Nodular nonsuppurative panniculitides is a medical term used to describe a group of rare inflammatory disorders that affect the layer of fat beneath the skin, known as the panniculus adiposus. This condition is characterized by the formation of nodules or bumps in the fatty tissue, which are typically non-infected and do not contain pus.
In these disorders, the inflammatory process involves the infiltration of immune cells, such as lymphocytes or histiocytes, into the subcutaneous fatty tissue. This infiltration leads to the formation of nodules, which can range in size from small papules to larger masses. These nodules are typically firm to touch and may be tender or painful.
There are several subtypes of nodular nonsuppurative panniculitides, each with its own distinct features and causes. These include erythema nodosum, Weber-Christian disease, lupus panniculitis, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency panniculitis, among others. The exact cause of these disorders is often unknown or multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors.
Diagnosis of nodular nonsuppurative panniculitides typically involves a medical history evaluation, physical examination, and laboratory tests, such as blood tests and skin biopsies. Treatment options vary depending on the specific subtype and severity of symptoms but may include medications to reduce inflammation, management of underlying conditions, and supportive measures like pain control or wound care.
Overall, nodular nonsuppurative panniculitides encompass a group of rare inflammatory conditions affecting the subcutaneous fatty tissue, characterized by the formation of nodules or bumps. These conditions can vary in their causes
