Janeway lesion

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Janeway lesion
Janeway lesion on the palm
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Painless, erythematous macules on palms and soles
Complications	Infective endocarditis
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Days to weeks
Types	N/A
Causes	Bacterial infection, often associated with endocarditis
Risks	Intravenous drug use, prosthetic heart valves, congenital heart defects
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, blood culture
Differential diagnosis	Osler's nodes, petechiae, splinter hemorrhages
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antibiotics for underlying infection
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Depends on underlying cause
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Janeway lesions are unique skin manifestations, typically linked with infective endocarditis, a serious infection involving the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valves. These lesions, characterized by their non-tender, small erythematous or haemorrhagic macular, papular or nodular appearance, are predominantly found on the palms or soles. They are often indistinguishable from Osler's nodes, another skin sign of infective endocarditis. The uniqueness of Janeway lesions lies in their asymptomatic nature, presenting without pain or tenderness.

Pathophysiology

The exact pathophysiology of Janeway lesions remains unclear, though the prevailing theory suggests they may be a result of septic microemboli which cause microabscesses in the dermis. These microabscesses are essentially small pockets of infection in the skin, causing the characteristic lesions.

Clinical Presentation

Clinically, Janeway lesions present as small (only a few millimeters in diameter), non-tender, erythematous or haemorrhagic lesions on the palms or soles. The small size and particular locations of these lesions may make them easily overlooked during a routine physical examination, emphasizing the importance of a thorough skin examination in patients suspected of having infective endocarditis.

Diagnosis and Management

Janeway lesions, like other skin manifestations of infective endocarditis, are generally secondary findings in the diagnostic process. They should prompt further investigations, such as blood cultures and echocardiography, for a definitive diagnosis of infective endocarditis. Management of the condition involves addressing the underlying heart infection, often requiring long-term antibiotic therapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.

Summary

Janeway lesions provide a critical clue towards the diagnosis of infective endocarditis, underlining the significance of comprehensive skin examinations in the diagnostic process. These lesions, however, are just one component of the broader clinical picture and should be evaluated alongside other signs, symptoms, and diagnostic investigations.

References

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