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Definition Return to top
Eosinophilic fasciitis is a syndrome characterized by tenderness and swelling of the extremities caused by inflammation of the fascia and muscles.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The cause of eosinophilic fasciitis is unknown. There is an infiltration of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, into the affected fascia and muscles. Eosinophils are associated with allergic-type reactions, but their specific function is largely unknown. The arms, legs, trunk, and face may be affected by joint contractures, muscle weakness, and changes in the overlying skin. The syndrome in some cases appears to be precipitated by strenuous physical activity. Any age group may be affected, but most people are between 30 and 60 years old.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
Treatment with corticosteroid medications provides relief of the symptoms, especially when it is started early in the disease course.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Most people have a resolution of this illness within 3 to 5 years. Some recurrences of the illness or persistent disease have been noted.Complications Return to top
Arthritis is a rare complication of eisinophilic fasciitis.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop.Prevention Return to top
There is no known prevention, because the cause is unknown. Update Date: 10/24/2003 Updated by: Stanford Peng, M.D., Ph.D., Division of Rheumatology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |