Korean J Dermatol.  2019 Jul;57(6):320-323.

A Case of Elephantiasis Nostras Verrucosa Treated with Oral Acitretin

• Shin YB
• Jeong HB
• Jo JW
• Kwon CI
• Kim CY

Abstract

Elephantiasis nostras verrucosa (ENV) is an uncommon condition caused by repeated inflammation and lymphatic obstruction. It occurs mainly in the lower extremities and is characterized by skin changes, including hyperkeratotic mossy papules and plaques, non-pitting edema, and cobblestone-like appearances. ENV can be diagnosed based on its typical clinical manifestations (pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia with enlarged lymphatic spaces, fibrous tissue proliferation, and chronic inflammation) and by skin biopsy. Although ENV is difficult to treat, reduction of lymphedema and use of keratolytic agents may be helpful. To our knowledge, only three cases of ENV have been reported. However, the case of ENV treated with oral acitretin has not been reported in domestic literatures. Therefore, we report the case of a 45-year-old woman who developed ENV. She had a past history of cellulitis and was successfully treated with oral acitretin.

Keyword

Acitretin; Elephantiasis nostras verrucosa; Lymphedema

MeSH Terms

Acitretin*
Biopsy
Cellulitis
Edema
Elephantiasis*
Female
Humans
Hyperplasia
Inflammation
Keratolytic Agents
Lower Extremity
Lymphedema
Middle Aged
Skin
Acitretin
Keratolytic Agents