The dermal layer of the skin breaks out into small and solid bumps, usually conical in shape and measured from 2 to 4 mm or sometimes flat-topped papules.

Instead they contain mucin, a waxy substance of mucus, the body's natural and protective lubricant found in saliva and epithelial cells in lungs and the sensitive part of the nose.

The coalescence of papules on the face, particularly on the glabella, results in longitudinal folding and gives the appearance of a leonine facies.

The dermatoneuro syndrome is a rare neurological complication of the disease presenting with fever, seizures and altered mental status.

Other attempted treatments include interferon-alpha, cyclosporine, PUVA photochemotherapy, electron-beam therapy, IVIg and dermabrasion.

[citation needed] Papular mucinosis affects adults of both sexes equally and appears between ages 30 and 80.