title: Erythema elevatum diutinum and hypothyroidism: coincidence or causal relationship?
abstract: Erythema elevatum diutinum is a rare chronic leukocytoclastic vasculitis of unknown etiology. It is believed to be due to deposition of immune complexes in the vessels. Clinically it is manifested as erythematous violaceous papules and nodules, isolated or confluent with hardened consistency, symmetrical, usually located on the extensor surface of the extremities, particularly over the joints. Diagnosis is based on clinical and histological findings. We report the case of a woman, 71 years old, with erythematous violaceous nodules on the hands, elbows, back and legs, beginning two years ago, with pain and itching. Histopathological analysis revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis, confirming the clinical suspicion. Laboratory tests revealed hypothyroidism. We report the case because of its rarity, with subsequent review of the literature.
authors.affiliation: Universidade de Taubaté, Taubaté, SP, BR.
authors.forename: Denise Camargo
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Cirvidiu
authors.affiliation: Universidade de Taubaté, Taubaté, SP, BR.
authors.forename: Beatriz Lopes Ferraz
authors.initials: BL
authors.lastname: Elias
authors.affiliation: Universidade de Taubaté, Taubaté, SP, BR.
authors.forename: Juliana Chaib Ferraira
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Jorge
authors.affiliation: Universidade de Taubaté, Taubaté, SP, BR.
authors.forename: Márcia Lanzoni de Alvarenga
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Lira
authors.affiliation: Universidade de Taubaté, Taubaté, SP, BR.
authors.forename: Samuel Henrique
authors.initials: SH
authors.lastname: Mandelbaum
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004893:Erythema Nodosum / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology; D018366:Vasculitis, Leukocytoclastic, Cutaneous / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology