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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
10:27
Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Dermatitis artefacta
Eun Ji Kwon1, Michael Dans, Caroline S Koblenzer
1Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
|January 24, 2007
Summary
Diagnosing dermatitis artefacta (DA) can be challenging. This case highlights how identifying foreign material and addressing psychiatric comorbidities led to successful treatment of DA.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Psychiatry
- Pathology
Background:
- Dermatitis artefacta (DA) presents diagnostic challenges, often requiring advanced techniques beyond clinical examination.
- Histopathology and microanalysis are crucial for ruling out organic conditions and confirming DA.
Observation:
- A young woman presented with recurrent abscesses, a manifestation of dermatitis artefacta.
- Subcutaneous foreign material was identified using histologic and microanalytic methods.
Findings:
- Histologic examination revealed a foreign body giant cell reaction with polarizable material.
- Energy dispersive x-ray analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry identified the material as cellulose.
- Psychiatric comorbidities were diagnosed, and antidepressant treatment led to significant improvement.
Implications:
- This case underscores the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing dermatitis artefacta.
- Integrating dermatologic, dermatopathologic, and mental health expertise is vital for effective patient care.
- Advanced diagnostic techniques combined with a holistic approach improve treatment outcomes for DA.
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