In which of the following condition, ‘cutis anserina’ is seen?
**Question:** In which of the following conditions, 'cutis anserina' is seen?
A. Angina
B. Chronic bronchitis
C. Chronic kidney disease
D. Chronic liver disease
**Core Concept:** Cutis anserina is a term used to describe the velvety, duck-like appearance of the skin resulting from a decrease in the number of hair follicles and sweat glands. This condition is a manifestation of certain systemic diseases affecting the skin, liver, and/or kidneys.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Cutis anserina is commonly associated with chronic liver disease (option D). In chronic liver disease, there is a decrease in the number of hair follicles and sweat glands due to hormonal imbalances and liver function abnormalities. This leads to the characteristic velvety appearance of the skin.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Angina (option A) and chronic bronchitis (option B) mainly affect the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, respectively. Neither of them is directly related to cutis anserina.
C. Chronic kidney disease (option C) can cause skin changes like xerosis (dry skin) and hyperkeratosis (thickened skin), but not cutis anserina.
**Why Cutis Anserina is Unique in Liver Disease:** The liver plays a crucial role in regulating hormones, electrolyte balance, and body fluid homeostasis. In chronic liver disease, the liver's function is compromised, leading to hormonal imbalances and sweat gland dysfunction. This results in the characteristic velvety appearance of cutis anserina.
**Clinical Pearl:** Cutis anserina is a valuable clue to diagnose chronic liver disease in patients with abnormal skin changes. It is important for physicians to recognize this sign to initiate appropriate investigations and management for the patient.
**Answer:** Chronic liver disease (option D) is the correct answer because it is the condition that leads to cutis anserina due to its impact on skin, sweat gland function, and hormonal balance.