Diffuse dermal angiomatosis of the breast: Clinicopathologic study of 5 patients

Megha M. Tollefson, Marian T. McEvoy, Rochelle R. Torgerson, Alina G. Bridges

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background Diffuse dermal angiomatosis (DDA) is a rare skin condition considered to be a type of reactive angioendotheliomatosis. Histologic features are quite characteristic. It has been reported in association with vaso-occlusive disease, trauma, or underlying hypercoagulability. In the past, it was thought to be most common on the lower extremities. Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical and histologic features of 5 patients with DDA. Methods The clinical and histologic features of 5 patients with DDA were evaluated. Results Five women (47-58 years old) had DDA of the breast. Histologic examination showed a diffuse proliferation of benign endothelial cells between the collagen bundles throughout the dermis. Limitations The main limitation of our study is the limited number of patients. Conclusion Involvement of the breast is much more common than previously reported. Smoking seems to be a strong risk factor for the disease. Revascularization, oral corticosteroids, and oral anticoagulation have all been reported to be somewhat successful in the treatment of DDA of the breast.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1212-1217
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Volume71
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2014

Keywords

  • breast
  • breast reduction mammaplasty
  • dermal angiomatosis
  • reactive angioendotheliomatosis
  • vascular proliferation
  • vaso-occlusive disease

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Dermatology

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