Papulosa nigra dermatosis is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of pigmented papules, brown or black in color, which are predominantly on the face, neck and trunk, and do not cause pain.
This condition is more common in people with black skin and Asians, however, although it is rare, it can also occur in Caucasians. In addition, it is also more common in women over 60 years old.
Treatment is generally not necessary unless the person wishes to do so for aesthetic reasons. Some of the techniques that can be used are curettage, laser or the application of liquid nitrogen, for example.
Possible causes
The underlying cause of black papular dermatosis is thought to be a defect in the development of the pilosebaceous follicle, which is also influenced by genetic factors. Therefore, it is likely that about 50% of people with a family history of black papular dermatosis will suffer from this condition.
Papules usually appear on regions of the body exposed to the sun, which indicates that ultraviolet light also influences the formation of papules.
Some researchers also consider that papular nigra dermatosis is a variant of seborrheic keratosis in people with dark skin. Learn more about this and other conditions in which dark spots appear on the skin.
What are the signs and symptoms
The characteristic signs and symptoms of black papular dermatosis are the appearance of multiple brown or black, round, flat and superficial papules that do not cause pain.
Generally, at an early stage, the lesions have a smooth surface and, later, they can become rough, similar to warts or have a filiform shape.
How the treatment is done
Papular nigra dermatosis does not need treatment because it does not cause pain or discomfort. However, in some cases, it can be done for aesthetic reasons through curettage, laser, excision, electrofulguration or application of liquid nitrogen.
