Eosinophilic fasciitis

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Dermatology
• Pathology

Background:

• Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a rare scleroderma-like syndrome with unknown etiology.
• It presents as painful induration and progressive thickening of the fascia and subcutaneous tissues in limbs and trunk.
• Key laboratory findings include peripheral eosinophilia, hypergammaglobulinemia, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the clinical, laboratory, and histological characteristics of eosinophilic fasciitis.
• To discuss the differential diagnosis and diagnostic challenges.
• To outline current treatment approaches for eosinophilic fasciitis.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis is confirmed via full-thickness wedge biopsy of affected skin.
• Histological examination reveals inflammation and thickening of the deep fascia.
• Clinical, laboratory, and histological findings are used for diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Eosinophilic fasciitis involves painful, progressive thickening of fascia and subcutaneous tissue.
• Characteristic findings include peripheral eosinophilia, hypergammaglobulinemia, and elevated ESR.
• Histology shows inflammation and thickening of the deep fascia.

Conclusions:

• Eosinophilic fasciitis diagnosis relies on clinical, laboratory, and histological evidence.
• No universal diagnostic criteria are established.
• Glucocorticoids are the standard treatment, though spontaneous improvement occurs in some cases.