Eosinophilic fasciitis

Eosinophilic fasciitis is characterized by symmetric, painful inflammation, swelling and skin indurations of the arms and legs. The symptoms often appear only after physical exertion.

The course of the disease begins with swelling, pain and inflammation of the skin and sub-cellular tissue, followed by induration of the skin to the restriction of mobility of the arms and legs. The skin now resembles an orange peel. As a result of the induration and thickening of the fascia, contractures occur, which can also affect muscles, tendons and synovial membranes.

The disease is more common in men, but it also affects women and children.

The cause is unknown.