A case of pseudoxanthoma elasticus in a young woman

Novikov A.I., Novikov Yu.A., Zubareva E.Yu., Okhlopkov V.A.

1) Omsk State Medical University, Omsk, Russia; 2) Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Resuscitation and Rehabilitation, Moscow, Russia

Background. A case of clinical observation of a 32-year-old patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticus (PXE) in the skin folds is presented. A rare genetically determined dermatosis is characterized by progressive calcification and fragmentation of elastic fibers in various tissues, including the skin (especially in the folds), eyes (angioid streaks and retinal defects) and the cardiovascular system (arterial hypertension, gastrointestinal bleeding and vascular damage).
Description of a clinical case. The clinical picture on the skin developed in childhood. Gradually, typical yellowish papules appeared, with a symmetrical location in the neck and armpits; due to asymptomatic nature, the patient did not notice their presence until adolescence. The pathological process progresses, typical papules appear in the groin areas, the elements are grouped, and the elasticity of the skin decreases. The diagnosis was made based on the clinical picture and histological description of a neck skin biopsy. Consultation with an ophthalmologist is recommended. Angioid streaks on the fundus are not specific for PXE, but often provide significant assistance in identifying the disease: they can precede skin changes or be isolated lesions.
Conclusion. Clinical observation of this case is of interest to practicing dermatologists and cosmetologists.

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About the Authors

Corresponding author: Elena Yu. Zubareva, Cand. Sci. (Med.), Associate Professor, Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology, Omsk State Medical University, Omsk, Russia; elenazubareva@mail.ru

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