bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermediate-Risk Group in Patients with Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder: Prediction of High-Risk Patients in This Heterogeneous Group
Authors: Yencilek F. , Onal B. , Erozenci A. , Talat Z. , Ataus S.
Published: October 2009

Objective: To determine whether recurrence at first follow-up cystoscopy predicts future recurrence in patients with an intermediate risk of superficial bladder cancer. Methods: In total, 304 patients were classified as low (n = 60), intermediate (n = 177) or high risk (n = 67) based on the primary pathological/clinical findings, as previously described in literature. The intermediate-risk group was further divided into 2 subgroups based on recurrence at the first follow-up cystoscopy: A (recurrence negative) and B (recurrence positive). Results: The mean recurrence rates of low-, intermediate- and high-risk patients were 1.76, 6.41 and 9.49, respectively (p < 0.05). Similarly, the difference in the recurrence rates between subgroups A (4.37) and B (9.12) was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.00). Additionally, while the difference between the low-risk group and subgroup A was statistically significant (p = 0.008), there was no significance between subgroup B and the high-risk group (p = 0.892). In the multivariate analysis, the most significant prognostic parameter for recurrence was the outcome of the first follow-up cystoscopy, followed by tumor multiplicity and grade. Conclusions: Patients showing recurrence at first follow-up cystoscopy in the intermediate-risk group should be classified as high-risk patients and treated accordingly.
Role of Seminiferous Tubular Development in Determining the FSH versus LH Responsiveness to GnRH in Early Sexual Maturation
Authors: Pitteloud Nelly , Thambundit Apisadaporn , Dwyer Andrew A. , Falardeau John L. , Plummer Lacey , Caronia Lisa M. , Hayes Frances J. , Lee Hang , Boepple Paul A. , Crowley, Jr. William F.
Published: October 2009

Background: The onset of sexual maturation at puberty is a unique developmental period from a neuroendocrine perspective in that it is characterized by enhanced FSH secretion and FSH responsiveness to exogenous GnRH (vs. LH) from the gonadotrope, yet the mechanism of these dynamics remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate this phenomenon using a human disease model of GnRH deficiency (idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, IHH) in which GnRH input can be experimentally controlled. Methods: 25 GnRH-deficient men were selected for study based upon their baseline testicular volumes (TV) and serum inhibin B (IB) levels to represent a spectrum of pubertal/testicular development. Subjects underwent: (i) a 12-hour overnight neuroendocrine evaluation for hormonal profiling and determination of endogenous LH secretion pattern, and (ii) a 7-day exposure to a physiologic regimen of exogenous pulsatile GnRH (25 ng/kg every 2 h). Daily measurements of serum testosterone (T) and IB levels were made and a 2-hour window of frequent blood sampling was monitored to measure LH and FSH following a single i.v. GnRH bolus (25 ng/kg). All subjects were screened for known loci underlying GnRH deficiency and the response to GnRH was tracked according to genotype. Results: Among the entire cohort, no changes were noted in serum T or IB during the 7 days, thus keeping gonadal feedback relatively constant. However, serum LH and FSH levels increased significantly (p < 0.0001) in the entire cohort. When analyzed by degree of pubertal/testicular development, men with no evidence of prior spontaneous pubertal development (TV ≤3 ml, Group I) showed sharp increases in serum FSH compared to men with some prior evidence of partial puberty (TV >3 ml, Group II, p < 0.0001). Group I exhibited a decreased LH response to GnRH on day 2 compared to day 1 (p < 0.01), which did not recover until day 5 (1–4 vs. 5–7 days, p < 0.0001). Group II displayed robust and equivalent LH responses to GnRH throughout the 7-day study. Genetic studies identified 8 mutations in 4 different loci (DAX1, KAL1, GNRHR, and FGFR1) in this cohort. Conclusions: GnRH-deficient men undergoing GnRH-induced sexual maturation display an inverse relationship between FSH responsiveness to GnRH and baseline testicular size and IB levels. This observation implies that increasing seminiferous tubule maturity represents the major constraint on FSH responsiveness to GnRH in early puberty. In contrast, LH responsiveness to GnRH correlates directly with duration of GnRH exposure. Attenuated pituitary gonadotropin responses were noted in subjects harboring DAX1 mutations, consistent with known pituitary defects.
Effects of an Endothelin Receptor Antagonist on a Model of Hypertensive Retinopathy
Authors: McDonald Louise , Lee Graham R. , deGooyer Tanyth E. , McDonald Denise , Canning Paul , Kelso Elizabeth J. , McDermott Barbara J. , Stitt Alan W.
Published: October 2009

Hypertensive retinopathy manifests itself as progressive retinal microvascular pathology in response to aberrant blood flow. The current study sought to evaluate whether dysfunction of the vasoactive endothelin-1 (ET-1) system is involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension-induced retinopathy in an animal model of systemic hypertension. The endothelin receptor antagonist, bosentan, was administered to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and comparisons were made with untreated SHRs and normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. The retinal mRNA expression of ET-1, ET-converting enzyme-1, ETA and ETB receptors and the basement membrane proteins, laminin β1, collagen IV and fibronectin was quantified using real-time RT-PCR. In addition, retinal arteriole and/or capillary bed damage was assessed by qualitative and quantitative microscopy. mRNA for the ETA receptor was increased in SHRs, when compared to WKY control animals (p < 0.001). Treatment with bosentan in SHRs significantly reduced the expression of ET-1 (p < 0.05), and both the ETA (p < 0.0001) and ETB (p < 0.05) receptor subtypes. The laminin β1, collagen IV and fibronectin mRNA expression was significantly higher in SHRs when compared to WKY control animals (p < 0.001). Treatment with bosentan abolished these responses and also the appearance of various microvascular lesions. ET-mediated vasoregulation abnormalities in the retinal microvasculature could play an associative role in lesion formation during hypertensive retinopathy.
Expression of Complement Receptor CR2 (CD21) on Human Subcorneal Keratinocytes in Normal and Diseased Skin
Authors: Hunyadi J. , Simon, Jr. M. , Kenderessy A.S. , Dobozy A.
Published: October 2009

Human keratinocytes are able to synthesize and express cell surface moieties characteristic of effector and/or accessory cells of the immune system (CD 16, CD36, HLA-DR, intercellular adhesion molecule-1). In the present study, skin biopsies from healthy volunteers, from patients with psoriasis vulgaris (PV), mycosis fungoides (MF), purpura pigmentosa chronica (PPC), acute urticaria (AU) and from positive tuberculin skin tests were investigated with regard to the reactivity with the monoclonal antibodies to complement receptors CR1 CR2 and CR3 by means of a multistep immunoperoxidase method. In the clinically involved skin of all patients with PV, MF or PPC, and in biopsies obtained from positive tuberculin tests specific epidermal intercellular staining with OKB7 and Leu anti-CR2 was seen on subcorneal keratinocytes. This finding suggests a differentiation-linked expression of CR2 on human keratinocytes in cytokine-mediated skin diseases whereas CR1 and CR3 are apparently not expressed.
Effect of Non-Enzymatic Glycosylation and Heating on Browning of Human Stratum corneum and Nail
Authors: Sueki H. , Nozaki S. , Numazawa S. , Aoki K. , Kuroiwa Y. , Fujisawa R.
Published: October 2009

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of non-enzymatic glycosylation and subsequent heating on the browning of the plantar stratum corneum and the finger-nail, and to elucidate the pathogenesis of the yellow skin and the yellow nail seen in diabetic subjects. We incubated stratum corneum and nail from non-diabetics in 0 (control) 10 (only nail) 20 (only nail) 100 and 250 mM glucose buffer at 37°C for 5 days. These glycosylated samples were dialysed against distilled water for 96 h. Distilled water was changed every 24 h. Then samples were dried for 24 h. The extent of non-enzymatic glycosylation was measured by furosine content. Each 5 mg of sample was hydrolysed by 6 N HCl and processed for measurement of furosine by high-performance liquid chromatography. The rest of each sample was stored at 37, 42 (only nail), 47 and 52 °C for 14 days. Browning of the stratum corneum was assessed macroscopically and that of the nail by spectrophotometry. Based on their spectrophotometric reflectances, Munsell’s scores (H = hue score V = lightness score C = saturation score) and (H + C)/V were calculated for objective evaluation of browning. Incubation of the stratum corneum and nail with glucose buffer increased their non-enzymatic glycosylation (furosine) dose dependently. Macroscopically, the browning of the stratum corneum was enhanced in proportion to the glucose concentration and storage temperature. However, samples incubated in 10 and 20 mM glucose and stored at 42 °C did not show visible browning. Munsell’s score of the nail samples treated by glycosylation and heating showed increased hue and saturation but reduced lightness. (H + Q/V values of these nail samples were significantly higher than those of the control. We could not detect any fluorescence with Wood light in the browned samples. The present in vitro study demonstrated that the browning of the stratum corneum and the nail depended on the extent of both non-enzymatic glycosylation and storage temperature. We suggested a hypothesis that the non-enzymatic glycosylation and the storage temperature of the stratum corneum and the nail might be a contributory factor in the development of yellow skin and yellow nail in diabetic patients.
Pharmacological Modulation by Cetirizine and Ebastine of the Cutaneous Reactivity to Histamine
Authors: Rivest J. , Despontin K. , Ghys L. , Rihoux J.P. , Lachapelle J.M.
Published: October 2009

The peripheral H1-inhibiting effects of cetirizine 10 mg and ebastine 10 mg were compared at the skin level after single oral administration. The study was performed in 9 healthy subjects under double-blind randomized cross-over conditions. Both drugs were significantly effective up to 24 h. The suppressive effect of cetirizine was significantly more rapid and more marked.
Papillary Eccrine Adenoma
Authors: Aloi F. , Pich A.
Published: October 2009

A case of papillary eccrine adenoma of the thigh of a 63-year-old woman is reported. Histologically, the tumor was composed of cystic dilated and branching tubular structures with papillary projections into the lumen, surrounded by a fibrous stroma. In addition, in some areas it was composed almost exclusively of solid strands of epithelial cells. The tumoral eccrine differentiation was assessed by immunohistochemical studies. Problems of differential diagnosis with low-grade sweat gland carcinoma and with tubular apocrine adenoma are discussed.
Systemic Lupus erythematosus Exacerbated by Piroxicam
Authors: Roura M. , Lopez-Gil F. , Umbert P.
Published: October 2009

A patient with Sjögren’s syndrome and seronegative polyarthritis is reported. After piroxicam intake and sun exposure she developed subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus lesions with Ro antibodies. Despite drug withdrawal, typical cutaneous lesions and serological markers of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) progressively appeared. The use of piroxicam and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with photosensitizing potential in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome, sicca syndrome or a high suspicion of a collagen disorder should be avoided because these drugs may trigger a latent SLE.
Pili torti and Onychodysplasia
Authors: Calzavara-Pinton P. , Carlino A. , Benetti A. , de Panfilis G.
Published: October 2009

Ectodermal dysplasias are a large and heterogeneous groups of clinically and genetically distinct syndromes. We studied a family suffering from dystrophies of the distal part of the nails and trichodysplasia. Scalp, beard, pubic and axillary hair were broken off leaving a stubble 1-10 mm in length. Eyebrows, eyelashes and body hair were completely absent. Serum levels of copper and plasma levels of amino acids were within the normal range. Inheritance was autosomal recessive. Previous reports of ectodermal dysplasias and other complex syndromes with pili torti are reviewed.
Systemic Therapy of Advanced Metastatic Malignant Melanoma with a Combination of Fibroblast Interferon-β and Recombinant Interferon-γ
Authors: Kowalzick L. , Weyer U. , Lange P. , Breitbart E.W.
Published: October 2009

Eighteen patients with advanced metastatic malignant melanoma (stage IV UICC1987) were entered into a prospective trial with a combination of systemic fibroblast interferon-β and recombinant interferon-γ. Treatment was performed over a 6-week period with 3 × 5 × 106 U i.v. interferon-β and 5 × 100 μg s.c. interferon-γ every week. Under this therapy 16 patients showed a progressive disease, and 2 patients had a stable disease. The median time of survival was 7.5 months. Successive immunological examinations showed no significant immunomodulating effect after the 6 weeks of interferon treatment. We conclude that the combination of interferon-β and -γ is insufficient in the treatment of advanced metastatic malignant melanoma when administered by this dose, route and schedule.
Intractable Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita: Efficacy of Ciclosporin A
Authors: Merle C. , Blanc D. , Zultak M. , van Landuyt H. , Drobacheff C. , Laurent R.
Published: October 2009

We report the case of a 66-year-old man who presented with a spontaneous blistering involving both skin and mucous membranes diagnosed as an inflammatory form of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita. During a 5-year course the condition failed to respond to various therapies. Finally, only ciclosporin, together with a low dose regimen of prednisone, achieved a dramatic improvement with a total clearing within 6 months, persisting 1½ years after discontinuation. Such results prompt us to propose such an association as a primary therapeutic scheme in an otherwise barely tractable disease.
Subcutaneous Fat Necrosis with Thrombocytopenia in a Newborn Infant
Authors: Wolach B. , Raas-Rothschild A. , Vogel R. , Choc L. , Metzker A.
Published: October 2009

A case of subcutaneous fat necrosis (SCFN) in a newborn who had suffered from asphyxia secondary to meconium aspiration is described. During the third week of life, bluish-red subcutaneous nodules were noticed. A biopsy of the lesions showed subcutaneous necrosis with fat cells containing needle-like crystals with reactive inflammatory infiltrates. Peripheral transient thrombocytopenia was observed prior to the appearance of subcutaneous fat necrosis. The good prognosis is stressed.
Massive Lymphomatous Nail Involvement in Sézary Syndrome
Authors: Tosti A. , Fanti P.A. , Varotti C.
Published: October 2009

The case of a 65-year-old man affected by chronic erythroderma due to Sézary syndrome and massive lymphomatous infiltration of the nails is reported. The clinical features of the nail lesions, consisting in thickening and discoloration of the nail plates were not diagnostic. The nail biopsy showed a typical epidermotropic T cell lymphomatous involvement of all the nail constituents. Immunohistochemical characterization of the nails and skin lymphomatous infiltration showed identical results, confirming the neoplastic etiology of both the chronic erythroderma and the nail dystrophy.
Transepidermal Potassium Ion, Chloride Ion, and Water Flux across Delipidized and Cellophane Tape-Stripped Skin
Authors: Lo Jacob S. , Oriba Howard A. , Maibach Howard I. , Bailin Phillip L.
Published: October 2009

The skin barrier was evaluated as a function of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and electrolyte loss. Combination electrodes for chloride and pH determinations and a potassium ion electrode were utilized. Delipidization of the skin did not impair the electrolyte barrier, but did damage the epidermal water barrier. Cellophane tape stripping of normal stratum corneum resulted in an increase in outward transepidermal potassium and chloride ion flux, an increase in skin surface pH and an increase in TEWL. It appears that damage to the epidermal water barrier does not necessarily result in damage to the epidermal electrolyte barrier. We found the potassium electrode facile to use and believe that a combination potassium electrode would be useful for investigating and assessing the epidermal electrolyte barrier.
Prevalence of Ureaplasma urealyticum in the Urethra of Men without Urethritis in Relation to Clinical Diagnosis
Authors: Hackel H. , Hartmann A.A. , Elsner P. , Burg G.
Published: October 2009

Ureaplasma urealyticum is one of the microorganisms possibly causing nongonococcal urethritis. In a prospective study, 606 men without urethritis presented to an STD clinic in a rural West German region were investigated for the prevalence of U. urealyticum in the urethra. The overall isolation rate of the organism was 21.3%. Analyzing patients grouped by clinical diagnoses, the isolation rate of U. urealyticum was significantly higher in the genital warts group (25%) and in the partner’s control group (35%) than in the group of patients suffering from fertility disorder (15.2%) or balanitis (14%). These findings stress the importance and the difficulty to select the appropriate controls in clinical studies concerning the role of U. urealyticum in the male urethra.
Effect of Etretinate on Peripheral T Lymphocytes in Psoriatic Patients before, during and after 6 Months of Therapy
Authors: David Michael , Shohat Batya , Hodak Emmilia , Sandbank Miriam
Published: October 2009

Total peripheral T lymphocytes, OKT4 helper/inducer cells and OKT8 suppressor/cytotoxic cells, as well as T lymphocyte function determined by the local xenogeneic graft-versus-host reaction (GVHR), were investigated in 14 psoriatic patients prior to institution of treatment with etretinate, during the course of treatment and 6 months after its initiation. After approximately 2 months of treatment, there was a significant increase in the number of E-rosette-forming lymphocytes and OKT4 subpopulations with a return to normal levels after 6 months of treatment. The GVHR was positive in only 5/11 patients prior to therapy but in 9/11 patients after 2 and 6 months. Our results indicate that etretinate has a stimulatory effect on T lymphocytes and their subset counts.
Growth of Human Keratinocytes in a Defined Medium Supplemented with Growth Factor of Serum
Authors: Kitano Yukio , Okada Natsuko , Sasai Seijiro
Published: October 2009

In order to prepare a good medium for cultivation of keratinocytes, bovine serum was fractionated by precipitation with various concentrations of ammonium sulfate. The fractionated serum proteins were added to the basal medium at a concentration of 3 mg/ml. The best proliferation was observed in the medium supplemented with the 55–70% ammonium sulfate precipitated fraction. No growth of keratinocytes was observed when the medium was supplemented with the 0–35% fraction. The growth promotion by the 55–70% fraction was completely inhibited by the 0–35% fraction. These results have shown that the fractionation of serum protein clearly separated the growth-inhibitory factors and the growth-stimulating factors.
Basic and Interleukin-2-Augmented Natural Killer Cell Activity in Lichen planus
Authors: Simon, Jr. Miklós , Hunyadi János , Fickentscher Herbert , Hornstein Otto Paul
Published: October 2009

Natural killer cell (NK) activity of peripheral blood lymphocytes against K 562 cells was investigated in lichen planus (LP). 38 LP patients with cutaneous or oral mucosal involvement and 20 healthy controls participated in the study. A statistically significant decrease in the NK response in LP patients with extensive erosive oral mucosal involvement (p < 0.02) and in generalized acute eruptive LP (p < 0.01) was noted compared to those with nonerosive LP of the oral mucosa or healthy controls. Interleukin 2 failed to restore completely the reduced NK activities in our patients with LP.
Characteristics and Pathophysiological Roles of Extracellular Phospholipase A2 in Inflamed Sites
Authors: Kudo I. , Chang H.W. , Hara S. , Murakami M. , Inoue K.
Published: October 2009

Extracellular phospholipase A2 found in inflamed sites of human and rat was purified and characterized. Phospholipase A2 isolated from peritoneal exudates of rat treated with casein, that isolated from human synovial fluids in rheumatoid arthritis, that secreted from activated platelets of rat and rabbit share common structural and biochemical features. Possible roles, dynamics and regulation of these extracellular phospholipases in inflammatory processes will be discussed.
Approach for and Assessment of Interactive Communication via Cytokines of Cellular Components of Skin
Authors: Krueger G.G. , Jorgensen C.M. , Bradshaw B.R. , Wall L.L. , Park S.D. , Roberts L.K.
Published: October 2009

Structure and function of skin are dependent upon interaction of the cells and matrix components that are unique to skin which, in turn, are dependent upon an interactive message system of cytokines acting over distance. Our laboratory has utilized a system which is sufficiently complex to permit a component of the skin to mature into a functional unit that can be indirectly influenced by cell types inherent to the skin, message over distance.The system, human epidermal cells, maturing into an epidermis on an overlying Millicell-HA membrane in the presence of normal fibroblasts or peripheral blood mononuclear cells in a lower chamber has been used to assess the role of interactive cytokines in skin. Data demonstrate: (a) normal fibroblasts enhance the outgrowth and induce a more organized phenotype in squamous cell carcinoma cells; (b) keratinocytes enhance fibroblast proliferation while squamous cell carcinoma cells suppress fibroblast proliferation, and (c) both activated and nonactivated mononuclear cells affect the outgrowth and organization of the squamous cell carcinoma cell line. It is concluded that cells of the skin, by their mediators, do affect the growth of one another in a highly interactive way.
Lucigenin-Induced Chemiluminescence in Human Neutrophils in the Process of Chemotactic Migration Measured in a Modified Boyden Chamber
Authors: Kato Taizo , Terui Tadashi , Iizawa Osamu , Tagami Hachiro
Published: October 2009

To the question of whether an oxidative metabolism of neutrophils occurs in the process of chemotactic migration, we have already demonstrated that formyl-peptide and zymosan-activated serum effectively induced lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence (CL) in a specially devised Boyden chamber. In the present study we confirmed this and, furthermore, demonstrated that superoxide dismutase partially suppressed the neutrophil chemotaxis to formyl-peptide and concanavalin A, suggesting the participation of superoxide in a chemotactically migrating mechanism. However, monocyte-derived chemotactic factor did not cause any light emission, irrespective of its chemotactic activity. Based on these results, neutrophil chemotactic factors seem to be divided into two types, that is, oxidative metabolism-related and nonrelated. To the former group of chemotactic factors a premature activation of oxidative metabolism in neutrophils may start even at the initial stage of chemotaxis, and these primed cells may respond with a respiratory burst to higher concentrations of the chemoattractant itself or to other chemical mediators present at the site of inflammation.
Pyoderma malignum – ungewöhnliche Spielform des Pyoderma gangraenosum
Authors: Itin Peter , Koch Beat , Büchner Stanislaus , Rufli Theo
Published: October 2009

We report the 15th case of malignant pyoderma. In agreement with other authors we consider this disease as a special form of pyoderma gangrenosum. Therapy with isotretinoin 40 mg daily showed a marked improvement in our patient.
Non Lymphoblastic T Cell Lymphomas with Prevalent Skin Involvement Different from Mycosis Fungoides or Sézary’s Syndrome
Authors: Grob Jean Jacques , Horchowski Nicole , Tubiana Nicole , Gabriel Bernard , Gastaut Jean Albert , Hassoun Jacques , Jouve Isabelle , Carcassone Yves , Bonerandi Jean Jacques
Published: October 2009

A retrospective study of 23 cases of nonlymphoblastic T cell lymphomas with no features of either mycosis fungoides (MF) or Sézary syndrome (SS) was carried out. 6 patients exhibited cutaneous (or mucous) lesions and are presented herein. There was no detectable visceral or node involvement except in 1 patient. 3 cases were immunologically proven to be of peripheral T cell origin. Except T cell lymphomas in Japan and in the Caribbean area, the frequency of prevalent skin involvement is reportedly very low in non-MF/SS non lymphoblastic T cell lymphomas. However, it is likely that this frequency has been underestimated in Western countries. The histologic features of our cases run the heterogeneous spectrum of recently described node-based forms of peripheral T cell lymphomas: ‘angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy with dysproteinemia’ -like lymphoma, large T cell lymphoma, multilobulated cell lymphoma, T zone lymphoma. The histologic pattern of skin infiltration was different from that of MF/SS. One case was initially suggestive of a pseudolymphoma and had a prolonged evolution but the other patients suffered from rapid extracutaneous involvement and fatal evolution with resistance to treatment. Cutaneous plasmocytomas were seen in 1 case. Hence, certain cutaneous T cell lymphomas exhibit histologic, immunological and developmental features similar to those of node-based peripheral T cell lymphomas but different from those of MF/SS.
Clofazimine in Dermatitis ulcerosa (Pyoderma gangrenosum)
Authors: Mensing Hartwig
Published: October 2009

Five patients suffering from dermatitis ulcerosa (a variant of pyoderma gangrenosum) were treated with clofazimine in a daily dosage of 200 mg orally. Complete healing was noted in 2 patients, partial response in 2, no effect in 1. Side effects were mild and transitory in form of a red coloring of the skin (all patients) and mild ichthyosis (2 patients).
Cutaneous Metastasis from Papillary Carcinoma of the Thyroid
Authors: Doutre M.S. , Beylot C. , Baquey A. , Bonnemaison D. , Bezian J.H. , Bioulac P. , Carteyron M.
Published: October 2009

A 59-year-old woman with a history of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid gland developed three reddish nodules on the scalp. A skin biopsy showed a dermal tumor composed of sheets of clearly differentiated thyroid vesicles. Cutaneous metastases of thyroid carcinoma are very rare and this case is the first case confirmed by immunoperoxidase studies using monoclonal antithyroglobulin antibody. Positive reactions were obtained in colloid and at apices of thyrocytes. Monoclonal antibodies to human thyroglobulin may offer a unique opportunity to confirm the tissue origin of cutaneous metastasis.
Oesophageal Pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Mobacken Hakan , Al Karawi Mohamed , Mohamed Abdelrahman , Coode Peter
Published: October 2009

Symptomatic involvement of the oesophageal mucosa by pemphigus vulgaris is rare. We describe 1 patient who was treated with oral steroids during a blistering phase, when epigastric pain developed. Endoscopy revealed multiple ulcerations all over the oesophagus, but gastroduodenal mucosa was normal. The symptoms disappeared following cimetidine for gastro-oesophageal reflux and increase of steroid dosage. When painful symptoms appear from the upper digestive tract during corticosteroid treatment of pemphigus, the possibility of acantholytic involvement of oesophageal mucosa must be kept in mind. Its implication for the dosage of steroids is opposite that in steroid-induced peptic ulcers. Carefully performed upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy is helpful in these patients.
Proquazone: A Treatment for Lymphocytic Infiltration of the Skin
Authors: Johansson E.A.
Published: October 2009

15 patients with lymphocytic infiltration of the skin (LIS) were treated with the nonsteroid anti-inflammatory (NSAI) drug proquazone [1-isopropy1-4-phenyl-7-methyl-2(IH)]. In contrast to other NSAI drugs proquazone is a nonacidic compound which is known to be a potent prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor. Of the 15 patients 8 were healed completely with proquazone; in half of these patients lesions recurred but healed with reintroduction of the drug. Two patients remained symptom-free with a small maintenance dose. Two patients showed a partial remission. The treatment was discontinued in 3 patients, in 2 of them because of side effects and in 1 because of lack of response. Two other NSAI drugs, both known to be potent prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, namely indomethacin and ibuprofen, were tried, however without effect. The present study indicates that proquazone should be considered in the treatment of LIS.
Metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Howat A.J. , Levick P.L.
Published: October 2009

A case of metastasizing basal cell carcinoma is presented. Although primary surgical excision appeared complete, local recurrence continued over the following 5 years terminating in metastases to lungs, kidneys, bones and lymph nodes.
Frictional Longitudinal Melanonychia: A New Entity
Authors: Baran Robert
Published: October 2009

Longitudinal melanonychia of the toes initiated by repeated trauma from the footwear is described as a new entity in a clinical study of 12 patients. Its proper recognition should help to rule out the brown streaks due to malignant melanoma. The nail pigmentation appears over the distal bony phalanx where the deep matrix covered by the proximal nail fold is exposed to friction or pressure of the narrowing portion of the tip of the shoe. Histological studies revealed hyperplasia of the matrix, some melanin granules in the upper dermis with increased pigmentation of the basal cell layer of the epithelium, and marked melanotic pigment in the nail plate.
Quinidine-induced Lichenoid and Eczematous Photodermatitis
Authors: Wolf Ronni , Dorfman Beniamin , Krakowski Anatol
Published: October 2009

We report 6 cases of photodistributed rashes due to oral administration of quinidine: 4 cases with a lichen-planus-like eruption and 2 with an eczematous dermatitis. The causal relationship between the drug and the eruption was established mainly by means of circumstantial evidence. It was further strengthened by an in vitro challenge test in 4 cases and by a rechallenge in 2 patients. The in vitro challenge test used was the macrophage migration inhibition test, which can be of diagnostic aid whenever a rechallenge of the patient is contraindicated. Quinidine-induced lichenoid eruption in a photodistribution seems to be more common than previously reported. Physicians should be aware of this type of drug eruption.
Geographic Tongue in Two Siblings
Authors: Kuramoto Yoko , Tadaki Takayosi , Hatchome Naohiro , Tagami Hachiro
Published: October 2009

We report two illustrative cases of geographic tongue which occurred in 6- and 4-year-old sisters whose father had fissured tongue. The elder sister had mild atopic dermatitis and nail changes, but there was no family history suggestive of psoriasis. Histologically, the geographic tongue in the elder sister showed the same features as the oral lesions in pustular psoriasis. From a review of the literature we suggest that geographic tongue may be classified into two types, one that commonly occurs in atopies and another that develops as an oral manifestation of pustular psoriasis, although both types show similar histopathological features.
Bone Marrow Investigation in Patients with Lichen planus
Authors: Nordlind K. , Lagerholm B. , Hast R. , Strand A.
Published: October 2009

Seven patients with an extensive lichen planus of unknown etiology were investigated with bone marrow smears. Normal values were found by differential counting.
«Soforttyp»-Reaktionen auf Pyrazol-Derivate: Ergebnisse von Hauttesten und Antikörperbestimmungen
Authors: Wüthrich B. , Fabro L. , Wälti M.
Published: October 2009

In a multicentric study by the European Study Group for Drug Allergy 58 patients suffering from an immediate type reaction after intake of pyrazol analgetics were examined with regard to allergy or pseudoallergy. Besides the scratch tests with the original substance we performed cutaneous tests with pyrazol conjugates and determined IgE and IgG antibodies by means of modified radioallergosorbent (RAST) method. Three groups could be distinguished: (1) pseudoallergic reactions to nonsteroidal analgetics of the aspirin type (15 cases); (2) IgE-mediated pyrazolone allergy verified by skin tests and/or IgE-RAST (21 cases), and (3) pyrazolone idiosyncrasy (26 cases).
Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary’s Syndrome Show Distinct Histomorphological Features
Authors: Imai Seiji , Burg Günter , Braun-Falco Otto
Published: October 2009

A light microscopic investigation of skin biopsy specimens from 10 patients with plaque stage mycosis fungoides (MF) and from 6 with Sézary’s syndrome (SS) was carried out according to the defined histologic criteria, for the purpose of detecting some morphological characteristics of these diseases for their histological differentiation. This study revealed that some histomorphological differences regarding the epidermal and dermal changes, epidermotropism and the cellular infiltrate existed between MF and SS, and that these diseases were two distinct entities showing differences not only from a clinical and hematologic but also from the histological viewpoint.
Evaluation of Prophylactic Benzathine-Penicillin in the Prevention of Recurrent Erysipelas
Authors: Duvanel T. , Harms M. , Mérot Y. , Saurat J.-H.
Published: October 2009

After a first episode of erysipelas, 12 patients did not receive any prophylactic antibiotics, while 12 were treated with benzathine-penicillin, 2,400,000 U every 3 weeks for 6 months. The prophylactic regimen did prevent relapses, but as soon as it was stopped, the risk of recurrence came back unchanged. So in order to be efficient, prophylaxis should be administered on a long-term basis, which implies defining criteria for its indications. We propose to treat all patients with obvious risk factor(s) and to wait for the first recurrence before treating the other patients.
Long-Term Oral Acyclovir Treatment Prevents Recurrent Genital Herpes
Authors: Blom I. , Bäck O. , Egelrud T. , Frödin T. , Hellbe L. , Johannisson G. , Malmros-Enander I. , Molin L.
Published: October 2009

Thirty-three patients with frequently recurring genital herpes completed a randomized double-blind, crossover trial with oral acyclovir 200 mg 4 times a day and placebo for periods of 12 weeks. Five patients (15%) had full recurrence during acyclovir treatment and 31 (94%) while receiving placebo. The median time to first recurrence was 20 days for placebo and more than 84 days for acyclovir. It was concluded that acyclovir was well tolerated and an effective treatment to suppress the disease in selected cases of severe and frequently recurring genital herpes. However, the relapses seem to occur with the same rate as before, when the suppressive acyclovir treatment is stopped.
Solar Urticaria: A Case with Good Therapeutic Response to Cimetidine
Authors: Tokura Yoshiki , Takigawa Masahiro , Yamauchi Takashi , Yamada Mizuho
Published: October 2009

