Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans

Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans (pronunciation: ak-ro-der-muh-tahy-tis kroh-ni-kuh at-ruh-fan-tis) is a skin condition that is the late cutaneous manifestation of the third stage of Lyme disease. It is primarily seen in European adults, and is caused by persistent infection with the spirochete, Borrelia afzelii.

Etymology

The term "Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans" is derived from Greek words: 'akron' meaning extremity, 'derma' meaning skin, 'chronos' meaning time, and 'atrophie' meaning wasting. Thus, it refers to a chronic skin condition affecting the extremities and characterized by atrophy.

Symptoms

The initial stage of Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans is characterized by red or bluish-red lesions, primarily on the extensor surfaces of the extremities. As the disease progresses, the skin becomes atrophic, thin, and wrinkled, with a cigarette paper-like appearance.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and confirmed by serologic testing for Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies. A skin biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment involves a prolonged course of antibiotics, typically doxycycline or amoxicillin.

Related Terms

• Lyme disease
• Borrelia afzelii
• Borrelia burgdorferi
• Doxycycline
• Amoxicillin

See Also

• List of skin conditions
• List of antibiotics

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans
• Wikipedia's article - Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans

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