Autonomic Denervative Dermatitis in the Chin Area Following Mandibuloplasty

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Neurology
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Autonomic denervative dermatitis (ADD) is a rare skin condition resulting from autonomic nerve injury.
• It commonly presents as skin lesions in areas with sensory loss, often following surgical procedures.
• Facial involvement after mandibuloplasty has not been previously reported.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of facial autonomic denervative dermatitis following angle-body reduction mandibuloplasty.
• To increase awareness of this potential complication among surgeons, particularly those operating near the mandibular canal.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 27-year-old woman who developed ADD one year post-mandibuloplasty.
• Diagnosis was established through clinical presentation and the exclusion of other dermatological conditions.
• Symptoms included pruritic, erythematous papules on the chin and associated sensory deficits.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with characteristic skin lesions and sensory deficits on the face after mandibuloplasty.
• The lesions resolved spontaneously but resulted in scarring and contour irregularities.
• This case represents the first documented instance of facial ADD after this specific surgical procedure.

Conclusions:

• Autonomic denervative dermatitis can manifest on the face after mandibuloplasty, a previously unreported site.
• Early recognition and appropriate management, including emollients, corticosteroids, and antihistamines, may mitigate permanent sequelae.
• Surgeons must be vigilant for ADD as a potential complication to prevent underdiagnosis and ensure timely intervention.