Dermatosis - Patients ask Dr. Ringpfeil answers
Please feel free to use the blog below to share information about Dermatosis or to ask Dr. Franziska Ringpfeil a question that might be of interest to others.
Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra
Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra are benign small dark brown or black papules seen on the face along the cheeks of dark skinned individuals. They can also sometimes develop on the eyelids and neck. They are a type of seborrheic keratosis. The condition often runs in families.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of dermatosis papulosa nigra can be made clinically by the appearance of multiple small brown soft papules on the cheeks. A biopsy is usually not needed. A history of family members with similar facial lesions further supports the diagnosis.
Management
The lesions of dermatosis papulosa nigra are benign and do not require treatment. If desired for cosmetic reasons, the lesions can be removed by curettage (scraping). Removal can be enhanced if preceded by treatment with a topical retinoid. White spots and scabbing can develop after the procedure but usually resolve after 14 days. Removal of these benign lesions is not covered by insurance. It is important to understand that removal of existing lesions will not ensure that new lesions will not develop.
Coping
Patients who seek consultation for these lesions are often reassured upon hearing of their benign nature.
Prevention
There are no known means of preventing dermatosis papulosa nigra lesions as there is a hereditary predisposition to their development.
I really want to get this resolved
Please make an appointment with one of our dermatologists for evaluation. During this consultation you will learn about the method that is best for you and you at time you will be a schedule a time for the procedure with the associated downtime in mind. Each spot has to be treated individually and several options are available. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and is not painful. On occasion, pre-treatment with a fading cream is needed to avoid temporary post-procedure darkening.
To remove the lesions (papulosa nigra) from my face is it very expensive?
The fee ranges between $120 and $400 depending the number of spots and whether they can be removed by “scissor snip” or need curettage. Pretreatment with a retinoid and post treatment with a fading cream is recommended when the spots require curettage. The fee for these prescription medicines is in addition to the removal fee.