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Fig. 35.3 Glucagonoma syndrome. A, Erosive plaques on the leg. B, Atrophic glossitis. |
This characteristic skin eruption is associated with an a-cell tumor of the pancreas. It presents as erythema with superficial pustules and erosions, typically involving the face, intertriginous skin, and acral extremities (Fig. 35-3). Alopecia, weight loss, glossitis, stomatitis, nail dystrophy, anemia, and diabetes are frequent associations. The eruption tends to migrate and desquamate, and most patients have elevated glucagon serum levels (glucagonoma syndrome). Skin biopsy shows necrosis of the upper portion of the epidermis and is usually diagnostic. This unique skin disease is probably related to low serum amino acid levels.