[Satellite recurrence of eruptive angioma. A clinical, histologic and immunocytochemical study]

Some weeks after operative removal of an eruptive angioma, satellite angiomas may develop within and around the scar. During the further course they remit spontaneously. So far these recurrences have been observed almost exclusively on the trunk in children and young adults, especially in male patients. Four new cases are reported. The course is consistent with earlier observations. Histologically, the cell proliferations follow the ramifications of afferent arteries. In older satellites, there are focal changes of intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia. These are interpreted as regression phenomena. Immunocytochemically, desmin-negative cells positive for muscle-actin are found in addition to endothelial cells. They are considered to be pericytes and myofibroblasts. Because of the close relationship with the afferent arterioles, disturbances in the vascular system are thought to be responsible for the development of angioma. If such underlying vascular disorders are not corrected by primary excision, satellite recurrences may occur. Because of their tendency to spontaneous remission, active therapeutic measures are not recommended.