bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pemphigus foliaceus in a haemophilic child: cytomegalovirus induction?
Authors: Ruocco V. , Rossi A. , Satriano RA. , Sacerdoti G. , Astarita C. , Pisani M.
Published: August 2023

A 3 1/2-year-old haemophilic child, repeatedly transfused with blood products, developed pemphigus foliaceus with presence in serum of both intercellular and anti-cytomegalovirus antibodies at high titre. The locus A26, which seems to be a genetic marker of pemphigus, was detected in his haplotype. Cytomegalovirus infection of transfusional origin is suspected to have triggered the outbreak of pemphigus.
The changing clinical picture of Microsporum canis infections in Sweden
Authors: Emtestam L. , Kaaman T.
Published: August 2023

All 22 cases of infections with Microsporum canis verified by culture during a five-year period were surveyed. Only tinea corporis was found. The clinical picture was varied and in more than half of the cases the preliminary diagnosis was other than tinea. The classical tinea capitis was not found in any case. Direct KOH-mounts showed poor correlation to the cultural findings (positive in 33%). It is concluded that mycological screening of certain dermatological disorders should be performed by culturing.
Inhibition of arachidonic acid oxidation in vitro by vehicle components
Authors: Penneys NS.
Published: August 2023

In this work, we observed that several vehicle components which are complex lipids inhibited the oxidation of arachidonic acid in the oxygen monitor assay. Inhibition of oxygen consumption in this assay, a relatively non-specific finding, may reflect inhibition of lipoxygenase and/or prostaglandin synthetase activity or possible sequestration of arachidonic acid. Theoretically, similar effects could occur in vivo. Consideration should be given to the formulation of vehicles which maximize the anti-inflammatory effects of vehicle components.
Histocompatibility antigens in viral warts
Authors: Friedman-Birnbaum R. , Haim S. , Sheinkman A. , Gideone O. , Barzilai A.
Published: August 2023

One hundred patients with viral warts and 108 apparently healthy matched controls were typed for HLA-A and B antigens. No significant difference in the frequencies of antigens was revealed, which suggested that a possible genetic trend in warts is at least not related to A and B loci of the histocompatibility system.
Lymphocytoma cutis: a pseudomalignancy treated with penicillin
Authors: Andersen BL. , Brandrup F. , Petri J.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
T cell subsets and soluble immune response suppressor (SIRS) factor in skin squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Angelini G. , Vena GA. , D´Ovidio R. , Lospalluti M. , Meneghini CL.
Published: August 2023

T cell subsets (theophylline-sensitive T lymphocytes and T gamma lymphocytes), and the activity of soluble immune response suppressor (SIRS) factor have been investigated in a total of 53 patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin. Eight of these had metastatic regional lymph nodes. The results showed decreased values for theophylline-sensitive T lymphocytes and elevated values for T gamma cells. Suppressor function evaluated by means of SIRS factor was normal in 36 patients with non-metastatic skin SCC and decreased in 8 with metastatic skin cancer.
Bullous acrodermatitis due to zinc deficiency during total parenteral nutrition: an ultrastructural study of the epidermal changes
Authors: Welsmann K. , Kvist N. , Kobayasi T.
Published: August 2023

A 5 1/2-year-old girl with idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction became severely depleted of zinc during total parenteral nutrition and developed a vesico-bullous rash on face, hands and feet such as is seen in acrodermatitis enteropathica. Light and electron microscopy of a bullous lesion on one foot revealed a pronounced extracellular edema with cyst and cleft formation in the deep part of the epidermis. A few acantholytic cells were seen. In the electron microscope degenerate keratinocytes showed multiple vacuoles in the dark cytoplasm and slender, finger-like protrusions. Desmosomes were few. The basal lamina was well-preserved forming deep invaginations, which may serve to distinguish the condition from other bullous diseases of the skin.
Nevus oligemicus with sensory changes
Authors: Dupre A. , Viraben R.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Demodex folliculorum in human skin
Authors: Westermark P.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Tyrosinase activity in the medium of human melanoma cell cultures
Authors: Jergil B. , Lindbladh C. , Rorsman H. , Rosengren E.
Published: August 2023

The medium of cultured melanoma cells was studied for tyrosine hydroxylation and dopa-oxidizing activity. The supernatant obtained after centrifugation at 100 000 g for 2 hours was treated with ammonium sulphate, and the precipitate obtained between 35 and 50% saturation was used. Dopa was determined as the product of tyrosine hydroxylation and 5-S-cysteinyldopa as the product of dopa oxidase activity. Determinations were performed with HPLC and electrochemical detection. Our preparation of culture medium of cells showed the following. 1) No hydroxylation of tyrosine in the absence of co-factor. 2) Hydroxylation of L-tyrosine in the presence of dopamine. No hydroxylation with boiled medium. Minimal effect of catalase on hydroxylation. 3) Hydroxylation of tyrosine in the presence of ascorbic acid. Hydroxylation was catalyzed also with boiled medium. Catalase strikingly diminished hydroxylation. 4) Oxidation of L-dopa to dopaquinone determined as its main reaction product with cysteine, 5-S-cysteinyl-dopa. There was negligible oxidation with boiled medium. 5) With dopamine as co-factor the catalysis of tyrosine hydroxylation was stereospecific for L-tyrosine. Dopa oxidase activity was also stereospecific for L-dopa.
Bone mineral content in systemic sclerosis measured by photonabsorptiometry
Authors: Serup J. , Hagdrup H. , Tvedegaard E.
Published: August 2023

The bone mineral content of the radius in 37 patients with systemic sclerosis was measured with Americium241 photon absorptiometry. The content was found reduced (p less than 0.05) in patients with systemic sclerosis compared with a group of healthy controls matched for age and sex. Analyses of calcium ´total´, calcium ion, phosphate and the parathyroid hormone level in the serum, and the excretion of calcium and phosphate in the urine all proved normal. It is discussed whether the reduced bone mineral content in systemic sclerosis may be an effect of the immobilization of the hands affected by the disease.
Leukocyte inhibitory factor (LIF) in granuloma annulare: a comparative study between the generalized and the localized types
Authors: Friedman-Birnbaum R. , Gilhar A. , Haim S. , Golan DT.
Published: August 2023

Leukocyte inhibitory factor (LIF) was investigated in 9 patients with localized granuloma annulare and 8 patients with the generalized form of the disease. The control group consisted of 10 matched, apparently healthy subjects. LIF values were significantly higher in patients with granuloma annulare of both groups than in controls (p less than 0.05 and 0.01). However, no significant difference was revealed between the two groups of patients. Though the results seem to speak for a cell-mediated immune response in granuloma annulare, they do not add a further support to the previously demonstrated differences between the two forms of granuloma annulare.
T lymphocyte subpopulations in alopecia areata and psoriasis: identification with monoclonal antibodies and Fc receptors
Authors: Gu SQ. , Petrini B. , Ros AM. , Thyresson N. , Wasserman J.
Published: August 2023

A comparison of T lymphocyte subpopulations as defined by Fc receptors and monoclonal antibodies was investigated in 9 patients with alopecia areata and alopecia universalis (AA and AU) and in 6 patients with psoriasis. It was shown that there was higher proportion of T lymphocytes with Fc receptors for IgG (Tg cells) in patients with alopecia (AA and AU) and psoriasis. The proportions of total T lymphocytes (Tt), T lymphocytes with Fc receptors for IgM, T suppressor/cytotoxic cells (Leu2A), T helper/inducer (Leu3A) as defined by monoclonal antibodies were within normal range as compared to the normal donors. The possible reason of the dissociation between Tg and T suppressor (Leu2A) cells could be that these cells belong to different subpopulations.
The genetics of vitiligo
Authors: Hafez M. , Sharaf L. , Abd el-Nabi SM.
Published: August 2023

The genetics of vitiligo has been studied in 150 probands and their families. A familial concentration of the disease has been demonstrated which supports the concept that hereditary factors contribute to the etiology of vitiligo. Segregation analysis was not consistent with inheritance at a single autosomal or x-linked locus. Further analysis suggested that vitiligo is determined by multifactorial inheritance. An estimate of heritability of liability was found to be 72.4%, indicating that genetic factors play a significant role in the etiology.
Successful treatment of cold angio-oedema by H2-antihistamine therapy
Authors: Klemp P. , Staberg B. , Agdal N. , Munkvad IM.
Published: August 2023

Two patients with severe cold angio-oedema were practically relieved from their symptoms during H2-blocker therapy (cimetidine 1 000 mg daily). Classic H1-blocker therapy had no effect on their symptoms and combined H1- and H2-blocker treatment was just as effective in ameliorating the symptoms of cold angio-oedema as H2-blocker treatment alone. A low dose of the H2-blocker (400 mg cimetidine daily) was almost able to control the angio-oedema formation after cold exposure, but provoked typically urticarial lesions. This observation strongly indicates that H2-receptors may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cold angio-oedema and that a massive, subcutaneous, cold angio-oedema may obscure cold urticarial lesions.
The case of the felted wig
Authors: Blankenburg G. , Guarrera M. , Rebora A.
Published: August 2023

A sudden matting of hair after shampooing of a hairpiece is reported, which led the patient to a lawsuit. Chemical analyses showed that hairs were weathered and led to a possible explanation of the curious phenomenon.
Lymphocyte stimulation by trivalent and hexavalent chromium compounds in patients with chromium sensitivity. An aid to diagnosis
Authors: Al-Tawil NG. , Marcusson JA. , Möller E.
Published: August 2023

Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 31 patients with a positive patch test to potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) and from 24 healthy controls were stimulated with various concentrations of chromium chloride (CrCl3) and/or chromium basic sulphate (Cr4(SO4)5(OH)2), sodium chromate (Na2CrO4) or K2Cr2O7 on various days of culture. Both trivalent and hexavalent chromium compounds could induce lymphocyte transformation, as measured by increased DNA synthesis. The response occurred in the T-enriched population and was monocyte dependent. Lymphocytes from 11 of these patients could not be stimulated with the chromium compounds in vitro, whereas the in vivo serial dilution test (SDT) was positive in 4 and negative in 7 of them. Lymphocytes from 2 patients with a negative in vivo SDT showed a positive response in vitro. The strength of the in vivo SDT results did not correlate well with the height of in vitro responses. The DNA synthesis test seems to be a reliable in vitro method to aid in the diagnosis of chromium sensitivity.
Quantitative variations in distribution of Pityrosporum orbiculare on clinically normal skin
Authors: Faergemann J. , Aly R. , Maibach HI.
Published: August 2023

The lipophilic yeast Pityrosporum orbiculare has been cultured quantitatively, in 10 volunteers, from clinically normal skin on the chest, back, upper arm, lower leg, and dorsal aspect of the hand. The highest count was on the back (mean 333/cm2) and chest (mean 327/cm2). This was statistically significant higher than on the upper arm (mean 21/cm2), lower leg (mean 13/cm2), and dorsal aspect of the hand (mean 2/cm2). The variations in number of P. orbiculare parallels both regional variations in sebum excretion and the distribution of tinea versicolor lesions.
Radiological changes of the hands in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Brun B. , Serup J. , Hagdrup H.
Published: August 2023

Radiological examination of the hands was performed in 41 patients with systemic sclerosis. Pathological changes were found in 39 patients. Eighteen patients had subcutaneous calcifications and 11 had atrophy of the finger pulps. Bone resorption of ungual tufts was found in 11 patients. Juxta-articular osteoporosis was seen in 9 patients and periarticular bone erosions in 8 patients indicating erosive arthropathy. Osteoarthritis and generalized osteoporosis were seen in 10 and 7 patients, respectively. Radiological examination of the hands is recommended during treatment.
Basic and interferon-augmented natural killer (NK) cell activity in psoriasis
Authors: Jansén CT. , Viander M.
Published: August 2023

The natural killer (NK) cell activity of lymphocytes from 24 psoriatic patients was compared with that of 34 normal controls and 19 patients with non-psoriatic dermatoses. In the range of effector/target cell ratios used (6.25 to 100), the basal NK cell activity level was similar in the three groups. Moreover, both interferon alpha (IFN-alpha) and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) augmented the NK cell activity to the same extent in psoriasis as in the two control groups. We conclude that this important natural cancer surveillance mechanism is functioning properly in psoriatic patients.
A fasting and vegetarian diet treatment trial on chronic inflammatory disorders
Authors: Lithell H. , Bruce A. , Gustafsson IB. , Höglund NJ. , Karlström B. , Ljunghall K. , Sjölin K. , Venge P. , Werner I. , Vessby B.
Published: August 2023

Twenty patients with arthritis and various skin diseases were studied on a metabolic ward during a 2-week period of modified fast followed by a 3-week period of vegetarian diet. During fasting, arthralgia was less intense in many subjects. In some types of skin diseases (pustulosis palmaris et plantaris and atopic eczema) an improvement could be demonstrated during the fast. During the vegan diet, both signs and symptoms returned in most patients, with the exception of some patients with psoriasis who experienced an improvement. The concentrations of lactoferrin in serum reflect the turnover and activity of neutrophil leukocytes. When this protein was initially increased it fell to normal values in most cases. The improvement or impairment of signs and symptoms was related to the lactoferrin levels in serum.
Long-term oral treatment of two pronounced ichthyotic conditions: lamellar ichthyosis and epidermolytic hyperkeratosis with the aromatic retinoid, Tigason (RO 10-9359)
Authors: El-Ramly M. , Zachariae H.
Published: August 2023

Five patients suffering from lamellar ichthyosis and 3 from epidermolytic hyperkeratosis (previously called non-bullous and bullous congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma) were treated from 11 to 52 months with the synthetic aromatic retinoid Tigason (RO 10-9359). In all cases of lamellar ichthyosis the results were judged as good to excellent, while none of the patients with epidermolytic hyperkeratosis gave more than a slight response. The reason for the poorer results in the latter condition was that effective therapeutic dosages in relation to ichthyosis invariably produced increased blistering. These and other side effects such as cheilitis, mild dryness of mucous membranes, slight hair loss, and pruritus, in no case necessitated discontinuation of the drug.
Dopa oxidation and tyrosine oxygenation by human melanoma tyrosinase
Authors: Jergil B. , Lindbladh C. , Rorsman H. , Rosengren E.
Published: August 2023

A tyrosinase purified from cultured human melanoma cells was studied for dopa oxidation and tyrosine oxygenation. Km for oxidation of L-dopa was 0.5 mM, and for D-dopa 3 mM. L-tyrosine was oxygenated only in the presence of a cosubstrate. L-Dopa was superior to D-dopa, dopamine, L- and D-alpha-methyldopa, dopac, and 5,6-dihydroxyindole-2-carboxylic acid as cosubstrate. Ascorbic acid, 5-S-cysteinyldopa, and 5-OH-dopa did not function as cosubstrates. The rate of tyrosine hydroxylation was much lower than that of dopa oxidation. Tyrosine inhibits dopa oxidation, and dopa in high concentrations inhibits tyrosine hydroxylation. The cosubstrate function of dopa, the substrate functions of dopa and tyrosine, and the mutual inhibition of tyrosinase by these compounds are explained in three equations.
Investigation of intercellular matrix macromolecules involved in lichen sclerosus
Authors: Frances C. , Wechsler J. , Meimon G. , Labat-Robert J. , Grimaud JA. , Hewitt J.
Published: August 2023

Dermal changes of the vulva in lichen sclerosus were compared with control vulvar samples using ultrastructural and immunofluorescence techniques. Collagen degeneration and regeneration were observed ultrastructurally in the superficial dermis of lichen sclerosus with increased amounts of ground substance. These processes appeared to alter the affinity of collagen fibres for the anticollagen antisera types I, III, IV. A decrease in elastin content was observed by electron microscopy. A loss of fibronectin was discovered at the dermo-epidermal junction, which looked normal ultrastructurally. The linear laminin pattern at the dermo-epidermal junction was also altered. These results suggested an enzymatic process in the pathogenesis of lichen sclerosus. Amidase activity could be determined in 6 normal and 6 pathological biopsies, though higher in the pathological samples (p less than 0.01).
Ultrastructure of uninvolved oral mucosa in pemphigus patients
Authors: Hietanen J. , Salo OP. , Kanerva L. , Kiistala R.
Published: August 2023

The uninvolved oral mucosa of seven pemphigus patients was compared with that of age- and sex-matched controls. Three patients had pemphigus erythematodes, two had pemphigus vulgaris, one had pemphigus foliaceus, and one pemphigus vegetans. Five out of seven pemphigus patients demonstrated wider intercellular spaces than the controls. This difference was seen in both basal and spinous epithelial cell layers and was more pronounced in the basal cell layer. There were fewer desmosomes and microvilli than in the controls. It appears that ultrastructural changes in pemphigus also occur in the uninvolved oral mucosa of pemphigus patients.
Penicillin concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid and serum after intramuscular, intravenous, and oral administration to syphilitic patients
Authors: Löwhagen GB. , Brorson JE. , Kaijser B.
Published: August 2023

Penicillin concentration in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were estimated in 19 syphilitic patients given three different regimens: Penicillin G, 10 MIU i.v. three times a day (3 patients); procaine penicillin, 600 000 IU i.m. (11 patients); and penicillin V, 1.2 MIU by mouth four times a day (5 patients). Intravenous administration of penicillin G resulted in a penicillin concentration in CSF of 0.3-0.5 micrograms/ml; In contrast, procaine penicillin, i.m. and penicillin V by mouth did not result in any measurable CSF concentration, even in the presence of pleocytosis and/or barrier lesion. Penicillin V by mouth gave considerably higher serum concentrations than procaine penicillin intramuscular, however. In the light of these results, and reported treatment failures in neurosyphilis and demonstration of viable Treponema pallidum after treatment, we propose that neurosyphilis should be treated with high intravenous doses of penicillin to ensure treponemicidal concentrations in the central nervous system.
Do sexual steroids contribute to the pathomechanism of rosacea? A study of estrogen and androgen receptors in acne rosacea
Authors: Schmidt JB. , Raff M. , Spona J.
Published: August 2023

Estrogen- and androgen receptor levels were investigated in the skin of 11 male and 4 female rosacea patients. No significant difference in receptor distribution or in receptor levels could be found between rosacea lesions and normal skin of the same patients. Moreover, hormone serum levels were in the normal range. Data from the present investigation suggest that rosacea formation is not governed by endocrine, although clinical and electron microscopic observations indicate a possible endocrine influence at the vascular level.
Keratodermia palmoplantaris of the Unna-Thost type in Slovenia
Authors: Kansky A , Arzenşek J , Rode M , Strojan J.
Published: August 2023

Keratodermia palmoplantaris of the Unna - Thost type was studied in the population of Slovenia. Altogether 157 patients were recorded: 106 were examined by the authors; for the other 51, anamnestic data were used. Special attention was paid to the accompanying symptoms which are more or less rarely mentioned in the literature: hyperkeratosis of the elbows and knees, transgredience of the hyperkeratosis, hyperkeratotic changes of the nails and changes of the teeth. It is estimated that there are in Slovenia 8.44 PPK UT patients per 100 000 inhabitants.
The Cockayne-Touraine type of dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa--ultrastructural similarities to the Pasini variant
Authors: Oakley CA , Gawkrodger DJ , Ross JA , Hunter JA.
Published: August 2023

Biopsies from the uninvolved skin of 5 patients with the Cockayne-Touraine (CT) type of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) were studied with the electron microscope. Dermal fibrillar bodies were noted in 2 patients and 3 showed basal lamina (BL) duplication or splitting. Discontinuity of the BL with herniation of keratinocyte cytoplasm was present in one patient. These changes, thought previously to be characteristic of the Pasini variant, indicate that abnormalities of the BL may be involved in blister formation in both disease subgroups.
Total plasma kininogen in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis
Authors: Winkelmann RK.
Published: August 2023

Total plasma kininogen was measured in 75 normal individuals and in patients with extensive dermatoses. Elevated levels were found in 20 of 30 hospitalized patients with atopic dermatitis. Elevated levels were observed in 33 psoriasis patients. Nine atopic patients responded to intravenous calcium gluconate with elevated levels during three hours of observation in contrast to no response to control injections or in control individuals. Extensive chronic inflammatory skin disease correlates with elevated total plasma kininogen.
Treatment of systemic scleroderma with fucidine with regard to some free amino acids contents before and after therapy
Authors: Rubisz-Brzezińska J , Zebracka T , Mozdzanowska K , Mozdzanowski J.
Published: August 2023

In 7 patients with systemic scleroderma and acroscleroderma improvement was observed after the administration of fucidine. In the same time 4 amino acids contents, which had been abnormal prior to the therapy, normalized.
Immunological aspects of dermatophyte infections in hereditary palmo-plantar keratoderma
Authors: Gamborg Nielsen P.
Published: August 2023

Family and personal histories of atopy, total IgE level in serum, AB0 blood groups, trichophytin reactions, IgE RAST, IgG RAST and precipitating antibodies were investigated in patients with hereditary palmo-plantar keratoderma and dermatophytosis. 44% of the patients with dermatophytosis had a personal and/or family history of atopy and 67% a total IgE greater than 100 kU/ml. No significant differences in the rate of dermatophytosis were found between atopics and non-atopics, nor were there differences between patients with a total IgE above and those with a level below 100 kU/ml. The determination of AB0 blood groups showed that T. mentagrophytes occurred significantly more often in patients with blood group A. All delayed trichophytin reactions were negative. A positive immediate trichophytin reaction was found in only 1 patient, who also had a raised level of IgE antibodies against dermatophytes. The level of specific IgG antibodies was increased in patients infected with T. rubrum and E. floccosum, which two species were found to have at least one antigen in common. Homologous precipitating antibodies occurred in 54% of the patients with hereditary palmo-plantar keratoderma, which is a considerably higher value than that reported in dermatophyte infected patients without this inherited disorder.
Electron microscopic study of fingernails in the disease of Mljet (Mal de Meleda)
Authors: Salamon T , Plavsić B , Nikulin A.
Published: August 2023

