Eosinophilic fasciitis.
Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF, a diffuse fasciitis with eosinophilia) is a recently recognized connective tissue disorder. It consists of deeply indurated, bound-down plaques of skin and subcutaneous tissue, most commonly present on the extremities. It is associated with peripheral eosinophilia, hypergammaglobulinaemia and an elevated sedimentation rate. There is usually no evidence of Raynaud's phenomenon, acral sclerosis or visceral involvement. Antinuclear antibodies are usually absent. The abnormal histopathology primarily involves the lower subcutis and the fascia. The clinical and laboratory features usually improve following the administration of systemic corticosteroids. Serious haematological abnormalities have been associated with eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) and have been discussed in detail. The similarities and distinctions between eosinophilic fasciitis and scleroderma have been discussed.
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001706:Biopsy; D001799:Blood Sedimentation; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004802:Eosinophilia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D005205:Fascia / Q000473:pathology; D005208:Fasciitis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy; D006402:Hematologic Diseases / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000150:complications; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000209:etiology
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones