What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Midline Mucinosis
• REM (Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis)
• REM Syndrome

What is Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis (REM) is a rare, benign skin condition that causes well-defined red rashes on the skin. These are most commonly seen on the chest and upper back
• This skin condition does not involve other organs; in other words, there is no systemic involvement in Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis. Frequently, this condition is observed among young and middle-aged women (10-40 years' age group)
• A skin tissue biopsy helps in a definitive diagnosis of the condition, which is treated using both conservative methods and laser therapy. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis is generally excellent

Who gets Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis has a worldwide distribution, and all race and ethnic groups are affected
• The condition can affect all age groups, though it is commonly observed in young adults, between the 2nd and 4th decade of their life; children are rarely affected
• It is more common in women than men (in a 2:1 ratio)

What are the Risk Factors for Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis? (Predisposing Factors)

Some of the risk factors associated with Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis include:

• AIDS/HIV affected individuals
• Prolonged sun-exposure

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis is not known. However, it is thought that prolonged sun-exposure may have a role to play
• Sun-exposure makes the skin rashes worse. The rashes begin to itch and burning sensations may be felt, on continuous exposure to the sun
• Some researchers believe that a dysfunctional immune system may be a causal factor

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis?

The signs and symptoms of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis (REM) include:

• Well-defined red patches or rashes on skin are observed. The rashes have a net-like pattern, hence the term ‘reticular’
• REM is a type of chronic dermatitis
• Most commonly, these rashes are seen on one’s chest and upper back. It can also be seen on the face, upper arm, and in front of the abdomen

How is Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis may involve:

• A physical examination and evaluation of complete medical history. The healthcare provider may note the characteristic skin rashes
• A skin biopsy of the affected region, where the tissue is examined by a pathologist under the microscope, to arrive at a definitive diagnosis
• The differential diagnosis of REM may include: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) of skin and polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) of skin

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis?

The possible complications from Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis include:

• It is associated with increased likelihood of thyroid disease, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, diabetes mellitus, and arthritis
• Additional complications may arise, if the individuals are affected by HIV or AIDS

How is Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis Treated?

Conservative methods of treatment of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis (REM) may include:

• Avoiding exposure to the sun
• Use of sunscreen lotions
• Oral steroids, topical steroidal creams
• Anti-malarial medications (which are helpful in some cases)

Light therapy to treat REM includes:

• Pulse dye laser therapy (PDL)
• Use of ultra-violet light

How can Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis be Prevented?

• Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis is a skin condition of unknown cause. It may not be prevented
• However, avoidance of prolonged sun-exposure can prevent further aggravation of the condition

What is the Prognosis of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis is generally excellent after suitable therapy.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Reticular Erythematous Mucinosis:

The pathologist may observe the following features under a microscope on a skin biopsy:

• The epidermis is flattened with a prominent lymphocytic dermal infiltrate
• There may be an increased amount of mucin in the dermis, which usually consists of hyaluronic acid
• Extensive fragmentation of collagen fibers may also be seen in the dermis