[Reversible lower limb lymphedema as the first manifestation of cutaneous periarteritis nodosa].

INTRODUCTION

Cutaneous periarteritis nodosa is a localized form middle-sized arteriolitis. Its main clinical features are nodules, livedo reticularis and ulcers of the lower limbs.

EXEGESIS: We reported a 45 year-old woman with distal lower limb lymphedema. Lymphedema initially spontaneously remitted but recurred nine months after, accompanied with nodules. Cutaneous periarteritis nodosa was diagnosed on histological findings and absence of extracutaneous manifestations. Lymphoscintigraphy showed functional lymphatic insufficiency. Treatment consisted of prednisone followed by colchicine and dapsone. After six months of follow-up, patient remained symptom-free.

CONCLUSION

We report the first case of lower limb lymphedema associated with cutaneous periarteritis nodosa. Parallel course and unusual corticosensivity of lymphedema and nodules raised the problem of their non coincidental association.