DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT IN A SINGLE SWIPE: TERRA FIRMA-FORME DERMATOSIS

Terra firma-forme dermatosis (TFFD) is a benign keratinization disorder characterized by dirt-like brown-gray lesions, predominantly affecting children and young adults. A 10-year-old girl presented with an asymptomatic brown-gray patch on the posterior aspect of the right lower leg that had been present for two months. No improvement had been observed despite previous treatment with topical corticosteroids, antifungal agents, and moisturizers. The lesion was completely cleared after wiping with 70% isopropyl alcohol, confirming the diagnosis of TFFD. Recognition of TFFD and the use of a simple alcohol-wiping test enable rapid diagnosis and immediate treatment while helping to avoid unnecessary diagnostic procedures and inappropriate therapies.