[Livedoid vasculopathy secondary to coeliac disease]

Abstract

Background: Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is a painful ulcerative condition involving white atrophy and livedo; a histopathologic feature seen is occlusive dermal vasculopathy. This may be associated with coagulation disorders such as hyperhomocysteinaemia (HHC).

Patients and methods: We report the case of a 52-year-old woman presenting LV in which an abnormal scan image led us to diagnose coeliac disease. This enteropathy had caused vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency, as well as HHC. Vitamin supplementation and a gluten-free diet resulted in complete healing of the lesions.

Discussion: This case underlines the importance of screening for and correction of coagulation disorders in patients with LV. It also suggests that in the event of HHC, coeliac disease should be sought, even in the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms.

Keywords: Coeliac disease; Hyperhomocysteinaemia; Hyperhomocystéinémie; Livedoid vasculopathy; Maladie cœliaque; Vasculopathie livédoïde.