Erythema dyschromicum perstans is a recently described dermatosis that appears to be a distinct and diagnosable entity. It is characterized by disseminated macular lesions of an "ashy gray" color. The hyperpigmented lesions vary in size from small 1-cm lesions to large plaques. During the active phase, lesions may have a slightly elevated, erythematous border 1 to 2 mm in width. The disease may begin suddenly with multiple lesions or slowly with only one or a few lesions. Pathological findings are distinctive enough to be of value in differential diagnosis.
The age range is from childhood through maturity and the sexes are affected equally. There are no systemic abnormalities. All types of therapy employed have been of little or no benefit. The etiology remains unknown. Six cases found in Houston are presented and differential diagnosis is discussed.