bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atrichial sweat gland adenocarcinoma in the dog
Authors: Kusters  , Peperkamp  , Hazewinkel
Published: March 2003

An atrichial sweat gland adenocarcinoma of the foot pad is extremely rare in the dog and, until now, no cases have been reported in the literature. We report here the clinical and pathological findings of an atrichial sweat gland carcinoma of the foot pad in a 6‐year‐old male German Shepherd. The tumour infiltrated the subcutis, extending from the sole to the stifle, and had metastasized to the ipsilateral popliteal and internal iliac lymph nodes.
Linear organoid nevus in a dog
Authors: Scarampella Fabia , Von Tscharner Claudia , Noli Chiara
Published: March 2003

A skin lesion classified as linear organoid nevus is reported in a female standard Schnauzer. The dog was brought to the clinic with multiple hyperpigmented, hyperkeratotic linear or ovoid plaques on the head, neck, trunk, ears, and limbs. Histological findings included severe orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis, focal parakeratosis and hyperplasia of both the epidermis and the follicular infundibular epithelium, and marked sebaceous hyperplasia. No improvement was noted with systemic retinoid therapy. This is the second linear organoid nevus described in a dog, and the first report of retinoid therapy for this disease.
Double‐blinded cross‐over study on the efficacy of pentoxifylline for canine atopy
Authors: Marsella R. , Nicklin C.F.
Published: March 2003

The pathogenesis of canine atopy has not been established completely. Recent studies have shown that tumour necrosis factor alpha and Interleukin‐6 play a role in allergic reactions in humans and mice. Pentoxifylline (PTX) suppresses synthesis of these cytokines and may be a useful therapy for modulating the symptoms of canine atopy. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of PTX (10mg kg−1 twice daily for 4 weeks) on clinical signs (erythema and pruritus) and intradermal skin test reactivity in atopic dogs (n = 10). The study was a double‐blinded, placebo controlled, crossover clinical trial with a washout period of 2 weeks between treatments. Clinical signs were evaluated and scored by the investigator and owners. During PTX treatment, scores of pruritus and erythema decreased significantly. PTX did not affect intradermal skin test reactivity to house dust mite at 15 min (allergen of reference for this study).
Ulcerative dermatosis of the Shetland sheepdog and rough collie dog may represent a novel vesicular variant of cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Authors: Jackson H.A. , Olivry T.
Published: March 2003

A syndrome of ulcerative dermatitis (UDSSC) previously has been described as unique to the Shetland sheepdog and rough collie dog. The pathogenesis of this disease is poorly understood and it has been suggested that it may be a variant of canine dermatomyositis (DM) which is also seen in these breeds. Information on the clinical presentation and previous medical history was collected from five Shetland sheepdogs and three rough collie dogs previously diagnosed with UDSSC. Characteristic features of the disease were adult onset in the summer months with annular, polycyclic and serpiginous ulcerations distributed over sparsely haired areas of the body. Skin biopsies taken from active lesions were compared in a blinded fashion with histological sections from seven Shetland sheepdogs and one rough collie with DM. Dermatomyositis was characterized histologically as a cell poor interface dermatitis associated with follicular atrophy. In contrast, the lesional pattern of UDSSC is that of a lymphocyte‐rich interface dermatitis and folliculitis with vesiculation at the dermal–epidermal junction. The authors conclude that these represent two distinct diseases and that UDSSC may be a vesicular form of cutaneous lupus erythematosus seen in the adult rough collie dog and Shetland sheepdog.
Characterization of the inflammatory infiltrate during IgE‐mediated late phase reactions in the skin of normal and atopic dogs
Authors: Olivry T. , Dunston S.M. , Murphy K.M. , Moore P.F.
Published: March 2003

In canine and human atopic patients, the intracutaneous injection of offending allergens is followed by the development of both immediate and late‐phase reactions. The present study was performed to expand on the characterization and dynamics of inflammatory cell subsets during IgE‐mediated late‐phase reactions in canine skin. Three normal dogs and three Dermatophagoides farinae‐allergic dogs were selected for this experiment. All dogs were challenged intradermally with mite allergen, purified anticanine IgE antibodies (positive control) or phosphate‐buffered saline (negative control). Skin biopsies were obtained before and 6, 12 and 24 h post‐injection. Sections were stained with metachromatic and eosinophil‐specific histological stains. Additionally, we used an immunohistochemical method with antibodies specific for canine leukocyte antigens. This study confirmed the occurrence of a late‐phase reaction in atopic skin following allergen challenge, and in normal and atopic canine skin after intradermal injection of IgE‐specific antibodies. Whereas early emigrating dermal cells were composed chiefly of neutrophil and activated eosinophil granulocytes, there was an influx of αβ T‐lymphocytes and dermal dendritic cells in later stages of the late‐phase reactions. Because IgE‐mediated late‐phase reactions resemble spontaneous atopic canine skin lesions, both at macroscopic and microscopic levels, we propose the use of similar challenges to study the anti‐inflammatory effects of anti‐allergic drugs in a pre‐clinical setting.
Efficacy of 1.25% amitraz solution in the treatment of generalized demodicosis (eight cases) and sarcoptic mange (five cases) in dogs
Authors: Hugnet C. , Bruchon‐Hugnet C. , Royer H. , Bourdoiseau G.
Published: March 2003

