bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Type IV Collagen Synthesis by Cultured Mouse Keratinocytes (Pam Cells)
Authors: Tokimitsu Ichiro , Ohyama Katsumi , Tajima Shingo , Nishikawa Takeji
Published: April 2015

The collagens synthesized by Pam cells were biochemically characterized. The collagen in the cell layers was identified as type IV collagen by immunoprecipitation with type IV collagen specific antibody. The apparent molecular weights were 180 Kd and 175 Kd, which converted to major (160 Kd) and several minor smaller fragments with pepsin treatment. The ratios of 3‐hydroxyproline/4‐hydroxyproline and 4‐hydroxyproline/proline in the 160 Kd polypeptide were 0.11 and 1.18, respectively. The result shows that Pam cells are able to produce type IV collagen whose biochemical characteristics are similar to those from other epithelial cells.

In the kinetic study, the synthesis of type IV collagen reached its maximum level rapidly on the 1st day after seeding, suggesting that type IV collagen may play a role in cell attachment and proliferation.
Neonatal Lupus Syndrome and Microtubular Structure
Authors: Nitta Yukiko , Ohashi Masaru
Published: April 2015

A female infant, at 6 weeks old, with the clinical manifestation of annular erythemas on the trunk and face, was positive for anti‐SS‐A and anti‐SS‐B antibodies. The annular erythema disappeared spontaneously at the age of 7 months when anti‐SS‐A and anti‐SS‐B antibodies were negative. Electron microscopic observation of the vascular endothelial cells on the annular erythema revealed microtubular structures. Later microtubular structures were found absent from the vascular endothelial cells of the area where the annular erythema had disappeared. The patient's mother is suffering from Sjögren's syndrome; she has no clinical symptoms but anti‐SS‐A and anti‐SS‐B antibodies are positive and a biopsy of small salivary glands of the lip demonstrated a marked periductal mononuclear cell infiltration. Microtubular structures were observed in her vascular endothelial cells in the small salivary gland region. These findings suggest that disappearance of microtubular structure may have some relationship with anti‐SS‐A and anti‐SS‐B antibodies.
Exacerbation of Psoriasis during Lithium Treatment
Authors: Sasaki Tetsuo , Saito Sumi , Aihara Michiko , Ohsawa Junko , Ikezawa Zenro
Published: April 2015

Exacerbation of psoriasis was observed in a 28‐year‐old patient following the addition of lithium carbonate to a treatment regimen of carbamazepine and other drugs for ***manic‐depressive psychosis. The biopsied lesion histologically showed a typical psoriasiform tissue reaction and immunohistochemically, remarkable infiltration of activated helper T cells. Immunologic reaction to lithium in a patch test and a lymphocyte proliferation test could not be demonstrated. The mechanisms of lithium action and their relations to the exacerbation of psoriasis were reviewed. In this patient, although we could not define which effect of lithium was most important, it seemed that an increased blood lithium level combined with simultaneous carbamazepine administration enhanced the triggering effect of lithium and caused the exacerbation of psoriasis.
A Case of Tick‐bite from Ixodes ovatus Neumann
Authors: Fukuoka Fukami , Kawasaki Yohji , Dekio Satoshi , Jidoi Joji , Sugihara Kumiko , Abe Kenji , Yamane Yosuke
Published: April 2015

A 70‐year‐old male forestation worker had a tick‐bite on the lower abdominal skin. The bite was treated by surgical excision of the tick together with the surrounding skin. The tick was identified as Ixodes ovatus Neumann through investigation of its morphological characteristics. This patient is the fourth case of a tick‐bite from Ixodes ovatus Neumann in western Japan.
Glycosylated Proteins of Skin, Nail and Hair: Application as an Index for Long‐term Control of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sueki Hirohiko , Nozaki Shigeyuki , Fujisawa Ryuichi , Aoki Kimiko , Kuroiwa Yukio
Published: April 2015

The purpose of the present study was to compare the degrees of nonenzymatically glycosylated proteins in the skin (stratum corneum), the nail, the hair, and hemoglobin obtained simultaneously from the same subject and to evaluate the most useful sample for management of diabetic complications. Fifty‐one diabetic patients and 20 control patients were examined, utilizing furosine determination. Furosine value of the skin in diabetics was 2.14 ± 1.70%, whereas that in controls was 1.65 ± 0.47%. Furosine value of the nail in diabetics was 6.67 ± 3.30%, whereas that in controls was 4.16 ± 1.62%. Furosine value of the hair in diabetics was 1.30 ± 1.11%, whereas that in controls was 1.29 ± 1.71%. Close correlations were detected between HbA1 (glycosylated hemoglobin) and furosine of the nail (r=0.58, p<0.001), HbA1 and furosine of the skin (r=0.48, p<0.001), and HbA1 and furosine of the hair (r=0.43, p<0.01); however, poor correlations were found between furosine of the hair and the skin (r=0.35, p<0.05) and furosine of the nail and the hair (r=0.33, p<0.05). Furosine of the nail was significantly correlated with the FBS (fasting blood sugar) of the same time, previous 6, and previous 12 months. Furosine value of the nail, we believe, is the most useful indicator for evaluating long term control of diabetics and may provide useful information for management of diabetic complications.
Histopathologic Features of Superficial Granulomatous Pyoderma
Authors: Winkelmann Richard K , Wilson‐Jones Edward , Gibson Lawrence E. , Quimby Steven R.
Published: April 2015

