Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews

Journal of Medical - Clinical Research & Reviews

Open Access
ISSN: 2639-944X
Original Research Article

Transient Acantholytic Dermatosis (Grover's Disease): A Contemporary Review

Authors: Valentina Broshtilova, Sonya Marina, Yoanna Velevska, Irina Yungareva, Yoanna Petkova.

DOI: 10.33425/2639-944X.1500


Abstract

Transient acantholytic dermatosis (TAD), also known as Grover disease, is an acquired acantholytic dermatosis characterized by intensely pruritic erythematous papules and papulovesicles, predominantly involving the trunk. It occurs most commonly in middle- aged and older men and may be underrecognized because of its considerable clinical and histopathological variability.

Aim: To provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding the epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and prognosis of TAD.

Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science for publications indexed between July 2000 and July 2026. Original research articles, systematic reviews, retrospective studies, and relevant clinical case reports were considered. Particular emphasis was placed on recent advances in the understanding of disease pathogenesis, diagnostic approaches, therapeutic strategies, and emerging treatment options. The identified literature was critically evaluated and synthesized to provide an updated overview of the current understanding and management of TAD.

Results: The etiopathogenesis of TAD remains incompletely understood and is considered multifactorial. Proposed contributing factors include heat and sweating, ultraviolet exposure, impaired epidermal barrier function, drug-related reactions, and abnormalities in keratinocyte differentiation and intercellular adhesion. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, with histopathological examination playing an important role in atypical or diagnostically challenging cases. Treatment is mainly symptomatic and includes avoidance of potential triggers, emollients, topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, and systemic retinoids. Dupilumab has recently emerged as a potential off- label therapeutic option for selected patients with chronic or treatment-refractory disease; however, the available evidence remains limited and is based predominantly on case reports and small case series.

Conclusions: TAD generally has a favorable prognosis, but chronic or recurrent disease and persistent pruritus may substantially impair quality of life. Accurate diagnosis, appropriate differentiation from clinically and histopathologically similar disorders, and individualized treatment are essential for optimal disease management. Further prospective, controlled, and multicenter studies are needed to elucidate the pathogenesis of TAD, identify prognostic factors, and establish evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

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Citation: Valentina Broshtilova, Sonya Marina, Yoanna Velevska, et al. Transient Acantholytic Dermatosis (Grover's Disease): A Contemporary Review. J Med - Clin Res & Rev. 2026; 10(10). DOI: 10.33425/2639-944X.1500
Editor-in-Chief
Sara Badia
Sara Badia
Cardiac Surgery Department | Germans Trias University Hospital in Pujol

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