Macular Amyloidosis Clinical Presentation

Updated: Feb 01, 2019
  • Author: Sultan Al-Khenaizan, MBBS, FRCPC; Chief Editor: William D James, MD  more...
  • Print
Presentation

Physical

Macular amyloidosis is a pruritic eruption that is variable in severity and consists of small, dusky-brown or grayish pigmented macules distributed symmetrically over the upper back and, in some patients, the arms. Frequently, patients seek medical attention because of the hyperpigmentation. (See the images of macular amyloidosis below.)

Reddish brown patch on the back characteristic of Reddish brown patch on the back characteristic of macular amyloidosis. Courtesy of Hon Pak, MD, and reviewed by Ross Levy, MD.

Although a reticulated or rippled pattern of pigmentation (see the images below) has been emphasized as a characteristic and diagnostic feature of macular amyloidosis, in 2 case series, less than 50% of patients had this feature.

Reticulated pattern of pigmentation on the shoulde Reticulated pattern of pigmentation on the shoulder of a patient with macular amyloidosis. Courtesy of Hon Pak, MD, and reviewed by Ross Levy, MD.
Close-up of the above patient's eruption. Courtesy Close-up of the above patient's eruption. Courtesy of Hon Pak, MD, and reviewed by Ross Levy, MD.