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

• EC (Eruptive Collagenoma)

What is Eruptive Collagenoma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Eruptive Collagenoma (EC) is an extremely rare form of acquired collagenoma that is usually observed in children. A collagenoma is a benign nevus (mole) of the connective tissues of unknown origin. Collagenomas may be classified as acquired or inherited and localized or generalized
• Eruptive Collagenoma is characterized by a sudden onset of raised skin lesions of varying sizes on the upper extremities and trunk region. It is not associated with any systemic signs and symptoms. However, a diagnosis of this benign condition can be challenging due to its rarity
• There are no standardized treatment measures available for Eruptive Collagenoma. The skin lesions can persist for a long period of time, even though the prognosis is generally good in most individuals

Who gets Eruptive Collagenoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Eruptive Collagenoma is an uncommon nevus affecting young children between 2 and 10 years of age. They may be rarely found outside this age group in children, and also seen in young adults
• Both males and females are affected
• All racial and ethnic groups are at risk and there is no preference noted

What are the Risk Factors for Eruptive Collagenoma? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, there are no identified risk factors for Eruptive Collagenoma occurrence

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 Eruptive Collagenoma? (Etiology)

The cause of Eruptive Collagenoma formation is unknown. The skin lesion is described as an acquired condition.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Eruptive Collagenoma?

The signs and symptoms of Eruptive Collagenoma may include the following:

• A sudden onset (eruption) of multiple raised skin papules or nodules that are generally asymptomatic
• The lesions are usually less than 1 cm in size
• Most of the lesions are noted on the chest, back, or hands
• Often, a symmetrical pattern of distribution is noted
• The lesions are skin-colored or appear whitish
• The lesions are typically painless and non-itchy

No other systemic signs and symptoms are noted.

How is Eruptive Collagenoma Diagnosed?

Eruptive Collagenoma may be diagnosed through the following tools:

• Complete physical examination with evaluation of medical history
• Dermoscopy: It 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 required): A skin tissue 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

A differential diagnosis to eliminate other skin conditions may be needed before arriving at a definitive diagnosis. These include:

• Familial cutaneous collagenoma - it is the most important differential diagnosis for Eruptive Collagenoma
• Nevus anelasticus
• Papular elastorrhexis

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 Eruptive Collagenoma?

There are generally no complications associated with Eruptive Collagenomas. However, in some individuals, it may give rise to cosmetic concerns. The condition is also not known to respond to treatments.

How is Eruptive Collagenoma Treated?

There are no well-defined treatment measures available for Eruptive Collagenoma. If necessary, the healthcare provider may consider the following treatments:

• The healthcare provider may undertake a “wait and watch” approach may be undertaken following a diagnosis of the lesions
• Use of topical steroid creams
• Excisional surgery
• Cryosurgery
• Laser therapy

Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged.

How can Eruptive Collagenoma be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a method of preventing the occurrence of Eruptive Collagenoma.

What is the Prognosis of Eruptive Collagenoma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Eruptive Collagenoma is generally good since it is a benign and non-progressive condition
• However, the condition is not known to respond well to treatments; Eruptive Collagenoma can persist for a long time

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Eruptive Collagenoma:

• There is no evidence to prove that the tumor formation is influenced by one’s dietary choices
• 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