Causes and risk factors
Depending upon the causation, anetoderma is classified into two types – Primary and secondary. The exact cause of primary anetoderma is not known while secondary anetoderma is associated with various underlying factors. A variety of skin conditions like acne, lupus profundus, tumors of skin, and several autoimmune diseases like Addison’s disease, systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjogren’s conditions results in this condition. Anetoderma commonly occurs as a side effect of certain medications like penicillin. Presence of antiphospholipid antibodies is commonly seen with this condition.
Clinical presentation
The common site affected by anetoderma is the chest, back, neck, and arms. Anetoderma is seen in the form of a variety of small, round lesions of about 1-2 cm. Complaints are seen diffuse or localized. These lesions are flat or raised. Protruded sac-like skin is seen or depression occurs, giving a buttonhole-like appearance. The color of the skin is bluish white. Wrinkling of the affected skin also occurs.
Investigations
Diagnosis is done on the basis of symptoms narrated by the patient and the examination carried out by the dermatologist. Head to toe examination is carried out. Skin biopsy is the diagnostic test. Certain other investigations like routine blood test, test for detecting antiphospholipid antibodies, antinuclear antibody test, purified protein derivative, etc., are advised.
Treatment:
There is no effective line of treatment yet available for anetoderma. The treatment aims are correcting the underlying cause. Medications as per the underlying condition are prescribed. Wherever necessary, surgical excision is done.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints of anetoderma.
