A case of edematous striae distensae by corticosteroid and generalized edema in nephrotic syndrome

Abstract

Striae distensae are characterized by linear, smooth bands of atrophic-appearing skin. In histologic findings, the epidermis is thin and flattened. There is a decrease in the thickness of the dermis. Separation of collagen fibers and small, fragmented elastic fibers are seen in the dermis. Striae distensae develop as a result of disruption of the connective tissue framework. Main mechanism of edematous striae distensae is disintegration of collagen, followed by the pressure induced by generalized edema as the secondary mechanism. The patient is a 17-year-old boy who had generalized pitting edema and abdominal distension due to nephrotic syndrome. On the abdomen, he has presented with edematous striae and ulceration with exudate for 1 week. Edematous striae distensae are uncommon but can develop from the combined effects of glucocorticoid and generalized edema. We report a case of edematous striae distensae in nephrotic syndrome.