A 25-year-old woman developed urticarial lesions after visible light irradiation. Orally administered cimetidine significantly inhibited the induction of urticaria, but H1 antihistamines did not suppress the weal formation. Our case suggests that a trial with H2 antihistamine should be considered for the treatment of solar urticaria.
Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome and Webbed Neck
Authors: de Boer E.M. , Bruynzeel D.P.
Published: October 2009

A patient is reported with the basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) in combination with a webbed neck. This symptom might be considered as an expression of the BCNS.
Captopril-Induced Lichen planus pemphigoides with Pemphigus-Like Features
Authors: Flageul B. , Foldes C. , Wallach D. , Vignon-Pennamen M.D. , Cottenot F.
Published: October 2009

We report a case of a bullous lichenoid eruption due to the intake of captopril. Clinical, histological, direct immunofluorescence and ultrastructural features were consistent with the diagnosis of lichen planus pemphigoides. In addition, the in vivo immunological study also revealed an intercellular fluorescence, similar to that seen in pemphigus. Complex drug-induced cutaneous reactions have been previously reported with other drugs, especially with D-penicillamine, which bears chemical similarities with captopril. However, such a drug-induced mixed pattern of lichen planus pemphigoides with pemphigus-like features has never been reported.
Bullous Pemphigoid – A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study
Authors: Ookusa Yasuhiro , Takata Kuniaki , Nagashima Masaji , Hirano Hiroshi
Published: October 2009

Skin blisters at different stages were taken from 4 patients with bullous pemphigoid and studied mainly by scanning electron microscopy. The under-surface of the roof of the newly formed blisters was composed of columnar or cuboidal epidermal cells. Their intercellular space was dilated. Most of the cells were degenerated and shed off into the blister fluid. The under-surface of the roof of the fully developed blisters was composed of flattened epidermal cells which were polygonal in shape. These findings suggest that the basal cells are degenerated and shed off into the blister fluid, so that the prickle cells become flattened and directly face the blister fluid during blister formation.
Cutaneous Lesions in 67 Cyclosporin-Treated Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Bencini P.L. , Montagnino G. , Sala F. , De Vecchi A. , Crosti C. , Tarantino A.
Published: October 2009

Sixty-seven out of 100 kidney transplant recipients treated with cyclosporin and methylprednisolone were evaluated for the presence of dermatological manifestations. Only 2 patients had no dermatological lesions; 80% had iatrogenic lesions, 38% infectious, 13% miscellaneous, 3% cancerous lesions, while 28% had cutaneous manifestations related to previous uremic state. Most of the lesions concerned the pilosebaceous unit: hypertrichosis (60%), epidermal cysts (28%), pilar keratosis (21%), acne (15%), folliculitis (12%) and sebaceous hyperplasia (10%). Among infectious manifestations, viral lesions were the most frequent and were very severe in the first month after transplantation. Two patients developed a squamous-cell epithelioma and a probable cutaneous lymphoma, respectively.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma with Hypercalcemia and Leukocytosis
Authors: Hayakawa Y. , Ishizaki H. , Tanabe S. , Kimura A. , Yamamichi N.
Published: October 2009

Squamous cell carcinoma with hypercalcemia and leukocytosis arising from burn scars in a 45-year-old man is reported. Hypercalcemia and leukocytosis improved with pepleomycin treatment and worsened with recurrence of the tumor. Serum levels of parathyroid hormone, prostaglandin E and 25-OH-Vitamin D were within normal limits. Autopsy did not disclose any bone metastases or abnormalities of the parathyroid glands. It is suggested that hypercalcemia and leukocytosis were due to factors produced by the squamous cell carcinoma. This is the fifth reported case of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma associated with hypercalcemia in the absence of bone metastasis or parathyroid gland abnormalities.
Survey of 200 Cases of Sporotrichosis
Authors: Itoh M. , Okamoto S. , Kariya H.
Published: October 2009

A survey of 200 cases of sporotrichosis seen at the Dermatology Clinic of Chiba University Hospital from May 1965 to August 1983 is reported. The proportion of cases with sporotrichosis to the total number of outpatients was 0.15%. A higher percentage of cases fell into the less than 12-year-old or more than 40-year-old age groups. The male to female ratio was 1:2. Half of the cases occurred in farmers. Seventy-eight cases had a history of injury. One hundred and eight cases showed the cutaneous lymphangitic type and 92 cases showed the localized cutaneous type. The face and upper extremities were the most frequently affected sites. The sporotrichin skin test was positive in 96.3% of the cases. The causative organism was demonstrated in tissue sections in 94.5% of the cases.
Hodgkin’s Disease Presenting with Superficial Lymph Nodes and Tumors of the Scalp
Authors: Torne Ramón , Umbert Pablo
Published: October 2009

Invasion of the skin by malignant cells in Hodgkin’s disease is a rare occurrence and less common than skin involvement in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. We describe a 36-year-old man with Hodgkin’s disease who presented with superficial lymph nodes and tumors on the scalp as initial clinical findings. Biopsy of a tumor of the scalp showed a diffuse dermal infiltrate composed of polynuclear neutrophils and eosinophils, large lymphocytes, and Sternberg-Reed cells. Ultrastructural examination of the skin biopsy specimens demonstrated the characteristic morphology of the Sternberg-Reed cells.
Massive Lymphocyte-Mediated Apoptosis during the Early Stage of Pseudopelade
Authors: Pierard-Franchimont C. , Pierard G.E.
Published: October 2009

