Unilateral, circumscribed, chronic dermatitis of the papillary-areolar complex: case report and review of the literature.

Lichen simplex chronicus is a well-described, common pruritic disorder resulting from repeated rubbing and scratching. Typically, only one site is involved. When this site involves the papillary-areolar complex of one breast, the condition is termed unilateral, circumscribed, chronic dermatitis of the papillary-areolar complex. A patient with this uncommon condition is herein reported, and the literature, including a discussion of the differential diagnosis, is reviewed. An aggressive approach to the work-up of such a patient is recommended, to ensure accurate diagnosis and initiation of appropriate therapy.