Study of the histopathologic pattern of 28 cases of superficial granulomatous pyoderma demonstrated an ulcerative, verrucous pyoderma of the superficial dermis. Focal abscesses in the subepidermis or dermis were juxtaposed with granuloma formation and plasma cell inflammation. Hemorrhage and granulation tissue were present. The clinical lesions are indolent, and this feature is confirmed by chronic inflammatory elements, including sinus tract formation and focal fibrosis. Superficial granulomatous pyoderma must be added to the histologic differential diagnosis of the vegetative and ulcerative granulomas: blastomycosis, tuberculosis verrucosa cutis, and bromoderma.
A Case of Mosquito Hypersensitivity Showing Abnormality of Peripheral Monocyte Function
Authors: Sugihara Kumiko , Yamada Yoshitaka , Dekio Satoshi , Jidoi Joji
Published: April 2015

We report here an 11‐year‐old Japanese girl with an ulcer‐forming type of mosquito hypersensitivity. Since the lesions might have arisen from an Arthus type of hypersensitivity, we used a phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)‐triggered chentiluminescence method to investigate the function of her peripheral monocytes, which should play an important role in any Arthus reaction in association with polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs). The chemiluminescence of the patient's monocytes was significantly reduced from that of the normal control. To our best knowledge, no such functional abnormality of the monocytes has been seen previously in patients with an ulcer‐forming type of mosquito hypersensitivity.
A Giant Calcifying Pseudocyst Seen in a Patient with Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Hashiro Makoto , Maeda Motomu , Kobayashi Yoichi , Yoshikawa Kunihiko
Published: April 2015

A case of a female with a large cystic tumor in her infrascapular region is reported. The tumor was 8 cm × 7 cm in size. Histologically, it was a pseudocyst with calcification. The patient showed no abnormal renal functions other than proteinuria. Because she had suffered from overlap syndromes of systemic lupus erythematosus, progressive systemic sclerosis, and suspected dermatomyositis, we diagnosed this as a unique case of dystrophic calcinosis. There have been several reports of cases with connective tissue diseases showing subcutaneous calcification, but to our knowledge no such giant calcifying pseudocyst has ever been reported.
Arteriovenous Malformation with an Ulcer of the Foot
Authors: Matsukawa Ataru , Sakai Shigenobu
Published: April 2015

An unusual case of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) associated with ulcer arising on the sole of the left foot is reported. This ulcer was precipitated by pregnancy. After a split thickness skin graft repaired the ulcer, diffuse AVM was found on the left lower leg by arteriography. All the involved vessels were totally excised and the course was comparatively good. Clinical manifestations of AVM, incidences of ulcer in AVM, histological differentiation from Kaposi sarcoma, and treatment of AVM are discussed.
Rickettsioses of the Spotted Fever Group around the World
Authors: Walker David H.
Published: April 2015

Spotted fever group rickettsioses comprise Rocky Mountain spotted fever (Rickettsia rickettsii), boutonneuse fever (R. conorii), North Asian tick typhus (R. sibirica), Queensland tick typhus (R. australis), rickettsialpox (R. akari), and Oriental spotted fever (R. japonica). Ticks or mites serve as the vector and reservoir hosts of the rickettsiae. These obligate intracellular bacteria invade vascular endothelial cells, which are damaged directly, causing increased vascular permeability. The rash usually appears in Rocky Mountain spotted fever on the third day of illness and later evolves to become petechial maculopapules in 50% of cases with involvement of the palms and soles in a similar proportion of patients. Eschar occurs in some SFG rickettsioses at the site of tick bite, but rarely in Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Diagnosis often proves difficult, and laboratory assays for antibodies to SFG rickettsiae are generally useful only in convalescence. Rickettsiae are demonstrable by diagnostic immunohistology in biopsies of rash or eschar. Empiric treatment with doxycycline, tetracycline, or chloramphenicol should be given early in the course on the basis of clinical suspicion of the diagnosis of a SFG rickettsiosis.
Analysis of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Gene in Psoriasis
Authors: Dosaka Naoko , Fujita Mayumi , Tanaka Toshihiro , Miyachi Yoshiki , Imamura Sadao
Published: April 2015

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) plays an important role in cell proliferation. In psoriasis, increased histochemical expression of EGF receptor has been reported in the epidermis. In order to elucidate the mechanism of this increase, we studied the EGF receptor gene organization in psoriasis. DNAs were extracted from white blood cells of 5 patients with psoriasis and 5 normal controls and also from epidermis of 2 psoriatic patients and 1 normal control, and analyzed by Southern blot technique. There were no differences in the structural organization of EGF receptor gene in either white blood cells or epidermis between psoriatic patients and normal controls. These results suggest that the histochemical increase of EGF receptor in the epidermis of psoriatic patients is not due to a structural change in this gene.
Skin Typing, Sun Exposure, and Sunscreen Use in a Population of Japanese
Authors: Kawada Akira , Hiruma Masataro , Noda Toshiaki , Kukita Atsushi
Published: April 2015

Distribution of Japanese skin types (JSTs), sun‐exposure habits, and sunscreen use were surveyed in 379 new outpatients. The largest number of subjects belonged to JST class J‐II (65%), J‐I was second (24%), and J‐III was third (11%). Eighty‐eight percent of those studied had occasional or habitual sun exposure during the summer, and many were exposed for more than three hours per exposure day (80% of those with occasional exposure; 62% of those with habitual exposure). More younger persons had occasional sun exposure than older persons. More males had habitual sun exposure than females. Sunscreens were used by 41% of the subjects, but 77% of these used them without accurate understanding of the definition of the sun protection factor. More J‐I subjects used sunscreens than J‐II and J‐III subjects. More females than males used them.
Electron Microscopic Study of the Colloid‐like Substance in Solar Elastosis
Authors: Matsuta Mayumi , Kunimoto Mitsuo , Kosegawa Gen , Akasaka Toshihide , Kon Saiichi
Published: April 2015

We have made electron microscopic studies on the elastotic material of solar elastosis which developed in cutis rhomboidalis nuchae taken from 10 males, 50–83 years of age. It was revealed that this material of the cutis rhomboidalis nuchae contained a colloid‐like substance consisting of both a fine granular and an amorphous component. The colloid‐like substance closely resembled that which is seen in the adult‐type colloid milium, and could not be distinguished from it under light microscopy.