Eight dogs with generalized demodicosis and five with sarcoptic mange were treated with 1.25% amitraz solution applied weekly and associated with an antidote treatment (atipamezol, 0.1 mg kg−1IM once: and yohimbine 0.1 mg kg−1once daily for 3 days, orally). Results of skin scrapings were used to determine whether therapy should be continued or stopped. The median number of treatments for demodicosis and sarcoptic mange was three (range 2–5) and two (range 1–3), respectively. Some side‐effects were observed but all were stopped with antidote treatment; no failure or relapses occurred at 6–36 months after treatment.
The use of compound 48/80 and codeine phosphate as positive controls for intradermal skin testing in dogs
Authors: Vogelnest L.J. , Mueller R.S.
Published: March 2003

The mast cell secretagogues compound 48/80 and codeine phosphate were evaluated as potential positive controls for intradermal skin testing in dogs. Wheal responses to both agents were compared with responses to histamine and saline in 11 normal dogs, and were strong and not significantly different from histamine responses in nine dogs (P < 0.01), and significantly weaker than histamine in two dogs (P < 0.05). Wheal responses to compound 48/80 (1 mg mL−1) were evaluated in 82 suspected atopic dogs and were similar to histamine in 79 dogs and markedly weaker than histamine in three dogs. Of nine confirmed atopic dogs with weak responses to injected allergens, seven had strong responses to compound 48/80, and eight had strong responses to histamine. Compound 48/80 and codeine phosphate appear unreliable positive controls for skin testing in normal dogs. Compound 48/80 (1 mg mL−1) may be a reliable positive control in atopic dogs but is a poor indicator of skin reactivity to allergens.
A semiquantitative cytological evaluation of normal and pathological samples from the external ear canal of dogs and cats
Authors: Ginel Pedro J. , Lucena Rosario , Rodriguez Juan C. , Ortega Joaquin
Published: March 2003

Abstract  Numbers of desquamated epithelial cells, yeast cells and bacterial organisms were counted in samples collected from the external ear canal of 37 normal dogs and 16 normal cats, and from 24 dogs and 22 cats with otitis externa. The aims of the study were to establish quantitative reference ranges and to correlate these data with the clinical status of the dogs and cats. Numbers of yeast cells and bacterial organisms were significantly increased in dogs (P = 0.05; P = 0.0001) and cats (P = 0.0001; P = 0.0001) with otitis externa, and in most cases high counts were correlated with clinical signs. Mean Malassezia counts per high‐power dry field of ≥ 5 in the dog and ≥ 12 in the cat were considered abnormal. Mean bacterial counts per high‐power dry field of ≥ 25 in the dog and ≥ 15 in the cat were considered abnormal. When used to differentiate normal from inflamed external ear canals, these figures provided a low sensitivity but a specificity of ≥ 95%.
Characterization of a monoclonal antibody against desmoplakin 1 for use in dogs
Authors: Nakamura Yuka , Nakashima Ko , Kano Rui , Watanabe Shinichi , Hasegawa Atsuhiko
Published: March 2003

Abstract Skin biopsy specimens from face, axilla, abdomen and thigh, mucocutaneous tissues from anus and vagina, and oral mucosa from six healthy Beagle dogs were examined for desmoplakin (Dsp) immunoreactivity using immunoblotting and immunohistochemical analysis. With immunoblotting using mouse antihuman Dsp 1 monoclonal antibody (DP2.17), a band was detected at 250 kDa in all the extracts as in normal human skin samples, although no band was detected at 210 kDa, suggesting that monoclonal antibody DP2.17 recognizes canine Dsp 1 but not Dsp 2. Moreover, the desmosome regions of all specimens were stained with DP2.17 using immunohistochemical analysis. From these results, DP2.17, developed for the examination of human skin, might be suitable for the investigation of Dsp‐related skin disorders in dogs.
Adherence of Staphylococcus intermedius to canine corneocytes in vitro
Authors: Saijonmaa‐Koulumies Leena E. , Lloyd David H.
Published: March 2003

Abstract This study investigated the in vitro adherence of Staphylococcus intermedius to canine corneocytes, collected from a healthy dog using double‐sided adhesive tape. Adherence was shown to depend on duration (P < 0.001) and temperature of incubation (P < 0.001) and the concentration of bacteria (P < 0.001). Isolates of S. intermedius from lesions of pyoderma were not generally more adherent to healthy canine skin than were isolates from healthy dogs. Significant differences in adherence were demonstrated between individual isolates within both groups (P < 0.001). The study suggests that among S. intermedius there is no correlation between virulence and adherence to canine corneocytes in vitro. The finding may be important for the potential use of avirulent variants of S. intermedius as antagonistic strains against canine pyoderma. However, more studies are needed to compare the adherence of the isolates to skin cells obtained from dogs with diseases predisposed to pyoderma.
Comparison of two sampling techniques to assess quantity and distribution ofMalasseziayeasts on the skin of Basset Hounds
Authors: Bensignor E. , Jankowski F. , Seewald W. , Touati F. , Deville M. , Guillot J.
Published: March 2003

