Nuchal fibroma associated with scleredema, diabetes mellitus and organic solvent exposure.

A case of scleredema diabeticorum of Buschke associated with nuchal fibroma and organic solvent exposure is reported. The patient presented with a neck mass causing discomfort and restriction of movement. Histological examination showed this to be a nuchal fibroma. Additionally, there was widespread induration of the skin of his trunk which was asymptomatic. A biopsy showed features of scleredema. This is the first reported association of these two conditions, both of which show increased and thickened collagen bundles without significant fibroblast proliferation. They differ by the occurrence of mucin in scleredema, although this is not always demonstrable, particularly in late lesions. The possibility that nuchal fibroma is an end stage, localized form of scleredema is canvassed. The patient's medical history included insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus with complications of retinal vessel thrombosis and peripheral neuropathy. The patient also had significant past exposure to a wide variety of chemicals, including organic solvents.