Overview
Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue is a rare skin condition in which the elastic fibers in the dermis (the middle layer of the skin) become reduced or damaged over time. Unlike inherited conditions that affect elastic tissue from birth, this disorder develops later in life — meaning it is "acquired" rather than present from the start. Elastic fibers are what give skin its ability to stretch and snap back into place. When these fibers are lost or broken down, the skin may appear loose, wrinkled, or saggy, often in a way that looks like premature aging. The affected skin may also feel thin or doughy to the touch. The exact cause of this condition is not always clear. In some cases, it may follow inflammation, sun damage, drug reactions, or other skin injuries that trigger the breakdown of elastic tissue. The disorder can affect localized areas of the skin or be more widespread. Because it is so rare, there is limited research on its precise mechanisms. There is currently no cure for this condition. Treatment is mainly supportive and focuses on managing symptoms, protecting the skin from further damage, and addressing any underlying causes if they can be identified. Dermatologists are the primary specialists involved in care. Cosmetic procedures may sometimes be considered to improve the appearance of affected skin, though results can vary. Ongoing monitoring is important to track any progression of the condition.
Key symptoms:
Loose or saggy skinSkin that looks prematurely aged or wrinkledThin or fragile-feeling skinLoss of skin elasticity (skin does not snap back when stretched)Skin that appears doughy or softLocalized or widespread skin changesFine wrinkling of the skin surfaceSkin folds or redundant skin in affected areasPossible skin discoloration in affected areas
Sporadic
Usually appears on its own, not inherited from a parent
Adult
Begins in adulthood (age 18 or older)
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue.
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
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Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.What is the likely cause of my elastic tissue loss?,Are there any tests that can help determine why this is happening?,Is there anything I can do to prevent the condition from getting worse?,Are there any treatments or skin-care products that might help improve my skin's appearance?,Should I be screened for any related connective tissue or autoimmune conditions?,Would a referral to a plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist be appropriate for me?,Are there any clinical trials or new research I should know about?
Common questions about Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue
What is Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue?
Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue is a rare skin condition in which the elastic fibers in the dermis (the middle layer of the skin) become reduced or damaged over time. Unlike inherited conditions that affect elastic tissue from birth, this disorder develops later in life — meaning it is "acquired" rather than present from the start. Elastic fibers are what give skin its ability to stretch and snap back into place. When these fibers are lost or broken down, the skin may appear loose, wrinkled, or saggy, often in a way that looks like premature aging. The aff
How is Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue inherited?
Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue follows a sporadic inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue typically begin?
Typical onset of Acquired dermis elastic tissue disorder with decreased elastic tissue is adult. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.