Elastolytic Actinic Giant Cell Granuloma

Abstract

Actinic granuloma and annular elastolytic giant cell granuloma are different terms used to define skin lesions characterized by elastolysis, elastophagocytosis, and multinucleated giant cell infiltrate. The clinical appearance varies from papules to annular plaques. Although elastolytic actinic giant cell granuloma shares some clinical features with granuloma annulare, they can be differentiated by histopathologic findings. The disease is initiated by an immune response triggered by different factors that alter the elastic tissue. The course tends to be chronic, with variable response to treatments, although spontaneous remission may occur. Diabetes mellitus is the systemic disease most frequently associated with this condition.

Keywords: Actinic granuloma; Annular elastolytic giant cell granuloma; Diabetes mellitus; Elastophagocytosis; Elastosis.