PSEUDOXANTHOMA ELASTICUM

Abstract
It has long been our observation that the degenerated elastic tissue in areas of pseudoxanthoma elasticum when stained with hematoxylin and eosin assumes a blue or blue-red color similar to that of calcium deposits in other pathologic conditions. In this paper it is not our intention to speculate on the reasons for our observations or to include suggested similar observations in other dermatoses. However, in general pathology the tendency for calcium to infiltrate degenerated elastic tissue is well recognized. Since this study was completed we have learned in the literature of a similar observation made previously. Friedmann1reported a case of typical pseudoxanthoma elasticum occurring in a woman aged 25, in which he demonstrated the presence of calcium deposits in the involved elastic tissue by microscopic means. Gans2stated that only one other case of pseudoxanthoma elasticum with calcification had been reported, and that the