Elastic fibers in striae distensae.

Eight cases with striae distensae associated with obesity or prolonged corticosteroid intake were examined by light and scanning electron microscopy. Fine elastic fibers predominated in early lesions, while thick elastic fibers predominated in older lesions. In early lesions the periphery showed thick and tortuous elastic fibers, but in older lesions it was of normal appearance. It is suggested the elastic fibers in striae were newly synthesized and gradually increased and thickened with age.