AbstractCytological examination using the tape‐strip technique and fungal culture using contact plates with modified Dixon's medium were compared to evaluate the carriage ofMalasseziayeasts on four cutaneous sites (left pinna, umbilical region, axilla and perianal area) in adult Basset Hounds. Twenty animals were included in the study. High numbers ofMalasseziawere isolated from at least one area in 100% of the animals. The frequencies of isolation and population sizes differed significantly according to anatomical location. They were greater on the pinna, followed by the umbilical area, axilla and perianal area. Fungal culture was more sensitive than cytology for the isolation ofMalasseziayeasts. Frequencies of isolation were greater using this method, but population sizes were constantly smaller than with cytology.
Congenital hypotrichosis with anodontia in cattle: A genetic, clinical and histological analysis
Authors: Drögemüller Cord , Kuiper Heidi , Peters Martin , Guionaud Silvia , Distl Ottmar , Leeb Tosso
Published: March 2003

Abstract Hypotrichosis, an almost complete lack of teeth and the complete absence of eccrine nasolabial glands, was observed among the progeny of a normal cow of the black and white German Holstein breed. Similar congenital anomalies are known in humans and mice as X‐linked anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (ED1), leading to the impaired formation of hair, teeth and sweat glands. The pedigree of the four affected male calves in the investigated cattle family indicated that the described phenotype is inherited as a monogenic X‐linked recessive trait. We used a diagnostic reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) assay to study the heredity of a previously reported causative large genomic deletion in the bovine ED1 gene. This test allowed the unequivocal classification of disease carriers that were phenotypically normal. As the clinical, pathological and genetic findings in human ED1 show striking similarities to the described phenotype in cattle, this bovine disorder may serve as an animal model for human ED1.
Effect of the pre‐emergence bioherbicide Phomopsis convolvulus on seedling and established plant growth of Convolvulus arvensis
Authors: VOGELGSANG  , WATSON  , DITOMMASO  , HURLE
Published: March 2003

The effects of the fungal pathogen Phomopsis convolvulus Ormeno on seedling and established plant performance of Convolvulus arvensis L. were compared under both controlled and field conditions. Under a controlled environment, a granular barley formulation of the fungal inoculum that had been applied on to the soil surface of pots containing pre‐germinated C. arvensis seeds resulted in above‐ground biomass reductions of up to 87%. However, application of the fungus to established plants that had been cut to ground level produced biomass reductions (43%) that were nearly half of those obtained for seedlings. In a parallel field experiment conducted over two growing seasons, application of P. convolvulus resulted in dramatic above‐ground biomass reductions for both seedlings and established plants. In one trial, biomass reductions of up to 100% and 98%, respectively, were obtained. C. arvensis coverage within field plots was closely correlated with above‐ground biomass. Findings in this study indicated that P. convolvulus may provide effective control of C. arvensis when applied pre‐emergence.
Estimating relative crop yield loss resulting from herbicide damage using crop ground cover or rated stunting, with maize and sethoxydim as a case study
Authors: DONALD
Published: March 2003

The research goal was to determine whether crop damage from herbicides measured early in the growing season soon after treatment could be used to estimate relative crop yield loss. Percentage stunting was rated visually and percentage crop ground cover (i.e. percentage of the ground surface covered by vegetation) was determined from video photographs taken 2–4 weeks after sethoxydim‐susceptible maize (Zea mays L.) was sprayed with sethoxydim at various rates plus crop oil concentrate. Averaged over 3 years, relative percentage maize yield was a negative sigmoidal function of relative sethoxydim rates from 0.065× to 0.5×, where the 1× rate was 420 g a.i. ha−1 (r2 = 0.80). Relative maize yield was positively linearly related to percentage crop ground cover and negatively linearly related to rated percentage stunting averaged over 3 years. Linear regression models of relative maize yield vs. percentage maize ground cover explained only slightly more data variability (r2 = 0.86) than did rated stunting (r2 = 0.82) over 3 years. The advantages and disadvantages of rated stunting and crop ground cover as scientific measurements are discussed.
Bioefficacy and leaching of controlled‐release formulations of triazine herbicides
Authors: STORK
Published: March 2003

Conventional formulations of atrazine and simazine were compared with controlled‐release formulations of these two herbicides for bioefficacy, leaching and crop safety in laboratory and field experiments. Three light‐textured soils with a pH range of 5.8–8.5 were used for this work. An oat bioassay (Avena sativa L.) was used to quantify soil concentrations of the herbicides. Comparison of the initial bioefficacy of controlled‐release formulations of atrazine and simazine showed their respective relative potencies to conventional formulations to be 0.51–0.85. The results indicated that the controlled‐release formulations maintained an entrapped reserve of active ingredient after delivery with a conventional boomsprayer. In laboratory trials, the controlled‐release formulations showed a reduction in leaching compared with conventional formulations. A controlled‐release formulation and a conventional formulation of atrazine were tested further in a field trial. A higher concentration of atrazine in topsoil from the controlled‐release formulation was observed 11 weeks after application after 107 mm of rainfall. It was deduced that this was caused by reduced leaching of the controlled‐release formulation, as observed in laboratory trials. EWRC scores for the control of a range of grass and broad‐leaved weeds were identical for both formulations. This indicated that, while the controlled‐release formulation could inhibit leaching of the active ingredient, it did not hinder the level of potency necessary for early weed control. EWRC crop safety ratings of chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.) sown at application were higher for the controlled‐release formulation 10 weeks after sowing, and subsequent harvest yields were 50% higher. It was inferred that this resulted from a favourable interaction between crop growth and the timing of the release of the active ingredient from the controlled‐release formulation. Altogether, the controlled‐release formulations displayed the necessary prerequisites for their further development for large‐scale use under arable regimes.
Competition between barley and Lolium rigidum for nitrate
Authors: PONCE R. GONZÁLEZ
Published: March 2003

