Eosinophilic Fasciitis after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

We present a 35-year-old male with acute myeloblastic leukemia who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation (AlloSCT) from his sibling. He developed acute swelling and tenderness in his extremities with eosinophilia 1 year after AlloSCT following 4 weeks of strenuous physical activity. At that time the leukemia was in complete remission and he had no evidence of chronic graft vs. host disease (cGVHD). His clinical picture and histological appearance of a full thickness skin biopsy were compatible with eosinophilic fasciitis (EF). He received prednisone and responded. Since signs and symptoms of EF can overlap with cGVHD and cause confusion, the careful examination of a skin/muscle/fascia biopsy can distinguish EF from cGVHD. For EF, corticosteroids appear to be the treatment of choice.