Diagnosis and treatment of the neutrophilic dermatoses (pyoderma gangrenosum, Sweet's syndrome)

Abstract

Neutrophilic dermatoses include a spectrum of disorders with similar histologic appearance and pathologic processes. Clinically, however, they have different physical manifestations and associations. This group includes two diseases for which dermatologists are commonly consulted in the hospital, namely pyoderma gangrenosum and acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis, or Sweet's syndrome. Evaluation is challenging, and many therapeutic approaches have been described for both. The previously reported diagnostic criteria, physical descriptions, differential diagnosis, workup, and treatment options are reviewed. A practical approach to pyoderma gangrenosum and Sweet's syndrome for the provider is described.