Colloid Degeneration of the Skin

Abstract

A patient with multiple nodules on the chin and scalp is presented. Histologically, the nodules were composed of amorphous materials which also completely filled up the whole dermis. Histochemical observation indicated that the amorphous material in the nodule was a kind of glycoprotein. Electron microscopic examination revealed that the material consists of short wavy fibrils, 60 to 100 A in diameter, and of a low electron-dense amorphous substance. Biochemical examination supported the view that the amorphous material is so-called sialomucoid. The nodules were finally diagnosed as colloid degeneration of the skin (nodular type).

Primary Localized Cutaneous Nodular Amyloidosis Following Local Trauma

“…Under a transmission electron microscope, amyloid filaments appear straight and long and have a uniform diameter (6 to 7 nm). This is in contrast to colloid in nodular colloid degeneration, which consists of short, wavy, and irregularly arranged filaments that are 3 to 4 nm in diameter3,10,11.…”

Multiple Yellowish Plaques in a Cobblestone Pattern on the Tongue

“…It is clinically characterized by yellowish to erythematous nodules or plaques, which are located mainly on sun exposed areas. 2,3 Exceptionally, a case on the foreskin has been reported. 4 Histologically, nodular colloid degeneration shows various amounts of an amorphous, homogeneous eosinophilic material in the papillary and reticular dermis.…”

Nodular colloid degeneration of the skin: Report of three cases with review and update

“…The exact role of sun exposure remains uncertain because some lesions limited to the trunk,[ 5 ] chin,[ 6 ] and penis. [ 7 ] The character of colloid materials is not well-known and degenerated collagen, serum proteins, or fibroblast secretions has been considered.…”

“…NCD is distinguished from JCM and ACM by the deposition of amorphous materials with irregular clefts that fill out almost the reticular dermis. [ 6 ] Scattered fibroblasts may be seen along the lines of cleaved colloid and through deposit. [ 1 3 ]…”

“…The filaments are much shorter and smaller than amyloid, which are 6-10 nm straight filaments. [ 6 ] In the juvenile type, there are tightly packed bundles of curly shortened filaments, 8-10 nm in thick, arranged in a whorled pattern. The fibrillary structure is like that of amyloid, although negative staining with Congo-red distinguishes it from amyloid.…”