The early evolving lesions of the hair follicles are described in pseudopelade, a type of cicatricial alopecia where clues for the diagnosis of lupus erythematosus or lichen plano-pilaris are lacking. A sudden and synchronized cell death of all the cells of the epithelial sheaths of the hair follicles occurs and is associated with a dense infiltration by lymphocytes. The epidermis remains uninvolved. This unique aspect is most probably related to the mechanism of apoptosis. Its intensity and extension are much more pronounced than in lichen planus and in lupus erythematosus. Pathogenesis of at least some cicatricial alopecias could therefore be related to massive apoptosis without evident and close relationship with the classical etiologies, i.e. lichen planus and lupus erythematosus.
Keratoderma climactericum (Haxthausen’s Disease): Clinical Signs, Laboratory Findings and Etretinate Treatment in 10 Patients
Authors: Deschamps P. , Leroy D. , Pedailles S. , Mandard J.C.
Published: October 2009

10 cases of keratoderma climactericum are reported. This keratosis of the palms and soles appears late in women of menopausal age. The keratotic lesions first develop at the plantar pressure points, making walking troublesome. Involvement of the hands remains discrete. Examination for contact allergy, fungal tests, vitamin A serum levels, and sex hormones were negative or normal in all the 10 patients. Microscopy revealed a lichenified eczema with evidence of mechanical irritation. Etretinate (0.78 mg/kg/day) brought about partial or total remission of the hyperkeratosis. Pain on walking disappeared in all the patients.
Erythema Gyratum Persians: Association with a Familial Neurologic Disease
Authors: Delfino Mario , Suppa Francesco , Piccirillo Angelo , Bruno Giancarlo , Monfrecola Giuseppe
Published: October 2009

Two members of the same family with erythema gyratum perstans and hypertrophic neuritis are reported. The dermatosis could be an expression of localization of neuritis to nerva vasorum with abnormal neuro vascular response of cutaneous small vessels to normal stimuli with active erythema followed by cyanosis.
Vulvar Localisation of Epidermolytic Acanthoma
Authors: De Coninck A. , Willemsen M. , De Dobbeleer G. , Roseeuw D.
Published: October 2009

A patient had several verrucoid lesions on the vulva, which showed light- and electron-microscopic features of epidermolytic acanthoma.
Some Further Features for Differential Diagnosis between Squamous Cell Carcinomas and Basal Cell Epitheliomas
Authors: Tosca A. , Varelzidis A. , Bassioukas K. , Hatzis J. , Nicolis G. , Stratigos J.
Published: October 2009

Two further methods for the characterization of epidermal skin tumors are described: the antinuclear antibody (ANA) immunofluorescent test, which consists of indirect immunofluorescence with known high titer sera containing homogenous ANAs on epidermal skin tumors, and the ammoniacal-silver cytochemical method, which specifically stains nuclear histones. Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), basal cell epitheliomas (BCEs) as well as control specimens from normal skin and benign epidermal hyperplasias were studied. The ANA immunofluorescent test was positive for most SCCs, mixed SCC and basal cell carcinomas and metatypical BCEs. The ammoniacal-silver method gave a characteristic staining pattern shared among SCCs, mixed carcinomas and metatypical BCEs. BCEs, besides metatypical ones, were always negative by the ANA immunofluorescent test and the same applied for the control specimens. The ammoniacal-silver method gave a characteristic staining pattern for BCEs and control sections quite different from the staining pattern of the more aggressive forms of epidermal tumors. The two methods usually yielded parallel results.
Report of a Family with Mal de Meleda in Taiwan: a Clinical, Histopathological and Immunological Study
Authors: Jee Shiou-Hwa , Lee Yu-Yun , Wu Ying-Chin , Lü Yau-Chin , Pan Chiung-Chun
Published: October 2009

A family in Taiwan is reported to have Mai de Meleda with possibly autosomal recessive inheritance among 5 of its members. The glove- and sock-like erythrokeratosis and the hyperkeratotic plaques of the knees and elbows are the common features. Erythema of the nose, cheeks, and the perioral area in 4 affected members, actinic elastosis in 2 severely affected members, and partially impaired cell-mediated immunity in vitro in both affected and unaffected members are notable findings. Tigason (etretinate) treatment was beneficial in regard to hyperkeratinization, but not to erythema.
Zur Bedeutung der Auxotypisierung von Neisseria gonorrhoeae für die Auswertung von Gonorrhoe-Therapiestudien
Authors: Korting H.C. , Abeck D. , Neubert U.
Published: October 2009

So far, there was no absolutely reliable way to distinguish between failure and reinfection in clinical trials on the treatment of gonorrhoea. If one, however, analyzes the auxotypes of the gonococcal strains isolated before and after application of the drug from non-cured patients, reinfection can clearly be demonstrated in cases with a changed auxotype. Thus, in a trial on the single intramuscular application of cefotiam 1 g for uncomplicated gonorrhoea, the bacteriological cure rate increased from 90 to at least 95%.
Nævus bleu malin
Authors: Simon C.A. , von Overbeck J. , Polla L.
Published: October 2009

Malignant blue nævi with an aggressive behaviour are rare tumours. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case who has developed generalized skin melanosis and melanuria in its terminal stage.
Chloroquine-Induced Neuromyopathy
Authors: Parodi Aurora , Regesta G. , Rebora A.
Published: October 2009

A patient is described in whom a neuromyopathy developed during a long chloroquine treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The presence of a granular deposition within the muscle fibers was observed and led to discontinuation of the drug and to a gradual recovery of muscle strength. The difficult differential diagnosis with polymyositis, steroid-induced myopathy and SLE myositis is discussed.