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Flegel disease pathology

Author: Assoc Prof Patrick Emanuel, Dermatopathologist, Auckland, New Zealand, 2013.


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Flegel disease is a rare dermatosis characterized by asymptomatic hyperkeratotic papules predominantly on the dorsa of the feet and lower legs. Clinical input is often very helpful in making a diagnosis histopathologically. The disorder is thought to be caused by alterations in the membrane-coating granules (lamellar granules, Odland bodies) of the keratinocytes

Histology of hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel disease)

In Flegel disease, sections show discrete zones of compact lamellar hyperkeratosis with focal parakeratosis (figure 1). The epidermis under the hyperkeratosis is atrophic compared with the surrounding skin, and the granular layer is attenuated absent (figure 2). The papillary dermis contains a dense band-like infiltrate composed of small lymphocytes intermingled with histiocytes. Vasodilation of superficial vessels is also seen (figure 3).

Hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel disease) pathology

Special studies for hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel disease)

None are generally needed. Examination of the membrane-coating granules by electon microscopy is commonly reported in the literature but is not considered useful for the diagnosis.

Differential diagnosis of hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel disease) pathology

Kyrle disease – This condition is clinically similar and may share some pathogenic components. Kyrle disease should exhibit an impressive keratin plug and inflammatory material perforating through the epidermis.

PorokeratosisCornoid lamellae allow easy diagnosis of this condition

Actinic keratosis – Actinic dysplasia is seen. Some authors believe Flegel disease is a form of incipient epidermal dysplasia.

 

References

  • Weedon’s Skin Pathology (Third edition, 2010). David Weedon
  • Ando K, Hattori H, Yamauchi Y. Histopathological differences between early and old lesions of hyperkeratosis Lenticularis Perstans (Flegel's disease). Am J Dermatopathol. 2006 Apr;28(2):122–6. PubMed

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