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Two Japanese cases of localized involutional lipoatrophy
Katsuya Hisamichi1, Yasushi Suga, Yukiko Hashimoto
1Department of Dermatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
International Journal of Dermatology
|May 16, 2002
Summary
Involutional lipoatrophy, a rare condition causing localized fat loss, was observed in two Japanese women. Histopathology revealed characteristic changes, aiding in differential diagnosis of skin depressions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Involutional lipoatrophy is a rare condition characterized by localized loss of subcutaneous fat.
- Distinguishing it from other conditions like acquired partial lipodystrophy is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Two Japanese women presented with asymptomatic, localized skin depressions on their upper arms.
- One patient had a history of corticosteroid injections, while the other had atopic dermatitis treated with topical agents.
- Histopathological examination revealed well-defined fat lobules with small adipocytes, hyaline connective tissue, edema, and dilated capillaries.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemical analysis showed scattered macrophages positive for CD68 and mucin stains within the fat lobules.
- Direct and indirect immunofluorescence studies were negative for immunoreactant deposits.
- Autoantibody screening tests were negative, ruling out connective tissue diseases.
Implications:
- These findings aid in the histopathological diagnosis of involutional lipoatrophy.
- Understanding the cellular and tissue changes can help differentiate it from other lipodystrophic conditions.
- Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms and potential treatments for involutional lipoatrophy.