Terra firme-forme dermatosis is a benign skin disorder also known as dermatitis neglecta, unwashed dermatosis or Duncan’s dirty dermatosis [1-3]. It is characterized by asymptomatic dirt-like plaques with typically localization on neck, face, trunk and ankles [4-6]. Its etiology is not completely understood. Retention of keratinocytes in combination of sebum, residues of ointments and dirt contribute to hyperpigmented lamellar and partially whorled orthohyperkeratosis [1]. All ages can be affected [3,7].

An 88-year-old male patient presented to the department for surgical correction of severe phimosis and secondary balanophosthitis. His medical history was positive for stroke and paraplegia of the legs. He lived in a nursery.

By clinical examination hyperkeratotic, slightly hyperpigmented plaques and scales were observed on his upper lids and orbital rim (Fig. 1). There was no pruritus or any other subjective symptom. There were no clinical signs of seborrheic dermatitis or tinea. The lesions could easily be removed by wiping with alcohol pads. The diagnosis of terra firme-forme dermatosis was confirmed.

Terra firme-forme dermatosis is an often overlooked, asymptomatic skin condition related to suboptimal hygiene and skin care [5,6,8]. Diagnosis is established by medical history, clinical examination and skin modified by alcohol rubbing test (SMART). SMART is performed using 70% isopropyl alcohol for wiping the skin. The commonly affected body parts are neck, face, trunk and ankles [4-6]. Eyelids are uncommonly involved. Panda et al. described three female cases aged 58 to 62 years with lower lid and periorbital presentation of terra firme-forme dermatosis after cataract surgery. Cleansing of skin was omitted for several weeks due to wound dressings. The lesions could be easily removed by soap, water or acetone [9].

Here, we describe the rare upper lid affection of an 88–year-old male patient with a positive SMART test. Because of the localization, other dermatoses need to be considered such as atopic and seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea and tinea [10].

Although a rare localization, upper lids and orbital rim can be affected by terra firme-forme dermatosis. SMART test is an easy way to exclude other possible differential diagnoses.

The examination of the patient was conducted according to the Declaration of Helsinki principles.