Dermatitis Cruris Pustulosa et Atrophicans

Dermatitis cruris pustulosa et atrophicans (DCPA) is a chronic skin condition primarily affecting the lower limbs, characterized by symmetrical follicular pustules, edema, alopecia, atrophy, and scarring. First described in 1952 in West Nigeria and later in India in 1964, DCPA is mainly a disease of men, with a notable prevalence of 3-4% in Madras, South India. It is distinguished from other forms of pustular folliculitis by its localization to the legs, chronic nature, resistance to treatment, and lack of systemic symptoms despite extensive lesions. Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus aureus is implicated in its etiology, but the exact cause remains unclear. Various treatments have been attempted, including antibiotics, PUVA therapy, and topical agents, with varying success. Despite its recognition in tropical dermatology clinics, DCPA has been minimally covered in dermatological literature and requires further research to understand and treat it effectively.