Linear focal elastosis: what's new?

Linear focal elastosis

Linear focal elastosis (LFE) is an uncommon, benign, acquired elastotic condition with uncertain pathogenesis. It is characterized clinically by asymptomatic, multiple, yellowish, elevated, irregularly indurated, striae-like lines or bands distributed horizontally across the lower and middle part of the posterior trunk. The histopathological hallmark of LFE is a focal increase of elastic fibres in the dermis. The differential diagnosis is varied, and striae distensae is the closest mimic of LFE. Response of LFE to treatment is often poor. The focus of this article is to provide insights into this condition for dermatologists.

Could a growth spurt cause linear focal elastosis like striae distensae?

Linear focal elastosis (LFE) is characterized by several asymptomatic, yellow, palpable, irregularly indurated, striae-like lines extending horizontally across the middle and lower back. A focal increase in elastic fibers is a hallmark of the disease as seen from biopsy specimens. The pathogenesis of LFE is unclear, as is the association between LFE and striae distensae (SD). However, the prevailing opinion is that LFE represents an excessive regenerative process of elastic fibers and is analogous to keloidal repair of SD. Although the timing of onset of LFE and SD was not synchronous in our patient, the triggering factor was the same, which was the growth spurt. This case is supporting the putative association between LFE and SD.

A case of linear focal elastosis with a family history

Linear focal elastosis is an uncommon disorder typically occurring in the back region, which clinically presents as band-like striae, having a histological focal increase in abnormal elastic fibers. Until now, linear focal elastosis occurring in patients with a family history have been rarely reported. Here, we present one such case, of linear focal elastosis which occurred in a brother and sister.