Traumatic Anserine Folliculosis: A Case Report.

Traumatic anserine folliculosis (TAF) is a rare, under-recognized dermatological condition caused by repeated friction or pressure. This leads to grouped follicular papules with a rough, sandpaper-like texture, most commonly on the face or neck. It primarily affects adolescents and young adults, with pathogenesis linked to mechanical irritation causing follicular hyperkeratosis and keratin plug formation. We report the case of a young male who developed hyperpigmented follicular papules on his left cheek with a history of resting his cheek on his palm. Clinical evaluation confirmed TAF, and treatment with topical retinoids and keratolytics, along with avoidance of friction, led to marked improvement after nine months. The diagnosis of TAF is clinical and relies on recognizing the frictional history and characteristic lesions, distinguishing it from conditions like keratosis pilaris (KP) and lichen spinulosus. Management centers on educating patients, eliminating trauma, and using topical retinoids or keratolytics, with generally excellent outcomes when identified and treated early.