Acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Sweet syndrome often starts with a physical examination. The doctor, usually a dermatologist, will closely examine the affected area. In addition, the doctor may ask for the patient’s medical history, experienced symptoms and a few tests prior making a conclusive diagnosis. The required tests include:

• Blood tests: The extracted blood is tested for an excess of white blood cells and other blood diseases.
• Skin biopsy: A small sample of the damaged skin is examined to check if it has the characteristics of Sweet syndrome.

Treatment

The treatment for Sweet syndrome depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, it may resolve on its own without any medical intervention, although it may take longer. Medications such as corticosteroids can potentially expedite the process. These drugs diminish inflammation and suppress immune system function. Corticosteroids protect tissue by reducing amounts of white blood cells and other immune system components that fight infections.

The most common medications are:

• Pills: Most people are treated with systemic corticosteroid medicines such as prednisone. Long-term use might result in adverse effects such as weight gain, sleeplessness, and bone deterioration. This is not recommended if the patient has only few lesions.
• Creams or ointments: These products have skin-thinning properties thus, is recommended to be carefully applied only in the affected skin or isolated lesions.
• Injections: This is not recommended for patients with multiple sores. A small dose of corticosteroid is directly injected into each sore.

In order to prevent relapse, the medication must be taken for a few weeks. Alternatives to corticosteroids include dapsone, potassium iodide, and colchicine. This is generally prescribed to those who have issues with long-term corticosteroid use.

Most people with Sweet syndrome rash and skin lesions recover without scars. Skin discoloration may continue for a few months after the symptoms have subsided. To avoid recurrence of Sweet syndrome, medication must be taken regularly as advised by the doctor.