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Published on: January 23, 2018
[Annular lipoatrophy of the ankles]
Z Lamam Bennani1, L Boussofara, M Denguezli
1Service de dermatologie, centre hospitalo-universitaire Farhat Hached, 4000 Sousse, Tunisie.
Annular lipoatrophy of the ankles (ALA) is a rare condition causing subcutaneous fat loss. This case highlights its association with autoimmune diseases like Graves
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
Background:
- Annular lipoatrophy of the ankles (ALA) is an extremely rare condition characterized by localized subcutaneous fat atrophy.
- This case report details ALA in a patient with a history of diabetes and Graves' disease.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old woman presented with annular lesions on her ankles, progressing to atrophic bands on her lower legs.
- Skin biopsy revealed lymphohistiocytic panniculitis with lymphocytes and foam cells, negative for vasculitis.
- Antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer was 1/640.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited progressive atrophic bands on her lower legs, consistent with ALA.
- Histopathology indicated panniculitis, suggesting an inflammatory process.
- The presence of ANA and a history of autoimmune conditions were noted.
Implications:
- ALA's association with autoimmune diseases like Graves' disease and connective tissue panniculitis is suggested.
- Understanding ALA's clinical and histological profile is crucial for diagnosis and management.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of ALA is warranted.
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