The ability of barley to compete with Lolium rigidum Gaud. was evaluated in a replacement series competition experiment under glasshouse conditions. A similar, positive response to nitrogen applications on growth, seed production and nitrogen uptake by barley and L. rigidum was found. The nitrogen level did not alter the competitive relationship between the species. There was reciprocal competition between barley and L. rigidum but, because of earlier tillering and nitrate absorption by barley, the competition from the crop was greater. L. rigidum exhibited a prolonged period of tillering and nitrate absorption and competed less with the barley. The relative yield total in the mixture was greater than 1 as a result of the different time of nitrate absorption by both species. The role of nitrogen fertilizer in the competitive relationship between the species is considered in terms of the period of application and the nitrogen salt used.
Degradation of the sulfonylurea herbicides chlorsulfuron and triasulfuron in a high‐organic‐matter volcanic soil
Authors: JAMES  , HOLLAND  , RAHMAN  , LU
Published: March 2003

The degradation rates of two sulfonylurea herbicides, chlorsulfuron and triasulfuron, were determined at two application rates, 15 and 30 g a.i. ha–1, in a sandy loam soil of volcanic origin under controlled environment and field conditions. Residues were measured using a modified gas chromatographic (gc) determination method. Both herbicides degraded rapidly in the acidic soil (pH 5.7) with high organic matter levels (7.3% o.m.), generally according to first‐order rate kinetics. The respective half‐lives ranged from 22 to 38 d for chlorsulfuron and from 31 to 44 d for triasulfuron under five controlled temperature/soil moisture regimens, ranging from 10 to 30 °C and between 40% and 80% maximum water‐holding capacity. Half‐lives in the field were considerably shorter (13 d for chlorsulfuron and 12–13 d for triasulfuron). The degradation rates of the herbicides were influenced more by soil temperature than by soil moisture content. Bioassays using white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) and forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] were also used to determine the persistence of phytotoxic residues of both herbicides in the field, and the results showed that the effects of chlorsulfuron disappeared within 8 weeks. Triasulfuron residues disappeared within 9 and 14 weeks for the 15 and 30 g a.i. ha–1 rates respectively.
Model of crop:weed competition applied to maize:Abutilon theophrasti interactions. I. Model description and evaluation
Authors: McDonald  , Riha
Published: March 2003

A complex set of interactions among crops, weeds and their environment determines the impact of weed interference on crop productivity. These interactions can be simulated with dynamic crop:weed competition models, such as ALMANAC. In this study, ALMANAC was modified to simulate maize:Abutilon theophrasti competition. In the modified ALMANAC model, daily increases in leaf area index (LAI), height and rooting depth are attenuated on the basis of accumulated above‐ground biomass and by environmental stress. Also, a simple, flexible method is adopted to partition radiation in a mixed canopy. A maize:A. theophrasti competition study conducted near Aurora, NY, in which a range of weed densities (0–16 plants m−2) were established in a maize crop, was used to evaluate the model. The modified ALMANAC proved to be a useful tool for segregating the maize response to competition in 1991 (simulated loss of 35% at the highest weed density) from those in 1992–94 (simulated losses not greater than 16%). Based on these findings, the modified ALMANAC model is judged to be capable of distinguishing between environmental conditions that facilitate large yield losses and those that allow maize to outcompete A. theophrasti.
Effect of method of Imperata cylindrica management on maize grain yield in the derived savanna of south‐western Nigeria
Authors: Akobundu  , Ekeleme
Published: March 2003

Field studies were conducted in 1991 and 1992 on a sandy loam soil in the derived savanna zone of south‐western Nigeria to assess the effect of the underground organs of Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeuschel on maize grain yield. Total dry matter of I. cylindrica in abandoned arable land averaged 16 t ha−1 and rhizomes contributed 56% of this. Rhizome removal from soil before planting maize significantly increased maize yield relative to hoe tillage or slashing of I. cylindrica shoots before planting maize. Digging up rhizomes before planting maize and weeding the crop twice gave a yield reduction of only 23% compared with weed‐free crops with rhizomes removed. Grain yield reduction was 51% in plots where rhizomes were only fragmented by hoe tillage and the crop was weeded twice. Grain yield was 62% less when maize was grown in slashed plots with intact rhizomes that were weeded four times (farmers’ practice). Slashing without additional weeding resulted in crop failure in maize.
Effect of vernalization on the development and growth of Alopecurus myosuroides
Authors: Chavvel B , Munier‐Jolain N M , Grandgirard D , Gueritaine G
Published: March 2003

Alopecurus myosuroides is an annual winter grass weed present in many winter and spring crops. The vernalization responses of three populations of A. myosuroides were assessed using natural exposure during winter in two field experiments and using cold exposure of imbibed seeds in a refrigerator in two greenhouse experiments. It was observed that a period of chilling during the pregermination phase had a marked effect on subsequent phenology. In the greenhouse, the major effect of vernalization was the reduction in the vegetative period because of an early reproductive induction of the apex. Plant morphology was affected by vernalization via a decrease in biomass resulting from a reduced tiller number. In all experiments, the time to panicle emergence and the number of leaves on the main stem were reduced by the chilling treatment in field and greenhouse experiments. Alopecurus myosuroides appears to be a species with a partial (quantitative) requirement for cold vernalization, but polymorphism for vernalization requirement was observed within and between populations. Depending on the sowing date, 850–1200 day–degrees C were required for flowering. The possible existence of different annual life forms within A. myosuroides is discussed.
Identification of ALS inhibitor‐resistant Amaranthus biotypes using polymerase chain reaction amplification of specific alleles
Authors: Wagner J , Haas H U , Hurle K
Published: March 2003

Summary Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of specific alleles (PASA) was adapted as a molecular marker‐based method for the rapid detection of point mutations in Amaranthus retroflexus and Amaranthus rudis leading to ALS inhibitor resistance. Two pairs of primers were designed for the specific amplification of alleles of the ALS gene of susceptible and resistant biotypes. The allele‐specific primer matched the desired allele, but mismatched the different allele at its 3′ end. Differentiation was carried out by comparison of the amplified DNA fragments in gel electrophoresis after PASA‐PCR. In A. rudis, differentiation was possible with one PCR and genomic DNA as probe. A ‘nested’ PCR was necessary for the differentiation of sensitive and resistant A. retroflexus. PASA is useful for the identification of resistant weed biotypes and also as a monitoring tool to map resistance occurrence and distribution. Advantages include the fast and clear separation of those plants with and without mutations at an early stage of development, its easy and consistent performance and quick results compared with existing resistance detection tests. These advantages, when combined with management strategies, enable further activities to reduce herbicide resistance.
Use of density to predict crop yield loss between variable seasons
Authors: Murphy C , Lemerle D , Jones R , Harden S
Published: March 2003

Summary Density:yield loss models rely on fixed coefficients, parameterized from a particular site and season to predict the impact of weeds on crop yields. However, the empiricism of this approach and failure to incorporate environmental effects, has major biological and economic implications. In this study, seasonal variability in wheat yield loss and associated economic costs from Avena spp. were quantitated. A competition experiment at Wagga Wagga, NSW, showed large seasonal differences in wheat yield loss from densities of Avena spp. across 2 years. Gross margins, simulated over a 51‐year period, decreased as Avena spp. density increased and were more variable at low crop densities and higher weed densities. For example, at a density of 200 Avena spp. plants m−2, coefficient of variation in crop gross margin (CV) was $AUS 47 ha−1 for a crop density of 200 wheat plants m−2 compared with a CV of $AUS 75 ha−1 for a crop density of 50 wheat plants m−2. The value of yield loss predictions will be vastly improved by making parameter values in yield loss models a function of seasonal factors such as rainfall.
Competitiveness against grass weeds in field pea genotypes
Authors: McDonald G K
Published: March 2003

Summary Field pea is an important pulse crop in southern Australia, but its competitiveness against weeds is low. Two experiments were conducted in consecutive years to examine the ability of different genotypes to compete against grass weeds. Field pea was grown in the presence or absence of Lolium rigidum or wheat. In each experiment significant genotypic differences in field pea competitiveness occurred and some genotypes had consistently high or low levels of competitiveness in both years. Tall genotypes generally suppressed L. rigidum and wheat more effectively than short genotypes. Leaf type (conventional, semileafless or tare‐leaf) only affected competitiveness before flowering and had no effect on yield loss from weed competition. Maturity had little effect on competitive ability. A genotype × environment analysis for competitive ability showed that there was considerable variation in the response to the level of competition (environment) as well as in mean competitiveness among field pea genotypes. Using wheat as a weed identified genotypic differences in field peas more effectively and more consistently than using L. rigidum. Visual assessment of wheat growth with field pea was strongly correlated with a specific genotype's competitiveness, which may form the basis of a simple field‐based screening method for competitive ability.
Crusted scabies of the scalp in dermatomyositis patients: three cases treated with oral ivermectin
Authors: Dourmishev MD, PhD, DSc Assen L. , Serafimova MD Dimitrina K. , Dourmishev MD Lyubomir A. , Mualla MD, PhD Mohamed A. , Papaharalambous MD Velitchka , Malchevsky MD Tichomir
Published: March 2003

BackgroundCutaneous features in the scalp area among adult patients are rarely considered as a manifestation of scabies.

MethodsThree patients with clinical and laboratory data of dermatomyositis with scalp involvement (fulfill three or four of Bohan and Peter’s criteria), of 4 years, 8 months, and 3 years duration, were seen at our department between 1995 and 1996. For relapses of ordinary scabies, they were treated repeatedly with local scabicide with temporary effect. After a symptom‐free period during the treatment of dermatomyositis with corticosteroids and azathioprine, they developed diffuse redness with scales and crusts on the scalp areas. Light microscopy examination of material taken from these crusts showed an abundance of live mites.

ResultsAll patients were successfully cured of scabies with a twice oral dose of 200 μg/kg ivermectin within 8 days.

