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High-Resolution Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Footpad Vasculature in a Murine Hindlimb Gangrene Model
Published on: March 16, 2022
Cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa presented with digital gangrene: a case report
Seung Won Choi1, Sogu Lew, Sung Do Cho
1Department of Internal Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Dong-gu, Ulsan, Korea. choisw@uuh.ulsan.kr
Journal of Korean Medical Science
|April 15, 2006
Summary
Cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa (CPAN) is a rare vasculitis. This case highlights unusual initial fingertip ischemia and nodules, leading to amputation despite treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa (CPAN) is a rare small and medium-sized artery vasculitis.
- CPAN is characterized by skin manifestations like nodules, livedo reticularis, and ulcers, typically on lower extremities.
- It is distinguished from systemic polyarteritis nodosa by its exclusive cutaneous involvement.
Observation:
- A 34-year-old woman presented with severe fingertip ischemia and subcutaneous nodules.
- The patient exhibited no systemic manifestations at initial presentation.
- This presentation was considered an unusual initial manifestation of CPAN.
Findings:
- Therapy with corticosteroids and alprostadil resulted in moderate improvement of skin lesions.
- Despite treatment, the ischemic changes and necrosis of the fingertip worsened.
- The affected finger ultimately required amputation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for atypical initial presentations of CPAN.
- It emphasizes the importance of considering CPAN in patients with severe digital ischemia and skin nodules, even without systemic symptoms.
- The case highlights the challenges in managing CPAN, particularly when digital ischemia progresses despite standard therapies.
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