Elastosis perforans serpiginosa

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Elastosis perforans serpiginosa
Elastosis perforans serpiginosa
Synonyms	EPS
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Papules, hyperkeratosis, pruritus
Complications	Scarring
Onset	Typically in adolescence or early adulthood
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, associated with genetic disorders
Risks	Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis, skin biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Kyrle disease, reactive perforating collagenosis, perforating folliculitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Topical retinoids, cryotherapy, laser therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, often chronic
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Elastosis perforans serpiginosa (EPS) is a rare skin condition characterized by the elimination of abnormal elastic fibers through the skin. It is classified as a primary perforating dermatosis. That is, a condition where there is transepidermal elimination of dermal material. The condition is often associated with D-penicillamine therapy, Down syndrome, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Etiology

The exact cause of EPS is unknown. However, it is often associated with certain conditions and medications. These include:

• D-penicillamine therapy
• Down syndrome
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Symptoms

The symptoms of EPS include:

• Red or skin-colored bumps
• Lesions that form a winding pattern
• Itching

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of EPS is primarily based on the clinical appearance of the skin lesions. A skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment options for EPS include:

• Topical retinoids
• Cryotherapy
• Laser therapy

Elastosis_perforans_serpiginosa images

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  Histopathology of elastosis perforans serpiginosa
• 
  Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern

See also

• List of cutaneous conditions
• Dermatology