title: Mechanical properties of primary anetoderma in a child.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Anetoderma is a rare disease characterized by a prominent dermal atrophy with loss of elastic tissue. The aim of the study was to evaluate the rheological properties of anetoderma using a non-invasive in vivo suction method.
  
  
  METHODS
  The Cutometer SM 474 was used with a 2- mm probe and successive 500 mbar load cycles. Skin thickness was measured using a 20 MHz ultrasonography A mode scanner.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Skin of anetoderma is thinner than normal. Cutaneous extensibility is markedly increased. The viscous component predominates when the anetoderma skin is not yet unfolded. After preconditioning, the defect in elasticity is uncovered.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  As expected, the rheological properties of anetoderma are abnormal. The nature of the changes varies according to the absence or presence of preconditioning.
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Dermometrology, Belgian SSTC Research Unit 5596, University of Liège, Belgium.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Piérard-Franchimont
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Dermometrology, Belgian SSTC Research Unit 5596, University of Liège, Belgium.
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Henry
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Dermometrology, Belgian SSTC Research Unit 5596, University of Liège, Belgium.
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Pierard
keywords: anetoderma; dermis; elasticity; rheological properties; ultrasound