Scleredema adultorum of Buschke differs from diabetic thick skin (scleroderma diabeticorum) in which key way?

• A Scleredema adultorum predominantly affects the dorsum of fingers and toes
• B Diabetic thick skin is associated with streptococcal infection
• C Scleredema adultorum shows Raynaud phenomenon and anti-centromere antibodies
• D Scleredema adultorum shows massive dermal accumulation of mucin (hyaluronic acid) between thickened collagen bundles ✓

Explanation

Scleredema adultorum of Buschke presents as diffuse, painless hardening of the posterior neck and upper back, histologically distinguished by massive mucin (hyaluronic acid/glycosaminoglycan) deposition between separated, thickened collagen bundles in the reticular dermis — confirmed by Alcian blue or colloidal iron staining. Diabetic thick skin (restricted mobility/waxy skin on finger dorsa) involves collagen crosslinking without significant mucin. Scleredema Type I follows streptococcal infection (acute self-limiting); Type III is associated with diabetes and is chronic.

Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.