When hypopigmented macules tell a different story: A rare case of clear cell papulosis

lear cell papulosis is a rare, benign paediatric dermatosis. It typically presents in children as hypopigmented macules and papules and may be mistaken for pityriasis versicolor. A seven-year-old girl presented with asymptomatic hypopigmented macules over the anterior chest and the upper part of the abdomen for two years. Based on the clinical findings, clear cell papulosis was considered in the differential diagnosis, and the child underwent biopsy. The presence of abundant clear cells in the histology confirmed the diagnosis of clear cell papulosis. Given the benign nature of the condition, the child was reassured, and no treatment was initiated. While histopathology is the confirmatory method of diagnosis, recognizing the dermoscopy findings can aid in diagnosis.
Although hypopigmented lesions in children can be a cause of concern, awareness of clear cell papulosis helps clinicians avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate management.