Three Orphans One Should Know: Red Scalp, Red Ear, and Red Scrotum Syndrome
October 2015
in “
Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology
”
red scalp syndrome erythematous scalp topical steroids anti-seborrheic therapy rosacea oral tetracycline UV light protection isotretinoin red ear syndrome paroxysmal condition gabapentin amitriptyline NSAIDs red scrotum syndrome topical corticosteroid misuse topical calcineurin inhibitors doxycycline tetracycline Accutane Neurontin Elavil nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Protopic
TLDR The document concludes that early recognition and appropriate treatment of red scalp, red ear, and red scrotum syndromes can lead to remission.
The document discusses three lesser-known dermatological conditions: red scalp syndrome, red ear syndrome, and red scrotum syndrome, which are considered orphan diseases due to their low prevalence. Red scalp syndrome is characterized by an erythematous scalp with symptoms such as itching, stinging, or burning sensations, and is resistant to potent topical steroids or anti-seborrheic therapy. It may be related to rosacea and can be treated with oral tetracycline and UV light protection, or isotretinoin if the former is ineffective. Red ear syndrome presents as a paroxysmal condition with tenderness and warmth of the external ear, potentially triggered by stress or temperature changes, and can be treated with gabapentin, amitriptyline, or NSAIDs, along with cooling. Red scrotum syndrome features persistent erythema and burning sensations, primarily affecting older males, and may result from topical corticosteroid misuse. It can be treated with topical calcineurin inhibitors, gabapentin, or doxycycline. Early recognition of these conditions can lead to complete remission, but long-standing cases are more resistant to treatment. Dermatologists should be aware of these conditions to prevent delayed diagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
