Monday, 25 October 2010

Koebner phenomenon

Source = Wikipedia

Koebner phenomenon = skin lesions appearing on lines of trauma. It may result from either linear exposure or linear irritation.

Linear exposure:
  • Molluscum contagiosum (auto-inoculation)
  • Warts (auto-inoculation)
  • Toxicodendron dermatitis (e.g. poison ivy... linear from brushing against plant).

Linear irritation, e.g. scratching or surgical wound:
  • Psoriasis*
  • Eczema*
  • Lichen planus*
  • Vitiligo*
  • Lichen nitidus
  • Lichen sclerosus
  • Pityriasis rubra pilaris
  • Keratosis follicularis
  • Elastosis perforans serpiginosa.
*4 most common causes of Koebner phenomenon = PELV

The Koebner phenomenon was named after a rather eccentric, renowned German dermatologist, Heinrich Koebner (1838–1904). Koebner is best known for his work in mycology. Here is one story to illustrate his intense nature: in a medical meeting he proudly exhibited on his arms and chest three different fungus infections, which he self-inoculated in order to prove the infectiousness of the organisms he was studying.

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