Hypodermitis Sclerodermiformis and Unusual Acid-Fast Bacteria

Abstract

We describe two patients with localized, chronic, painful, scleroderma-like lesions of the lower part of the leg associated with venous stasis. This type of lesion has been termed “hypodermitis sclerodermiformis”, and we review the literature pertinent to this entity. In addition, skin biopsy material was studied for the presence of acid-fast microbes. In both cases, Fite-Faraco-stained tissue sections contained many acid-fast coccoid and giant microbial forms suggestive of transitional L forms. Culture of the lesion in both cases was positive for Staphylococcus epidermidis. Until the cause is fully clarified, the search for acid-fast bacteria appears warranted in forms of pseudoscleroderma such as hypodermitis sclerodermiformis. © 1979, American Medical Association. All rights reserved.