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Eosinophilic fasciitis (Shulman syndrome)
Sandro Mosconi1, Markus Streit, Marcel Brönimann
1Dermatological Clinic, Inselspital, University of Berne, Switzerland. sandro.mosconi@insel.ch
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 10, 2002
Summary
Eosinophilic fasciitis, a skin sclerosis condition, was diagnosed in a patient with Borrelia burgdorferi infection. This case highlights a potential link between Lyme disease and Shulman syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Eosinophilic fasciitis, also known as Shulman syndrome, is a rare connective tissue disorder characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the fascia.
- The etiology of eosinophilic fasciitis remains largely unknown, with various factors proposed, including infections and autoimmune responses.
Observation:
- A 30-year-old Caucasian patient presented with progressive skin sclerosis predominantly affecting the upper limbs.
- Diagnostic workup revealed the presence of circulating antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with eosinophilic fasciitis (Shulman syndrome).
- The detection of Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies suggests a potential association between this infection and the development of eosinophilic fasciitis.
Implications:
- This case report suggests a possible link between Borrelia burgdorferi infection and eosinophilic fasciitis, warranting further investigation.
- Understanding this association could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients presenting with Shulman syndrome and evidence of Lyme disease.