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Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans: a light and electron microscopic study
J de Koning1, D J Tazelaar, J A Hoogkamp-Korstanje
1Department of Pathology, Public Health Laboratory, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.
Journal of Cutaneous Pathology
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans involves degeneration of skin elastic and collagen fibers. This study reveals spirochetes in most biopsies, potentially causing skin elasticity loss.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Histopathology
Background:
- Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) is an inflammatory skin condition.
- ACA leads to skin atrophy and loss of elasticity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microstructural changes in skin biopsies from ACA patients.
- To identify the presence of spirochetes in ACA lesions.
Main Methods:
- Light and electron microscopy of skin biopsies.
- Histopathological examination for fiber degeneration and spirochetes.
Main Results:
- Degeneration of elastic and collagen fibers observed, particularly in the atrophic phase.
- Spirochetes detected in 69% of biopsies, prevalent in active lesions.
- Myelin sheath collapse noted without axon structures.
Conclusions:
- The loss of skin elasticity in ACA is linked to the destruction of elastic and elastin fibers.
- Spirochetes are frequently present in ACA, suggesting a role in pathogenesis.