Papers of the Week

Reticular erythematous mucinosis (REM syndrome) is a rare skin disease that predominantly affects women. It is clinically characterized by flat, partly reticular, irregularly configurated pale erythema located in the region of the central chest and upper back. The skin alterations are usually asymptomatic or associated with slight pruritus or burning. Extracutaneous diseases and involvement of internal organs do not occur in REM syndrome. Histopathological features include perivascular and periadnexal lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrates as well as increased deposition of mucin in the dermis. Due to the similar histology to lupus erythematosus (LE) tumidus, it is discussed whether REM syndrome can be assigned to the spectrum of cutaneous LE or can be assessed as a lupus-like disease. Moreover, both conditions respond well to treatment with hydroxychloroquine.