Terra firma-forme dermatosis: a condition not to be forgotten (a case report)

Abstract

Introduction: Terra firma-forme dermatosis is a benign condition and it can affect anyone, but it seems to be more common in children and young adults. It may appear as brownish or black spots that look like dirt. Typically, affected individuals are asymptomatic. Case description: A healthy 3-year-old girl, presented in our clinic with a 6-month history of brownish spots that looked like ‘dirt’, which were spread through the chest and flanks. After examination, we suspected that it was terra firma-forme dermatosis, so we rubbed the affected areas with gauze soaked in 70% isopropyl alcohol, thus removing these stains. After two months, the child presented with no injuries. Comment: Terra firma-forme dermatosis can be diagnosed and treated with the rubbing of gauze embedded in 70% isopropyl alcohol in the affected areas. It is important to prevent skin xerosis, by using smoothing cream with keratolytic agents like salicylic acid in order to accelerate the healing and complete resolution of the lesions. It is essential to make an early diagnosis to prevent unnecessary diagnostic and treatment procedures.

Keywords

• Terra firma-forme dermatosis
• Dermatosis neglecta
• Acanthosis nigricans