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Acquired Cutis Laxa (Generalized Elastolysis). Presented by H. A. Luscombe, MD, M. A. Scott, MD.
A 49-year-old woman developed anasarca eight years ago that was subsequently ascribed to an allergic reaction to penicillin. When the edema of the face and periorbital regions subsided, the involved areas showed substantial laxity of the skin. The patient has since been plagued by areas of increased laxity of the skin and soft tissues, primarily of the chest, abdomen, and arms. Visceral changes included perineal, rectal, vaginal, and bladder prolapse. Loss of support of the uvula and eyelids has required surgical repair. In addition, the patient has developed recurrent pharyngeal edema, easy bruisability, loss of 13.56 kg (30 lb), and anemia, as well as an abdominal mass.
Discussion
Dr. Margaret G. Wood: There are two kinds of cutis laxa, the acquired type and the congenital type. The acquired type usually follows an edematous, inflammatory episode