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dermatosis papulosa nigra

ICD-10 Codes

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Description

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) Description

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, also known as DPN, is a benign skin condition characterized by the presence of small, dark or skin-colored bumps on the face and neck. These bumps are typically smooth, firm, and range in diameter from 1-5 mm.

Physical Characteristics

  • Small, dark or skin-colored bumps
  • Smooth, firm texture
  • Diameter: 1-5 mm
  • Typically appear on the face and neck

Who is Affected?

DPN commonly affects individuals with darker skin tones, specifically those with Fitzpatrick skin phototype 4, 5, or 6. This means that people of African and Asian descent are more likely to develop DPN.

Other Key Points

  • DPN is considered a harmless condition
  • The bumps can be flat or hang off the skin like small tags
  • Some people may have only a few bumps, while others may have many

According to [1], DPN typically occurs in individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI. This information is also supported by [4] and [14].

References: [1] - Context result 1: "Dermatosis papulosa nigra describes the presence of multiple, small, 1–5 mm diameter, smooth, firm, black or dark brown papules on face and neck." [2] - Context result 2: "‌Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a skin condition that typically appears as small, dark, or skin-colored bumps on the face, neck, and upper torso." [3] - Context result 3: "Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a harmless skin condition that tends to affect people with darker skin." [4] - Context result 4: "Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, or DPN, is when you have small brown or black spots around your cheekbones and eyes." [5] - Context result 5: "Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a benign (harmless) condition where multiple small, brown-black, raised spots appear on the face and neck." [6] - Context result 6: "In dermatosis papulosa nigra, tiny to small, dark brown elevations of the skin are typically located on or around the cheeks." [7] - Context result 7: "Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a non-serious skin condition where small, black or brown colored growths appear on your face, neck, and upper torso." [8] - Context result 8: "Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a skin condition characterized by pigmented sessile and pedunculated papules on the body, particularly on the face and neck." [9] - Context result 14: "Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a benign epidermal growth that presents as hyperpigmented or skin-colored papules that develop on the face and neck beginning in adolescence."

Additional Characteristics

  • small, dark or skin-colored bumps
  • smooth, firm texture
  • diameter: 1-5 mm
  • typically appear on the face and neck

Signs and Symptoms

Common Signs and Symptoms of Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN)

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, also known as DPN, is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of small, dark or skin-colored bumps on the face, neck, and upper torso. The following are common signs and symptoms associated with DPN:

  • Small, dark or skin-colored bumps: These bumps can be tiny to small in size and may appear as hyperpigmented papules on the skin.
  • Location: DPN typically affects the face, neck, and upper torso, particularly around the cheeks and forehead.
  • Number of lesions: In most cases, multiple small bumps are present, which can range from a few to several dozen.
  • Color: The color of the bumps can vary from dark brown to skin-colored, depending on individual skin tone.
  • Texture: The texture of the bumps is usually soft and flat.

According to various medical sources [1][2][3], DPN is generally asymptomatic, meaning it does not cause any discomfort or pain. However, some people may experience a slight reddening and/or swelling of the skin in the affected area, which can be accompanied by warmth and itching sensations during the healing process [4].

It's essential to note that while DPN is a benign condition, its appearance can sometimes lead to emotional distress due to concerns about skin health. If you're experiencing any unusual symptoms or have questions about DPN, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist for professional advice.

References:

[1] May 26, 2023 — Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a skin condition that typically appears as small, dark, or skin-colored bumps on the face, neck, and upper torso. [Context #1]

[2] Jun 17, 2024 — In dermatosis papulosa nigra, tiny to small, dark brown elevations of the skin are typically located on or around the cheeks. [Context #2]

[3] Apr 11, 2022 — Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a non-serious skin condition where small, black or brown colored growths appear on your face, neck, and upper torso. [Context #3]

[4] Jun 7, 2022 — A slight reddening and/or swelling of the skin in the area. · Warmth in the area that has been treated. · The skin may itch as the healing process takes place. [Context #6]

Additional Symptoms

  • Small, dark or skin-colored bumps
  • Location: face, neck, and upper torso
  • Number of lesions: multiple small bumps (ranging from a few to several dozen)
  • Color: dark brown to skin-colored
  • Texture: soft and flat
  • or swelling of the skin in the affected area
  • Warmth in the treated area
  • Itching sensations during the healing process

Diagnostic Tests

Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) can be diagnosed clinically, and usually, no tests are required. However, in some cases, a dermoscopy or skin biopsy may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

  • Dermoscopy is a non-invasive procedure that uses a special microscope to examine the skin more closely. It can help differentiate DPN from other benign and malignant conditions [1].
  • A skin biopsy involves collecting a small skin sample from the affected area and studying it under a microscope. This test is usually not necessary for diagnosing DPN, but it may be helpful in doubtful cases [3].