Results are presented of the electron-microscopic examinations of fingernail clippings from 4 patients suffering from Mljet (Mal de Meleda) disease, of 3 obligate heterozygotes of this autosomal recessively inherited disease, as well as of 3 controls. In the nails of the diseased persons, significantly more osmiophilic material was found than in those of controls. In the nails of heterozygotes, the findings were intermediate between those of patients and controls. In the nails of aged persons, a strongly osmiophilic matrix keratin was found. Histochemically, lipids were demonstrated in the ventral plate of diseased nails. The probable significance and implications of these findings are discussed.
Angioendothelioma of the nose
Authors: Burge SM , Ryan TJ.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Activation of the alternative complement pathway by 405 nm light in serum from porphyric rat
Authors: Torinuki W , Miura T , Tagami H.
Published: August 2023

Sera from hexachlorobenzene-induced porphyric rats were examined for evidence of complement activation. The serum irradiated in vitro with 405 nm light resulted in a dose-dependent diminution of the total hemolytic activity of the complement. Further, such irradiated serum showed immunoelectrophoretical C3 conversion and chemotactic activity for rat polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and caused increased vascular permeability in vivo. C3 conversion was not induced in serum chelated with EDTA, but occurred in serum chelated with Mg++-EGTA. By sephadex G-75 chromatography, the irradiated serum had potent chemotactic activity eluted near the cytochrome C marker. These studies indicate that the irradiation of porphyric rat serum with 405 nm light induces activation of the complement system via the alternative pathway, with the resultant development of anaphylatoxin.
Thalidomide treatment of prurigo nodularis
Authors: Winkelmann RK , Connolly SM , Doyle JA , Padilha-Goncalves A.
Published: August 2023

Four patients with classic recalcitrant prurigo nodularis had symptomatic and physical responses to thalidomide with remissions. Three of the four patients had increased IgE levels that decreased during therapy. In two patients, short-term treatment (2 to 3 months) was not sufficient to produce remission, but retreatment was effective. Two patients had long-term remission with more than 6 months of treatment. No significant side effects occurred.
The muscle pump function in chronic venous insufficiency: plethysmographic results
Authors: Aelvoet G , Geerts R , Dockx P.
Published: August 2023

The frequency and the severity of skin lesions were studied in patients with chronic venous insufficiency compared to the function of the muscle pump measured with plethysmography. The study showed that the frequency of skin symptoms parallels the muscle pump dysfunction. Measuring the ambulatory volume change on the calf level and the refilling time required for the normalisation of the calf volume after dorsiflexions of the foot gives suitable parameters for the evaluation of the muscle pump. The plethysmography is a valuable method to quantify the grade of venous insufficiency.
Pityriasis rubra pilaris, vitamin A and retinol-binding protein: a case study
Authors: Van Voorst Vader PC , Van Oostveen F , Houthoff HJ , Marrink J.
Published: August 2023

A patient with longstanding erythroderma and decreased sweat secretion due to the classical adult form of pityriasis rubra pilaris is described. The patient did not respond to oral megadoses of Vitamin A, even though a large increase of liver content of Vitamin A was demonstrated. Retinol-binding protein levels in serum of this patient and his relatives were normal. Danazol (Danatrol, Winthrop) therapy caused an increase of retinol-binding protein level, but clinical improvement did not occur.
Concanavalin (ConA)-reactive human epidermal glycoproteins
Authors: Bonnefoy JY , Reano A , Ledger PW , Thivolet J.
Published: August 2023

The possibility that glycoconjugates play a role in epidermal differentiation has stimulated attempts at their biochemical identification. We have examined the Concanavalin (ConA)-binding glycoproteins present: in whole human epidermis, epidermal cells obtained by trypsinization of human skin, non dissociated layers (the most differentiated ones) remaining after preparation of these cells and human epidermal cell cultures. 125I-ConA was applied to NP-40 soluble molecules separated by SDS-PAGE. ConA labelling of the whole epidermal extract visualized numerous bands. That of trypsinized cells differed in the intensity of some bands and the absence of others. However most of the latter bands could be identified in the most differentiated layers. These glycoproteins were absent or poorly labelled in the cultures of keratinocytes. The restriction of some ConA-binding glycoproteins to the most differentiated epidermal layers, suggests that these molecules are involved in, or can be considered as markers of the human epidermal differentiative process.
Phenotypic characterization in situ of inflammatory cells in pityriasis (tinea) versicolor
Authors: Scheynius A , Faergemann J , Forsum U , Sjöberg O.
Published: August 2023

