The prevalence of bone cysts in Darier's disease: a survey of 31 cases

Summary There have previously been reports of an association between Darier's disease and bone cysts. A patient with Darier's disease is described in whom widespread cystic bone disease was attributable to severe dietary osteomalacia with secondary hyperparathyroidism. Vitamin D supplements have allowed considerable healing of the cysts although radiological defects persist. A limited skeletal survey of thirty other patients with Darier's disease failed to detect further examples of bone cysts and it is concluded that previous reports may represent only a chance association. The possibility that Darier's disease itself may predispose to osteomalacia and secondary hyperparathyroidism is discussed.