Uncomplicated Neonatal Linear IgA Bullous Dermatosis: A Case Report

Linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) is a chronic blistering disorder characterized by diffuse bullae, vesicles, and erosions.1 While the peak incidence in adults is 60 to 65 years, a known childhood variant, termed chronic bullous disease of childhood (CBDC), exists with an average onset of age 4 to 5 years.1 CBDC presents with abrupt onset of tense, clear, or hemorrhagic vesicles and bullae, with new lesions arising around resolving crusted lesions in a characteristic “cluster of jewels” pattern.1 Mucous membranes are often involved, ranging from mild oral ulcers to severe con-junctival disease2 and airway compromise.3 Standard therapy for acute episodes consists of dapsone or sulfapyridine with the addition of systemic or topical corticosteroids as needed.4 CBDC usually resolves spontaneously over months to years.4 LABD is exceedingly rare in neonates, with only 8 cases reported internationally.2,3,5-10 Every case except one5 involved significant complications, including respiratory compromise,2,3,6-10 feeding issues,2,3,6,8,10 corneal leu-coma,8 and blindness.2 We report a rare case of uncomplicated neonatal LABD with limited mucous membrane involvement and resolution with topical therapy alone. This is also the first reported case of LABD with lesions documented at delivery. © 2018, SAGE Publications Inc.. All rights reserved.