Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Following COVID-19 Infection: A Case of Successful Treatment With Ixekizumab

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare dermatologic disorder marked by erythema, scaling, pruritus, pain, and follicular hyperkeratosis. It usually appears as red, scaly patches with areas of unaffected skin and is commonly associated with orange-colored palms and soles. While the exact etiology is unknown, emerging evidence points to several contributing factors. PRP can vary in severity, ranging from localized lesions to extensive erythroderma involving nearly the entire body surface. This report details the case of a 74-year-old Caucasian male who presented with a four-month history of an erythematous, pruritic rash affecting the face, trunk, and extremities. The rash developed following a COVID-19 infection, complicating the diagnostic process. A skin biopsy confirmed psoriasiform dermatitis consistent with PRP. This case focuses on the diagnostic challenges of PRP, particularly following a COVID-19 infection, and explores the potential role of IL-17 inhibitors in its treatment.