Introduction
Elastoderma is a rare condition that is clinically characterized by increased localized laxity of the skin. In addition, decreased recoiling of the skin is seen. Also, any part of the body can be affected, including the skin of the neck, and extremities such as arms, elbows, or knees are most commonly involved. The underlying cause of this disorder is unknown. However, it generally occurs in people with no family history of this condition. There is no standard therapy available for this elastoderma. In some cases, surgical excision is done by removing the affected part of the skin.
What Is Elastoderma?
Elastoderma is an uncommon skin condition causing localized patches of loose, sagging skin, particularly affecting the skin in the neck and the arm or leg region. Due to the reduced laxity of the skin, the skin does not return to its original position after stretching or pinching. This can result in complications such as secondary infections and recurrence after surgical treatments. At present, there needs to be a well-defined treatment.
Who Gets Elastoderma?
Elastoderma mostly occurs in adolescents and adults. Both genders—males and females—are affected. Individuals worldwide of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected. The incidence of the condition is extremely rare.
What Are the Risk Factors for Elastoderma?
There are no risk factors currently available for elastoderma. Presence of risk factor in an individual indicates more chances of getting the condition easily than an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others. Also, not having the risk factor does not indicate that the individual will not get the condition. It is always necessary to discuss this with one's healthcare provider.
What Causes Elastoderma?
The exact cause of the elastoderma is unknown. In acquired cutaneous conditions, it is believed that there are abnormalities present in the production of the skin protein, referred to as elastin, that may be the causative reason. Elastin is a highly elastic protein that is present in connective tissues. This gives structural support to many organs that help return the skin to its original position when it is stretched or poked.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Elastoderma?
Signs and symptoms of elastoderma can vary from one individual to another, and that includes the following:
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The presence of skin patches that are very loose or stretchy in any specific area of the body.
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This skin laxity may commonly appear on the neck, knees, and elbows.
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Decreased skin recoiling is seen (skin returning to its original position).
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Itchy and red rashes.
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Skin lesions in the form of papules (elevated areas of the skin that are well circumscribed) and nodules.
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Premature wrinkling of the skin.
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Increased sensitivity of the skin.
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Bacterial skin infection.
How Is Elastoderma Diagnosed?
Elastoderma may be diagnosed by the following tests listed below:
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Complete physical examination based on the medical history of the patients.
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Assessment of presenting the signs with the symptoms.
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Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool used when the dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnifying lens.
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Wood lamp examination procedure, in which the health care provider will examine the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the pigmentation changes in the skin.
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A biopsy of the skin is taken for laboratory investigation that is performed by the pathologist. The pathologist examines the skin tissue under a microscope and gives an accurate diagnosis.
A differential diagnosis is necessary to eliminate other conditions that present similar signs and symptoms. In many clinical conditions, there may be similar symptoms and signs. Doctors may perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other clinical conditions.
What Are the Possible Complications of Elastoderma?
Complications of elastoderma include the following:
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Cosmetic concerns.
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Skin ulcerations.
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Individuals with low self-esteem.
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Secondary bacterial and fungal infections.
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Recurrence of elastoderma by surgical procedure to remove the loosened skin.
Complications can occur with or without the treatment and, in some cases, due to the treatment.
How Is Elastoderma Treated?
At present, there is no treatment for elastoderma. But the health care provider may help by considering the symptomatic treatments that include the following:
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Sufficient skin care.
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Patients may undergo cosmetic surgery to treat the symptoms of the skin and improve their physical appearance.
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Regular intervals of medical screening at periodic intervals with physical examinations and tests were recommended.
How Is Elastoderma Prevented?
No guidelines or methods are available to prevent this condition because the risk factors and the appropriate cause of the elastoderma are unknown.
What Is the Prognosis of Elastoderma?
The prognosis of elastoderma may depend on the severity of the signs and symptoms associated with complications. However, the condition can be corrected by removing loosened or hanging skin. However, laxity can occur.
Conclusion
Elastoderma is a rare skin condition that is caused by unknown reasons. The main symptom of this condition is enhanced laxity of the skin present in a specific area of the body. There is no standard therapy for elastoderma at present. A combination of dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons can perform surgical procedures to improve the skin's appearance.