In view of the morphological similarity at the ultrastructural level between the elastotic material and the colloid‐like substance, it was proposed that normal elastic fibers can change into elastotic material and then further degenerate into the colloid‐like substance, eventually becoming the typical colloid substance seen in colloid milium.
Prolyl Hydroxylase and Procollagen III Peptide Levels in the Sera from Patients with Collagen Diseases and Psoriasis
Authors: Sasaki Tetsuo , Nakajima Hiroshi
Published: April 2015

Prolyl hydroxylase (PH) and procollagen III peptide (PIIIP) levels in 43 serum samples from various collagen diseases including 19 progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) cases were simultaneously assayed and compared to those of 22 age‐matched psoriasis patients and 20 healthy controls in order to examine whether they can serve as useful parameters of fibrotic changes, especially in the skin. Serum PH levels were determined with enzyme immunoassay and serum PIIIP levels with radioimmunoassay. The average values of PH were 109% (n=3, p<0.001; generalized morphea, GM), 104% (n=1; overlap syndrome, OS), 57% (n=6; mixed connective tissue disease, MCTD), 48% (p<0.05; PSS), 33% (n=5; dermatomyositis, DM), 28% (psoriasis), and 9% (n=9; systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), higher than the control levels, while those of PIIIP were 82% (OS), 57% (MCTD), 42% (p<0.01; PSS), 11% (GM), and 5% (DM) higher and 22% (psoriasis) and 28% (SLE), lower than the controls. These results indicate that both values were higher in the diseases with skin fibrosis and lower in those without it, suggesting that both assays generally reflect the state of actual progression of fibrosis at the point of determination. These two values had considerable correlation; however, GM, psoriasis and SLE patients had relatively higher values of PH than of PIIIP. This result suggests that the PH assay may also reflect the state of connective tissue activation; therefore the PIIIP assay may be more specific for pathological fibrotic process. Thus it seems that these two assays can serve as parameters of the activity of fibrotic skin diseases, especially when assayed simultaneously and regularly.
Clinical Observations of Mosquito Bite Reactions in Man: A Survey of the Relationship between Age and Bite Reaction
Authors: Oka Keiko , Ohtaki Noriko
Published: April 2015

To evaluate the mechanism of mosquito bite reaction in man, the reaction to Aedes albopictus was observed in 162 subjects ranging in age between 1 to 68 years old. Bite reactions were found to consist of both an immediate and a delayed reaction. The eruption and time course of the immediate reaction were consistent with type I hypersensitivity. The eruption and time course of the delayed reaction were consistent with cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity. Positive rates of immediate reaction increased from early childhood to adolescence and decreased with age from adulthood. The appearance and intensity of the delayed reaction decreased with age. Mosquito bite reactions in human beings exposed continuously and regularly are known to change from stage 1 to stage 5 (stage 1; no reaction, 2; delayed reaction only, 3; immediate and delayed reaction, 4; immediate reaction only, 5; no reaction). Analysis of the relationship between age and bite reaction in this study indicated that the principle held true even when the exposures were irregular or at random.
Drug‐induced Chronic Pigmented Purpura
Authors: Nishioka Kiyoshi , Katayama Ichiro , Masuzawa Mikio , Yokozeki Hiroo , Nishiyama Shigeo
Published: April 2015

A close correlation between purpuric reaction and drugs was observed in seven cases of chronic pigmented purpura. The patients developed purpuric lesions after taking certain drugs for more than 3 years, were thiamine propyldisulfide in 2 cases, and chlordiazepoxide in 1 case. The purpuric lesions stopped recurring after removal of the drugs in the rest of the cases. It is suggested that drugs are among the etiological factors in chronic pigmented purpura.
Paget's Disease of the Male Breast
Authors: Sano Yoshimi , Inoue Tadanori , Aso Miki , Hagari Yoshitaka , Hattori Kyoko , Shimao Shuhei , Notsu Takeshi
Published: April 2015

We report a 61‐year‐old male with mammary Paget's disease. Physical examination revealed a slightly exudative erythema at the areola and a reddish, enlarged left nipple. No tumor or left axillary lymph nodes was palpable. He underwent a left modified radical mastectomy. Histologically, there was an intraductal carcinoma in the upper portion of the mammary ducts. The axillary lymph nodes that were examined were free of metastasis. Paget cells had neither estrogen nor progesterone receptors. We speculated that the histogenesis of Paget cells involved carcinoma cells that invaded the epidermis of the nipple.
Delayed Cutaneous Metastasis of Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Fujiwara Sakuhei , Ichikawa Hiroki , Matsunaga Etsuji , Shinkai Hiroshi , Takayasu Susumu , Wada Koichi , Sekine Hiroshi
Published: April 2015

This paper describes a case of skin cancer resembling carcinoma en cuirasse associated with multiple bone lesions, which were both judged to be due to metastasis of poorly differentiated carcinoma of the stomach, the primary lesion excised ten years previously. Overt bone involvement had been observed for more than two years and a half. Histologic examination of a skin biopsy specimen showed that carcinoma cells had infiltrated into the middle and lower dermis, forming clusters and strands in an abundunce of fibrous stromata. No primary lesion was detected in the remnant stomach at autopsy.
Bacterial Gangrene on the Cheek of a Comatose Patient
Authors: Kikuchi Ichiro , Sakaguchi Ei
Published: April 2015

A 68‐year‐old Japanese woman with sepsis developed a gangrene on her left cheek from a small wound in contact with a gastric tube. Klebsiella pneumoniae was cultured from the sputum, wound, and the blood and was assumed to be responsible for this condition, possibly through thrombosis of an artery.
Langerhans Cells of Human Mucosa
Authors: de Fraissinette Anne , Schmitt Daniel , Thivolet Jean
Published: April 2015

The ontogeny of human LC and their presence in all Malpighian epithelia underline their important role in immunoregulation of the skin and mucous membranes.

