# Traumatic Anserine Folliculosis: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This paper reports a rare skin condition caused by friction, successfully treated with topical medications and avoiding irritation.

## Contribution

The paper presents a new clinical case of traumatic anserine folliculosis and emphasizes its distinct diagnosis and treatment approach.

## Key findings

- TAF was diagnosed in a young male with follicular papules on his cheek due to repeated friction.
- Treatment with topical retinoids and keratolytics, along with avoiding friction, led to significant improvement.
- TAF can be distinguished from similar conditions like keratosis pilaris through clinical history and lesion characteristics.

## Abstract

Traumatic anserine folliculosis (TAF) is a rare, under-recognized dermatological condition caused by repeated friction or pressure. This leads to grouped follicular papules with a rough, sandpaper-like texture, most commonly on the face or neck. It primarily affects adolescents and young adults, with pathogenesis linked to mechanical irritation causing follicular hyperkeratosis and keratin plug formation. We report the case of a young male who developed hyperpigmented follicular papules on his left cheek with a history of resting his cheek on his palm. Clinical evaluation confirmed TAF, and treatment with topical retinoids and keratolytics, along with avoidance of friction, led to marked improvement after nine months. The diagnosis of TAF is clinical and relies on recognizing the frictional history and characteristic lesions, distinguishing it from conditions like keratosis pilaris (KP) and lichen spinulosus. Management centers on educating patients, eliminating trauma, and using topical retinoids or keratolytics, with generally excellent outcomes when identified and treated early.