Papular Mucinosis

Papular mucinosis is a rare skin disorder characterized by deposits of mucin in the skin. The terms "papular mucinosis" and "lichen myxoedematosus" are generally used interchangeably to describe the occurrence of this condition as a localized and less severe form, while the term scleromyxoedema refers to a generalized, more severe form. Signs and symptoms of the condition include the presence of small, firm, waxy papules on the skin that are confined to a few sites on the body. Affected individuals are typically otherwise healthy. The cause of the condition is unknown, but it is commonly associated with monoclonal gammopathy. It has also been reported in association with bone marrow cancers as well HIV infection, hepatitis C, exposure to toxic oil and contaminated L-tryptophan. Localized papular mucinosis typically does not require therapy, but topical corticosteroids and oral isotretinoin may help to reduce hardening of the skin.