Administration, Oral
  • Biological Factors / therapeutic use
  • CARD Signaling Adaptor Proteins / genetics
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Guanylate Cyclase / genetics
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics
  • Phototherapy
  • Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris / diagnosis
  • Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris / etiology*
  • Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris / pathology
  • Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris / therapy
  • Rare Diseases / diagnosis
  • Rare Diseases / etiology*
  • Rare Diseases / pathology
  • Rare Diseases / therapy
  • Retinoids / therapeutic use
  • Skin / drug effects
  • Skin / pathology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biological Factors
  • CARD Signaling Adaptor Proteins
  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Retinoids
  • CARD14 protein, human
  • Guanylate Cyclase