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Panniculitis
describes inflammation of the subcutaneous fat.
There are multiple causes, including infections (the most common), physical factors (eg, cold, trauma), proliferative disorders, and connective tissue disease (eg, SLE, scleroderma). Erythema nodosum is a specific form of panniculitis (see Hypersensitivity and Inflammatory Disorders: Erythema Nodosum). The mechanism of action is dependent on the cause. Diagnosis is by clinical evaluation and biopsy. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Last full review/revision November 2005
Content last modified November 2005
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