The cellular response in pityriasis (tinea) versicolor lesions was analysed in situ with an immunohistochemical double staining technique combined with periodic acid-Schiff staining in frozen sections of skin biopsies from 9 patients. The proportions of B and T cells and subpopulations of T cells in the blood were normal as were the proliferative responses of blood mononuclear cells against various B- and T-cell mitogens and antigens. Fungi were observed in stratum corneum in all lesions, and there were moderate cell infiltrates in both epidermis and dermis as compared to biopsies from normal-looking skin. The majority of the infiltrating perivascular cells reacted with anti-Leu 1 antibodies (all mature peripheral T cells). Anti-Leu 2a reactive cells (´suppressor/cytotoxic´ phenotype) were few and scattered, whereas anti-Leu 3a reactive cells (´helper/inducer´ phenotype) dominated. This investigation demonstrates that pityriasis versicolor is not a simple overgrowth of the fungus in stratum corneum, but is accompanied by infiltrating immunocompetent cells in both epidermis and dermis.
Clinical and immunological studies in chronic dermatophytosis caused by Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Svejgaard E , Christiansen AH , Stahl D , Thomsen K.
Published: August 2023

Twenty-six patients with chronic dermatophytosis (CD) by Trichophyton rubrum (TR) through one year were included in a double-blind clinical trial with Levamisole/Placebo. All patients were treated with griseofulvin concomitantly. Before, during and after the trial, studies of the cellular and humoral immune response were performed. The result of treatment with griseofulvin plus levamisole (62.5% cured or improved) did not differ from that of griseofulvin plus placebo (58% improved). All patients but one showed normal general cellular immune responses. Stimulation of lymphocytes with a specific TR antigen extract showed a significantly stronger response in the patient group than in the group of 39 controls (p = 0.01-0.00003) at all investigation dates. Immediate weal reactions to the TR extract were seen in 42% of the patients and increased concentration of IgE antibodies was demonstrated in 46%. Specific IgG antibodies towards TR were observed in 42% of the patients. The presence of specific IgG antibodies and a strong specific cellular immune response were related to the severity of clinical involvement. Environmental factors and atopy were associated disorders in 81% and 77% respectively.
Collagen metabolites in urine in localized scleroderma (morphoea)
Authors: Ammitzbøll T , Serup J.
Published: August 2023

Hydroxyproline (Hyp), hydroxylysine (Hyl), and proline (Pro) were assayed in the urine from 28 patients with localized scleroderma (13 with localized morphoea plaques, 13 with generalized morphoea, and two with scleroderma en coup de sabre), as well as 17 control persons. The levels of Hyp, Hyl and Pro were elevated in patients with localized morphoea plaques as compared to the controls indicating major changes of the collagen metabolism in this type of localized scleroderma.
Angioendotheliosarcoma of the nose--a case report
Authors: Waersted A , Andersen KE , Hansen JP.
Published: August 2023

Angioendotheliosarcoma of the face or scalp is regarded as a highly malignant tumor. We present a case with onset as a purple macule on the nose, suspected to be rosacea, and emphasize the use of early skin biopsy when a red or purple discoloration is seen in the face of elderly people.
Condylomata acuminata in women: the effect of concomitant genital infection on response to treatment
Authors: Cooper C , Singha HS.
Published: August 2023

316 women with genital warts were studied to relate treatment response to concomitant genital infection at presentation. There was a highly significant difference between the response patterns of those patients who presented with warts alone, and those presenting with other infections (most commonly candidiasis and non-specific vaginitis). The diagnosis and treatment of associated infections hastens the response of warts to cytotoxic therapy, but there appears to be a subgroup amongst women presenting with warts alone, who require a considerably longer course of treatment. The relevance of these findings to the pathogenesis and management of genital warts is discussed.
Juvenile xanthogranuloma: an analysis of 45 cases by clinical follow-up, light- and electron microscopy
Authors: Török E , Daróczy J.
Published: August 2023

Juvenile xanthogranuloma is a benign, nevoid histiocytosis not related to histiocytosis X. The lesions wrinkle, then flatten out and in 40% of the cases they leave no trace without any treatment. It is more frequent in boys. One patient also had granulomatous lesions of the eye, 8 had caf√©-au-lait spots and 3 epilepsy.
Plasma 5-S-cysteinyldopa concentrations in oculocutaneous albinism
Authors: Nimmo JE , Hunter JA , Percy-Robb IW , Jay B , Phillips CI , Taylor WO.
Published: August 2023

5-S-cysteinyldopa concentrations were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography and electrochemical detection in plasma from normally pigmented patients and patients with oculocutaneous albinism, both tyrosinase-positive and tyrosinase-negative. The plasma 5-S-cysteinyldopa concentrations were similar in all three groups, suggesting that 5-S-cysteinyldopa can be produced by mechanisms which do not involve tyrosinase.
Prognostic factors in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Rystedt I.
Published: August 2023

A long-term follow-up study (24 years minimum) was made of 955 individuals aged 24-44 years, who had atopic dermatitis (AD) in childhood. The material was divided into two groups; patients who in 1952-56 had been hospitalized on at least one occasion at the Department of Dermatology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm (Group 1), and patients who in 1955-56 had been out-patients in the same department (Group 2). At the time of investigation 62% and 40% of the patients in Groups 1 and 2 respectively had ongoing dermatitis, the majority with mild skin lesions. The frequency of healing of AD and severity of persistent or recurring dermatitis were influenced by several factors. In order of relative importance, disregarding sampling errors, persistent dry/itchy skin in adult life, widespread dermatitis in childhood, associated allergic rhinitis, family history of AD, associated bronchial asthma, early age at onset, and female sex were associated with low frequency of healing and increased severity of persistent or recurring dermatitis.
Petechiae and vasculitis in asymptomatic primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Diederichsen H , Sørensen PG , Mickley H , Hage E , Schultz-Larsen F.
Published: August 2023

Recurrent petechiae of the lower legs and signs of asymptomatic primary biliary cirrhosis have been found in three women. Large immune complexes were identified in the serum of three and cryoglobulin/cryofibrinogen in two. Histological examination of skin biopsies revealed a leukocytoclastic vasculitis in all three patients. Direct immunofluorescent studies showed deposits of IgM, C3 and fibrinogen in and around the walls of the small vessels of the skin of two and C3 as well as fibrinogen in one patient. It is suggested that leukocytoclastic vasculitis may be a microscopic feature of the systemic involvement in asymptomatic primary biliary cirrhosis, and petechiae the clinical manifestation.
Collagen synthesis and degradation by epidermolysis bullosa fibroblasts
Authors: Oakley CA , Priestley GC.
Published: August 2023

Collagen synthesis was measured in fibroblasts cultured from the skin of six patients with epidermolysis bullosa simplex, from six patients with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and six age-matched controls without skin disease. Both groups of patients´ fibroblasts synthesized approximately twice as much collagen (dpm/cell) as the controls. Synthesis of other proteins showed a smaller increase. Collagenase activity in culture media from four fibroblast lines per group was measured, using a 3H-collagen substrate, both before and after trypsin treatment to activate procollagenase. As expected, the dystrophic group had the highest activity (30% more than controls) and the result was little affected by trypsin: the enzyme appeared to be in active form. Enzyme activity in the simplex group was increased from 67% to 114% of control values by trypsin treatment. The excessive collagen synthesis in both dystrophic and simplex fibroblasts may be a consequence of their greater collagenase activity and suggests an unsuspected dermal involvement in epidermolysis bullosa simplex. Our data confirm an excessive secretion of collagenase by dystrophic fibroblasts but suggest that the enzyme´s state of activation may be the important aetiological feature of the dystrophic disease.
Hand eczema in patients with history of atopic manifestations in childhood
Authors: Rystedt I.
Published: August 2023

A follow-up study of two groups of individuals aged 24-44 years, with a history of severe and moderate atopic dermatitis in childhood (n = 549 and 406 respectively), showed that the most common site of atopic dermatitis was the hands. The prevalence of hand eczema in the two groups was 41% and 25% respectively. The corresponding figure for a group of 222 individuals with respiratory allergy, but not atopic dermatitis in childhood, was 5%, and for a control group (n = 199), without family or personal atopy, 4%. In all four groups the majority of the patients had mild to moderate hand eczema. The fingers were the most common site in all groups. In 69%, 55%, 36% and 12% respectively, hand eczema was found simultaneously with other eczematous manifestations. Irritants were considered by 71-96% in the four groups to aggravate the hand eczema. Contact with various food substances, particularly proteins, was regarded by 38%, 43%, 30% and 9% as an eliciting/aggravating factor. Dust was looked upon as an eliciting/aggravating factor by 25% and 20% of the individuals in the two groups with atopic dermatitis in childhood, but by no one in the control group.
Childhood cicatricial pemphigoid with linear IgA deposits: a case report
Authors: Langeland T.
Published: August 2023

A 16-year-old boy with a bullous eruption from the age of thirteen, also presented symptoms of scarring conjunctivitis and involvement of oral mucosal membranes. Linear IgA deposits were demonstrated in the basement membrane zone in skin and conjunctiva. The eruptions improved during therapy with aldesulfonsodium, but complete remission was not obtained. Gluten-free diet did not significantly influence the activity of the disease. The described patient seems to fit in a recently described entity of chronic bullous diseases.
The ultrastructure of treponema pallidum isolated from human chancres. Morphologic variations from Nichols´ strain
Authors: Poulsen A , Kobayasi T , Secher L , Weismann K.
Published: August 2023

The ultrastructure of treponema pallidum obtained directly from human chancres by biopsy was studied by electron microscopy. The treponemes were enveloped by a trilaminar cytoplasmic membrane and a trilaminar periplastic membrane. The central part of the periplastic membrane corresponds to the protective mucoid layer. In undamaged organisms bunches of axial filaments were seen to entwine the whole cytoplasmic body without any disruption or overlapping. The number of axial filaments varied between three and four. Identical nose pieces were demonstrable in both ends of the treponemes. Axial filaments and nose pieces seem to differ from those of Nichols´ strain.
Psoriasis infiltrating cell immunophenotype: changes induced by PUVA or corticosteroid treatment in T-cell subsets, Langerhans´ cells and interdigitating cells
Authors: Bos JD , Krieg SR.
Published: August 2023

The effects of PUVA or corticosteroid treatment on the distribution pattern of immunocompetent cells in psoriasis symptomatic skin were investigated. A total of 29 biopsies, taken before and a regular intervals during treatment, were studied in a two-stage immunoperoxidase technique using monoclonal antibodies directed against T cells, their major subsets, interdigitating cells, and Langerhans´ cells. T cell exocytosis was not affected by PUVA or corticosteroid treatment. Instead, both treatment regimens led to an initial increase in interbasally localized T8+ suppressor/cytotoxic T cells. Increased T4/T8 ratios within the subepidermal infiltrates were restored to normal except in one case, who did not respond to PUVA-treatment. Epidermal and dermal T6+ Langerhans´ cells decreased to almost absent. RFD1+ interdigitating cells had the same tendency, except in the PUVA-non-responding patient. Treatment of psoriasis with PUVA or corticosteroids thus results in a normalization of an initial immune imbalance in infiltrating immunocompetent cells. A working hypothesis on psoriasis immunopathogenesis and its restoration by treatment is presented.
PUVA treatment of chronic eczematous dermatitis of the palms and soles
Authors: Tegner E , Thelin I.
Published: August 2023

