Telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans: a rare form of adult mastocytosis

Abstract

The authors present a case of telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans, an uncommon form of cutaneous mastocytosis, in a 53-year-old man and discuss its clinics, pathophysiology, laboratory results, and treatment. Cutaneous mastocytosis is a proliferation of masts cells on the skin without involvement of other organs. Typically the lesions of telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans are telangiectatic macules with color ranging from light to dark brown. It is more frequent in adults, with some reports in children. It is usually insidious, without symptoms at the beginning and, although a manifestation of cutaneous mastocytosis, telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans may present systemic involvement. It is very important for dermatologists to know this form of cutaneous mastocytosis and to make an early diagnosis, so they may treat the disorder and improve their patients' quality of life.

Figure 1

Small erythematous macules with telangiectasia in the left arm

Figure 2

Telangiectatic macules in the scapular area

Figure 3

Sparse mononuclear infiltrate around the superficial vascular plexus (H&E X40)

Figure 4

Mononuclear infiltrate with significant numbers of mast cells around the prominent capillaries in the upper derm is (H&E X200)

Figure 5

Perivascular mast cells (modified Giemsa X400)