National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Papular mucinosis


Other Names:
Lichen myxoedematosus; Lichen myxedematosus; Localized lichen myxedematosus
Papular mucinosis is a rare skin disorder characterized by deposits of mucin in the skin. The terms "papular mucinosis" and "lichen myxoedematosus" are generally used interchangeably to describe the occurrence of this condition as a localized and less severe form, while the term scleromyxoedema refers to a generalized, more severe form.[1][2] Signs and symptoms of the condition include the presence of small, firm, waxy papules on the skin that are confined to a few sites on the body.[1] Affected individuals are typically otherwise healthy.[2] The cause of the condition is unknown, but it is commonly associated with monoclonal gammopathy. It has also been reported in association with bone marrow cancers as well HIV infection, hepatitis C, exposure to toxic oil and contaminated L-tryptophan.[1] Localized papular mucinosis typically does not require therapy, but topical corticosteroids and oral isotretinoin may help to reduce hardening of the skin.[1]
Last updated: 3/19/2012

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

  • DermNet NZ is an online resource about skin diseases developed by the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated. DermNet NZ provides information about this condition.

In-Depth Information

  • Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
  • The Monarch Initiative brings together data about this condition from humans and other species to help physicians and biomedical researchers. Monarch’s tools are designed to make it easier to compare the signs and symptoms (phenotypes) of different diseases and discover common features. This initiative is a collaboration between several academic institutions across the world and is funded by the National Institutes of Health. Visit the website to explore the biology of this condition.
  • Orphanet is a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Access to this database is free of charge.
  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Papular mucinosis. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

Questions sent to GARD may be posted here if the information could be helpful to others. We remove all identifying information when posting a question to protect your privacy. If you do not want your question posted, please let us know. Submit a new question

  • Are there any current studies being done on papular mucinosis? I currently have this condition. See answer


  1. Lichen myxoedematosus. DermNet NZ. June 29, 2011; http://dermnetnz.org/immune/scleromyxoedema.html. Accessed 3/19/2012.
  2. Elizabeth A Liotta. Lichen Myxedematosus. eMedicine. January 17, 2012; http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1074545-overview. Accessed 3/19/2012.