Features of Terra Firma-Forme Dermatosis.

Terra-firma-forme dermatosis (TFFD) is a little known hyperpigmented skin disease that is more common than expected. We examined retrospectively the medical records of 79 patients: 88.6% were children, the mean age was 10.4 years (SD = 7.5 years), and 64.6% were female. The dermatoses were found on the trunk in 27.8%, extremities in 26.6%, fold zones in 8.9%, and head in 2.5% of the patients. The lesions appeared in more than 1 location in 34.2% of the patients and were symmetrically located 77.2% of the time. Swabbing with alcohol is sufficient for diagnosis and treatment. TFFD, mostly seen in children and female patients, should be kept in mind to avoid unnecessary diagnostic testing and treatment.