ConclusionsOur patients with crusted scabies of the scalp and dermatomyositis prompted us to change our standard diagnostic and therapeutic regimens. Fascinating features included mimicry of scabies in patients with dermatomyositis, location of parasites on the scalp, suppressed cell‐mediated immunity and successful cure of mange by ivermectin.
Erythema multiforme, Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis in northeastern Malaysia
Authors: Kamaliah M. D. , Drcog . , Zainal D. , Mbbs . , Mokhtar N. , Nazmi N.
Published: March 2003

Background Previous studies have reported that drugs and infections are common causes of erythema multiforme (EM) and Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS). Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is mainly related to drugs. No study has been conducted in Kelantan, the northeastern state of Malaysia, to assess these cutaneous reactions.

Methods A retrospective study of all hospitalized cases of EM, SJS, and TEN was conducted covering an 8‐year period from 1987 to 1994.

Results There were four cases (13.8%) of EM, 22 cases (75.9%) of SJS, and three cases (10.3%) of TEN. Drugs as a definitive cause was observed in one case (25%) of EM, 12 cases (54.5%) of SJS, and two cases (66.7%) of TEN. Drugs as a probable cause was observed in seven cases (31.8%) of SJS and one case (33.3%) of TEN. The male to female ratio was equal in EM and SJS. Antiepileptics were the commonest culprits, followed by antibiotics. One patient died of SJS and one patient died of TEN, giving mortality rates of 4.5% and 33.5% respectively. Fever was noted in 18 patients (62.1%). Leukocytosis was noted in 10 patients (34.5%), and nine patients (31.0%) had elevated liver transaminase enzymes. No significant correlation was noted between these biochemical changes and cutaneous eruption. Secondary infections were observed in 11 patients (37.9%): Staphylococcus aureus was the commonest isolated organism.

Conclusions This study shows that drugs remain the commonest culprit in SJS and TEN. Despite adequate treatment, the mortality rate remains high, especially in TEN. These findings are similar to those of other reported studies.
Correspondence
Authors: Goihman‐Yahr Mauricio
Published: March 2003

Periorbital necrotizing cellulitis

A 49‐year‐old Japanese woman with uncontrolled diabetes and alcohol abuse noticed a slight red discoloration above the right upper eyelid on the day after she had got very drunk. In spite of the treatment with antibiotics given by local physicians, her right upper and lower eyelids gradually became edematous so that she could not open her right eye. She was referred to us 7 days after the onset of the disease. Physical examination revealed marked erythema and swelling on the right eyelid with yellow, partially black necrotic tissues ( Fig. 1). A thick purulent discharge was drained from the right lateral canthus. The eyeground examination was unremarkable, and ocular movements were intact. Computed tomographic scans of the orbits showed neither orbital nor sinus involvement. The peripheral white blood cell count was 11,550/mm3. A culture of pus yielded β‐hemolytic, group A, Streptococcus pyogenes. The periorbital edema resolved after surgical debridement and systemic administration of imipenem/cilastatin and cefazolin for 3 weeks; however, facial nerve palsy of the right temporal branches still remains after 2 months (
Fig. 2).

Marked edema and erythema on the right eyelid

image

Facial nerve palsy after healing of the wound. Note lack of furrows on right half of forehead

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Primary squamous syringometaplasia with no underlying malignancy
Authors: Jerasutus Suthep , Laohabhan Kulakarn , Suvanprakorn Pichit
Published: March 2003

A 26‐year‐old Thai man was first seen in our department for the evaluation of an intermittent, pruritic, papular eruption that had appeared over the previous 2 months. He noticed that the lesions usually arose following exposure to heat or excessive sweating. The patient was otherwise in good health and did not take any medication. His family history did not reveal any similar disease.

On examination, there were multiple 2–3 mm, clustered, erythematous papules widely distributed on the chest, abdomen, buttock, and thighs ( Fig. 1). They were purpuric and blanched slightly when palpated. All lesions appeared to be at the same stage of development. Some papules had coalesced to give edematous plaques with satellite margins. Healing lesions showed striking reticulated hyperpigmentation. The clinical differential diagnosis included allergic contact dermatitis and herpes simplex. Histology of a punch biopsy from the back revealed squamous metaplasia of the eccrine ductal epithelium of the epidermis and the upper dermis. The metaplastic ducts were lined by large polygonal epithelial cells. Focal necrosis of the ductal epithelium, obliteration of the lumen, and parakeratosis were also observed. A slight perivascular infiltrate of lymphocytes with some neutrophils and eosinophils was noted in the upper dermis. The coils in the deeper dermis were not involved. A diagnosis of primary squamous syringometaplasia was made. Routine laboratory tests were normal.

Multiple groups of 2–3 mm erythematous papules on the trunk and abdomen. Some lesions are confluent

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PUVA treatment of vitiligo: a retrospective study of Turkish patients
Authors: Sahin Sedef , Hindioglu Ugur , Karaduman Ayşen
Published: March 2003

Background Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) is considered to be the treatment of choice for subtotal vitiligo; however, it is time consuming and carries certain health risks for both patients and physicians. This study attempts to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment in Turkish vitiligo patients.

Methods We have performed a retrospective study of 33 patients with vitiligo who received systemic PUVA therapy during the period 1985 to 1997, and have evaluated their response to treatment.

Results Overall, 28 patients (84%) showed some improvement; 12 patients experienced a repigmentation of 51–75% and six patients achieved greater than 75% repigmentation. Face and trunk lesions showed better repigmentation than other areas, whereas hands, feet, perioral, and periorbital areas were generally refractory to treatment. The age of the patient, age at onset of the disease, sex, disease duration, and degree of depigmentation prior to initiation of therapy had no influence on PUVA‐induced repigmentation.

Conclusions The distribution of vitiliginous skin must be taken into consideration before the initiation of PUVA therapy, as the response to treatment varies greatly with different body sites; hands, feet, perioral, and periorbital regions are particularly treatment resistant.
Epidemiology and prognosis of plantar melanoma in 62 Japanese patients over a 28‐year period
Authors: Kato Taizo , Suetake T. , Tabata N. , Takahashi K. , Tagami H.
Published: March 2003

Background The plantar surface is one of the commonest sites of malignant melanoma in the Japanese; however, the biological behavior is not sufficiently clarified, because of the paucity of long‐term studies. We attempted an epidemiologic survey of the cases of plantar melanoma treated in our institute to study the survival rate in the recent period.

Methods Of the 207 cases of malignant melanoma observed over the past 28 years, 62 patients were diagnosed as having plantar melanoma. The proportion of plantar melanoma to all melanomas, the sex and age of the patients, and the histologic type, stage, and prognosis were evaluated by comparing those registered in the first half (1969–1982) and the second half (1983–1996) of the period.

Results The proportions of plantar melanoma in the first and second half periods were 31% (28 out of 90) and 29% (34 out of 117), respectively. No sex difference in the patients was observed. The mean age of the patients was 67 years. Fifty‐one lesions were histologically proven to be acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), two were superficial spreading melanoma (SSM), and nine were nodular melanoma (NM). Of the nine NMs, eight were registered in the second half period. The heel was affected in 33 (53%), the metatarsal regions in nine (14%), the toes in six (10%), and the arch areas in 14 (23%). The proportion of the weight‐bearing areas, including the heel, metatarsal areas, and toes, decreased in the second half period.

A comparison of the stages of plantar melanoma showed that, in the first half period, there were 18% of patients with stage IV disease in contrast to none in the second half period. Conversely, the proportion of stage I and II disease was 50% in the second half period, whereas it was only 39% in the first half period. The 5‐year survival rates in the first and second half periods were 56% and 71%, respectively.

Conclusions The prognosis of plantar melanoma has improved recently at our institute. The possible explanation for a trend to better survival in the second half period may be related to a decrease in stage IV disease as well as to an increase in the frequency of diagnosis of early stage disease.
A comparison of once‐daily application of mometasone furoate 0.1% cream compared with twice‐daily hydrocortisone valerate 0.2% cream in pediatric atopic dermatitis patients who failed to respond to hydrocortisone
Authors: Lebwohl Mark , group the mometasone furoate study
Published: March 2003

Two hundred and nineteen patients completed this multicenter, randomized, evaluator‐blind, parallel‐group study evaluating the efficacy and safety of once‐daily application of mometasone furoate 0.1% cream compared with twice‐daily hydrocortisone valerate 0.2% cream in children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

Enrolled patients were between 2 and 12 years of age and had failed to respond to at least 7 consecutive days of treatment with a topical hydrocortisone preparation, with the last application of hydrocortisone occurring within a week before enrolling in the current study.

Patients were randomized to treatment from 10 centers in the USA with either mometasone furoate 0.1% cream (n = 109) or hydrocortisone valerate 0.2% cream (n = 110) for up to 3 weeks. At enrollment, a target area of dermatitis (not the face or forehead) of at least 20 cm2 was selected by the investigator for specific evaluation of the effects of treatment on disease signs and symptoms. Additionally, patients had to present with at least 15% total body surface involvement, excluding the face and forehead, with the current exacerbation of atopic dermatitis. The severity of erythema, induration/lichenification, scaling/crusting, exudation, excoriation, and pruritus was graded on the following scale: 0 = none; 1 = mild; 2 = moderate; 3 = severe. A total sign/symptom severity score (sum of six individual sign/symptom severity scores) of ≥ 8 was required in the target area (maximum = 18), with a severity score of ≥ 2 required for erythema and for one other sign. Patients were examined on return visits on days 4, 8, 15, and 22 of treatment and the severity of the signs and symptoms present in the target area was rated by the investigator at each visit. Areas outside the target area were also treated with the study medications and evaluated by the investigator in the global response to treatment. The criteria for global clinical response compared to baseline were as follows: cleared (100% improvement); excellent (75–99% improvement); good (50–74% improvement); fair (25–49% improvement); poor (< 25% improvement); exacerbation (a flare‐up at a treatment site). No other therapies for atopic dermatitis were permitted.
Betamethasone valerate foam 0.12%: a novel vehicle with enhanced delivery and efficacy
Authors: Franz Thomas J. , Parsell Dawn A. , Halualani Roger M. , Hannigan John F. , Kalbach Jacqueline P. , Ma . , Harkonen W. Scott
Published: March 2003

Background: A new topical formulation of betamethasone valerate (BMV) with enhanced dermal penetration has been developed.

Objective: These studies were designed to evaluate: (1) the relative bioavailability of BMV foam, and (2) the safety and efficacy of BMV foam in the treatment of scalp psoriasis as compared to a lotion formulation of BMV and placebo.