LC are also found in buccal and esophageal mucosa, in cornea and conjunctiva, in pulmonary, vesical, vaginal and cervical epithelia as well as in placenta villi. In all these Malpighian epithelia, the presence of DR+ LC is necessary and essential for the surveillance function against allergoantigens and the emergence of neo‐antigens associated with malignant transformations.
Abnormal Division and Gene Expression in Cultured Cells from a Patient with Tuberous Sclerosis
Authors: Onodera Kazukiyo , Ishibashi Yasumasa , Sasaki Masafumi , Kimura Genki
Published: April 2015

Tuberous sclerosis is a dominant hereditary disease characterized by the appearance of angiofibromas on the face, epileptic attacks, and mental retardation. Attention has been paid to the atypical cells observed histologically in the stroma of the angiofibroma as they may play an important role in forming lesions. We have established a cell line from an angiofibroma to clarify the nature of these cells at the cellular and biochemical levels.

The cultured cells have been stably maintained for four years and show an abnormal morphology resembling that of neuronal cells. In culture, these cells divide into daughter cells, which consist of both normal cells and abnormal ones whose nuclei disintegrate and cannot divide further.

The cells resemble normal fibroblasts in their pattern of staining with antibodies against tubulin, actin, vimentin, and fibronectin. However, they also stain with an antibody against the glia‐specific acidic protein, which is thought to be a specific marker protein for glial cells.

The gel profile of cyclic‐AMP binding proteins was not fibroblastic, but rather of the neuron cell type. These results indicate the gene expression of these cells is also abnormal. They are a useful tool for understanding this specific genetic disease.
Superoxide Anion in Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes of Hairless Rats Suffering from Magnesium‐deficiency Dermatitis
Authors: Hanada Katsumi , Hashimoto Isao
Published: April 2015

Clinical and histological studies were made on magnesium‐deficiency dermatitis produced on a new strain of hairless rats. Superoxide anion generation in polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) and the inhibitory effect of some antioxidants and anti‐inflammatory agents against the elicited dermatitis were also examined. From the detection of increased superoxide production and effective actions of inhibitors including superoxide dismutase, cepharanthine, 4‐4'‐diamonodiphenylsulphone and 5,4,11,14‐eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA), it is indicated that superoxide anion or related activated oxygen may be responsible for magnesium‐deficiency dermatitis as an inflammatory mediator and that the dermatitis may be related to lipoxygenase metabolites derived from arachidonic acid.
Partial Purification and Some Characteristics of Proteinase(s) Induced by Staphylococcal Exfoliative Toxin
Authors: Suzuki Kumiko , Teramoto Teruyo , Tazawa Mari , Watanabe Hideyoshi , Takiuchi Iwao
Published: April 2015

After 8 hrs incubation with epidermis of newborn mice and exfoliative toxin, a marked increase in caseinolytic activity was detected, which reached a maximum at 12 hrs. Casein‐hydrolyzing enzyme(s) induced by ET were partially purified by chromatography. A substantial increase in caseinolytic activity was detected in the fractions obtained from Sephadex G‐50, while practically no caseinolytic activity was observed when the extract obtained from the epidermis incubated without ET was applied. The caseinolytic activity appeared as a single peak eluted from DEAE‐Sepharose CL‐6B and Sephadex G‐75. However, on SDS‐PAGE, the partially purified fractions exhibited several protein bands. The molecular weights of these band were estimated as 78 KD, 68 KD, 45 KD, 14.5 KD and 8.8 KD. When the partially purified enzyme(s) was preincubated with EGTA or EDTA, substantial inhibition of the activity was observed; however, no recovery of the activity was detected after the addition of CaCl2. Treatment of the enzyme(s) with PMSF and NEM caused little inactivation of the activity. Enzyme activity retained about 57% of the initial activity following 3 min incubation at 60°C, but was completely inactivated after 4 min.
Light Microscopic and Transmission Electron Microscopic Investigations of the Stratum Corneum of Xerosis Vulgaris of the Leg
Authors: Hori Makoto , Kligman Albert M.
Published: April 2015

Histopathological findings from eight cases of xerosis vulgaris of the leg (XVL) were compared to those from nine normal controls using light microscopy and one micron epoxy resin‐embedded sections stained with toluidine blue and basic fuchsin (T‐F) and electron microscopy with ultra‐thin sections.

Three sub‐layers were identified in the stratum corneum of all cases of XVL and normal controls by differences in color in T‐F stained specimens and by differences in density in electron microscopic findings.

Electron microscopically, the intermediate sub‐layer within the three‐layered structure showed an uneven density with many empty spaces in both normal controls and cases of XVL. Statistically, only the intermediate sub‐layers of XVL increased significantly in number (p<0.05) as well as in thickness (p<0.001), compared to normal controls.

These findings suggest that the intermediate sub‐layers play an important role in holding water in the skin.
Apocrine Hidrocystoma
Authors: Fukuda Michio , Kato Haruhisa , Hamada Toshio
Published: April 2015

Five cases of apocrine hidrocystoma are reported. One is multiple and the others are solitary lesions. There are more than 60 cases reported in the Japanese literature. Apocrine hidrocystomas usually occur as a solitary lesion. Only two cases of multiple apocrine hidrocystoma have been described so far in Japan. We reviewed the literature and discussed the clinicopathologic nature of this tumor. Apocrine hidrocystomas are usually composed of a cystic cavity lined by columnar epithelium, showing apocrine type secretion. Peripheral to this, myoepithelial cells are usually seen; however, they were absent from all of the present cases. Change in hue of the tumor is another characteristic feature. About half of the reported Japanese cases exhibited distinctive coloration, variously light brown, red‐brown, or bluish. In contrast, non‐Japanese cases tended to have darker coloration.
Cutaneous Sarcoidosis Showing Multiple Papular Eruptions with Keratotic Plugs
Authors: Hagari Yoshitaka , Kambe Naoto , Shimao Shuhei , Sutoh Yuji , Ikeda Hiroshi
Published: April 2015

A 26‐year‐old woman developed 249 discrete papules on her lower extremities. Twenty‐three of them had keratotic plugs. Histologic examination demonstrated granulomatous foci consisting of epithelioid cells and a epidermal invagination which was disrupted at the base and lateral sites. This invagination was considered to represent transepithelial elimination.
Pigmented Basal Cell Carcinoma Developing on the Lower Extremities
Authors: Ono Tomomichi , Egawa Kiyofumi , Yamamoto Shinji , Arao Tatsuyoshi
Published: April 2015

Three cases of pigmented basal cell carcinoma were reported which needed to be differentiated from malignant melanoma based on their location and clinical features. Clinicopathologically, they were characterized by a large number of melanophages in the stroma, blockade melanocytes in the parenchyma, and phagocytosis of melanosomes in tumor cells as well as a large number of intraparenchymal melanophages. Two cases were characterized by the aggregation of melanophages in cystic spaces caused by stellate atrophy.
Lichenoid Drug Eruptions due to Nandrolone Furylpropionate (Demelon)®
Authors: Aihara Michiko , Kitamura Kazuko , Ikezawa Zenro
Published: April 2015

A case of lichenoid drug eruption due to nandrolone furylpropionate (Demelon®) is reported. A 71‐year‐old man with aplastic anemia developed widespread erythema and reticulation with violaceous papules and pigmentation after receiving intramuscular injections of Demelon weekly for 2 months. The eruption gradually resolved after drug withdrawal, leaving reticular pigmentation. A biopsy specimen of the skin lesion showed lichenoid‐type reactions including hydropic or colloid degeneration of the basal cells, sometimes with satellite necrosis, and a band‐like subepidermal lymphocytic infiltrate. Most of the mononuclear cells stained strongly for helper/inducer T lymphocytes (Leu 3a).
Steroid‐withdrawal Rosacea‐like Dermatitis
Authors: Tomita Yasushi , Tagami Hachiro
Published: April 2015

A patient with malignant lymphoma repeatedly developed transient rosacea‐like dermatitis several days after each interruption of continuous oral prednisone intake. We thought that the eruption was provoked by withdrawal of orally administered steroid, and thus we diagnosed the patient as having steroid‐withdrawal rosacea‐like dermatitis, one manifestation of steroid‐withdrawal syndrome.
Absence of Minocycline in Sebum?
Authors: Aubin Francois , Blanc Dominique , Guinchard Christiane , Agache Pierre
Published: April 2015

The authors studied the bioavailability of minocycline in sebum and serum. Blood and sebum samples were collected weekly for 6 weeks from ten healthy volunteers taking 200 mg of minocycline every day for 4 weeks. Sebum was collected by direct extraction with petroleum ether from the forehead. After evaporation, sebum was weighed on a scale accurate to 10 μg. Determination of minocycline in serum and sebum was performed using a high performance liquid chromatography technique (HPLC), with a better detection limit at 352 nm than at 400 nm (20 ng/ml and 0.324 μg/ml respectively). Our results contrast with other studies since no minocycline was detected in the sebum samples of treated subjects and microbiological assays of minocycline in sebum were also negative. In our opinion, the current hypothesis claiming that the effectiveness of minocycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris is based on sebaceous secretion should be reconsidered.
Pustular Dermatosis of the Scalp Associated with Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Watanabe Shinichi , Takizawa Kiyohiro , Hashimoto Naoaki , Ishibashi Yasumasa
Published: April 2015

A 36‐year‐old woman visited our hospital with a five month history of persistent pustulation, crusting, and alopecia on the vertex of the scalp. No pathological organisms were isolated from the lesions. Histological examination revealed non‐specific changes of chronic inflammation with destroyed follicles. Antibiotic therapy produced no response, but steroid therapy was effective. From these observations, a diagnosis of erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS), as described by Pye et al., was made. The patient also had Hashimoto's thyroiditis, autoimmune hepatitis, and Takayasu's aortitis. The laboratory studies revealed an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‐reactive protein 3+, hypergammaglobulinemia, and various auto‐antibodies, suggesting the possibility of a pathogenesis common to both this dermatosis and the autoimmune diseases.
Eosinophil‐infiltrating Folliculitis in Childhood
Authors: Dekio Satoshi , Jidoi Joji , Kawasaki Yohji
Published: April 2015

A 5‐year‐old Japanese girl developed follicular pustules with erythematous plaques on the lower extremities. The histopathology was compatible with eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF). However, the clinical findings were not typical of EPF; the pustules did not appear in crops, the pustules became ulcers, and the skin lesions appeared exclusively on non‐seborrheic areas.
A Case of Solitary Mastocytoma Suggesting a Divided Form of Mast Cell Nevus
Authors: Niizawa Midori , Masahashi Toshiko , Maie Okitaka , Takahashi Shin‐ya
Published: April 2015

The case of a 10‐week‐old boy with a solitary mastocytoma is reported. The lesion, noticed at birth, was located in an area extending from the dorsum of the left hand to the proximal phalanx of the ring and little fingers. It appeared as a coin‐sized, flattened dome‐shaped, round tumor with occasional blistering. The web between the two fingers was free of cutaneous changes. The diagnosis was confirmed by the histological characteristics: a densely mastocytic infiltration into the dermis. The present case of solitary mastocytoma, referred to as “mast cell nevus”, is unique because of its previously undescribed divided form.
The Subbasement Membrane Distribution of Type IV Collagen in Normal Human Skin
Authors: Kobayashi Hiromi , Ishii Masamitsu , Chanoki Miyako , Fukai Kazuyoshi , Hamada Toshio , Muragaki Yasuteru , Ooshima Akira
Published: April 2015

Samples of normal human skin were obtained from 48 sites in 26 subjects ranging in age from 2 to 85 years. The samples were examined by indirect immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy using anti‐human type IV collagen antibodies produced by immunizing rabbits with type IV collagen extracted from human placenta. Fluorescence was observed as granular or fine fibrous patterns, not only in the basement membrane at the dermo‐epidermal junction, around the vessels, and the accessory organs of the skin, but also in the dermal regions in the vicinity of the basement membranes. This suggests the presence of type IV collagen in the dermis deep to the basement membrane. Ultrastructurally, the extrabasal lamina distribution of type IV collagen was noted as a partial distribution around the fibroblasts that existed close to the basal lamina. These findings are considered to be important in examining the function of this collagen in the dermis and the dynamics and metabolism of the basement membrane under normal and abnormal conditions.
Detection of Calcium Binding Sites in Merkel Cell Granules of Fetal Rat Skin
Authors: Nindl Margit , Nakagawa Hidemi , Ishibashi Yasumasa
Published: April 2015

We utilized a cytochemical calcium‐staining technique to detect a potential calcium binding site within Merkel cell granules. Calcium has been shown to be essential for exocytotic release in various neuroendocrine cells and recent investigations strongly support the hypothesis that Merkel cells should be considered to be neuroendocrine cells which release their specific granules as a part of their physiological functions.

After the addition of 50mM CaCl2 to glutaraldehyde as the primary fixative, buffer, and OsO4 as a postfixative, electron‐dense particles with a characteristic staining pattern were found within many MCGs. Successful removal of these particles after incubation of sections in a solution containing EDTA indicated that these particles were formed by calcium deposits.

The occurrence of calcium binding structures within MCGs may imply that they play a role in the process of granule release and/or granule maturation.
A Study of Mosquito Salivary Gland Components and Their Effects on Man
Authors: Oka Keiko , Ohtaki Noriko , Yasuhara Tadashi , Nakajima Terumi
Published: April 2015

To evaluate the mechanism of mosquito bite reaction in man, salivary gland extracts from female Aedes albopictus were prepared. When the extract of the gland was analysed by ion‐exchange high performance liquid chromatography the amount of histamine in a pair of salivary glands of one mosquito was found to be below the limit of detection, an amount which is insufficient to produce an immediate reaction. Salivary gland extracts were fractionated to higher and lower molecular weight components. Intradermal injection tests with salivary gland extracts, which contained less than 100 ng of protein showed that the higher molecular weight fraction (molecular weight >10,000) elicited an immediate and a delayed reaction similar to a bite reaction.
Differences in the Biochemical Activity in Hairless Mouse Skin and Other Organs after Systemic and Topical Methotrexate Treatment
Authors: Yoshino Kazuhiro , Maibach Howard I.
Published: April 2015

DNA synthesis in epidermis, spleen, small intestine, and muscle of the hairless mouse was measured after systemic and topical methotrexate dosing. Mice intraperitoneally injected with methotrexate (5 mg/Kg) incorporated 3H‐UdR in epidermis at 90% of baseline at 3 hrs, and the incorporation was not suppressed at 24 hrs. Muscle DNA synthesis was not suppressed. In the spleen and small intestine, incorporation was greatly suppressed to 10% at 3 hrs.

On the other hand, after topically applied methotrexate (25 mg/Kg) treatment, epidermis and muscle were 60‐90% of baseline at 3‐24 hrs and spleen and small intestine were 5‐10% at 3‐6 hrs.

In a prolonged time schedule study (4 days), epidermal incorporation after intraperitoneally applied methotrexate (5 mg/Kg) showed no suppression, but was instead stimulated to 180% at 2 days.

5‐Fluorouracil, a thymidine kinase inhibitor in antitumor agents, was topically applied (25 mg/Kg) and compared for DNA synthesis. The incorporation of 3H‐UdR was drastically suppressed at 3 hrs.

The results suggest that methotrexate is percutaneously absorbed, but does not extensively suppress epidermal DNA synthesis in hairless mice, although it does suppress spleen and intestinal DNA synthesis.
An Unusual Hybrid Cyst in Gardner's Syndrome with Partial Differentiation toward the Inner Root Sheath
Authors: Narisawa Yutaka , Kohda Hiromu
Published: April 2015

A 26‐year‐old man with Gardner's syndrome had numerous subcutaneous nodules over almost his entire body. Histologically, one of them revealed an unusual so‐called hybrid cyst composed of epidermal type keratinization and inner root sheath type keratinization. The histologic findings and the possibility of cutaneous cysts based on hair matrix differentiation, more specifically partial differentiation toward the inner root sheath, are discussed.
Cutaneous Protothecosis
Authors: Otoyama Kazunobu , Tomizawa Nobuko , Higuchi Iwao , Horiuchi Yasuhiro
Published: April 2015

