[Transient acantholytic dermatosis (Grover) (author's transl)].

In this report, we wish to demonstrate histological and ultrastructural characteristics of transient acantholytic dermatosis, first described in 1970 by Grover. Papules on the upper part of the body and on the arms and thighs are noted in our two patients. They are small in size (2-4 mm) and encircled by an erythematous border; pruritus and vesicles with serous content are often present. The vesicles are follicular and tend to group. Biological and immunological studies are normal. Histological examination shows acantholysis and intraepidermal vesicles above which is hyperkeratosis with parakeratosis. In the dermis, inflammatory infiltrates are noted. Ultrastructural study reveals rarefaction of desmosomes and widening of intercellular spaces. Fragments of tonofibrils are also noted. Karyolysis is sometimes present. The dermis contains A. Civatte's bodies. It is likely that this recently identified disease is less unfrequent than it appears to be.