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

• DDA (Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis)

What is Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis (DDA) is an uncommon skin condition that is believed to arise from a lack of cutaneous blood circulation leading to the formation of painful red-violet ulcerous sores on the body, typically on the legs
• The exact cause of formation of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis is unknown, but it may develop in a setting of heart disease, atherosclerosis, and chronic smoking. It is believed that an obstruction of blood flow to the skin may be causative
• The condition is mostly treated through steroid therapy and restorative surgery. In many individuals, the prognosis of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis is good with adequate management of the underlying cause and early treatment

Who gets Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis is an uncommon condition
• The presentation of symptoms may occur at any age, but most cases are observed during adulthood
• Both males and females may be affected
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis may include:

• Conditions such as peripheral atherosclerotic disease
• Family history of coronary artery disease
• Heavy smoking
• Arteriovenous fistula
• Increased subcutaneous fat

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 Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis? (Etiology)

Presently, the exact cause of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis (DDA) is unknown.

• It is believed that a lack of blood flow to the skin may cause the disorder
• Any condition that may block blood vessels to the skin, such as atherosclerosis or elevated amounts of fat deposits under the skin, may result in DDA
• It is hypothesized that the poor blood flow leads to a reactive proliferation of local vessels, which are unable to bring extra compensatory blood to the affected regions

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis?

The signs and symptoms of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis may vary from one individual to another, but may include the following:

• Tender purple patches (plaques) on skin, most commonly on the skin of lower legs
• The lesions are surrounded by reddish borders
• In rare cases, the lesions may be present on the breast
• Ulcer formation at the sites of purple skin patches is commonly noted
• Pain and discomfort

The signs and symptoms of any associated conditions may be noted.

How is Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis Diagnosed?

Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Physical examination of the individual and medical history evaluation
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy, if necessary: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis
• Diagnostic tests to check for an underlying disorder or condition if present

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 Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis?

The complications of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis may include:

• Ulceration leading to open skin wounds
• Severe pain in the skin ulcers
• Emotional stress
• Cosmetic issues
• Complications that may arise from any underlying disorders/conditions

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis Treated?

The treatment methods for Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis (DDA) may involve:

• Administration of corticosteroids is known to be beneficial in many individual
• Isotretinoin has been reported to be helpful
• Wound care
• Surgical revascularization procedures, as needed
• If there is an underlying disorder/condition causing DDA, then adequate treatment of the condition is essential

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations is recommended.

How can Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis be Prevented?

Currently, the exact cause of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis is not known, and hence, no guidelines or methods are available for its prevention. However, obstruction of the blood vessels may be minimized by considering the following measures:

• Smoking cessation
• Maintaining ideal body weight
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Seeking medical attention for conditions that may predispose an individual to Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis

What is the Prognosis of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications. Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

In many individuals, an appropriate management of the underlying heart condition along-with smoking cessation, as needed, can help result in a good prognosis.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/