Poikilodermatous plaque-like hemangioma: Case series of a newly defined entity

Abstract

We present a distinctive type of acquired vascular proliferation, for which we propose the name of poikilodermatous plaque-like hemangioma. The aim of this study was to summarize the clinical and histopathologic features in a case series of poikilodermatous plaque-like hemangioma. Sixteen cases were identified from the routine clinical and referral practices of the authors. Clinical characteristics, including demographic details and clinical morphology, were collated. The salient histopathologic features, including immunohistochemical staining results, were summarized. The lesions were usually solitary erythematous-to-violaceous poikilodermatous plaques on the lower extremities and pelvic girdle, with an indolent clinical course. Mean age of affected patients was 72 (range 58-80) years, and there was a male predominance. Histology comprised a distinctive band-like proliferation of vascular channels suggestive of postcapillary venules within the superficial dermis with a background of fibrosis, edema, and loss of elastic fibers. Despite the clinical atrophic appearance, acanthosis was a frequent finding. Retrospective study. Poikilodermatous plaque-like hemangioma is a distinctive and previously undescribed vascular proliferation defined by a constellation of consistent and reproducible clinical and histologic features.