Eosinophilic fasciitis
Eosinophilic fasciitis (pronunciation: ee-oh-sin-oh-fil-ik fash-ee-eye-tis) is a rare and poorly understood disease that involves inflammation and thickening of the skin and the fascia underneath. The term is derived from the Greek words eosin, meaning "dawn-colored", and philos, meaning "loving", referring to the pink color of the cells when stained, and fasciitis, from the Latin fascia, meaning "band", and the Greek -itis, meaning "inflammation".
Symptoms
The main symptoms of eosinophilic fasciitis include swelling, skin that appears shiny and thickened, and joint pain. The skin changes typically occur on the arms and legs but can also affect the face, neck, and abdomen.
Causes
The exact cause of eosinophilic fasciitis is unknown. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Some cases have been associated with medications, infections, or strenuous physical activity.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis is often challenging due to its rarity and the similarity of its symptoms to other conditions. It is typically confirmed through a biopsy of the affected skin and underlying fascia.
Treatment
Treatment for eosinophilic fasciitis primarily involves the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, immunosuppressive drugs may also be used.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals with eosinophilic fasciitis varies. Some people may experience a complete recovery, while others may have long-term physical limitations due to skin and joint changes.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Eosinophilic fasciitis
- Wikipedia's article - Eosinophilic fasciitis
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