It's worth noting that dermatosis papulosa nigra can be confirmed clinically by the appearance of multiple small brown soft papules on the cheeks. A biopsy is usually not required for diagnosis [6].

Additional Diagnostic Tests

  • Skin Biopsy
  • Dermoscopy

Treatment

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) can be treated using various methods, including:

  • Topical treatments: Topical retinoids or hydroquinone may be recommended to help fade or shrink DPN lesions gradually [6].
  • Surgical removal: Snip excision (using very sharp, sterile scissors), curettage (scraping), and electrodesiccation are common surgical methods used to remove DPN lesions [2].
  • Laser treatments: Various laser therapies, such as carbon dioxide lasers, 532 nm diode lasers, and Q-switched ruby lasers, have been used to treat DPN with varying degrees of success [3][5][9].
  • Topical use of kaaram, suttigai, seelai: In some traditional Siddha medicine practices, these substances are used topically to treat DPN [8].

It's worth noting that the choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the size and location of the lesions, as well as individual patient preferences. A comprehensive strategy for treating DPN may include a combination of these methods.

References:

[2] Jun 17, 2024 — The most common treatment options for dermatosis papulosa nigra include snip excision (using very sharp, sterile scissors), curettage (scraping) ...

[3] Maghfour J, Ogunleye T. A Systematic Review on the Treatment of Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021 Apr 1. 20 (4):467-472.

[5] Spoor T. Treatment of dermatosis papulosis nigra with a Q-switched ruby laser. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2003; 5(2), 53-56.

[6] by SKCM Singh · 2024 — Siddha advocates a comprehensive strategy for treating DPN, which includes topical use of kaaram, suttigai, seelai, or surgical removal. Kaara ...

[8] Apr 11, 2022 — There are two broad categories of treatment for DPN—surgery and laser treatments. Both types of treatments have varying degrees of success.

[9] New Drug Approvals FDA Grants Accelerated Approval to Ziihera (zanidatamab-hrii) for the Treatment of HER2-Positive Biliary Tract Cancer. Medical News Meds Like Ozempic Are Causing Folks to Waste More Food. Drugs.com is the most popular, comprehensive and up-to-date source of drug information online. Providing free, peer-reviewed, accurate and ...

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Differential Diagnosis

Understanding Differential Diagnosis in Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra

Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a benign cutaneous condition common among Black people, characterized by multiple, small, hyperpigmented lesions. When diagnosing DPN, it's essential to consider differential diagnoses that may present similar symptoms.

Key Differential Diagnoses:

  • Seborrheic Keratosis: This condition can exhibit identical histopathologic features to DPN, making clinical distinction challenging. However, seborrheic keratoses are more common in fair-skinned individuals and tend to have a different appearance (See [9] for details).
  • Other Benign Lesions: Various other benign lesions, such as solar lentigines, melanocytic nevi, or actinic keratoses, may also be considered in the differential diagnosis of DPN.

Clinical Features to Consider:

When attempting to differentiate DPN from other conditions, consider the following clinical features:

  • Age and Ethnicity: DPN is more common among Black people, whereas seborrheic keratosis tends to occur in fair-skinned individuals.
  • Lesion Appearance: DPN lesions are typically small, hyperpigmented, and flat, while seborrheic keratoses may have a more prominent papular or verrucous appearance.
  • Distribution: DPN lesions often appear on the cheeks and forehead, whereas seborrheic keratoses can occur anywhere on the body.

Diagnostic Approach:

A clinical diagnosis of DPN is usually made based on the characteristic appearance of the lesions. However, in rare cases where there is doubt, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions (See [8] for details).

References:

  • [9]: Feb 27, 2023 — Differential diagnosis. Seborrheic keratosis: Essentially identical histopathologic features; Distinguishing features are predominantly clinical ...
  • [8]: by SA Metin · 2017 · Cited by 28 — These lesions also exhibit different demographics, with dermatosis papulosa nigra having a predilection for dark-skinned individuals and a female predominance.
  • [4]: Jan 13, 2022 — Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) are benign epidermal growths similar to seborrheic keratoses (SK). These lesions are typically asymptomatic and are most ...

Additional Differential Diagnoses

Additional Information

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It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.