bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A comparative study of isolutrol versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne
Authors: Dunlop Katharine J , Barnetson Ross StC 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYIsolutrol is the active principle isolated from aqueous tissue extracts of deep sea shark liver and gall‐bladder. A previous study has demonstrated the ability of isolutrol to reduce hyperseborrhoea, which provides a rationale for its use in the treatment of acne. We have performed a double‐blind clinical trial on 70 patients to evaluate the efficacy and skin tolerance of isolutrol 0.15 g/100 mL (Ketsugo) in the treatment of mild to moderate acne when compared with 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion. The results from this study showed that both isolutrol and benzoyl peroxide significantly improved patients' acne by reducing the number of inflamed lesions. Isolutrol did not significantly reduce the numbers of non‐inflamed lesions whereas benzoyl peroxide did. Fewer side effects were experienced by patients treated with isolutrol when compared with benzoyl peroxide. These results indicate that isolutrol may be a useful adjunct in the treatment of acne, particularly in patients with inflamed lesions.
Pyoderma gangrenosum, erythema elevatum diutinum and IgA monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: Wayte Jeffrey A , Rogers S , Powell FC 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYA patient with erythema elevatum diutinum (EED) developed pyoderma gangrenosum (PG). Investigation revealed an IgA kappa monoclonal gammopathy. Previous reports of PG in association with EED are reviewed and the spectrum of the neutrophilic dermatoses discussed.
Necrotizing fasciitis: The role of Staphylococcus epidermidis, immune status and intravascular coagulation
Authors: Leibowitz Michael R , Ramakrishnan Kalyanakrishnan K 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYAn 83 year old Caucasian woman with necrotizing fasciitis (NF) of the right hand is described. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the only organism cultured. Serology failed to demonstrate Streptococcus pyogenes, the common pathogen of NF. Despite antibiotic therapy, gangrene supervened, necessitating digital amputation. Staphylococcus epidermidis is usually non‐pathogenic, but review of the literature indicates that it is relatively commonly found with other pathogens in NF. Accordingly, studies of immune status were undertaken. Apart from reduced myeloperoxidase production (30–50% of normal levels), all humoral, cell‐mediated and neutrophil function tests were normal. This is the first report of Staphylococcus epidermidis as the sole isolate in NF and also the only study of immune status of NF patients. It is concluded that a non‐virulent organism (e.g. Staphylococcus epidermidis) may be pathogenic in the face of advanced age alone. Elevated fibrin degradation productions were also demonstrated in the patient, consistent with lysis of localized intravascular thrombus. The role of anticoagulation in NF is discussed.
Cutaneous malignancies in renal transplant recipients from Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Dyall‐Smith Delwyn , Ross J Barrie 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYFour hundred and seventy‐four Nova Scotian renal transplant recipients were screened, using the records of the Nova Scotia Cancer Registry and the Victoria General Hospital, in a retrospective study, for the development of cutaneous malignancies. Sixteen patients developed a total of 60 squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) and 14 developed 28 basal cell carcinomas (BCC). The survival curve shows that within 10 years of transplant, less than 10% will develop SCC. This is a 16‐fold increase above the rate of SCC in the general population of Nova Scotia, Canada. Age at time of transplantation appears to be a significant determinant of subsequent skin cancer risk. None of the previously reported HLA associations was found to hold in this small study. The role of ultraviolet radiation, due to both geographic and lifestyle exposure, is discussed when comparing to other transplant studies.
Mechanisms of drug eruptions: Part I
Authors: Breathnach SM 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYThe pathogenetic mechanisms underlying common, and less common but severe, adverse cutaneous drug reactions are reviewed. Pharmacogenetic variability may account for a susceptibility to serious drug reactions to sulphonamides and anticonvulsants, as well as to lupus erythematosus (LE)‐like syndrome. Exanthematous drug reactions may have an immunological basis. Cell mediated cutaneous drug reactions, including lichenoid reactions, LE‐like syndrome, fixed drug eruption, erythema multiforme, Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, will inevitably involve elements of the skin immune system. Graft‐versus‐host disease provides a useful model for aspects of these drug‐induced disorders. Urticaria, angioedema, anaphlyaxis and anaphylactoid reactions may involve Type I immunoglobulin (Ig)‐mediated or Type III hypersensitivity, or may be caused by pharmacological, non‐allergic means. Drug‐induced vasculitis, serum sickness and the Arthus phenomenon are manifestations of the immune complex disease. Drug‐induced pemphigus may involve immune dysregulation, but several thiol‐containing drugs are able to cause antibody‐independent acantholysis directly.
Cryosurgery of malignant and premalignant diseases of the skin: A simple approach
Authors: Sinclair Rodney D , Dawber Rodney PR 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYCryosurgical treatment of skin cancer and premalignant conditions of the skin has been in widespread use for 20 years. Data accumulated over this period suggest that if attention is paid to the treatment technique and to lesion selection, then cure rates equivalent to radiotherapy, simple surgical excision, and curettage and cautery can be achieved reliably. Moh's micrographic surgery offers a higher cure rate for skin cancer, but is not suitable for the vast majority of lesions seen in clinical practice. The decision to use cryosurgery to treat any particular lesion will therefore be influenced by a number of other considerations. Cryosurgery competes well on morbidity and cosmetic outcome and is the quickest, easiest, cheapest and most readily available of the treatment options. As such it has earned its place among the recognized treatment modalities for skin cancers as well as premalignant conditions of the skin. Cryosurgery is commonly delivered empirically without record of the dose delivered and without audit of the outcome. The aim of this review is to describe in detail one standard technique of therapy that is easily reproduced and has been audited; the timed spot freeze technique. This technique can be used, even by those inexperienced in cryosurgery, to achieve predictable success rates. Many other techniques do exist, but either have not been audited or are unnecessarily cumbersome.
Transient zinc deficiency in a breast‐fed premature infant
Authors: Stapleton Karen M , O'Loughlin Edward , Relic John P 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYSymptomatic zinc deficiency developed in a breast‐fed premature male infant of 31 weeks gestation. At 13 weeks of age he presented with diarrhoea, irritability and an eruption identical to acrodermatitis enteropathica. Breast milk zinc concentrations were low. His course was complicated by milk protein intolerance. After 7 weeks, zinc supplementation was ceased without recurrence of disease.
Hair shaft abnormalities: Part I
Authors: Rogers Maureen 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYThe light microscopic and electron microscopic appearances of the normal hair are briefly described. The major hair shaft abnormalities are reviewed in two parts, discussing clinical characteristics, light and electron microscopy and, where information is available, the pathogenesis of these rare conditions. Part I describes monilethrix, pili torti and trichorrhexis nodosa.
Office radiotherapy in dermatology: A contemporary perspective
Authors: de Launey John W , MacKenzie‐Wood Andrew R 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYIonizing radiation was recognized very early after its discovery as a useful weapon against both neoplasia and inflammation. Following an initial period of enthusiastic use, recognition of its drawbacks and the development of safe and effective alternative treatments for many applications have resulted in a marked reduction in the use of radiotherapy in most dermatological offices. Nonetheless, this modality remains an important component of our modern therapeutic armamentarium. It is a treatment of choice in some situations, and a useful alternative in many more. A thorough understanding of the principles and practice of safe radiotherapy remains vital to the full practice of dermatology in 1996. The present review summarizes the current practice of radiotherapy and offers some guidelines for safe and effective use of this important tool. Detailed discussions of radiobiology, deep radiotherapy (DXRT) and electron beam (EB) therapy are beyond the scope of this clinical review.
Photodynamic therapy for psoriasis?
Authors: Fergin Peter 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYPhotodynamic therapy (PDT), the activation of a photosensitive compound by high intensity red light, is useful for Bowens' disease, thin basal carcinomata and as an adjunctive therapy for various internal malignancies. Its use in the treatment of psoriasis has been attempted only quite recently and some modest success achieved. These clinical experiences are reviewed and the rationale for using PDT for psoriasis is discussed.
Juvenile dermatomyositis
Authors: Halbert Anne R 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYJuvenile dermatomyositis (JDMS) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by muscle weakness and a distinctive rash caused by underlying vasculopathy. Long‐term complications include subcutaneous and muscular calcification, contractures and in some cases the gradual development of a second connective tissue disease. Early aggressive treatment with systemic immunosuppressants and other agents such as intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) reduces mortality and morbidity.
A review of ultraviolet treatment for psoriasis at Waikato Hospital
Authors: Oakley Amanda MM , Wyllie Kim 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYDetails of 79 courses of UVB and 40 courses of PUVA for patients with chronic plaque psoriasis at Waikato Hospital were prospectively collected when a new Phototherapy Unit opened. Efficacy was assessed by clearance rates (73% for UVB, 87.5% for PUVA). There was significant improvement in Psoriasis Disability Index, which was derived from a questionnaire assessing functional disability and completed by the patients before and after treatment. It took a median number of 24 treatments for psoriasis in the patients receiving UVB to clear, and for the PUVA patients the median was 19 treatments. The efficacy could not be correlated with skin type. Fifty per cent of UVB patients and 25% of PUVA patients received symptomatic burns, all localized and minor in nature. Lifetime PUVA dose was calculated, 90% of patients having received less than 400 J/cm2.
Scleredema of Buschke: A report of seven cases
Authors: Tate Bruce J , Kelly John W , Rotstein Harvey 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYScleredema of Buschke is an uncommon dermatosis characterized by thickened, indurated skin, sometimes with erythema. Histopathology shows thickened dermal collagen with a mild infiltrate of mucin in the deeper dermis. Seven adults with scleredema are presented, four females and three males, and their mean age at diagnosis was 54 years. All had diabetes mellitus for an average of 13 years prior to the onset of scleredema. Complications of diabetes, especially retinopathy (n= 5), neuropathy (n= 4) and peripheral vascular disease (n= 3), were present in five patients. One patient died (cause not established), and another has life‐threatening cardiomyopathy. We have no evidence that the scleredema was a significant aetiologic factor in either case, despite published reports of fatalities related to scleredema. Three patients were followed up for more than 1 year and, irrespective of therapy, the scleredema did not resolve in any patient.
The descriptive epidemiology of tinea pedis in the community
Authors: Rogers Donna , Kilkenny Monique , Marks Robin 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYTinea pedis is a common inflammatory skin condition due to infection by dermatophyte fungi. A number of epidemiological studies have been completed on the frequency of tinea pedis in the community, particularly sporting and occupational groups and schools. Most studies have focused on small, high‐risk populations. These include occupational groups involving manual labour, sporting groups such as swimmers, and those working or living in confined conditions with shared washing facilities, which favour the opportunity for crossinfection.Most studies show that the frequency of tinea pedis is higher in males than females. Tinea pedis infections appear to be least common among children, but do occur, and are commonly misdiagnosed.The difference between clinical disease and confirmed diagnosis by culture is not always clear when statistics of disease frequency have been presented. Clear diagnostic criteria indicating the level of mycologically confirmed diagnosis should be reported in future studies that include statistics on disease frequency. Future epidemiological studies should also aim to be population‐based in order to obtain a more complete picture of disease frequency.
Skin phototyping in Asian Australians
Authors: Stanford Duncan G , Georgouras Katherine E , Sullivan Elizabeth A , Greenoak Gavin E. 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYSkin phototype was assessed in 257 Asian Australians by self‐reporting questionnaire. Minimal erythema dose, minimal melanogenic dose and minimal immediate pigment darkening dose were measured in a subgroup of 30 subjects. About 15% of Asian Australians in this study report that they have skin type I or II. Phototesting confirms that there is a UV‐sensitive group and a wide spectrum of UV‐sensitivity in this population. Whether Fitzpatrick's skin typing system adequately identifies this UV‐sensitive group needs assessment by a larger study. The relationship between burning tendency and tanning capacity in Asians may differ from Caucasians.
