Course: Podoconiosis
CME Credits: 1.00
Released: 2023-11-22
A woman in her 50s presented for evaluation of skin lesions. She reported progressive appearance of these lesions for years, initially as episodes of transient edema in both feet and later with the appearance of elephantine skin tumors predominantly on the left foot (). Her mother had a history of the same problem, and the patient reported a lifelong habit of walking barefoot over volcanic terrain. Podoconiosis was suspected based on the clinical appearance and exposure history. Other causes of elephantiasis include filariasis, leprosy, and Kaposi sarcoma. A filariasis in vitro immunodiagnostic assay for the detection of Wuchereria bancrofti antigen was negative. In addition, filariasis is generally more symmetrical and need not be related to high altitudes or barefoot exposure. After diagnosis, both feet were cleaned and disinfected. Material was provided for daily cleaning, appropriate footwear was donated to the patient, and elevation of both legs was recommended.
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