Fox- Fordyce Disease

Fox- Fordyce Disease

Apocrine glands are glands that are found in the skin, breasts, and near the eyes and ear. In breasts, these glands cause secretion of fat droplets into the milk, while those situated in the ear help in formation of wax. Sweat is produced by the glands situated in the skin and the eyelids. Fox-Fordyce disease is a skin condition characterized by itching and appearance of papular eruption in the areas where the apocrine gland is situated. This condition is also known as apocrine duct occlusion. This condition is commonly seen in females between the ages of 15-35 years.

Causes and risk factors

The exact cause of this condition still remains unknown. A few cases have shown that certain factors like stress, heat, and humidity may trigger this condition. It is commonly seen in females during the pubertal age; this indicates that certain hormonal factors are also responsible for this condition.

 

Clinical presentation:

The common site affected is the axillae, the breasts, and the pubic area bilaterally. Some patients remain asymptomatic while others may present with complaints of appearance of reddish, smooth eruptions which are dome shaped. Papule formation is seen. Itching is another associated complaint. A few patients may also complain of decrease sweating. Itching is aggravated day and night and this also leads to disturbance in sleep. The touch of a cloth and pressure can lead to discomfort.

 

Investigations:

Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the dermatologist. A transverse histopathological sectioning helps in confirming the condition.

 

Treatment:

There is no effective treatment yet available for this condition. Medications like antibiotics, topical retinoid, or topical steroids are prescribed. Hormonal pills have also been found to be effective in certain cases. Certain other modes of treatment like dermabrasion, ultraviolet light therapy, or surgical excision can be done. Liposuction-assisted curettage is another effective mode of treatment which can be used.

 

Other modes of treatment:

Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptoms. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms.

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