Fasciitis-panniculitis syndrome simulating deep venous thrombosis.

Fasciitis-panniculitis syndrome (FPS) is a condition characterized by inflammation of the subcutaneous cellular tissue, the aponeurosis and, eventually, the muscles. A 49-year-old female who was previously diagnosed as having retroperitoneal fibrosis presented recurrent episodes of intermittent inflammation of her limbs that simulated deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Biopsy revealed panniculitis with involvement of the fascia, characterizing FPS. Clinical improvement was achieved after corticosteroid therapy. Prompt recognition of FPS is important in order to avoid inadequate therapeutic measures since FPS can clinically simulate infectious or vascular diseases.