Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum

By Frank Pessler, MD, PhD, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany

NOTE: This is the Professional Version. CONSUMERS: Click here for the Consumer Version

Connective Tissue Disorders in Children
Introduction to Connective Tissue Disorders in Children
Chondromalacia Patellae
Cutis Laxa
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Infrapatellar Tendinitis
Marfan Syndrome
Nail-Patella Syndrome
Osteochondrodysplasias (Osteochondrodysplastic Dwarfism)
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum is a rare genetic disorder characterized by calcification of the elastic fibers of the skin, retina, and cardiovascular system. Diagnosis is clinical. There is no specific treatment, but intravitreal injections of angiogenesis-blocking antibodies may be given for angioid streaks.

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum is caused by mutations in the ABCC6 gene that are inherited in both autosomal dominant and recessive forms. The ABCC6 gene product is a transmembrane transporter protein that probably plays roles in cellular detoxification. Characteristic cutaneous papular lesions begin in childhood and are primarily of cosmetic concern. They appear as small yellowish papules that typically occur on the neck and axillae and flexural surfaces. Elastic tissues become calcified and fragmented, leading to disruption of the involved organ systems:

Ocular system: Angioid streaks of the retina, retinal hemorrhages, and gradual vision loss
Cardiovascular system: Premature atherosclerosis with subsequent intermittent claudication, hypertension, angina, and MI
Vascular fragility: GI hemorrhage and small-vessel bleeding with subsequent anemia

Treatment

Angiogenesis-blocking antibodies for angioid streaks

Treatment of retinal angioid streaks with intravitreal injections of angiogenesis-blocking antibodies (eg, bevacizumab) shows promise.

Otherwise, there is no specific treatment, and the aim is to prevent complications. People should avoid drugs that may cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, such as aspirin, other NSAIDs, and anticoagulants. People with pseudoxanthoma elasticum should avoid contact sports because of the risk of injury to the eye.

Complications may limit life span.

Last full review/revision February 2017 by Frank Pessler, MD, PhD