Multiple myeloma associated with acquired cutis laxa

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pathology
• Immunology

Background:

• Acquired cutis laxa is a rare connective tissue disorder causing skin laxity and organ support loss.
• It affects skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, pelvic organs, and aorta.
• Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old woman with multiple myeloma presented with acquired cutis laxa.
• She experienced gradual skin laxity, connective tissue deterioration, and emphysema.
• Autopsy revealed multiple myeloma, skin laxity, and panacinar emphysema.

Findings:

• Elastic fibers in the skin, lungs, and aorta were reduced and abnormally fragmented.
• Direct immunofluorescence showed immunoglobulin G (IgG) bound to dermal elastic fibers.
• These findings suggest a potential immunologic basis for the elastic tissue defect.

Implications:

• The study speculates an immunologic etiology for the elastic tissue abnormality in acquired cutis laxa.
• This case highlights a potential link between multiple myeloma and acquired cutis laxa.
• Further research into immune mechanisms may elucidate cutis laxa pathogenesis.