bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FACIAL WRINKLING AND AIRFLOW OBSTRUCTION
Authors: LANGE PETER , SCHNOHR PETER 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Similar smoking‐related changes in the collagen and elastin could play a role in the pathogenesis of both skin wrinkling and chronic airflow obstruction. The hypothesis was tested by analyzing whether increased facial wrinkling, especially in smokers, is associated with the presence of airflow obstruction. Methods. An age‐stratified randomized sample of the general population comprising 6034 men and 7152 women between 30 and 80 years of age was analyzed. The recording of wrinkling in the crow's foot area of the right eye was performed according to an earlier described severity score. As an index of airflow obstruction, we used the ratio between forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity in percent (FEV1/FVC%). Results. Multiple regression analysis comprising current and previous smokers showed that, after controlling for age, subjects with highest wrinkle scores had on average FEV1/FVC% that was 1.2–1.9% lower than in subjects with lower wrinkle scores. No association between facial wrinkling and airflow obstruction was observed among lifetime nonsmokers. Conclusions. Increased facial wrinkling is independent of age when associated with airflow obstruction in smokers, but not in never‐smokers. The magnitude of this association, however, is small.
MELANOCYTE RESERVOIR IN VITILIGO
Authors: ARRUNATEGUI ADRIANA , ARROYO CESAR , GARCIA LUCY , COVELLI CLAUDIA , ESCOBAR CARLOS , CARRASCAL EDWIN , FALABELLA RAFAEL 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Dopa‐negative, inactive melanocytes, present in the middle portion of the hair follicle, but also in hair bulbs, have been reported as a source of pigment cells, when repopulation of epidermal melanocytes occurs. A melanocyte reservoir in these anatomical sites has been suggested. Our objective was to investigate the ability of the lower third of the hair follicle (hair bulb) to repigment achromic skin in vitiligo. Methods. Scalp hair bulbs were transplanted within leukodermic areas in 10 patients with vitiligo. Results. Repigmentation around the grafts was suitable for evaluation in four cases. Dopa‐positive (+) cells were seen in the epidermal basal cell layer of the repigmented areas. Conclusions. Although these findings were observed only in a few patients, they suggest that melanocytes from the implanted lower third portion of the hair follicle (hair bulb) act as a reservoir in this anatomic location and are able to migrate and repigment achromic areas in vitiligo.
CHRONIC MENINGOCOCCEMIA IN AN IMMUNOCOMPETENT GIRL
Authors: PENA JOSEFINA , MÉNDEZ‐BUSTELO MARÍA J. , DEL‐RÍO EMILIO 
Published: May 2007

A 13‐year‐old healthy girl consulted with a 4‐week history of recurrent fever (39–40°C) and erythematous macules and plaques on the distal parts of her legs and forearms, and the palms and soles, A migrating arthritis developed on the left ankle and, later, on the knees, elbows, wrists, and hand joints. General symptoms included anorexia, malaise, and weight loss.Physical examination revealed several erythematous macules, plaques, and nodules, 1–3 cm in diameter, located on the anterior and posterior aspects of the legs, soles, forearms, dorsum of the hands, and palms (Fig. 1), Some lesions showed very small petechiae and vesicles in the center. The nodules in acral locations were painful.A hemogram displayed mild anemia (hemoglobin 11.3 g/dL) and leukocytosis (11,500 WBc/mm3). The erythrocyte sedi‐mentation rate was 63 mm in 1 hour. Serum biochemistry, protein and protein fractions, and fractions of immunoglobu‐lins were within normal limits. Urinalysis showed microhe‐maturia and a few leukocytes. Two serial blood cultures were taken during the first two febrile peaks after admission, but both were negative. A third one (1 week after admission) was positive for group B Neisseria meningitidis. This bacterium was also recovered from pharyngeal samples, but was not isolated in the culture of cerebrospinal fluid.Antibiotic therapy was established with intravenous cephtriaxone, 100 mg/kg/day for 10 days, with dramatic im‐provement of the fever and arthritis within 3 days. The cu‐taneous lesions disappeared within 1 week.Some of the components of complement proteins (C3, C4, and C5) were measured to rule out any deficiency, but they were normal. A normal value of CH50 supported the adequate presence of all of the components of the mem‐brane attack complex (C6 to C9) in the serum.Several relatives of the patient were found to be oropha‐ryngeal carriers of group B Neisseria meningitidis. They were treated successfully with rifampin (20 mg/kg/day for 2 days).
CHRONIC BULLOUS DERMATOSIS OF CHILDHOOD: DIFFERENTIATION FROM OTHER AUTOIMMUNE BLISTERING DISEASES IN CHILDREN
Authors: TSE YARDY , LIM HENRY W. 
Published: May 2007

An 8‐year‐old girl presented with a 1‐week history of intensely pruritic vesicles and bullae on the trunk and extremities. The patient was otherwise in good health and was not taking any medications.Physical examination revealed multiple large, tense bullae on normal‐appearing skin on the trunk, extremities, and pelvic region. Some of the bullae were hemorrhagic, while others were grouped in circular clusters (Fig. 1A, B). The oral cavity and conjunctivae were spared. Complete blood cell count, electrolytes, serum urea nitrogen, creatinine, and liver function studies were normal.Histopathologic examination of perilesional skin demonstrated a subepidermal blister with neutrophils in the dermal papillae (Fig. 2). Direct immunofluorescence of the specimen showed heavy deposition of IgA in a linear pattern in the basement membrane zone (Fig. 3). Broad but faint deposits of IgM were also present. Blood obtained for indirect immunofluorescence revealed no circulating autoantibodies.The patient was diagnosed with chronic bullous dermatosis of childhood and treated with dapsone (2 mg/kg) with dramatic improvement. New blister formation and puritis were suppressed within several days. All lesions healed with mild hyperpigmentation but without scarring.
EFFECT OF PROLONGED TREATMENT WITH LEVAMISOLE ON VITILIGO WITH LIMITED AND SLOW‐SPREADING DISEASE
Authors: PASRICHA J.S. , KHERA VIKAS 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. For an effective treatment of vitiligo, it Is as important to arrest the progression of the disease (if it is still active) as it is to induce repigmentation in existing lesions. In patients having limited and slow‐spreading vitiligo, we evaluated the efficacy of levamisole to control the activity of the disease process and to induce repigmentation of the vitiliginous areas. Methods. Levamisole was given to 64 patients in an oral dose of 150 mg on two consecutive days every week for periods varying from 4–48 months. In 14 patients levamisole was used alone, in 38 patients it was combined with topical 0.1% fluocinolone acetonide acetate ointment massaged on the lesions once a day, and in 12 patients it was combined with topical 0.05% clobetasol propionate used in the same way. There was no other adjuvant therapy. Results. In 34 of the 36 patients (94%) having active disease, the progression of the disease could be arrested within 2–4 months. A variable degree of spontaneous repigmentation of the vitiliginous areas was seen in 9 patients (64%) treated with levamisole alone, 33 patients (87%) treated with levamisole and topical fluocinolone, and all the 12 patients treated with levamisole and topical clobetasol.The side effects with levamisole were minimal except in two cases where treatment had to be discontinued. Topical fluocinolone was fairly safe in the Indian patients, but clobetasol frequently produced atrophy and telangiectasia. Conclusions. Levamisole seems to be a simple, safe, and fairly effective remedy for controlling the activity of the disease process in vitiligo patients who have limited and slow‐spreading disease. Some patients develop spontaneous repigmentation as well. To achieve a faster rate of repigmentation, levamisole can be combined with other treatment methods such as topical corticosteroids.
ALBERT'S SOLUTION VERSUS POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE SOLUTION IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF TINEA VERSICOLOR
Authors: PAYLE BRUCE , SERRANO LOURDES , BIELEY HARLAN C. , REYES BLAS A. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. The diagnosis of tinea versicolor can usually be made by clinical examination. Either potassium hydroxide (KOH) or Wood's light fluorescence are used to corroborate the diagnosis. Albert's solution has been reported as a method of visualizing dermatophytes. We compared Albert's solution to KOH in the diagnostic evaluation of tinea versicolor. Methods. Twenty patients with clinical tinea versicolor were examined for the presence of hyphae and/or spores utilizing Albert's solution or KOH (20%) with dimethyl sulfoxide. Results. All patients were positive for hyphae and/or spores by both methods. Preparations with Alberts' stains were faster and easier to read. Conclusions. Albert's solution is an alternate method to stain for fungal elements in patients with tinea versicolor.
FULMINANT HEAD AND NECK CONGESTION IN ADVANCED CUTANEOUS T CELL LYMPHOMA: A POOR PROGNOSTIC INDICATOR
Authors: MCFALLS SUSAN G. , COHEN JONATHAN , BERMAN BRIAN , KERDEL FRANCISCO A. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Clinical factors associated with a poor prognosis in patients with cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL) include the extent and type of skin involvement and the presence and extent of lymphadenopathy. Materials. We report retrospectively the clinical course and survival time of four patients with advanced CTCL after the development of fulminant head and neck congestion. Methods. All four patients presented with marked erythema and edema of the head and neck with marked cervical adenopathy. Treatment with multidrug chemotherapy and radiation induced only brief remissions. The clinical picture was felt to be due to extensive tumor infiltration of the skin as well as lymphatic compression due to cervical adenopathy rather than venous compression at the level of the mediastinum. Survival from onset of this fulminant head and neck congestion was 1–5 months. Conclusion. Development of this fulminant head and neck congestion in patients with advanced CTCL heralds a progressively deteriorating clinical course with a poor prognosis.
TINEA VERSICOLOR OF THE SCALP
Authors: EL‐GOTHAMY ZENAB , GHOZZI MOHAMMAD 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Tinea versicolor (TV) is commonly described on the trunk without giving attention to involvement of the scalp. We examined cases with dandruff with and without TV on the body to see how frequent Malassezia furfur (M. furfur) is present in dandruff scales. Methods. A total of 80 patients were examined mycologically using KOH preparation for the presence of M. furfur in dandruff scales. Results. M. furfur was found in dandruff scales in 7 out of 20 men with TV (35%) and 5 out of 20 women with TV (25%), whereas it was absent in another 40 cases without clinical lesions of TV on the body. Conclusions. Attention must be paid to TV of the hairy scalp. Cases of dandruff, especially those accompanied with TV of the body, must be examined for the presence of M. furfur because of its prognostic significance. Positive cases should be treated accordingly.
DENSITOMETRY OF PAUTRIER'S MICROABSCESS CELLS IN CUTANEOUS T CELL LYMPHOMA
Authors: ALTOMARE GIANFRANCO , LUIGI CAPELLA GIOVANNI , PIGATTO PAOLO D. , BIONDO BRUNA , LAVEZZI ANNA M. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Epidermotropic lymphoid T cell infiltrates are part of a continuous spectrum of lesions ranging from “benign” parapsoriasis to frank cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL, mycosis fungoides). Either the clinical or histologic differentiation between these entities prove often difficult and the prognosis may be difficult to assess. Patients and Methods. We studied 15 patients, men aged 50 to 81 years, mean ± SD 68 ± 12 years, with patch‐plaque CTCL. Sections from punch biopsies from active lesions were stained with Feulgen reagent, coupled with a “twin” adjacent hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)‐stained section and analyzed with a VIDAS Zeiss‐Kontron Image Analyzer. At least 50 dermal infiltrating cells and 50 epidermotropic Pautrierian cells per specimen were counted and the biopsies were repeated periodically. Results. Nine patients with aneuploid Pautrierian cell DNA patterns did well after conventional phototherapy (dermal cell ploidy was irrelevant), whereas six patients with euploid Pautrierian cell DNA patterns had to be treated aggressively (IFN + retinoids, COP). Clinical and histopathologic aspects of the first group were comparable to those of the second group. Conclusions. The classical cytophotometric aphorism seems to be reversed in this sample: “The more abnormal the ploidy of epidermotropic Pautrierian cells, the better the prognosis.” Euploid epidermotropic cell prove more efficient in invading the skin and other areas and this efficiency may be reflected in more aggressive trends in the evolution of the lymphoma. Thus, DSM analysis of epidermotropic cells could prove very useful as an inexpensive tool for routine CTCL grading.
