IDIOPATHIC RECURRENT PALMOPLANTAR HIDRADENITIS IN CHILDREN - REPORT OF 22 CASES

Background: Idiopathic recurrent palmoplantar hidradenitis (IRPH) is c haracterized by tender erythematous plaques and nodules on the soles a nd, less often, the palms of young patients. To date, 10 cases of IRPH have been documented in the literature. Observations: We describe 22 pediatric patients with characteristic cutaneous and histologic findin gs of IRPH. Their mean age was 6 years (age range, 1.5-15 years). The onset of the disease clustered in 2 peaks, in autumn and spring. All p atients had complete resolution of their lesions within 3 weeks, in 16 cases without any treatment. Ten of the 22 patients experienced more than 1 episode of IRPH. Conclusions: Our study represents the largest number of cases of IRPH collected to date. Based on our data, the clin ical picture is so characteristic that a histopathologic examination m ay not be necessary in every case. We suggest that there is a seasonal ity in the occurrence of this always benign and limited disease.