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

• Elastotic Striae
• LFE (Linear Focal Elastosis)

What is Linear Focal Elastosis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Linear Focal Elastosis (LFE) is an uncommon and benign skin condition that may be observed in both children and adults. This condition is characterized by the presence of raised horizontal streaks of yellow discoloration on the back, appearing like stretch marks
• The cause of Linear Focal Elastosis is not clearly understood. It is suggested that LFE develops due to abnormalities in elastic fiber degeneration and/or regeneration
• Linear Focal Elastosis neither presents any systemic signs and symptoms, nor any complications, apart from cosmetic issues. However, it does not respond well to therapy. The prognosis of individuals with LFE is generally good

Who gets Linear Focal Elastosis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Linear Focal Elastosis is a rare condition and only a few cases have been recorded. Experts feel that it may be underdiagnosed, especially in children
• It is seen across a wide age category of 7-89 years. According to medical literature, adolescents and older adults report a greater number of cases
• Both male and female genders are affected, although a male predominance is observed
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Linear Focal Elastosis? (Predisposing Factors)

• Presently, no risk factors have been clearly identified for Linear Focal Elastosis
• According to research, the condition may be associated with abnormal skin growth, weight loss, pregnancy, or injury, although it is not confirmed
• Also, a positive family history of the condition is not established

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 Linear Focal Elastosis? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of formation of Linear Focal Elastosis (LFE) is not well understood
• Since LFE is known to sometimes coexist with stretch marks (or striae distensae), at the same location on the body, it is believed that LFE constitutes an abnormality in the regeneration of damaged/degenerated elastic fibers, which were caused originally by the stretch marks

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Linear Focal Elastosis?

The signs and symptoms of Linear Focal Elastosis may include the following:

• Appearance of numerous raised streaks/lines (similar to small whip marks but with irregular borders), usually on the middle and lower back
• These broad and elongated lesions are generally perpendicular to the spinal cord; they are also broken/fragmented
• The linear skin lesions are usually pale yellowish in color
• Other locations for LFE include the chest and abdomen; uncommonly, they have been reported on the face and legs
• The LFE lesions may appear like stretch marks; however, the latter are depressed, whereas LFE is elevated. And, both LFE and stretch marks are mostly observed at different locations. Moreover, a slight male predominance is observed
• Pain, itching, discomfort, or burning sensation is not reported

Also, no systemic signs and symptoms are typically observed.

How is Linear Focal Elastosis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Linear Focal Elastosis may be established by the following tests and procedures:

• Physical examination and a complete medical history; a dermatologist will visually examine the lesions to help in the diagnosis
• 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: A biopsy of the lesion is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis. A 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

Note: A skin tissue biopsy is generally not necessary but may be performed to rule out other conditions or infections.

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

• Pseudoxanthoma elasticum
• Striae distensae

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 Linear Focal Elastosis?

Significant complications of Linear Focal Elastosis are not generally observed. However, sometimes the following may occur:

• Emotional stress
• Cosmetic issues
• Poor treatment response

How is Linear Focal Elastosis Treated?

• Currently, there is no effective treatment available for Linear Focal Elastosis
• Also, in many, no treatment may be necessary since the condition is generally asymptomatic
• If necessary, topical creams and applications may be recommended, although these are not known to be very effective

How can Linear Focal Elastosis be Prevented?

Currently, there are no available guidelines or measures to prevent Linear Focal Elastosis.

What is the Prognosis of Linear Focal Elastosis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Linear Focal Elastosis is generally good, since it does not present any significant signs and symptoms or complications
• However, it is difficult to treat LFE. Also, a spontaneous resolution of the condition is not reported

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Linear Focal Elastosis:

Presently, there is no evidence to prove that dietary factors have an influence on Linear Focal Elastosis.