Contents

SynopsisCodesLook ForDiagnostic PearlsDifferential Diagnosis & PitfallsBest TestsManagement PearlsTherapyReferences

Information for Patients

View all Images (20)

Terra firma-forme dermatosis
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Terra firma-forme dermatosis

Contributors: Gil Weintraub MD, Noah Craft MD, PhD, Lowell A. Goldsmith MD, MPH
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Terra firma-forme dermatosis (TFFD), sometimes referred to as Duncan's dirty dermatosis, is a condition characterized by asymptomatic, hyperpigmented, dirtlike plaques that are resistant to regular washing with soap and water but easily rub off with 70% isopropyl alcohol.

TFFD is the result of disordered and delayed keratinization of an unknown etiology. TFFD may appear anywhere on the body but is commonly found on the neck, axilla, and trunk. While it occurs more frequently in children and adolescents, it can be found in adults. There are currently no known predisposing risk factors (including age, race, sex, geography, medications, or comorbidities). Although not a life-threatening or contagious condition, it can lead to unnecessary tests (biopsies, endocrine evaluations, etc) and can be cosmetically bothersome for individuals unable to achieve clean-appearing skin.

Codes

ICD10CM:
L85.9 – Epidermal thickening, unspecified

SNOMEDCT:
277905003 – Disorder of keratinization

Look For

Subscription Required

Diagnostic Pearls

Subscription Required

Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

To perform a comparison, select diagnoses from the classic differential

Subscription Required

Best Tests

Subscription Required

Management Pearls

Subscription Required

Therapy

Subscription Required

References

Subscription Required

Last Updated:12/20/2018
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Patient Information for Terra firma-forme dermatosis
Print E-Mail Images (20)
Contributors: Medical staff writer
Premium Feature
VisualDx Patient Handouts
Available in the Elite package
  • Improve treatment compliance
  • Reduce after-hours questions
  • Increase patient engagement and satisfaction
  • Written in clear, easy-to-understand language. No confusing jargon.
  • Available in English and Spanish
  • Print out or email directly to your patient
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Terra firma-forme dermatosis
A medical illustration showing key findings of Terra firma-forme dermatosis : Axilla, Brown color, Neck, Scaly plaque, Trunk
Copyright © 2024 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.