Grover's Disease - Treatment and Symptoms

Grover's disease is a skin condition in which itchy red spots occurs on the trunk it is common in older men. Minor cases of Grover's disease may be rather common. Sometimes the features of Grover's are found in people who do not itch or have a conspicuous rash. Most of the people with Grover's who visit a dermatologist, however, itch a lot.There are pink or red bumps, which may be blistered, crusted or eroded. There may be slight bleeding. Sometimes, Grover's disease can be complicated by the development of dermatitis . In this case there are larger itchy patches with a dry surface, and the rash may spread to affect other areas of the body.

Grover's may be suspected by its appearance, but since it has such a characteristic appearance under the microscope a shave skin biopsy is often preformed. Once confirmed, most cases of Grover's disease last six to twelve months (which is why it was originally called "transient"). Unfortunately it may last much longer.

Treatment of Grover's Disease

Treatment of Grover's Disease includes:

• Remain cool, as further sweating will induce more itchy spots.
• Apply a mild topical steroid such as hydrocortisone in a cool lotion. It can be applied frequently to the affected areas and relieve itching.
• Moisturising creams are also helpful.
• A course of tetracycline or itraconazole helps some patients.
• Phototherapy can be helpful, but sometimes provokes the disease.
• Experimentally, oral retinoids such as acitretin or isotretinoin can be helpful. However, they have important side effects and are not necessary for mild cases.

If you like this page, please post it on: