Successful use of dupilumab for treatment-resistant pityriasis amiantacea

Abstract

Pityriasis amiantacea (PA) is a scalp condition characterized by thick, adherent scales that are silvery or yellow–gray in color and bind down tufts of hair. PA is associated with several underlying dermatologic conditions including psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, tinea capitis, pityriasis rosea, and Darier's disease. Although there is no consensus on standard treatment, PA is generally treated with keratolytic agents and/or ketoconazole shampoo. More resistant cases may require systemic therapies, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors. We report a case of a 57-year-old female with severe PA resistant to numerous treatments including topical steroids, salicylic acid shampoo, intralesional steroid injections, mycophenolate mofetil, adalimumab, and apremilast. Following treatment with dupilumab, our patient experienced complete resolution of her PA. These results suggest that dupilumab may have in a role in the management of treatment-resistant PA, particularly when associated with eczematous dermatitis.