Dermoscopy of prurigo nodularis

Abstract

The diagnosis of prurigo nodularis is mainly clinical, based on its distinctive features. However, in some cases it may be difficult to differentiate it from other nodular dermatoses only on the clinical basis, thus requiring histopathological examination to reach a definitive diagnosis. The aim of this study was to describe for the first time the dermoscopic features of prurigo nodularis and the useful contribution of dermoscopy in the differential diagnosis of such dermatoses. Fourteen patients with histopathologically proven prurigo nodularis were included in the study. The results of our study suggest that the detection of a "white starburst pattern" surrounding brown-reddish/brown-yellowish crust(s), erosion(s) and/or hyperkeratosis/scales is a useful clue to support the clinical diagnosis of prurigo nodularis, distinguishing it from the other main differential diagnoses.