Psoriasis: Mechanisms and entry points for possible therapeutic interventions
Authors: Christophers Enno 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYPsoriasis is a heterogeneous disorder not only in regard to its variability in clinical expression and age at onset, but also in the degree to which genetic and immunological factors such as T cells and cytokines contribute. A ‘Psoriasis Treatment Index’ is proposed according to clinical severity and hence suggested treatment regimens. Recent and new treatments include FK 506, cyclosporin, a fusion protein of human interleukin 2 with fragments of diphtheria toxin, topical tumour necrosis factor inhibitors, topical retinoids, T cell receptor peptide vaccines and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM‐1) antisense oligonucleotides.
Atopic eczema of adult type in Japan
Authors: Nishioka Kiyoshi 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYAtopic eczema of adult type presents with the classical features of eczema in combination with a red face subject to oozing attacks, rippling hyperpigmentation of the neck and an exudative erythema of the trunk and limbs. The red face and hyperpigmentation appear to follow topical corticosteroid use while the exudative erythema is postulated to be due to late phase reaction of IgE. Treatment involves the avoidance of exacerbating factors together with topical emollients. Topical corticosteroids are ineffective and appear to exacerbate the red face, which causes a significant social problem, affecting the patient's quality of life. New therapies promoted through the media have caused confusion.
Treatment of lentigo maligna
Authors: Gaspar Zoran S , Dawber Rodney PR 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYLentigo maligna (LM) is the in situ phase of lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM) and, if left untreated, 30‐50% of cases will progress to LMM, which is now thought to behave as aggressively as any other melanoma. Literature on the of treatment of LM including conventional surgery, micrographic Mohs surgery, cryosurgery, radiotherapy, electrodesiccation and curettage, 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU), azelaic acid, retinoic acid and lasers are reviewed. It is concluded that micro‐graphic Mohs surgery has the lowest recurrence rates and that conventional surgery, cryosurgery and radiotherapy all have recurrence rates in the order of 7‐10%. Therefore, on the basis of the current literature available, all three of these methods could be recommended as primary treatment of LM. It is extremely important when choosing one of the above treatments that the physician is adequately trained in the appropriate technique and understands the limitation of the method used and the need for close follow up of the patient
Spitz naevi misdiagnosed histologically as melanoma: Prevalence and clinical profile
Authors: Orchard David C , Dowling John P , Kelly John W 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYA Spitz naevus is a benign melanocytic tumour that may histologically resemble a malignant melanoma. Data was retrospectively gathered from patients who attended the Victorian Melanoma Service to determine the prevalence of Spitz naevi pathologically misdiagnosed as melanoma. Assessment of the clinical characteristics of these patients was also performed and compared to those with correctly diagnosed melanoma. It was found that 6.5% of all melanomas referred were in fact Spitz naevi and that Spitz naevi represented the majority of pathologically misdiagnosed melanomas. The Spitz naevi were more likely to be on the lower extremities and were on average, considerably smaller than the melanomas. Patients with Spitz naevi were more likely to be younger, female, have fewer dysplastic naevi and have brown eyes. One hundred per cent of the Spitz naevi were brought to the attention of the initial doctor by the patient compared to 72% of the melanomas. This study concludes that Spitz naevi that are pathologically misdiagnosed as melanomas retain the clinical characteristics of other Spitz naevi and mat greater clinicopathological communication may reduce the frequency of diagnostic error.
Melasma of the forearms
Authors: O'Brien Timothy J , Dyall‐Smith Delwyn , Hall Anthony P 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYMelasma of the forearms seems to be a relatively common sign which is, to our knowledge, not reported in the literature.1,2 It seems that it may be more common in older patients and especially in postmenopausal women on supplementary oestrogen. The pigmentary change is macular and may be confluent or speckled. Like facial chloasma there is a sharp line of demarcation at the margins. In some, there seems to be an element of erythema.
