Acroangiodermatitis (Pseudo-Kaposi Sarcoma) from Chronic Congestive Cardiac Failure Secondary to Dilated Cardiomyopathy in a Nigerian: A Case Report

Abstract

Acroangiodermatitis (pseudokaposi sarcoma) is an
uncommon benign disease of the blood vessels,
characterized by a proliferation of pre-existing small
blood vessels. The term was first used by Mali et al,
who described their findings of mauve-coloured
macules and plaques on the extensor surfaces of the
feet of 18 patients with chronic venous insufficiency.
Since then it has been described in a number of clinical
conditions including vascular malformations such as
Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, Prader-Willi Syndrome
and Stewart-Bluefarb synfrome; presence of
iatrogenic AV-fistulas; amputees and patients with
paralyzed legs; and in association with Hepatitis C
virus. It is clinically characterized by the finding of
violaceous macules, papules, and nodules, lesions
which can ulcerate and cause bleeding, on the extensor
surfaces of the distal lower limbs. These lesions are
similar to those seen in Kaposi sarcoma which is a close
differential, and can be difficult to differentiate
clinically.
It is important to recognize this condition and exclude
Kaposi sarcoma. Hence, this report aims to highlight
the c l ini c a l and histolog i c f e a tur e s of
acroangiodermatitis and differentiate this from Kaposi
Sarcoma.