Terra Firma-Forme Dermatosis: Easy to Diagnose, Easier to Treat!

Abstract

Terra firma-forme dermatosis is a dermatological condition characterized by the presence of hyperpigmented plaques, which are easily cleared with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
CASE 1: A 14-year-old boy, with no relevant past medical history, presented with a brown-colored skin lesion on his chest, which had appeared one year earlier. The lesion was cleared with 70% isopropyl alcohol, proving the diagnosis of terra firma-forme dermatosis.
CASE 2: A 12-year-old girl was referred to our consultation. She was obese and had insulin-resistance. On physical examination she had significant hyperpigmentation on her neck and axillae, which was interpreted as acanthosis nigricans. Nonetheless, we performed swabbing of the lesions with 70% isopropyl alcohol, which immediately cleared the skin, confirming the diagnosis of terra firma-forme dermatosis. In conclusion, terra firma-forme dermatosis is a benign and easily solved dermatosis. Nonetheless, its unesthetic appearance is often a cause of great distress to the patient. We aim to increased awareness of this entity.