Use of Topical Minocycline for Treatment of Confluent and Reticulated Papillomatosis

Abstract

Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis (CRP) is a rare dermatosis initially that typically affects young adults and is characterized by scaly, hyperpigmented macules or papillomatous papules combining into patches typically involving the upper trunk and neck. Herein, we report two cases of CRP successfully treated with topical minocycline. The most widely accepted treatment of CRP to date is oral minocycline. Due to the chronic nature of CRP, topical minocycline could be considered a better first-line treatment option. This alternative treatment offers the advantage of a targeted, local application for enhanced skin bioavailability and efficacy. This case supports the possibility of topical minocycline use as an alternative to long-term oral antibiotics for treatment of CRP.