Thirty-eight patients were treated with PUVA for chronic eczematous dermatitis of the palms. Twenty (53%) were completely free from lesions when treatment was stopped, and 11 (29%) were improved. Patients who showed healing remained in remission for an average of greater than or equal to 11 months (range 3 weeks to greater than or equal to 36 months). When the rash recurred it was often milder than before PUVA. Sixteen of the 38 patients also had chronic plantar dermatitis; PUVA treatment resulted in complete clearing in 7 (41%), and remission persisted for an average of greater than or equal to 16 months.
A new synthetic retinoid, E-5166, augments epidermal beta-adrenergic adenylate cyclase response
Authors: Iizuka H , Watanabe M , Ohkawara A.
Published: August 2023

Effects of a new synthetic retinoid, 3, 7, 11, 15-tetramethyl-2,4,6,10,14-hexadecapentaenoic acid (E-5166), on the cyclic AMP system of pig skin epidermis was investigated. When pig skin slices were incubated in vitro for 24 h, the beta-adrenergic adenylate cyclase response (epinephrine-induced cyclic AMP accumulation) was decreased. The addition of E-5166 in the incubation medium resulted in an increase of this receptor response of epidermis. On the other hand, histamine-induced cyclic AMP accumulations were decreased by the E-5166 treatment. The effect of E-5166 was concentration-dependent; the maximal effect was observed at 50-100 microM. Ro 10-1670 (an active derivative of Ro 10-9359 (etretinate)) is known to have similar beta-adrenergic augmentation effect. The simultaneous addition of E-5166 and Ro 10-1670 at their optimal concentrations resulted in neither additive nor synergistic effect on the epinephrine-induced cyclic AMP accumulations. There was no significant difference in cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase activity between control and E-5166-treated epidermis. These data indicate that pig skin epidermal adenylate cyclase responses are modulated by E-5166 probably through the same mechanism induced by other retinoids.
Induction of formaldehyde contact sensitivity: dose response relationship in the guinea pig maximization test
Authors: Andersen KE , Boman A , Vølund A , Wahlberg JE.
Published: August 2023

The sensitizing potential of aqueous formaldehyde was evaluated with the guinea pig maximization test (GPMT) in two laboratories (Copenhagen and Stockholm) using different guinea pig strains. Six intradermal (0.01%-3%), and 6 topical (0.5%-20%) concentrations were used for induction, and formaldehyde 1% and 0.1% was used for challenge. The incidence of contact sensitivity depended on the intradermal, but not on the topical induction dose. Statistical analyses showed a non-monotonous (non-linear) dose response relationship. The estimated maximal sensitization rate in Copenhagen was 80% after intradermal induction with 0.65% formaldehyde; in Stockholm it was 84% after induction with 0.34%. The data from the two laboratories could be described by parallel displaced dose response curves suggesting that the guinea pig strain used in Stockholm was significantly more susceptible to formaldehyde than the strain used in Copenhagen. The EC50 (formaldehyde concentration at which 50% of the guinea pigs were sensitized) at the 72 h scoring and a 1% challenge concentration, was 0.061% in Copenhagen and 0.024% in Stockholm.
Interaction between 8-methoxypsoralen and phenytoin. Consequence for PUVA therapy
Authors: Staberg B , Hueg B.
Published: August 2023

A patient with epilepsy and psoriasis in phenytoin therapy was treated with PUVA with no effect at all. The PUVA treatment failure was demonstrated as being due to abnormally low serum levels of 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) during phenytoin therapy, while normal serum levels of 8-MOP were observed after phenytoin was discontinued. The effect is probably due to an induction of the hepatic enzyme system by phenytoin, leading to an increased metabolism of 8-MOP. Other drugs with hepatic enzyme inducing properties might possibly also interfere with psoralen metabolism with further consequences for PUVA therapy.
Drug fever caused by PUVA treatment
Authors: Tóth Kása I , Dobozy A.
Published: August 2023

Here we report the case of a patient who developed drug fever during PUVA treatment. This was the only manifestation of hypersensitivity. Neither UV-A irradiation nor 8-methoxypsoralene caused a febrile reaction.
Retinoid dermatitis mimicking "eczéma craquelé"
Authors: Taïeb A , Maleville J.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Increase of mast cells in the alopecia lesion of mice
Authors: Tanii T , Okada T , Fukai K , Nakagawa K , Hamada T.
Published: August 2023

A histological investigation was made of the quantitative behavior of mast cells in bald areas on mice and in human alopecia areata. C57BL,W/Wv and +/+ mice with alopecia lesions were examined. In C57BL mice and +/+ mice, the number of dermal mast cells (per square mm) in the bald areas was greater than that in controls. The mean number of mast cells was slightly higher in human alopecia areata than in the controls. Since W/Wv mice lacking mast cells developed alopecia lesions, it seems that mast cells are not necessary for the onset of alopecia areata but could play some part in regrowth.
The Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome with acro-angiodermatitis (pseudo-Kaposi´s sarcoma)
Authors: Kofoed ML , Klemp P , Thestrup-Pedersen K.
Published: August 2023

A patient with the Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome and pseudo-Kaposi elements is reported. This combination of symptoms has only been published very occasionally. Selective quantitative measurements of the peripheral tissue blood flow revealed a significantly increased cutaneous blood flow in the hypertrophied leg. This finding supports the assumption that a high perfusion rate and a high oxygen saturation are involved in the etiopathogenesis of the pseudo-Kaposi elements.