Methods: Safety and efficacy were evaluated in a randomized, multicenter, double‐blind, active‐and placebo‐controlled trial in adult patients with moderate to severe scalp psoriasis. A separate study in 18 patients was conducted to evaluate the potential for suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Relative bioavailability was measured using the human cadaver skin model.

Results: 72% of patients using BMV foam were clear or almost clear of disease at the end of 28‐days of treatment as judged by the investigator’s global assessment of response. Only 47% of BMV lotion patients and 21% of placebo showed a similar level of response. There was no evidence of increased toxicity or HPA‐axis suppression for BMV foam, but assessment of relative bioavailability showed BMV penetration into the skin to be more than two‐fold greater than from BMV lotion.

Conclusions: A novel foam formulation with enhanced BMV bioavailability has been shown to be of increased efficacy in the treatment of scalp psoriasis without an associated increase in toxicity.
Majocchi’s granuloma trichophyticum in an immunocompromised patient
Authors: Gupta Somesh ,   DNB, Kumar Bhushan ,   MNAMS, Radotra Bishan Dass , Rai Ranju , Of Dermatology Departments ,   Venereology and Leprology and Pathology, Of Medical Education Post Graduate Institute ,   Research,   Chandigarh,   India
Published: March 2003

A 40‐year‐old man with alcoholic liver disease was referred to the dermatology clinic for asymptomatic papulonodular lesions over the face of 15 days’ duration. Cutaneous examination revealed multiple, dusky red to yellow, follicular as well as perifollicular papulonodular lesions, varying in size from 0.5 to 2 cm ( Fig. 1). They were distributed over the forehead, cheeks, eyelids, nose, chin, beard area, retroauricular area, and neck. Careful examination revealed well‐defined scaly margins on the back of the pinna (
Fig. 2). KOH examination of a scraping from the neck revealed nonpigmented septate hyphae. Histopathologic examination of the excised nodule revealed epitheloid cell granulomas with neutrophilic microabscesses surrounding the hair follicles. Periodic acid–Schiff stain was noncontributory. Culture of an excised nodule on Sabouraud’s agar showed growth of Trichophyton rubrum. Considering his liver disease, the patient was initially treated with topical terbinafine. Because of a lack of a satisfactory response this was changed to oral terbinafine 250 mg/day. There was marked regression of the lesions by the sixth day. Unfortunately, the patient succumbed to complications relating to his liver disease.

Follicular and perifollicular lesions of Majocchi’s granuloma

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A well‐defined scaly margin of tinea on the back of the pina

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A child with spider bite and glomerulonephritis: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Lung Jennifer M. , Mallory Susan B.
Published: March 2003

A previously healthy 7‐year‐old white boy presented to St. Louis Children's Hospital with a 1‐day history of headache, malaise, temperature of 38.7 °C, and a progressively erythematous, tender calf with central dusky purpura. On the morning of admission, his mother noticed a 2‐mm crust on the patient's right calf with a 3‐cm × 3‐cm area of surrounding erythema. No history of recent trauma or bite was obtained. He had suffered two episodes of nonbloody, nonbilious emesis during the last day. In addition, over the previous 12 h, he presented brown urine without dysuria. His mother and brother had suffered from gastroenteritis over the previous week without bloody diarrhea.

On initial physical examination, there was a 6‐cm × 11‐cm macular tender purpuric plaque with a central punctum on the right inner calf, which was warm and tender to the touch, with erythematous streaking towards the popliteal fossa ( Fig. 1). The inguinal area was also erythematous with tender lymphadenopathy and induration, but without fluctuance. Laboratory studies included an elevated white blood cell count of 20,800/μL with 6% bands, 86% segs, and 7% lymphocytes, hemoglobin of 12.5 g/dL, hematocrit of 35.1%, and platelets of 282,000/μL. The prothrombin time/activated partial tissue thromboplastin was 10.4/28.0 s (normal PT, 9.3–12.3 s; normal PTT, 21.3–33.7 s) and fibrinogen was 558 mg/dL (normal, 192–379 mg/dL). Urinalysis showed 1+ protein, 8–10 white blood cells, too numerous to count red blood cells, and no hemoglobinuria. His electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatine were normal. The urine culture was negative. Blood culture after 24 h showed one out of two bottles of coagulase negative Staphylococcus epidermidis.

(A) 7‐year‐old boy with painful purpura of the calf

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The patient's physical examination was highly suggestive of a brown recluse spider bite with surrounding purpura. Over the next 2 days, the surrounding rim of erythema expanded. The skin within the plaque cleared and peeled at the periphery. The coagulase negative staphylococci in the blood culture were considered to be a contaminant. Cefotaxime and oxacillin were given intravenously. His leg was elevated and cooled with ice packs. The patient's fever resolved within 24 h. The lesion became less erythematous and nontender with decreased warmth and lymphadenopathy. The child was discharged on Duricef for 10 days.

Because the patient experienced hematuria rather than hemoglobinuria, nephritis was suggested. In this case, poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis was the most likely cause. His anti‐streptolysin‐O titer was elevated at 400 U (normal, <200 U) and C3 was 21.4 mg/dL (normal, 83–177 mg/dL). His urine lightened to yellow–brown in color. His blood pressure was normal. Renal ultrasound showed severe left hydronephrosis with cortical atrophy, probably secondary to chronic/congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction. His right kidney was normal.