2.8 Atrophy

Synonyms

None.

Definition/Description

Loss or reduction of individual structures. affecting epidermis, dermis and/or  subcutaneous tissue.


Color: white, blue, pale yellow.


Underlying vessels often seen.


In sclerosis, often a smooth, white, tight epidermis.

Localization

Depends on etiology.

Course

Terminal condition following a variety of processes.


Atrophic scars.


Mucosal atrophy (hormone deficiency, iron deficiency).


Sclerosis, congenital defects.

Comment / Explanation

Atrophoderma; rarely congenital atrophy of skin (i.e. aplasia cutis congenitalis).


Poikiloderma: atrophy, hyper- and depigmentation, telangiectasias.

Typical Dermatoses

Age-related atrophy (dermatoporosis).


Atrophic scars.


Sclerosis: scleroderma, lichen sclerosus, lupus.


Poikiloderma: radiation dermatitis.


Systemic and topical corticosteroids.

Pathophysiology

Intrinsic and extrinsic cutaneous aging.


Striae distensae (stretch marks of pregnancy).


Post-traumatic atrophy.


Post-inflammatory atrophy.


Cachexia in patients with terminal illnesses.


Infectious (Borreliosis).

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