Cutaneous Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis Associated With A Fast Food Diet

Abstract

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) is the inflammation and necrosis of the wall of small blood vessels exhibited by endothelial swelling, perivascular polymorphonuclear cellular infiltrate, neutrophil fragmentation and nuclear debris and is typically localized to the skin. Many medications, diseases and infections have been implicated in the development of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. A review of available literature reveals case reports of leukocytoclastic vasculitis induced by medications such as infliximab, rituximab, etanercept, cocaine and numerous others and infections such as HIV and Streptococcal pneumonia as well as malignancies and chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis and collagen vascular diseases. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis induced by food has also been reported. Here, we report an interesting case of cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis that developed in a patient after months of consuming a fast food diet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, which would improve only after abstaining from such a diet. The proper diagnosis and management of leukocytoclastic vasculitis remains a challenge for many clinicians and this report serves to give a brief overview of this condition, its causes, epidemiology, diagnosis and management.