Koebner phenomenon in an ANCA-positive patient with pyoderma gangrenosum

J Dermatol. 1997 Sep;24(9):583-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1346-8138.1997.tb02297.x.

Abstract

A male with pyoderma gangrenosum is reported. The clinical and histological features were typical. The initial lesions resolved with characteristic cribriform scars. A few days after the complete recovery, he developed several necrotizing focal lesions localized to the scarred areas. A further histological examination revealed a granulation tissue rich in neutrophils and signs of necrotizing vasculitis. We found a high titer of circulating perinuclear antineutrophil antibodies (p-ANCA), which are a serological marker for various systemic diseases. An immunological circulating factor has been repeatedly suggested to be the "primum movens" of pyoderma gangrenosum. We discuss the unusual clinical presentation interpreted as a Koebner phenomenon and the possible role of immune factors in enhancing circulating-endothelial cell interactions in relation to the pathogenesis of pyoderma gangrenosum.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic / blood
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Necrosis
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / etiology
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / immunology*
  • Pyoderma Gangrenosum / pathology*
  • Vasculitis / etiology
  • Vasculitis / immunology
  • Vasculitis / pathology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic