What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Angiokeratoma of Fordyce (affecting Skin)
• Angiokeratoma of Mibelli (affecting Skin)
• Skin Angiokeratoma

What is Angiokeratoma of Skin? (Definition/Background Information)

• Angiokeratoma of Skin is a benign condition that consists of 2-5 mm sized papules, typically purple in color, which mostly occur on the scrotum and vulva. They may bleed when subjected to trauma such as by squeezing them or due to friction from clothing
• An angiokeratoma is a collection of blood vessels with an overlying small overgrowth of epidermis. There are no risk factors for the condition
• Angiokeratoma of Skin may be diagnosed through physical examination, medical history evaluation, and confirmed through a tissue biopsy
• Treatment may be required for Angiokeratoma of Skin, if they cause cosmetic concerns or get infected. In such cases, an electrocautery or laser ablation may be performed
• The prognosis of Angiokeratoma of Skin is excellent with suitable treatment, including surgery or laser therapy

This condition is distinct from angiokeratoma corporis diffusum (ACD) which has similar individual lesions but is more widespread. ACD is linked with internal medical diseases. The diagnosis of Angiokeratoma of the Skin is readily made clinically.

Who gets Angiokeratoma of Skin? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Angiokeratoma of Skin is a common, benign condition that affects both males and females of all age groups; the risk increases with increasing age
• It is mostly seen in men over 40 and women in the 20-40 years’ age group
• In general, angiokeratomas affect males more than females
• The condition can occur worldwide, and no geographical preference is seen
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected, although a greater number of cases are reported in Caucasians than African Americans

What are the Risk Factors for Angiokeratoma of Skin? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for Angiokeratoma of Skin are largely unknown
• However, the presence of varicocele (which is dilated veins within the scrotum) is believed to be a risk factor

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Angiokeratoma of Skin? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Angiokeratoma of Skin is presently unknown
• The condition is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Angiokeratoma of Skin?

The signs and symptoms of Angiokeratoma of Skin may include:

• Presence of small, single or multiple papules, normally purple in color that is commonly observed on the scrotum or vulva. They may be seen on other parts of the body too
• However, when these papules occur on the legs, they are usually solitary
• The lesions may bleed when subjected to pressure or trauma (on squeezing or scratching), which can lead to patient concern, and rarely to infection
• The skin over the papules may be thickened. Sometimes, the skin over the papules may get infected with bacteria or fungus
• Such bacterial infections can cause pus to drain and the lesion to become painful, resulting in severe infection

How is Angiokeratoma of Skin Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods to help identify Angiokeratoma of Skin:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• A biopsy of the papule is usually necessary to confirm the diagnosis
• Due to the dark discoloration of Angiokeratoma of Skin, it is important to distinguish the lesions from a malignant melanoma

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Angiokeratoma of Skin?

The complications due to Angiokeratoma of Skin may include:

• Severe infection necessitating surgical treatment
• Individuals may have stress and anxiety issues fearing that the condition is a sexually-transmitted infection
• Some individuals have cosmetic concerns due to the appearance of the papules

How is Angiokeratoma of Skin Treated?

In a majority of cases, no treatment is required for Angiokeratoma of Skin since it is a benign condition. Besides, there are no medications available to treat them. However, in some cases, the following treatment measures may be considered:

• Providing reassurance and helping with anxiety feelings
• Some individuals may consult healthcare professionals to rule out sexually-transmitted infections (if necessary)
• Individuals, in whom it causes cosmetic issues, may undergo  electrocautery or laser ablation to have them removed
• Occasionally, these may recur after surgery; hence, follow up appointments are necessary

How can Angiokeratoma of Skin be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Angiokeratoma of Skin.

What is the Prognosis of Angiokeratoma of Skin? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Angiokeratoma of Skin is a common, benign (non-cancerous) condition that has an excellent prognosis with appropriate treatment.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Angiokeratoma of Skin:

• There are two forms of angiokeratoma - localized and generalized. The generalized form is also known as angiokeratoma corporis diffusum. It is usually present with metabolic disorders such as Fabry disease
• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Angiokeratoma of Skin
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse