bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematized keratotic nevus with finger contracture.
Authors: Fukamizu H , Ichikawa H , Iwatsuki K , Takigawa M
Published: July 2023

A case of systematized keratotic nevus which is a peculiar form of epidermal nevus is reported. The present case is rare because of the dysfunction of incomplete flexion of fingers by systematized keratotic nevus. Furthermore, it involved mixed clinical and histological changes of epidermal nevus from fingers to elbow. An operation with full-thickness skin graft was undertaken.
Stucco keratoses. A clinico-pathological study.
Authors: Shall L , Marks R
Published: July 2023

Stucco keratoses are benign acquired papular warty lesions which usually occur on the distal parts of the lower limbs of elderly men. Their nature and pathogenesis are uncertain. Eight patients with multiple stucco keratoses who presented to the Cardiff Dermatology Department over an 18-month period were studied in an attempt to characterize these lesions. All subjects were male, with ages ranging from 50 to 72 years. Their lesions were most numerous over the fronts of the lower legs, but were also evident over other areas of the limbs. Most patients had a history of prolonged solar exposure, but the relationship of this to the development of the lesions was uncertain. Histologically there were no dysplastic changes and a characteristic regular 'church spire' type retention hyperkeratosis without marked acanthosis was evident. Lack of a marked increase in the epidermal cell population size is reflected in the normal in vitro tritiated thymidine autoradiographic labelling indices (7.81 +/- 1.67%, normal range 5 to 9%). Ultrastructurally no viral particles were evident and a normal pattern of epidermal differentiation with hypergranulosis was present. Two of the patients with myriads of lesions who were treated for 2 months with etretinate showed a dramatic clinical improvement which, however, lasted for 6 months only.
Increased numbers of mast cells in pemphigus vulgaris skin lesions. A histochemical study.
Authors: Levi-Schaffer F , Klapholz L , Kupietzky A , Weinrauch L , Shalit M , Okon E
Published: July 2023

We have used a histochemical technique to study mast cells (MC) in skin biopsies of 8 patients suffering from pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and from 4 control volunteers. The MC were stained for 30 min with 0.5% toluidine blue, pH 0.5, counted and then restained for 5 days under the same conditions. This staining method allows the identification of two groups of MC, one that stains promptly (30 min) and one that stains after longer incubation times (5 days). After 30 min of staining, a slight increase was found in the number of MC in PV sections, in comparison with normal controls. However, when the 30 min stained sections were reincubated under the same conditions for 5 days, a significant increase in the number of MC in PV was found in comparison with 5-day-stained normal skin sections (p less than 0.005) and in comparison with 30-min-stained PV sections (p less than 0.005). The MC were distributed throughout the dermis and were concentrated in the upper dermis near hair follicles and vessels. The possible importance of the increased numbers of MC in PV is discussed.
Melanosome complexes and melanin macroglobules in normal human skin.
Authors: Bartosik J
Published: July 2023

The presence of melanin macroglobules, and sometimes that of melanosome complexes also, in epidermal melanocytes has been considered a feature of various skin diseases. Opinions differ as to whether these structures can occur in normal skin. We have studied these melanin inclusions in normal Caucasian skin in the entire soma of 116 melanocytes and the occurrence of melanosomes in phagosomes of 77 Langerhans' cells obtained in different seasons. During winter the melanocytes contained few melanosomes but many melanosome complexes and melanin macroglobules. These melanosome inclusions were in 86%, localized in the most basal part of the melanocytes, particularly in the dermal protrusions. It is suggested that these structures can be transferred from epidermal melanocytes to dermal cells and that melanin macroglobules derive from melanosome complexes. Irrespective of the season, most of the Langerhans' cells contained melanosomes in their phagosomes, which suggests a phagocytic capacity of these cells and a role in the elimination of the melanin.
Evaluation of the fluorescent treponemal antibody-absorption (FTA-Abs) test specificity.
Authors: Carlsson B , Hanson H S , Wasserman J , Brauner A
Published: July 2023

Serum samples from 43 patients with positive test for syphilis only in the FTA-Abs test, were evaluated. Three had primary or treated syphilis. Twenty-one (49%) had clinical and/or serological signs of Lyme borreliosis as assessed by whole-cell sonicate Borrelia burgdorferi ELISA and Western blot techniques. Seven (16%) had genital Herpes simplex infection and the remaining 12 patients, miscellaneous disorders. In control sera from 30 patients with Lyme borreliosis an isolated positive FTA-Abs reaction was found in 13 patients (43%). Elevated Borrelia ELISA titres were found in nine of 30 (30%) syphilitic patient serum samples, whereas Western blots for Borrelia were negative. Six per cent of healthy blood donors were seropositive for Borrelia. Lyme borreliosis is an important cause of cross-reactions in the FTA-Abs test. Other serological tests for syphilis and Western blot for Borrelia are useful for discrimination.
Terbinafine levels in serum, stratum corneum, dermis-epidermis (without stratum corneum), hair, sebum and eccrine sweat.
Authors: Faergemann J , Zehender H , Jones T , Maibach I
Published: July 2023

We determined terbinafine levels in serum, stratum corneum, dermis-epidermis (without stratum corneum), hair, sebum and eccrine sweat before, during and after 250 mg doses orally to volunteers once daily. Terbinafine is concentrated rapidly in stratum corneum (up to 9.1 micrograms/g of tissue) primarily by diffusion from the vascular system through the dermisepidermis. It also reaches high concentration in sebum (up to 45.1 micrograms/ml) after several days and continue to concentrate in sebum for up to two days after discontinuation of drug. Hair concentration reach levels of 2.6 micrograms/g of tissue indicating high drug levels in and around the hair follicle. It is not found in sweat. Plasma levels range between 0.1 and 1.0 micrograms/ml. There is a tenfold accumulation of drug in stratum corneum by day 2. Elimination of drug from tissue occurs with a half-life of 4 to 5 days and with the potential for drug levels above fungicidal concentrations for dermatophytes for more than 3 weeks. The tissue pharmacokinetic profile of terbinafine is similar to that of another lipophilic drug, itraconazole, but is very different from ketoconazole and griseofulvin. Higher levels of terbinafine are achieved than of either of the imidazoles and remain longer than griseofulvin.
Disseminated, miliarial type lymphocytoma cutis. A report of two cases.
Authors: Moreno A , Curcó N , Serrano T , Garcia J , Llistosella E , Bordas X
Published: July 2023

The disseminated, miliarial type of lymphocytoma cutis (DMLC) is a clinicopathologic subtype of lymphocytoma, characterized by multiple, 1-2 mm translucent asymptomatic papules located in the exposed areas of the head and neck. DMLC represents a multifocal hyperplasia of B-lymphocytes with follicular differentiation and formation of follicular germinal centres. The evolution of the disease is characteristic, with some of the lesions resolving and other progressing to nodules or pseudolymphomas. The disease has a chronic course, with complete resolution in one to several years.
Intact cells on the laser handpiece--a non-contact contamination.
Authors: Wolf R , Brenner S , Messer G
Published: July 2023

Material adhering to the handpiece of the laser instrument was collected and analysed. Examination of semithin sections of the material by light microscopy revealed small clusters of clearly defined whole cells among the abundant debris. Electron microscopy of the cells revealed the presence of cell membranes, cytoplasm and organelles such as mitochondria. This could mean that infected cells or virus particles could adhere to the laser instrument or the hands of the operator as well. The medical implication of this finding requires serious consideration in regard to risks of infection from this procedure, to both patient and clinical personnel.
Differentiation of the basal cell epithelioma-like changes overlying dermatofibroma.
Authors: Fujisawa H , Matsushima Y , Hoshino M , Baba T , Uyeno K
Published: July 2023

Epidermis overlying dermatofibroma rarely displays basal cell epithelioma-like changes (BCE-like changes). Based on the histopathological findings, whether BCE-like changes are induced by dermal lesion or adnexal regression secondary to the solid fibrotic growth remains to be explored. From the standpoint of differentiation, we examined the BCE-like changes overlying dermatofibroma, normal epidermis, and hair follicles. PNA and two kinds of anti-keratin monoclonal antibodies were used to detect markers for epidermal differentiation. When PNA and anti-keratin monoclonal antibody (34betaB4) were used, no difference was observed in the staining patterns among BCE-like changes, hair follicles or normal basal cells. With the other anti-keratin antibody (34betaE12), BCE-like changes and normal basal cells were recognized, though the hair matrix was not. Thus the results obtained indicate that normal basal cells show the most similar differentiation to BCE-like changes.
Cyclosporin maintenance therapy for severe atopic dermatitis.
Authors: Korstanje M J , Van de Staak W J
Published: July 2023

Twelve patients with chronic severe atopic dermatitis were treated with cyclosporin A (CsA) in a dose of 5.0 mg/kg/day. All patients except one showed a good therapeutic response. After week six, the CsA dose was reduced until an increased activity of atopic dermatitis was noticed (minimal effective dose). The minimal effective dose fluctuated with the severity of the atopic dermatitis. The mean minimal effective dose was approximately 4.0 mg/kg/day. Maintenance therapy with CsA for atopic dermatitis seems to be effective but may be hampered by side effects in the same way as CsA therapy is hampered by side effects in the treatment of psoriasis.
Autosomal dominant ichthyosis and X-linked ichthyosis. Comparison of their clinical and histological phenotypes.
Authors: Mevorah B , Krayenbuhl A , Bovey E H , Van Melle G D
Published: July 2023

The clinical and histologic distinction between X-linked recessive and autosomal dominant ichthyosis was studied by evaluating 12 classical differential parameters in 85 patients. Thirty-three of them had X-linked and 52 autosomal dominant ichthyosis. Eight of these parameters were generally helpful in the differential diagnosis: age of onset, severity of involvement, scale size, chapping of hands and feet, atopic background, influence of warm weather, corneal opacities and state of the granular layer. Involvement of skin folds, keratosis pilaris, increased palmo-plantar markings and improvement with age were unreliable. In the literature, age of onset and corneal opacities were additionally found unreliable the histology was of limited value in two reports. Therefore, we concluded that the herein evaluated differential criteria seem to be valid mainly when considering groups of patients. For the individual case, an error in diagnosis, particularly in X-linked ichthyosis, is not rare when relying solely on these criteria. When in doubt, determination of steroid sulphatase activity is mandatory.
Exanthematic type of pustular psoriasis consisting of two types of pustular lesion.
Authors: Matsumura N , Takematsu H , Saijo S , Hashimoto K , Tagami H
Published: July 2023

A 35-year-old female developed generalized pustules within a short period of time. Clinically, two distinct types of pustules were observed, viz. erythematous patches studded with crops of small pustules, and isolated large pustules with a red halo. Histologically, the former were subcorneal spongiform pustules, whereas the latter were unilocular pustules involving the hair follicular infundibulum or a subcorneal unilocular pustule on the palmo-plantar skin. On the basis of the sudden appearance of the pustules without any pre-existing lesions of psoriasis and the histological findings of the spongiform pustules, we made a diagnosis of the exanthematic type of pustular psoriasis. The lesions responded in a dose-dependent fashion to oral cyclosporin.
Dose and timing studies for the optimization of contact sensitivity in the mouse.
Authors: Brown W R , Shivji G M
Published: July 2023

We investigated the effectiveness of very low doses of the contact sensitizer dinitrofluorobenzene in sensitizing BALB/cJ mice. Surprisingly, the ear swelling reactions were greater with lower dinitrofluorobenzene doses, down to one-twentieth of doses commonly used. Although it is common practice to use much lower doses at challenge than at sensitization, we found greater reactions with lower doses at sensitization than at challenge. We also studied the timing of the development and waning of reactivity to dinitrofluorobenzene, dinitrochlorobenzene and oxazolone. Reactivity peaked at day 5 for dinitrofluorobenzene and dinitrochlorobenzene, and at day 3 for oxazolone. Reactivity waned by 3 weeks with dinitrofluorobenzene and oxazolone, and by day 7 with dinitrochlorobenzene. Pretreatment with cyclophosphamide caused a delay in the development and waning of reactivity.
Colophony in mascara as a cause of eyelid dermatitis. Chemical analyses and patch testing.
Authors: Karlberg A T , Lidén C , Ehrin E
Published: July 2023

Contact allergy to various components in cosmetics may cause eyelid dermatitis. Of 8 mascaras analysed with High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), 3 contained colophony. Patients with contact allergy to colophony showed positive patch test reactions when tested with the two mascaras with the highest content of colophony. One mascara without colophony but containing nickel, gave positive reactions in persons with contact allergy to nickel.
Stratum corneum chymotryptic enzyme: a proteinase which may be generally present in the stratum corneum and with a possible involvement in desquamation.
Authors: Lundström A , Egelrud T
Published: July 2023

A chymotrypsin-like proteinase that may be involved in the desquamation process in plantar stratum corneum has recently been partially characterized. The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether a similar proteinase is also present in non-palmo-plantar stratum corneum. Stratum corneum was obtained by tape stripping of volar forearm skin after the skin surface had been painted with colourless nail varnish. The adherent tissue was released from the tape strips by acetone treatment, then extracted with diethyl ether and dried. Extracts of this acetone-ether powder were analyzed with respect to proteolytic activity by means of electrophoresis under non-reducing conditions in polyacrylamide gels containing sodium dodecyl sulphate and casein. The extracts were found to contain one major chymotrypsin-like proteinase with an apparent molecular weight of around 25 kDa, and several minor proteinases with trypsin-like activity. The 25 kDa proteinase was active at pH 5.5-8, and could be inhibited by aprotinin, chymostatin and zinc ion, but not by leupeptin. No difference could be found between the 25 kDa enzyme in forearm stratum corneum and the recently described chymotrypsin-like enzyme in dissociated plantar stratum corneum cells as regards electrophoretic mobility, pH dependency, and inhibitor profile. The fact that the enzyme could degrade casein at pH 5.5 and that it appears to be present in stratum corneum in general suggests that it may play a role in the desquamation process under in vivo conditions. The tentative name "stratum corneum chymotryptic enzyme" is proposed for this newly discovered proteinase.
Patients' perception of itch induced by histamine, compound 48/80 and wool fibres in atopic dermatitis.
Authors: Wahlgren C F , Hägermark O , Bergström R
Published: July 2023

Itch and flare responses were investigated in 32 patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and in 32 healthy controls. Itch was induced chemically by intradermal injections of histamine (1, 3.3, 10 and 100 micrograms/ml) and compound 48/80 (10 micrograms/ml) into non-lesional skin and mechanically by wearing a woollen sweater. Continuous recording of itch intensity allowed the calculation of itch duration (ID), maximal itch intensity (Imax) and a "total itch index" (Tii). The itch responses were significantly increased in AD patients compared with controls for wool fibres and one of the histamine concentrations (10 micrograms/ml), but not for the remaining three histamine concentrations or compound 48/80. Conversely, the flare response was significantly smaller in AD patients than in controls for the two strongest histamine solutions and compound 48/80. Significant dose-response relationships were found between histamine concentration and each of ID, Imax, Tii and flare in both patients and controls. The slope of the flare-regression line was significantly steeper in controls than in AD patients, whereas the slopes of the itch-regression lines did not differ significantly between the two groups, i.e. their ability to discriminate between weak and strong histamine concentrations did not differ significantly. No increased skin mast cell releasability in vivo to compound 48/80 was shown in AD patients compared with controls. The itch and flare responses of AD patients did not correlate significantly with clinical itch intensity, eczema score or serum IgE level.
Cholinergic and adrenergic sweating in atopic dermatitis.
Authors: Kiistala R
Published: July 2023

Sweating responses to methacholine and adrenaline were compared with an evaporimeter in normal-looking back and forearm skin from patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and from non-atopic controls (NA). With both stimulants, the sweat rates were higher in forearm than in back skin in both groups, and between the two sites the rates showed positive correlations which were statistically significant in both groups. With methacholine the responses were slightly depressed in both areas in AD. With a low suprathreshold adrenaline concentration (5 x 10(-6) mol/l) the responses were equal in both groups but a tenfold higher adrenaline concentration elicited an increase of 55% in sweating rates in the back skin of NA and a 15% depression in the back skin of AD subjects (p less than 0.05). On arm skin there was a similar trend, but less marked. Between the cholinergic and adrenergic sweating responses a positive correlation was found on arm skin in AD, suggesting that the unknown mechanism of sweat depression in AD might be the same for both drugs.
Impairment of some granulocyte functions in Sweet's syndrome.
Authors: Von den Driesch P , Simon M Jr , Schlegel Gomez R , Hornstein O P
Published: July 2023

Chemotaxis, phagocytic and intracellular killing activities of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) were investigated in vitro in 7 patients suffering from the acute phase of Sweet's syndrome. A moderate but consistent impairment of neutrophilic chemotactic activity (NCA) was revealed in all patients. Intracellular killing of blastospores of Candida albicans was diminished in 5/7 patients. Phagocytosis and oxidase activities were within normal levels. These results point to an alteration of some PMNL functions in the acute phase of Sweet's syndrome.
Mucosal desquamation in psoriasis.
Authors: Kumar B , Kaur I , Thami G P
Published: July 2023

Urinary epithelial cell counts were determined in 102 patients with active plaque psoriasis. Cell counts were significantly higher in psoriatic patients than in the controls. A significant fall in the cell counts was observed after regression of psoriasis.
The hair root pattern in psoriasis of the scalp.
Authors: Schoorl W J , Van Baar H J , Van de Kerkhof P C
Published: July 2023

Several reports suggest that a localized effluvium of scalp hair may occur in patients with psoriasis. The percentages of telogen and catagen hair have been claimed to be normal or increased in isolated cases. In the present study the anagen/telogen ratio was quantified under standardized conditions in psoriatic plaques and uninvolved areas of the scalp in 22 patients and the scalp of 22 normal controls. This assessment was carried out by light microscopic analysis of hair roots, obtained by the hair pluck-method. A consistent increase in the percentages of telogen and catagen hair was shown in psoriatic plaques, compared with the uninvolved areas. Compared with the scalp of normal controls, this percentage was significantly increased in psoriatic plaques, but not in the uninvolved areas.
Effect of doxycycline on the generation of reactive oxygen species: a possible mechanism of action of acne therapy with doxycycline.
Authors: Akamatsu H , Asada M , Komura J , Asada Y , Niwa Y
Published: July 2023

On the basis of a recent report that minocycline is effective in the treatment of acne inflammation by acting directly as an antioxidant on infiltrating neutrophils, we investigated whether doxycycline might also be capable of reducing the generation of reactive oxygen species, using human neutrophils and a cell-free, xanthine-xanthine oxidase system. The species investigated are superoxide radical anion (O2-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and hydroxyl radical (OH.). Doxycycline significantly reduced the levels of O2-, H2O2 and OH. generated by both systems. Our results seem to suggest that the clinical effectiveness of doxycycline in the treatment of acne inflammation is due partly to its antioxidant effect on neutrophils.
The fate of individual organisms during clearance of experimental cutaneous Candida albicans infections in mice.
Authors: Sohnle P G , Hahn B L
Published: July 2023

A mouse model of acute cutaneous Candida albicans infections was used to study the manner in which these infections are cleared. Results of histological examination were correlated with determinations of the viability by acridine orange staining of superficial C. albicans pseudohyphae retrieved from the surface of the infected skin. The number of organisms retrieved from the skin surface was highest on the third and fourth day after inoculation, a finding which appeared to relate to a loss of Candida foci observed histologically to occur after the second day. Viability was high (approximately 80%) for at least 1-2 days after the organisms were seen histologically to have become associated with neutrophils and extruded from the stratum Malpighi into the stratum corneum however, at later time points (fourth and fifth day after inoculation), the viability of the retrieved organisms did decline. Pseudohyphae germinated in vitro and applied to the skin of mice were found to be non-viable when retrieved 24 h later. These data suggest that the microbicidal processes of neutrophils may not be required for resolution of these infections. They are most consistent with clearance through an epidermal proliferative response which relocates the infecting organisms to a very superficial site, from which they can be either lost in a viable state, or subjected to killing by other factors at the skin surface.
In vitro assessment of 'T' lymphocyte functioning in vitiligo. Support for autoimmune hypothesis concerning the disease.
Authors: Taher-Uz-Zaman  , Begum S , Waheed M A
Published: July 2023

Ten patients with vitiligo in the active state of the disease and an equal number of age- and sex-matched controls were selected for certain immunological markers. A significantly high production of leukocyte migration inhibition factor was observed in these patients when compared with controls. Levels of immunoglobulin G were found to be significantly elevated. Eighty percent of the cases showed elevated levels of circulating immune complexes. Our investigation supports the autoimmune hypothesis for the disease, showing an increased release of LMIF with a subsequent activation of B-cells which might have led to the observed hypergammaglobulinaemia and elevated levels of circulating immune complexes in these patients.
Non-specific immunity in patients with primary anogenital warts treated with interferon alpha plus cryotherapy or cryotherapy alone.
Authors: Handley J M , Maw R D , Horner T , Lawther H , McNeill T , Dinsmore W W
Published: July 2023

Combination treatment of primary anogenital warts with subcutaneous interferon alpha 2a plus cryotherapy was no more efficacious than cryotherapy alone. Patients with primary AG warts showed no in vitro or in vivo suppression of non-specific immunity. In patients treated with interferon plus cryotherapy non-specific cellular immunity was stimulated, both in vitro and in vivo compared with patients treated with cryotherapy alone.
Lichen planus: an unusual cause of phimosis.
Authors: Itin P H , Hirsbrunner P , Büchner S
Published: July 2023

We report on a 47-year-old man with oral and genital lichen planus. After some months of the disease, increasing phimosis developed which had not been present before. Retraction of the foreskin was now impossible and sexual intercourse was painful. Treatment with triamcinoloneacetonide and etretinate ameliorated the phimosis but the patient was still not comfortable and circumcision was performed. Histology from the foreskin revealed the typical picture of lichen planus. No features of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus were present. This is the first published observation of phimosis as a result of lichen planus.
Intertriginous drug eruption.
Authors: Wolf R , Brenner S , Krakowski A
Published: July 2023

Presented are two patients who developed an unusual, and as yet unreported eruption due to amoxycillin. They exhibited an eruption confined to the intertriginous areas, which mimicked intertrigo. Although drug eruption can mimic a variety of idiopathic skin diseases, intertrigo is easily distinguished from drug eruption and has not been mentioned in the differential diagnosis of this reaction. It is suggested that drug reactions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intertrigo, in particular of atypical and therapy-resistant cases. Early detection of these cases has practical importance since the elimination of the causative drug is essential for therapy success. Case 2 showed a response of the toxic epidermal neurolysis (TEN) type, which could have been very severe and dangerous had the diagnosis not been made in an early stage before the development of generalized TEN.
A new micronized 5-methoxypsoralen preparation. Higher bioavailability and lower UVA dose requirement.
Authors: Treffel P , Makki S , Humbert P , Khaldoun H , Agache P
Published: July 2023

A new tablet of micronized 5-methoxypsoralen (5-MOP) and a commonly used tablet in therapy (Psoraderm 5) were compared in 12 healthy subjects. Each subject ingested 1.2 mg/kg body weight of each formulation on different days. Bioavailability and phototoxicity of 5-MOP were compared. The results showed that serum and suction blister concentrations were significantly higher and occurred earlier after the oral intake of the micronized preparation. A series of graduated UVA doses were administered, one dose each time the concentration serum peaked, in order to determine the minimum phototoxic dose for each formulation. The micronized preparation induced greater photosensitivity than the unmicronized one. The micronized 5-MOP tablet may thus allow lower doses of UVA to achieve therapeutic results in photochemotherapy and a shortened waiting period following ingestion of drug.
Sporothricoid mycobacterial infection. A case report.
Authors: Alinovi A , Vecchini F , Bassissi P
Published: July 2023

A case of bilateral, symmetric, sporothricoid granulomas involving the dorsa of fingers and wrists is reported. The culture/proved Mycobacterium marinum skin infection was acquired by a fish/fancier while clearing his aquarium with bare hands. The patient suffered from chronic hand eczema. Treatment with co/trimoxazole was successful.
Cutis verticis gyrata secondary to acute monoblastic leukemia.
Authors: Passarini B , Neri I , Patrizi A , Masina M
Published: July 2023

A 64/year/old man affected by acute monoblastic leukemia developed a cutis verticis gyrata during the terminal phase of hemopathy. The association between these two diseases is rare. The classification of cutis verticis gyrata in primary essential, primary non/essential and secondary forms is reviewed. Performing a skin biopsy is necessary in the diagnostic approach to patients with cutis verticis gyrata.
The polymerase chain reaction and dermatology. A new technique with important implications for the study of skin inflammation and for diagnostic tests of dermatological disorders.
Authors: Paludan K , Thestrup-Pedersen K
Published: July 2023

The polymerase chain reaction is a powerful and versatile tool for the analysis of nucleic acids. Through a reaction imitating in vivo DNA replication, a defined fragment of DNA is repeatedly replicated by a DNA polymerase in an exponential manner. Such selective amplification of a sequence of interest has created new possibilities in molecular biology and related sciences. The basic principle and some of its variations and applications for both qualitative and quantitative analyses of potential interest to dermatologists are described.
High/frequency ultrasound scan for non/invasive cross/sectional imaging of psoriasis.
Authors: Olsen L O , Serup J
Published: July 2023

Seventeen patients with psoriasis vulgaris were studied by high/frequency (20 MHz) ultrasound imaging. An echo/lucent band located at the dermo/epidermal junction was characteristic. The band represents the combination of acanthotic epidermal thickening and inflammation. Thus, with ultrasound the site within the skin where primary events take place can be studied and followed non/invasively, i.e. with no known disturbance and influence on the course of the disease.
UV/related skin conditions and Langerhans' cell populations in human skin.
Authors: Bergfelt L
Published: July 2023

Chronic sun exposure and cumulative exposures to PUVA are associated with a risk of development of non/melanoma skin cancer. Acute UV irradiation reduces the number of epidermal antigen/presenting Langerhans' cells in the skin. Alterations in the Langerhans' cell population could be relevant to a disturbance in the cutaneous immune response in UV/exposed skin. Therefore the density of CDla+ and ATPase+ Langerhans' cells in epidermal sheets from the hand, buttock and in some cases face was examined in PUVA/treated patients (n = 8) and in patients with actinic keratosis (n = 13) or basal cell carcinoma (n = 16). The number of Langerhans' cells was significantly lower on the hand compared with that on the face and buttock (p < 0.05). There was no difference in Langerhans' cell distribution between the different diagnostic groups and controls, and there was no age/related change in Langerhans' cell density. These results indicate that patients who develop actinic keratosis or multiple basal cell carcinomas do not differ in Langerhans' cell density from healthy controls and that cumulative sunlight or PUVA exposure does not lead to a persistent reduction in Langerhans' cell numbers.
The temperature effect on in vitro penetration of sodium lauryl sulfate and nickel chloride through human skin.
Authors: Emilson A , Lindberg M , Forslind B
Published: July 2023

Irritant contact dermatitis is a major problem in dermatology. One important group of substances causing irritant dermatitis is detergents. Exposure of the skin to detergents is frequent in both work and domestic environments. In the present paper we have studied how the penetration through the skin, and thus the effect, of the detergent sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is altered when the temperature is raised from 22 degrees C to 40 degrees C or 60 degrees C. We found that the penetration of sodium lauryl sulfate increased with increasing temperature. When comparing the increased penetration of sodium lauryl sulfate with the change in NiCl penetration at the same temperatures, we found that the increase in penetration was more pronounced for the detergent. This implies that the detergent also had a different effect on the structure and function of the epidermal barrier itself. The results underline the importance of choosing the right (low) temperature when working with detergent solutions to reduce the risk of developing irritant contact reactions.
Scintigraphic diagnosis of syphilitic lesions in rabbits by radiolabelled monoclonal antibodies specific for Treponema pallidum.
Authors: Lee M G , Chung K Y , Lee J D , Shin J S , Whang K K , Awh O D , Kim S J , Lee J B
Published: July 2023

Immunoscintigraphy with radiolabelled monoclonal antibodies has been widely used to detect solid tumours. The purpose of this study was to investigate its potential for the specific localization of syphilitic lesions. F(ab')2 fragments were prepared from murine monoclonal antibodies against Treponema pallidum produced in our laboratory and labelled with 131I. Bilateral testicular infections were created in rabbits by inoculation with T. pallidum or Staphylococcus aureus. Seven to 10 days after inoculation, radiolabelled antibodies were injected intravenously. Serial gamma images were then taken 2 h after the injection and at 24 h intervals thereafter. Beginning as early as 2 h post/injection, the testicles could be visualized with either specific or non/specific antibodies. Gamma images in the monoclonal antibody/treated, T. pallidum/infected group persisted up to 48 h post/injection. Lesions were not discernible from background in the S. aureus/infected group injected with the monoclonal antibody and the S. aureus/infected and T. pallidum/infected groups injected with the polyclonal antibody at 24 h post/injection or later. Therefore, due to its ability to differentiate between specific and non/specific antibody/generated images from 24 h post/injection, immunoscintigraphy using monoclonal antibodies specific for T. pallidum may be employed as one of the methods to diagnose difficult cases of syphilitic internal organ involvement as well as syphilis infection in seronegative HIV/infected patients.
Effects of short/time hydration on skin extensibility.
Authors: Auriol F , Vaillant L , Machet L , Diridollou S , Lorette G
Published: July 2023

Vertical cutaneous extensibility was studied before and after 1, 2, 5 and 10 min hydration by application of tap water. After hydration, we noted an increase in all rheological parameters linked to elasticity whereas viscosity and hysteresis parameters were unmodified. These modifications took place from the first minute and increased thereafter. Men and women showed identical values prior to hydration. After hydration, an extensibility gain was noted only in the women, men's extensibility being unmodified. Studying rheological behaviour as a function of age, we showed similar modifications in younger and older groups, the extensibility gain being greater in the older group. Prior to hydration, the stratum corneum was extremely rigid and extensibility was comparable between men and women. Hydration, softening the horny layer, allows a rapid extensibility gain proportional to the reduced thickness of the dermis, especially in women and older subjects.
Photopheresis in systemic sclerosis: clinical and serological studies using markers of collagen metabolism.
Authors: Zachariae H , Bjerring P , Heickendorff L , Møller B , Wallevik K , Angelo H
Published: July 2023

Eight patients with progressive systemic sclerosis were treated with photopheresis or extracorporeal photochemotherapy given on 2 consecutive days every 4 weeks for 5 to 8 months. Previous treatment with immunosuppressive agents or D/penicillamine was discontinued for at least 4 weeks prior to photopheresis. Although IL/2 receptor density in peripheral blood T/lymphocytes decreased significantly in the initial phase of the photopheresis therapy, no substantial clinical improvement occurred. Although the intention had been to treat all patients for at least 8 months with photopheresis alone, it was mandatory due to severe exacerbations to give additional immunotherapy to 4 patients, and 2 of these together with another patient wanted to discontinue photopheresis after 5 and 6 months, as they did not expect an effect. Three of the 4 patients with progression had RNP/antibodies, suggesting that they had their scleroderma as part of a mixed connective tissue disease. The clinical exacerbations were accompanied in all patients by a highly significant increase in serum aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIINP), which has been reported to correlate with involvement of skin and internal organs in systemic sclerosis. Similar but less significant increases were found in serum carboxyterminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PICP) there were no significant changes in serum cross/linked fragment of type I collagen. Plasma levels of 8/methoxypsoralen were all above 80 ng/l, showing that the lack of responses to photopheresis could not be due to poor absorption of the drug.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Dermatophytes and keratin in patients with hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma. A mycological study.
Authors: Gamborg Nielsen P , Faergemann J
Published: July 2023

Fourteen patients with hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma of the Unna Thost variety were included in the study. Dermatophytosis was found in 7 of the 14 patients. Six were affected with T. rubrum and one with T. mentagrophytes. The growth pattern of dermatophytes in keratin from the patients did not differ from that of normal control individuals. Keratin from patients with hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma was sterilized with ethylene gas and placed in the center of culture plates, previously broad inoculated with control dermatophytes or dermatophytes isolated from patients. An inhibition zone around the keratin was found in 42.9% of the control dermatophytes and in 83.4% of the patient cultures. The inhibition zone was only seen in cultures with T. rubrum and not in those with T. mentagrophytes. No significant difference in minimal inhibitory concentration values against ketoconazole between control dermatophytes and dermatophytes from patients was demonstrated.
Adenovirus 12 and dermatitis herpetiformis.
Authors: Handley J , O'Neill H , Connolly J , Burrows D
Published: July 2023

Previous studies have shown that A/gliadin, a major gluten/derived peptide known to activate the gluten/sensitive enteropathy (GSE) of coeliac disease (CD), and the non/structural E1B peptide produced during early lytic gastrointestinal infection with human adenovirus type 12 (AD12) share an identical twelve amino acid sequence. It is suggested that immunological cross reactivity between these two peptides may play an important role in the pathogenesis of CD. As a milder but histologically identical GSE is found in the majority of patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), a condition also thought to be caused by dietary gluten, we postulated that AD12 may also be involved in the pathogenesis of DH. To test this we assayed sera from 40 patients with DH and 18 healthy controls for AD12/neutralizing antibodies as evidence of past viral exposure. Detectable AD12 antibodies (titre of 13 or higher) were found in only 15% (6/40) of DH patients, compared with 27.8% (5/18) controls (not significant). These findings do not support a causative role for AD12 in the pathogenesis of DH.
Systemic corticosteroid and isotretinoin treatment in cystic acne.
Authors: Karvonen S L , Vaalasti A , Kautiainen H , Reunala T
Published: July 2023

Prednisolone combined with erythromycin was given to 6 patients with cystic acne. The treatment responses were compared to those in 6 patients with cystic acne receiving isotretinoin and erythromycin and also to those in 3 patients with acne fulminans treated with prednisolone and erythromycin. During the first 4 weeks cystic acne showed a clear improvement in 5 out of 6 patients in both treatment groups. A similar improvement occurred in all 3 patients with acne fulminans. When corticosteroid was stopped, 2 out of 5 patients with cystic acne had a relapse and needed isotretinoin for complete control. In the isotretinoin/treated group, one patient with cystic acne needed prednisolone because the acne worsened to an ulcerative form. Slightly elevated liver enzymes, possibly due to erythromycin treatment, were observed in 2 patients with cystic acne and in one patient with acne fulminans. The present results show that prednisolone combined with erythromycin is an effective treatment during the early stages of cystic and febrile acne, but isotretinoin is needed for long/term control.
Epidermodysplasia verruciformis accompanied by familial large granular lymphocytosis and a decrease in T lymphocytes.
Authors: Aoyama H , Seki S , Abo T , Usuba Y , Tomita Y , Tagami H
Published: July 2023

A 40/year/old man with epidermodysplasia verruciformis showed a decrease in peripheral blood T cells and abnormal expansion of large granular lymphocytes, accompanied by increased natural killer cell activity. Surface marker analysis of his large granular lymphocytes demonstrated that the subset, CD 57+ and CD 16+, had increased. His father, who had no skin lesions of epidermodysplasia verruciformis, displayed similar blood changes and his brother showed a decrease in T cells and a slight increase in CD 16+ natural killer cells, whereas his mother revealed only a slight decrease in T cells. Our present study indicates that epidermodysplasia verruciformis might be associated with hereditary abnormal expansion of large granular lymphocytes and a decrease in T cells.
Persistent acantholytic dermatosis: sex/related differences in clinical presentation?
Authors: Mokni M , Aractingi S , Grossman R , Verola O , Letessier S , Civatte J , Dubertret L
Published: July 2023

We report the case of a 58/year/old man with a chronic papular eruption of 10 years' duration. Histopathology revealed focal acantholytic dyskeratosis. This condition is thought to represent a distinct entity which has been reported under several names and frequently referred to as persistent acantholytic dermatosis. The relationship between this condition and transient acantholytic dermatosis (Grover's disease), emphasizing sex/related presentations, is discussed.
Steroid injection therapy for pseudocyst of the auricle.
Authors: Miyamoto H , Oida M , Onuma S , Uchiyama M
Published: July 2023

In our clinic, we encountered 8 patients with pseudocyst of the auricle during a 6-year period from 1987 to 1992 and injected steroid solution locally into the pseudocysts. Three of these patients had no recurrences and 4 were treated successfully after 1-3 recurrences. In only one case was this therapy ineffective. After 11 injections, which resulted in permanent deformity of the auricle, the patient underwent surgery. We believe that local steroid injection therapy should be the first choice method for treating auricular pseudocysts. However, frequent injections can cause auricular deformity and if there are more than 3 recurrences, the pseudocyst should be managed surgically. The lactate dehydrogenase levels of the cystic fluid were determined in 3 of the 8 patients and proved high in only one patient was the etiology of the pseudocyst thought to be associated with minor trauma.
Evaluation of barrier creams: an in vitro technique on human skin.
Authors: Treffel P , Gabard B , Juch R
Published: July 2023

A method was developed to measure in vitro on human skin the effectiveness of barrier creams against three dyes (eosin, methyl-violet and oil red O) with different n-octanol/water partition coefficients (0.19, 29.8 and 165, respectively). Some galenic properties (water washability, water content and viscosity) of the products were also evaluated to try to understand the mechanisms of such a protection. The barrier creams were assayed by measurements of the dyes in the epidermis of protected skin samples after an application time of 30 min. Whereas some products showed some degree of protection, as claimed on the packaging, we demonstrated in several cases disagreement with the manufacturer's information. Surprisingly, petrolatum was found to provide the best protection of all tested products in our in vitro model. There was no correlation between the galenic parameters of the assayed products and the level of protections, indicating that neither the water content nor the consistence of the formulations influenced the protection effectiveness. In conclusion, regarding the possible skin effects of some irritants, our results stress that barrier creams should be used with caution, knowing the protection limits of some of the formulations marketed.
Skin mechanical properties present adaptation to man's upright position. In vivo studies of young and aged individuals.
Authors: Gniadecka M , Gniadecki R , Serup J , Søndergaard J
Published: July 2023

In tall animals dependent tissues are stiffer to prevent oedema formation in the upright posture, but whether the same adaptation is operating in man is not known. Skin elasticity and distensibility were measured in vivo in 18 young and 15 aged individuals in the morning before getting up (baseline) and 12 h later. In young individuals skin was stiffer (less distensible) and less elastic in the acral parts of the extremities (ankle, forearm). In the evening distensibility and elasticity of the skin increased. In aged individuals skin was less elastic and no diurnal variability in elasticity and distensibility was detected. We propose that these unique mechanical properties of the acral skin reflect a major role of the integument in the protection against the gravitational stress and the development of the postural oedema. Altered skin mechanical properties may contribute to the poor compensation for gravitational stress in elderly.
Microvascular reactions to postural changes in patients with sickle cell anaemia.
Authors: Gniadecka M , Gniadecki R , Serup J , Søndergaard J
Published: July 2023

Normal microcirculation of the lower extremity is characterized by the venoarteriolar vasoconstriction reflex and the disappearance of vasomotion in the dependent position. Patients with sickle cell disease are prone to develop ischemic leg ulcers at an early age. Dysfunction of the microcirculation might promote the development of leg ulcers in patients with sickle cell disease. Using laser Doppler equipment we have studied the changes of blood flux in the skin overlying the medial malleolus after leg lowering. Contrary to the normal physiological situation seen in our control persons, the venoarteriolar reflex was abolished and vasomotion preserved in the dependent position of the leg in both patients. We conclude that this may represent an adaptation to the dependent position in sickle cell disease.
Rapid assay of the anti-inflammatory activity of topical corticosteroids by inhibition of a UVA-induced neutrophil infiltration in hairless mouse skin. II. Assessment of name brand versus generic potency.
Authors: Woodbury R A , Kligman L H
Published: July 2023

The hairless mouse model of a UVA-induced dermal neutrophilic infiltrate was used to compare the efficacy of equal concentrations of name brand versus generic corticosteroids. The generic brand was significantly less effective in suppressing the inflammatory response.
Pruritic papular eruption of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
Authors: Ishii N , Nishiyama T , Sugita Y , Nakajima H , Aoki I
Published: July 2023

We report a case of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome with pruritic papular eruption. The patient, a hemophiliac, presented with generalized pruritic, skin-colored papules and nodules. The chronic lesions were excoriated and hyper-pigmented. The eosinophil count was elevated, but IgE was normal. The lesions and pruritus responded only to ultraviolet B phototherapy. While the mechanism is not known, ultraviolet B phototherapy may provide relief of AIDS-related pruritus.