Thursday, November 02, 2006
Understanding And Treating Peri-oral Dermatitis
Scaly, erythematous papular and papulopustular rashes on the face are a common sight for dermatologists, and a number of possible diagnoses come to mind.
When these eruptions are concentrated mostly perinasally and around the mouth, experienced dermatologists diagnose perioral dermatitis (POD). Yet novice dermatologists must be wary not to use perioral dermatitis as a waste paper basket diagnosis. This eruption can mimic several other dermatoses, each having a different etiology.
Topical regimens that appear to be effective in the treatment of POD include metronidazole 0.75 percent, 1 percent or 2 percent cream, erythromycin 1.5 to 2 percent solution or ointment (with or without 1 percent hydrocortisone), clindamycin gel, azelaic acid 20 percent, as well as adapalene gel 0.1 percent. Also, photodynamic therapy has also shown promise in clearing this eruption. Patients may get better without any treatment if they strictly avoid potent corticosteroids, moisturizers and make-up.
When these eruptions are concentrated mostly perinasally and around the mouth, experienced dermatologists diagnose perioral dermatitis (POD). Yet novice dermatologists must be wary not to use perioral dermatitis as a waste paper basket diagnosis. This eruption can mimic several other dermatoses, each having a different etiology.
Topical regimens that appear to be effective in the treatment of POD include metronidazole 0.75 percent, 1 percent or 2 percent cream, erythromycin 1.5 to 2 percent solution or ointment (with or without 1 percent hydrocortisone), clindamycin gel, azelaic acid 20 percent, as well as adapalene gel 0.1 percent. Also, photodynamic therapy has also shown promise in clearing this eruption. Patients may get better without any treatment if they strictly avoid potent corticosteroids, moisturizers and make-up.
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