A Case of Persistent Facial Rash in a 15-Year-Old: Uncovering Rosacea in the Context of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Abstract

Background

We were presented with a 15-year-old male with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and a 5-year history of worsening and treatment-resistant facial erythema.

Methods

To investigate, an H&E punch biopsy was sampled from the left temporal lobe, showing minute vellus-type hairs surrounded by small granulomas and mononuclear cells, including plasma cells.

Results

The findings were most consistent with rosacea, likely the telangiectatic type. Although current research connecting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and rosacea is limited, both conditions involve chronic inflammatory states and dysregulation of the immune system, with a notable convergence in NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Conclusion

Highlighting this connection between DMD and rosacea may pave the way for targeted treatment regimen for both conditions. The similarities in these two disease processes showcase the importance of interdisciplinary communication and research.