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Middermal elastolysis in two patients with lupus erythematosus
The American Journal of Dermatopathology
|April 4, 2001
Summary
Lupus erythematosus (LE) can cause significant elastic fiber loss in the skin, presenting as unusual lesions. These changes, including giant cells, resemble other elastolytic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Lupus erythematosus (LE) is classified as a connective tissue disease.
- Limited research exists on elastic fiber alterations in the skin of LE patients.
Observation:
- Two patients with LE presented with unusual cutaneous lesions.
- Histologic examination revealed significant elastic fiber loss.
- Giant cells actively phagocytosing elastic fibers were observed in one patient.
Findings:
- The observed elastic fiber changes in LE patients resemble those seen in middermal elastolysis.
- Findings are comparable to previously reported cases of LE with anetoderma-like changes.
- A spectrum of elastic fiber abnormalities may be associated with lupus erythematosus.
Implications:
- Elastic fiber damage in LE could be mediated by immune system components.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis of these cutaneous manifestations in LE.
- These findings may aid in diagnosing and managing LE-associated skin conditions.