The present report describes a case of cutaneous protothecosis, as confirmed by skin biopsy and culture, in a 62‐year‐old man with an erythematous plaque lesion on his back. The disease was initially detected after return from a trip to Taiwan. The characteristic sporangia and biochemical sugar assimilation tests indicated the organism to be Prototheca wickerhamii. Oral administration of (5‐FC) failed to have any effect and so finally, the lesion had to be removed by surgical excision.
Multiple Seborrheic Verrucae Following Eczema
Authors: Horiuchi Yasuhiro
Published: April 2015

Only a limited number of cases of multiple seborrheic verrucae following eczema, or Williams' sign as first described by Williams in 1956, have been reported. The present report describes a 59‐year‐old man with multiple seborrheic verrucae following eczema.
A Case of Skin Metastasis of Lung Carcinoma Associated with Superior Vena Cava Syndrome
Authors: Matsukawa Ataru , Furusugi Yuzuru
Published: April 2015

An unusual case of lung carcinoma with both skin metastasis and superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is reported. The histological type of the primary lesion as taken by punch biopsy was small cell carcinoma consisting of relatively small cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and scanty cytoplasm. The cutaneous metastatic lesion consisted of large cells with light‐staining nuclei and small cells with deep‐staining nuclei; it had foci of glandular elements by light microscopy. Neurosecretory granules characteristic of small cell carcinoma were found in the tumor cell cytoplasm by electron microscopy. Cutaneous metastatic rates, complication rates of SVCS, and histological varieties of small cell lung carcinomas are discussed.
Immunoblot Demonstration of Protein Kinase C in Pig Epidermis
Authors: Koizumi Hiroko , Ohkawara Akira
Published: April 2015

Protein kinase C, which has an important role in cell surface signal transduction, has at least 7 subspecies. The role of each isozyme remains unknown; however, the distribution of the subspecies has been reported to differ from tissue to tissue.

In order to investigate the subspecies of protein kinase C in epidermis, we used monoclonal anti‐protein kinase C antibodies against the alpha and beta subspecies and against the gamma subspecies. Protein kinase C activity was detected in both cytosol and membrane bound fractions in the extract of pig epidermis, although with immunohistochemical analysis the enzyme was not detected in the epidermis. The protein kinase C in pig epidermis was extracted and partially purified with DE52 column chromatography and immunoblot analysis was performed. Western blot analysis with each anti‐protein kinase C antibody showed protein kinase C of the alpha and/or beta subspecies in pig epidermis. The gamma subspecies of the enzyme was not demonstrated. Since this gamma subspecies has only been demonstrated in the brain, it is regarded not to be present in epidermis.

The differring patterns of the expression of the multiple subspecies of protein kinase C may closely related to its specific function in each tissue. The subspecies of the enzyme expressed in the epidermis should be clarified further.
Psoriatic Arthritis of the Hands in Seven Adults
Authors: Kato Naoko , Kato Sadatoshi , Tsukinaga Ichiro , Ando Masaaki , Ohkawara Akira
Published: April 2015

Psoriatic arthritis is defined as an association of psoriasis with an arthropathy characterized mainly by osteolytic changes in the X‐ray. To assess its frequency among Japanese psoriatic patients and to characterize their signs and symptoms, we examined 51 patients (37 males, 14 females) for arthropathy of the fingers. Seven patients (5 males, 2 females) had abnormal X‐ray findings of the hands. They were compared with psoriatic patients without arthritis epidemiologically, clinically, and hematologically. Metacarpal indices were also measured and compared with the results from rheumatic arthritis patients and controls.
Sulfhydryl Drug‐induced Eruption: A Clinical and Histological Study
Authors: Kitamura Kazuko , Aihara Michiko , Osawa Junko , Naito Shizuo , Ikezawa Zenro
Published: April 2015

Sulfhydryl drug‐induced skin eruptions were studied clinically and histologically in 23 patients. In this study, tiopronin, D‐penicillamine, captopril and gold sodium thiomalate were considered to be sulfhydryl drugs, because they have a thiol group or release sulfhydryl compounds. The clinical features included skin eruptions that were maculopapular, erythema mutiforme‐like, eczematous, psoriasis‐like, seborrheic dermatitis‐like, Gibert‐like, lichen planus‐like, and pemphigus‐like. These clinical findings were reminiscent of the wide variety of eruptions seen in cutaneous graft‐versus‐host reactions (GVHR). Histologically, areas of vacuolation and eosinophilic necrosis with a satellite infiltrate of lymphoid cells were seen in the epidermis, and perivascular infiltrates were noted in the dermis. These findings were similar to the histological picture of cutaneous GVHR. In skin tests with sulfhydryl compounds, 19 out of 20 subjects showed positive reactions, and autoantibodies were found in 8 out of 12 subjects tested.

Sulfhydryl drugs seem likely to induce immunologic changes in the host and to produce a distinctive reaction similar to that of cutaneous GVHR.
A Human Case of Zoonotic Onchocerciasis in Japan
Authors: Hashimoto Hiroyuki , Murakami Isamu , Fujiwara Sakuhei , Takayasu Susumu , Takaoka Hiroyuki , Uga Shoji , Akao Nobuaki , Kondo Kaoru , Yoshimura Hiroyuki
Published: April 2015

A 2‐year‐old girl living in southwestern Japan had a nodule of 2 months' duration on the left foot. A biopsy from the lesion showed transverse sections of a worm surrounded by granulomatous tissue. The worm was identified as an Onchocerca sp. from the morphological characteristics such as relatively thick cuticles, annular ridges on the cortical layer, and high somatic muscles. Positive serological tests using ELISA for Onchocerca gutturosa and Onchocerca volvulus supported the diagnosis. This was the first case of zoonotic Onchocerca infection detected in Japan. The clinicopathological aspects of zoonotic onchocerciasis of this case were discussed.
A Peculiar Form of Epidermotropism in Cutaneous Metastatic Carcinoma
Authors: Oku Tomozo , Nakayama Fukiko , Takigawa Masahiro
Published: April 2015

A 71‐year‐old man developed metastatic cutaneous nodules of colon carcinoma on the scalp and chest wall. Histopathological findings revealed aggressive invasion of the tumor cells into the overlying epidermis (epidermotropic carcinoma); they occasionally adhered to the epidermal cells. These morphological features have not been described in cutaneous metastases from internal carcinomas.
Amounts of Fibrous Proteins and Matrix Substances in Hairs of Different Races
Authors: Dekio Satoshi , Jidoi Joji
Published: April 2015

Fibrous proteins (FPs) and matrix substances (MSs) were extracted as S‐carboxymethylated (SCM) derivatives from scalp hair of five individuals each of the Mongoloid, Negroid and Caucasoid races. The ratio of the extracted SCM FPs to SCM MSs in dry weight was calculated for each hair specimen. The ratios obtained from the Mongoloid hair were 0.45 ± 0.03; those from the Negroid, 0.18 ± 0.02; and those from the Caucasoid, 0.29 ± 0.02. It has thus been suggested that the ratios of FP to MS contents in the hair may be involved in the determination of the macroscopic racial variations in the form of hair.
1,24(R)‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3, a Novel Active Form of Vitamin D3 with High Activity for Inducing Epidermal Differentiation but Decreased Hypercalcemic Activity
Authors: Matsunaga Takashi , Yamamoto Masaru , Mimura Hirohide , Ohta Tomohiro , Kiyoki Mamoru , Ohba Takeo , Naruchi Tatsuyuki , Hosoi Junichi , Kuroki Toshio
Published: April 2015

1α,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) is known to be a hormonally active form of vitamin D3 in the regulation of intracellular and extracellular calcium levels and of differentiation of myeloid cells and epidermal keratinocytes. We found that 1α,24(R)‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,24(OH)2D3), a novel synthetic derivative of vitamin D3, is also active in regulating the differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes. 1,24(OH)2D3 had the same affinity as 1,25(OH)2D3 for a receptor isolated from the epidermis of newborn mice. The incubation of mouse epidermal keratinocytes with 1,24(OH)2D3 induced their differentiation in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner, as determined by the formation of a cornified envelope and an increase in the activity of transglutaminase. 1,24(OH)2D3 inhibited DNA synthesis of epidermal keratinocytes and also increased their cytosolic calcium level. These effects of 1,24(OH)2D3 were similar to, or rather more than, those of physiologically active 1,25(OH)2D3. However, 1,24(OH)2D3 was found to cause less hypercalcemia than 1,25(OH)2D3 when administrated intravenously to rats, suggesting its possible therapeutic value in psoriasis.
Eosinophilic Polymyositis Induced by Tranilast
Authors: Arase Seiji , Kato Shoji , Nakanishi Hideki , Sadamoto Yasushi , Urano Yoshio , Kawai Hisaomi , Takeda Katsuyuki
Published: April 2015

A 38‐year‐old man with asthma developed eosinophilic polymyositis following the administration of Tranilast, an antiasthmatic agent. Low grade fever, erythematous rashes on the entire body, dysphagia, blood eosinophilia, elevations of serum creatine phosphokinase and myoglobin levels, and inverted T waves in the electrocardiogram were noted. A muscle biopsy showed focal degeneration of muscle fibers with an infiltrate of eosinophils and lymphocytes. A rechallenge with Tranilast resulted in erythema formation, blood eosinophilia, and elevations of some serum muscle enzymes and myoglobin levels. Tranilast was considered to be the causative agent. This is the first reported case of Tranilast‐induced eosinophilic polymyositis.
Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma Differing from Classical Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome: Clinical, Histological and Immunohistochemical Studies of Six Cases
Authors: Maeda Kazuo , Takahashi Makoto , Takatsuka Noriko , Miyazawa Hitoshi
Published: April 2015

Six cases of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), differing from classical mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS), were studied. Initial skin eruptions were erythematoplaques, papules and tumors. Some cases showed frequent spontaneous regressions without any specific therapy; however, the prognosis was not always good. Surface phenotypes of neoplastic cells were markedly heterogeneous from the onset of initial skin eruption. Three cases expressed the T helper/inducer (Th/i) phenotype, one case had both the Th/i and T suppressor/cytotoxic phenotypes, and the other two cases lacked both surface markers. These results suggest that CTCL other than MF and SS displays marked heterogeneous clinical behavior and diverse morphological and immunophenotypical characteristics of the postthymic T cells.
A New Apparatus for Hair Regrowth in Male‐pattern Baldness
Authors: Toshitani Shoji , Nakayama Juichiro , Yahata Takashi , Yasuda Masaru , Urabe Harukuni
Published: April 2015

A newly devised apparatus (Scalp‐Tension‐Relaxer, STR) can efficiently promote hair regrowth in patients with male‐pattern baldness. When this apparatus is applied, the scalp is pushed up to relieve tension on the vertex. The efficacy rate of hair regrowth in alopecia patients was 40%. An investigation into the basis for the hair regrowth caused by this apparatus was directed toward the changes in hemodynamics and skin temperature of the scalp. During and after use of this apparatus, subjects exhibited an increase both in the cutaneous blood flow rate (as determined by laser Doppler flowmetry) and in the cutaneous temperature (as determined by thermography).