Annular elastolytic giant-cell granuloma
A rare skin condition characterized by annular lesions
Annular elastolytic giant-cell granuloma (AEGCG) is a rare dermatological condition that presents with distinctive annular (ring-shaped) lesions on the skin. It is characterized by the presence of giant cells and the destruction of elastic fibers in the dermis.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
AEGCG typically manifests as annular plaques that are slightly raised and have a central area of clearing. These lesions are often found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck, and arms. The lesions may vary in color from skin-colored to red or brown and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of AEGCG is not well understood, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response that leads to the formation of granulomas and the destruction of elastic fibers in the skin. The presence of giant cells is a hallmark of the condition, and these cells are thought to play a role in the degradation of elastic tissue.
Histopathology[edit | edit source]
Histological examination of skin biopsies from affected areas reveals the presence of granulomatous inflammation with multinucleated giant cells. There is a notable loss of elastic fibers in the dermis, which can be demonstrated using special stains such as Verhoeff-Van Gieson stain. The granulomas are typically non-caseating and are composed of histiocytes and giant cells.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of AEGCG is primarily clinical, supported by histopathological findings from a skin biopsy. Differential diagnoses include other granulomatous skin conditions such as granuloma annulare, sarcoidosis, and necrobiosis lipoidica.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is no standard treatment for AEGCG, and management is often symptomatic. Options may include topical or intralesional corticosteroids, antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine, and immunosuppressive agents. Sun protection is recommended to prevent exacerbation of lesions.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for AEGCG is generally good, as the condition is benign and does not lead to systemic complications. However, the lesions can be persistent and may cause cosmetic concerns for patients.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD