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Frictional amyloidosis: a study of 10 cases
M N Venkataram1, S R Bhushnurmath, D E Muirhead
1Department of Dermatology and Genito Urinary Medicine, Al Nahdha Hospital and Baushar Polyclinic, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. venkatm@batelo.com.bh
Abstract:
Ten patients with macular amyloidosis were studied with particular reference to the role of friction. All 10 patients had a history of prolonged rubbing over a period of 2-5 years with various objects, such as bath sponges, brushes, towels, plant sticks and leaves. The presence of amyloid was confirmed by histochemical stains in six cases and by electron microscopy in four cases. The study confirms the role of friction in the causation of macular amyloidosis and hence, the term 'frictional amyloidosis' aptly describes the condition. The study also emphasizes the need for electron microscopy in the diagnosis of frictional amyloidosis.
Insights
Friction plays a key role in causing macular amyloidosis. This condition, now termed frictional amyloidosis, requires electron microscopy for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Macular amyloidosis is a skin condition.
- The cause of macular amyloidosis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of friction in the causation of macular amyloidosis.
- To propose a new term for friction-induced macular amyloidosis.
- To highlight the diagnostic methods for this condition.
Main Methods:
- Studied ten patients with macular amyloidosis.
- Investigated patient history for prolonged rubbing.
- Confirmed amyloid presence using histochemical stains and electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- All ten patients reported a history of prolonged rubbing with various objects.
- Amyloid was confirmed histochemically in six patients and by electron microscopy in four.
- Friction was confirmed as a causative factor in macular amyloidosis.
Conclusions:
- Friction is a significant factor in the causation of macular amyloidosis.
- The term 'frictional amyloidosis' accurately describes the condition.
- Electron microscopy is essential for diagnosing frictional amyloidosis.