Radiotherapy of benign diseases-scleredema adultorum Buschke

Abstract

Background: Scleredema adultorum Buschke is a rare disorder characterized by thickening of the dermis of the neck, head and upper trunk. Its etiology is unknown, but there may be a preceding history of infection and there is a known association with diabetes mellitus. Women are more frequently affected. Usually, the disease is self-limiting but some patients show progressive disease. In these cases therapeutic options are poor, with only case reports and small series supporting their use.

Case report: A 58-year-old patient with a scleredema of the neck and upper trunk is described, who was treated twice within 6 months by electron-beam radiation therapy. After the second course his symptoms improved significantly. A review of the literature of radiation treatment of this disease is given.

Conclusion: . Regardless of the possible mechanisms in pathogenesis and treatment of scleredema adultorum Buschke, the application of ionizing radiation is an important, effective and well-tolerated therapy option in the treatment of severe cases and may candidate as the first-line treatment of this disease.