Challenges in the Diagnosis and Management of Giant Porokeratosis: A Case Report

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) CA), 2024-02, Vol.16 (2), p.e55155
• Main Authors: Portelli, Mariana Georgiana, Bălăceanu-Gurău, Beatrice, Orzan, Olguta Anca, Zurac, Sabina Andrada, Tudose, Irina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biopsy; Blood vessels; Case reports; Cloning; Medical diagnosis; Steroids
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55155

Porokeratosis encompasses a diverse group of dermatoses, both acquired and genetic, marked by a keratinization disorder. Porokeratosis of Mibelli (PKM) presents as solitary plaques or multiple papules/macules with central atrophy and raised hyperkeratotic borders. Here, we present a case of giant porokeratosis (GPK), a rare form often considered a morphological variant of PKM, with unique clinical and histopathological aspects. Our case involves a 29-year-old patient with a 15 × 10 cm irregular plaque on the dorsal aspect of the right hand. The patient was previously prescribed various topical treatments (retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, and combinations of corticosteroids with vitamin D3 analogs) and systemic retinoids without improvement before presenting to our department. Due to the high risk of neoplastic transformation and the unavailability of imiquimod, the patient was recommended topical 5-fluorouracil treatment. The trajectory of the lesion under treatment revealed a favorable evolution, and the patient was subjected to regular monitoring every three months to assess the ongoing progress. Recognizing GPK as a high-risk variant is crucial for dermatologists, and it requires a personalized approach. Regular monitoring is advised to detect potential malignant transformations promptly. Future research holds promise for diagnostic advancements, refined treatment modalities, and a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying malignancy in porokeratosis.