Fibroelastolytic Papulosis in a Middle-Age Female: Presentation and Review of Treatment

Fibroelastolytic papulosis (FEP) is a rare, benign, acquired cutaneous disease with a histopathology that shows variable fibrosis and elastolysis of the papillary dermis. FEP clinically presents as white-ivory to yellow papules and plaques commonly occurring on the neck. Prior to this date there have been no specific treatment guidelines for FEP, thus various management options are explored in this case report. Case Report: We present a 62-year-old female with an isolated ivory, cobblestoned plaque with open comedones on the left shoulder since childhood. The histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of FEP. The patient had been previously treated with topical clindamycin, salicylic acid, tretinoin, and tazarotene without success. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the importance of recognizing FEP, as clinical presentations can vary. FEP can be distressing to patients, and it is important to explore additional treatment options. Treatment options including topical retinoids and ablative lasers have been reported, but with limited and inconsistent success. However, due to the rarity of the disease there is currently no standard of care for the treatment of FEP and additional successful treatment options are needed.