From the Research
The treatment for Grover disease should begin with topical corticosteroids and antihistamines as first-line therapies to reduce inflammation and itching, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms, prevent disease progression, and improve quality of life.
- First-line therapies include:
- Topical corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone 0.1% cream applied twice daily to affected areas
- Antihistamines, like cetirizine 10mg daily, to reduce itching
- For more severe cases, second-line treatments may be considered, including:
- Oral retinoids, such as acitretin (25mg daily) or isotretinoin (20-40mg daily), for 4-8 weeks
- Systemic corticosteroids
- Phototherapy with UVB light administered 2-3 times weekly for several weeks
- Supportive measures are also crucial, including:
- Using mild soaps
- Applying moisturizers regularly
- Wearing loose cotton clothing
- Avoiding overheating These treatments work by reducing inflammation, controlling cell turnover, and addressing the abnormal keratinization that characterizes this transient acantholytic dermatosis, as discussed in 2 and 1. It is essential to note that the disease can resolve spontaneously, but treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent disease progression, as highlighted in 3 and 4. In persistent cases, immunosuppressants like methotrexate (7.5-15mg weekly) might be considered, but this should be done with caution and under close monitoring, as mentioned in 5.