Mid-dermal elastolysis associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis

We report the case of a 38-year-old Caucasian female presenting asymptomatic plaques of fine wrinkling and perifollicular papular protrusions especially on the trunk. Histological examination evidenced loss of elastic fibers in the mid-dermis due to elastophagocytosis, with giant cells and granuloma formation. Moreover, elevated titers of thyroid autoantibodies were detected and thyroid ultrasound revealed echo-poor tissue. These findings met the diagnoses of mid-dermal elastolysis and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This association has not been reported before. We present a comprehensive overview of the literature and discuss the pathogenetic aspects of mid-dermal elastolysis and the significance of the association with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.