ANTISMOOTH MUSCLE AND ANTIPARIETAL CELL ANTIBODIES IN INDIANS WITH ALOPECIA AREATA
Authors: KUMAR BHUSHAN , SHARMA VINOD K. , SEHGAL SHOBHA 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Alopecia areata is suspected to be an autoimmune disease. We studied 104 consecutive patients with alopecia areata for the presence of autoantibodies and associated autoimmune diseases. Methods. A detailed history and examination was carried out in all patients to look for associated atopy, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, vitiligo, lupus erythematosus, and thyroid disorders, etc. in the patients or their family members. Venous blood for estimation of fasting and postprandial blood glucose was collected in 30 patients, especially in those with family history of diabetes mellitus. Antimitochondrial (AMA), antismooth muscle (SMA), antinuclear antibodies (ANA), antiparietal cell antibody (PCA), and antibody against thyroid microsome (TMA) were detected employing indirect immunofluorescence on a composite section of rat liver, stomach, kidney, and human thyroid. Skin biopsy was processed for direct immunofluorescence by a conventional technique. Results. Disseminated discoid lupus erythematosus, lichen planus, urticaria, psoriasis, and seronegative spondylarthritis were associated with alopecia areata in one case each. Anti‐smooth‐muscle‐antibodies and PCA were found in 36 (34.6%) and 44 (42.3%) patients respectively, followed by TMA in 8 (7.7%), AMA in 6 (5.7%), antithyroglobulin antibodies in 3 (2.8%), and ANA in 2 (1.9%) patients. The incidence of SMA was higher in men with alopecia areata (P< 0.001). Direct immunofluorescence carried out in 24 patients did not reveal significant findings, except for occasional immunoglobulin deposits around hair follicles and blood vessels. Conclusion. Alopecia areata in India is associated more often with antismooth muscle and antiparietal cell antibodies.
HOW RELIABLE IS THE BASEMENT MEMBRANE PHENOMENON IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS?
Authors: AL‐FOUZAN ABDULWAHAB S. , HASSAB‐EL‐NABY HUSSEIN M.M. , DVORAK RICHARD 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Although the basement membrane (BM) phenomenon is considered a good test to differentiate between systemic (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), our observations question its reliability. Methods. Direct immunofluorescence stain was done to detect immunoglobulins and complement deposits in 10 SLE patients and in 10 healthy controls. Specimens were taken from the normal skin of the dorsa of hands. Results. The group of SLE patients showed deposits of IgG in 4, IgM in 7, IgA in 1, C3 in 7, and C4 in 1 patient. The group of healthy controls showed IgM in 2, C3 in 5, C4 in 2 cases, but no IgG or IgA deposits. Conclusion. A positive BM phenomenon test could be found in normal individuals and may be due to the effect of ultraviolet rays. We think that the BM phenomenon has a limited reliability in diagnosing SLE.
ANOTHER “PARABEN PARADOX”
Authors: WOLF RONNI , BRENNER SARAH 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. To test the reliability and reproducibility of the patch test with a paraben mix, we added a second paraben mix allergen to our standard tray and compared the results achieved with these two allergens. Methods. Two hundred and fifteen consecutive patients, undergoing patch testing with a standard series, were simultaneously tested with an additional paraben mix (i.e., each patient was tested with two paraben mix allergens) supplied by two different companies. Results. Twelve patients (5.6%) showed a positive reaction to one or two paraben tests. Five patients showed a positive reaction to one paraben test (paraben‐a), and five others to the second paraben test (paraben‐b). Only two patients out of 12 with positive reactions to parabens showed a reaction with both of the two parabens.The parabens appear to be overrepresented in our study compared to other series. There was no correlation between the results of the tests with the two different parabens used Conclusions. Patch testing with a paraben mix cannot be considered an appropriate and reliable method for detecting paraben allergies. T is recommended to test routinely with a paraben screening series instead of the paraben mix.
CHEMOTHERAPY FOR AIDS‐RELATED AND ENDEMIC AFRICAN KAPOSI'S SARCOMA IN SOUTHERN AFRICA
Authors: STEIN MOSHE E. , LACHTER JESSE , SPENCER DAVID , BEZWODA WERNER R. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), either in its endemic (African) form or its AIDS‐related variant, is a common neoplastic disorder seen in Southern Africa. Chemotherapy has been proven to be very effective in advanced or relapsed African Kaposi's sarcoma, but much less so in AIDS‐related, endemic KS. Patients and Methods. The study consists of a retrospective analysis of the results of chemotherapy alone in 17 patients with African KS (AKS) and in 32 patients with epidemic AIDS‐related KS (EKS), treated at the Johannesburg General Hospital between 1982 and 1992. Single agents included vinblastine, actinomycin D, bleomycin, and vincristine; combined regimens were largely doxorubicin/vincristine/ bleomycin or etoposide/methotrexate. Outcome classifications were: complete remission (CR), partial remission (PR), and treatment failure (TF). Results. Four of the 17 patients with AKS had CR, 10 a PR, and three were TF and died rapidly from their disease. The combined chemotherapeutic regimens produced marked symptomatic relief and even long‐term remission in AKS. In patients with EKS, the response rate to chemotherapy was very low and of brief duration. No patient had a CR and debilitating side effects were common. Conclusions. The African type of AKS is a chemo‐sensitive tumor, whereas the endemic type EKS, like its Western counterpart, has a dismal prognosis.
NONMELANOMA SKIN CANCER IN NORTHERN FINLAND
Authors: KOSKINEN ARI , OIKARINEN AARNE 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background and Objectives. The incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancers is highest in those geographic areas where light‐skinned people are exposed to large amounts of sunlight. The purpose of this study was to detect differences in nonmelanoma skin cancers diagnosed in Northern Finland compared to those from elsewhere. Another purpose was to estimate whether changes have occurred in clinical diagnosis, site distribution, and recurrence rate during the past 15 years. Methods. The material included patients treated at Oulu University Hospital in Northern Finiand (64.6°N) during the years 1976—1977 and 1991—1992. Information was collected from files on 334 patients with 428 different, histologically verified skin cancers. Results. In 1976—1977, the average age of men with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) was 61 years, whereas the women's average age was 66 years. In 1991—1992, the corresponding ages were 69 and 72 years. The site distribution did not show any obvious changes in the 15 years, but the differences between sexes had become more prominent. Men had more BCC on the ears and the trunk, whereas women had more BCC on the nose and the forehead. Most of the squamous cell carcinomas (sec) were on the head and neck similar to BCC, but on the ears of men there occurred relatively more secthan BCC. Conclusions. The clinical diagnosis of BCC was fairly easy to make, whereas that of sec seemed to be very difficult clinically and was only correct in 10% of the cases. The markedly decreased recurrence rate of BCC between 1976 and 1992 probably occurred because of changes in treatment practices.
BASAL CELL CARCINOMA IN QATAR
Authors: MAHMOUD SOMAIA F. , AZADEH BAHRAM 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. There is an increasing incidence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and skin cancer in general among various countries, where the sun is implicated as an important causative factor. Methods. Results of clinical and histopathologic examination and the incidence rate of BCCS were recorded over a period of 5 years at Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar. Results. Basal cell carcinoma is the commonest skin cancer in Qatar. The average annual incidence per 100,000 residents of working manpower, standardized to the 1986 census, is 9.9 for both sexes and at all ages. Expatriates formed the highest proportion and of these, Europeans were predominant. The tumor was more frequent in men, on sun‐exposed areas, was mostly of the nodular and infiltrative type, and occurred in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th decades. As a whole, persons with relatively heavily pigmented skin constituted 66.7% of the patients. Conclusions. Intense sunlight exposure during outdoor work and leisure activities in Qatar puts residents at increased risk for nonmelanoma skin cancer, even in persons with relatively pigmented skin.
SYRINGOMAS: NEW APPROACH TO AN OLD TECHNIQUE
Authors: KARAM PAULA , BENEDETTO ANTHONY V. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract Background. Syringomas are common, benign periorbital adnexal tumors that pose a cosmetic dilemma for both patients and physicians alike. Many therapeutic modalities can potentially cause scarring and recurrences are common. The objective was to develop a treatment method that minimizes scarring and subsequent recurrences. Methods. Each syringoma is treated with short bursts of low voltage electrodesiccation, delivered with an epilating needle that is inserted deeply into the skin at the level of the reticular dermis. Results. A patient treated by intralesional electrodesiccation of her long‐standing periorbital syringomas remains lesion‐free for over 24 months after therapy. Conclusions. Intralesional electrodesiccation is a safe, nonscarring and reliable method that can be used to eradicate periorbital syringomas.