Naevus lipomatosus cutaneous superficialis
Authors: Armstrong Dermot KB , Walsh Maureen Y , Bingham Ann , McMillan Clifford 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYA young male presenting with cutaneous papules and plaques in a segmental distribution in the pelvic girdle area is reported. The clinical features were suggestive of naevus lipomatosus cutaneous superficialis, but diagnostic biopsy is essential to demonstrate the typical histopathological features and exclude important differential diagnoses such as segmental neurofibromatosis.
Non‐infective mucocutaneous presentations of human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Hamann Ian D , Barnetson Ross StC 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYInfection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) commonly manifests as one of many skin signs. Early diagnosis is essential. The present review discusses the likely non‐infective presentations of HIV infection from the perspective of the dermatologist While most diseases discussed also occur outside the setting of HIV infection, those clinical and pathological features which are distinctive will be highlighted.
Toxic streptococcal syndrome
Authors: Stanford Duncan G , Georgouras Katherine E , Konya Joseph , Pang Bryan 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYThe reappearance of more virulent strains of exotoxin‐producing streptococci over the past decade has led to the re‐emergence of invasive Group A streptococcal infections and the recognition of a new syndrome resembling staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome. Toxic streptococcal syndrome is characterized by fever, shock, multiorgan system failure and a desquamating scarlatiniform rash. It usually occurs in otherwise healthy young adults, often in association with a severe soft tissue infection and has a 30% mortality rate.The case of a 37‐year‐old obese man, who rapidly developed features of this syndrome after an antecedent pharyngitis and cellulitis, is presented. There was serological evidence of a recent Group A streptococcal infection. Intensive organ supportive measures and intravenous antibiotic therapy led to his gradual recovery.
Retention dressings: A new option for donor site dressings
Authors: Giele Henk 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYSplit skin graft donor site dressings should be cheap, easy to apply and remove, reduce pain, provide a moist wound healing environment, be easy to care for and cause minimal interference in the patient's daily activities. Adhesive retention dressings seem to provide these features and are a new option for donor site dressings.
Systemic treatment of severe psoriasis
Authors: Georgouras Katherine E , Zagarella Samuel S , Cains Geoffrey D , Brown Pamela J 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYSevere psoriasis presents a difficult therapeutic challenge. Some modalities such as synthetic retinoids, phototherapy and methotrexate have been available for many years and need reappraisal, cyclosporin has only recently become available and requires careful administration. In this article we focus on the therapeutic modalities available to the dermatologist in Australia.
Effect of an ointment containing boric acid, zinc oxide, starch and petrolatum on psoriasis
Authors: Limaye Shobha , Weightman Warren 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYA randomized double‐blind controlled trial was undertaken to study the efficacy of a cow udder ointment versus petrolatum alone. A total of 30 patients participated in the study. Sixteen patients completed the trial with 8 of 9 patients improving in the active group and 6 of 7 patients improving in the placebo group. This difference was not statistically significant. The use of a cow udder ointment for psoriasis cannot be supported, particularly with the potential for side effects.
CD30 (Ki‐l)‐positive primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma: Report of spontaneous resolution
Authors: Artemi Phillip , Wong Deanna A , Mann Stephen , Regan William 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYA 28‐year‐old man in whom CD30 (Ki‐1)‐positive cutaneous large cell lymphoma manifested as multiple widespread ulcerated nodules, which developed over a 2‐week period, is reported. The lymphoma was composed of large anaplastic cells in large clusters, with scattered eosinophils, neutrophils and small lymphocytes. Extensive staging investigations revealed no extra‐cutaneous disease. No treatment was given because, within weeks of presentation, the nodules began to regress spontaneously and the patient remains disease‐free 20 months later.
The ear‐lobe sign: A helpful sign in facial contact dermatitis
Authors: Rotstein E , Rotstein H 
Published: June 2007

SUMMARYThe ear‐lobe sign is seen in those who develop contact dermatitis to a substance applied with one hand to the skin of the face and neck. On the ipsilateral side of the face the ear‐lobe is spared whereas on the contralateral side the ear‐lobe is involved. The sign manifests because of the unique combination of the anatomy of the hand and the sweeping movement the hand makes during application.