Nodular Granulomatous Phlebitis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Nodular granulomatous phlebitis is an exceptionally rare and probably underdiagnosed form of tuberculid. It is characterized by granulomatous inflammation centered on the walls of subcutaneous veins and may clinically mimic panniculitis or superficial thrombophlebitis. We report a new case of this entity together with a comprehensive review of the literature to better delineate its clinical and histopathologic spectrum. This is a poorly recognized tuberculid in which histopathologic findings are essential for establishing the diagnosis. Awareness of this pattern is particularly important for both dermatologists and pathologists, because failure to recognize it may lead to inappropriate immunosuppressive treatment and the consequent risk of reactivation of latent tuberculosis.