Confluent and Reticulated Papillomatosis Associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is an endocrine disorder diagnosed commonly in young women. Various cutaneous manifestations can include acanthosis nigricans, acne, hirsutism, and alopecia. Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis is a rare skin condition that may be associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The etiology of confluent and reticulated papillomatosis is not yet well established but multiple theories exist regarding its pathogenesis. We describe a woman with established polycystic ovarian syndrome who presented with confluent and reticulated papillomatosis; her skin condition was successfully treated with azithromycin. The clinical features, differential diagnosis, epidemiology, and proposed etiologies for confluent and reticulated papillomatosis are discussed as well as possible treatment options. Among women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, confluent and reticulated papillomatosis and acanthosis nigricans can occur concurrently. Additionally, it is possible that confluent and reticulated papillomatosis occurs more commonly in this patient population.