Darier disease is disorder marked by a stubborn rash which usually runs in families. The rash often starts when one is a teenager or older.

It most commonly affects the chest, neck, back, ears, forehead, and groin, but may involve other body areas as well.

At times the rash will cause a bad odor. This disease can also cause the fingernails to be fragile at the tips causing V-shaped notches at the end of the nails as pictured below and changes in your mucous membranes.

The disease is typically marked by periods of flare-ups followed by periods where the rash is much less noticeable. It is very similar pathologically to Grover’s Disease, but that condition typically affects men over 50.

What causes Darier’s Disease?

The cause is thought to be due to a defective gene, although researchers are not entirely sure. The gene that causes Darier disease is often inherited from one’s parents.

It’s important to realize that Darier disease is not contagious; that is, it does not spread from person to person, so if you know someone with this stubborn rash, don’t be afraid to interact with them.

You’ll notice that the rash is often worse in the summer, as many rashes are, due to the heat and humidity, and is aggravated by sunlight.

What are the treatment options for this serious rash?

Cleansing the skin with a mild antibacterial soap such as Lever 2000 sometimes helps control the odor.

Your doctor may give you a prescription for a gel or lotion to use on your skin.

There is no medical cure for Darier disease, but a strong drug called Accutane sometimes helps this condition. Your doctor will discuss the possible use of this medication with you.

Vaseline Intensive Care Dry Skin Lotion with Vitamins A and E applied to the rash twice a day can often clear the lesions in 2-3 weeks.

There are other treatment options as well, depending on the severity of the condition. Your doctor will discuss those with you and together you can formulate a protocol that works best for you.

Some Darier Disease Pictures For Reference

darier disease rash on the neck

darier disease affecting fingernails

darier disease causing rash in the chest area