bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clothing as protection from ultraviolet radiation: which fabric is most effective?
Authors: Davis Sandra , Capjack Linda , Kerr Nancy , Fedosejcvs Robert 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background With increasing levels of solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in the earth's near environment and evidence that exposure to UVR contributes to skin cancer, cataracts, and photoaging, protection of the skin is imperative during exposure to the sun. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of various fabrics in screening UVR and to determine if specific characteristics of fabric are directly related to the amount of protection provided. Methods Transmission of UVR was measured using spectrophotometric techniques. This transmission, as a function of wavelength over the range 250–400 nm, was weighted with solar and biological spectral data to determine a “sun protection factor” (SPF) for each fabric. Results The transmission of UVR through fabric depends on the wavelength and varies with factors such as type of fiber, fabric mass, cover, and color. Conclusions Of 28 white fabrics tested, 19 offered less protection than a sunscreen with SPF 15, Polyester fabrics offered increased protection over cotton. The presence of dyes increased protection considerably.
Onychomycosis in Hong Kong
Authors: Kam Kai Man , Au Wai Fan , Wong Pui Yu , Cheung May May 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Onychomycosis in temperate countries has been studied extensively, but few data are available on its epidemiology in tropical countries. We performed a survey of patients seen in Hong Kong for the 8‐year period from January 1987 to December 1994. Methods A retrospective study of the mycology laboratory records of patients attending the Government Dermatology Clinics was carried out. Nail samples examined included clippings, scrapings, and drillings. Microscopy was performed on all specimens. Sabouraud dextrose agar was used for culture. Results Out of a total of 2382 nail samples (1024 (43.0%) toe, 1148 (48.2%) finger, and 210 (8.8%) unspecified site) examined, 340 (14.3%) were microscopy positive; 165 (48.5%) of these were culture positive, including 160 (97%) with dermatophyte and/or yeast, and 5 (3%) with molds. Men were affected more in the –19 and >50 years age groups, whereas women were affected more in the 20–50 years age group. Women were affected significantly more than men with yeasts, dermatophytes occurred more during adolescence. Dermatophytes showed a high peak in late spring, although both dermatophyte and yeast cases peaked in the summer months. Dermatophytes (29.1%) occurred more commonly than yeasts (19.4%) in microscopy‐positive onychomycosis cases in Hong Kong. Trichophyton rubrum was the commonest dermatophyte, and Candida spp., other than C albicans, were the commonest yeasts. Mixed infections (5%) were uncommon. Conclusions Dermatophytes are more important than yeasts as a cause of onychomycosis in Hong Kong. Changes in climatic conditions affect the prevalence of dermatophytes more than yeasts.
Extracorporeal photochemotherapy in progressive systemic sclerosis: a follow‐up study
Authors: Schwartz Joseph , Gonzalez Joselyn , Palangio Mark , Klainer Albert S. , Bisaccia Emil 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Extracorporeal photochemotherapy (photopheresis), an immune‐modulating therapy, has been demonstrated to elicit a therapeutic response in the treatment of several autoimmune disorders. We evaluated the use of photopheresis in the treatment of patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS; scleroderma). Methods Five patients with early‐onset, diffuse PSS were treated with photopheresis on 2 successive days monthly for an average of 59 months (range 54–69 months). We initially reported the response this group of patients had to photopheresis treatment at an average of 11 months (range 6–21 months). Results An improvement or stabilization was noted in most patients in skin thickening, joint mobility, pulmonary function studies, oral aperture, functional index, as well as symptoms including Raynaud's phenomenon, dyspnea, fatigue, dysphagia, arthralgias, and cutaneous ulcers. Renal function tests remained within normal range. A total of 296 monthly treatments were administered without significant toxicity. Conclusions This study suggests that extended use of extracorporeal photochemotherapy in the management of early‐onset, diffuse PSS is well tolerated and may provide an increasingly beneficial clinical outcome.
Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis: effective prophylactic treatment with danazol
Authors: Shahar Eduardo , Bergman Reuven , Pollack Shimon 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis is a rare condition appearing during the perimenstrual period or following progesterone treatment. Various treatment modalities have been suggested, but most have proved to be ineffective. Methods We used the anabolic androgen danazol as a preventive treatment for recurrent episodes of autoimmune progesterone dermatitis in two young women. The treatment regimen consisted of 200 mg danazol twice daily, starting 1–2 days before the expected date of each menses and continuing for 3 days thereafter. Results This treatment regimen proved to be highly effective in preventing the eruptions in these two patients. Conclusions Patients with autoimmune progesterone dermatitis may benefit from prophylactic treatment with danazol.
Primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis: a clinicopathologic study from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al‐Ratrout Jehad T. , Satti Mohamed B. 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis (PLCA) refers to deposition of amyloid in apparently previously normal skin with no evidence of deposits in internal organs. Certain ethnic groups are particularly predisposed. The objective of this study was to investigate the occurrence of PLCA in a hospital‐based set‐up and to review the clinicopathologic findings of histologically confirmed cases. Methods Methods included a retrospective evaluation of the records and paraffin sections of skin biopsies of all patients, diagnosed clinically as cutaneous amyloidosis in a tertiary care teaching hospital during the period 1987–95. Results Twenty‐one out of 42 suspected cases were histologically confirmed as PLCA; the total number of biopsied patients during the whole period was 920. Eleven were cases of lichen amyloidosis (LA) and 10 were of macular amyloidosis (MA). All were adults, and women dominated in MA. The mean duration of symptoms was shorter for the latter subtype. Histologically epidermal changes were the main differentiating feature between LA and MA. Conclusions PLCA is a rare chronic progressive skin disorder affecting adults, with a prevalence of 0.15 among patients attending the dermatology clinic in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Saudi Arabia. There were few differences in demographic profile or histochemical characteristics between LA and MA. Meticulous histologic examination of sections and even sequential biopsies may be needed to confirm the diagnosis in clinically suspected cases.
Linear IgA bullous dermatosis in South India
Authors: Ajithkumar Kidangazhiyathmana , Kurian Susy , Jacob Mary , Pulimood Susanne 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background A study of five cases of linear IgA dermatosis (LABD) in a referral hospital in South India is presented. Methods A dermatologic examination, skin biopsy, and direct immunofluorescence were carried out on all patients. Patients were then followed up. Results All five cases showed linear IgA deposits at the dermo‐epidermal junction. One case in addition showed IgG and C3 deposits. All cases responded to treatment with dapsone. The treatment duration varied from 14 to 16 months and the fifth patient is still on treatment after 37 months. Conclusions Linear IgA bullous dermatosis is a self‐limiting bullous disorder. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of LABD from India.
Laser treatment for further depigmentation in vitiligo
Authors: Thissen Monique , Westerhof Wiete 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background In patients with vitiligo, sometimes the greatest part of the skin has already lost its melanocytes. The remaining pigmented patches can be removed by using strong bleaching creams, but many adverse events have been reported with this treatment. Anew depigmentation therapy could be treatment with a Ruby laser. Methods Before treatment, the patients filled out a questionnaire about their vitiligo history. Eight patients with remaining pigmentation of the arms, hands, and face were treated once with a Ruby laser. Patients were monitored for developing repigmentation during the 9 months after treatment. Results In patients with a positive Koebner phenomenon, a permanent state of depigmentation was reached after laser therapy. None of the treated patients showed severe side‐effects. Conclusions Ruby laser treatment can be an effective, fast, and safe method for removing cosmetically disturbing remnants of normal pigmentation in vitiligo patients with a positive Koebner phenomenon.
The effect of toenail onychomycosis on patient quality of life
Authors: Elewski Boni E. 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Onychomycosis is a common fungal infection of the toenails which has historically been regarded as a cosmetic problem. A previous study has suggested that this is not the case and that toenail and fingernail onychomycosis adversely impacts patient quality of life (QOL). Methods A survey was used to self‐assess the physical symptoms and psychosocial dimensions of toenail onychomycosis in 93 patients. Positive responses scored one point each, and points were summed for each patient. Results Ninety‐two per cent of patients reported experiencing negative psychosocial and/or physical effects. Forty‐four per cent indicated that their toenails had a negative effect on their self‐image, and 41% reported experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of onychomycosis. Conclusions Toenail onychomycosis has a significant impact on the overall QOL of patients, and should be evaluated further to develop guidelines for total patient care.
Intradermal antigen tests and the Koebner phenomenon in psoriasis
Authors: Dogan Bilal , Harmanyeri Yavuz 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Psoriasis is one of several dermatologic conditions in which nonspecific irritation may elicit the disease where it was not previously present. In this study we aimed to assess the cutaneous cellular immune reaction with intradermal antigen tests and the relation between Koebner's phenomenon and intradermal antigens. Methods Thirty psoriasis patients and 20 control subjects were tested with 0.1 mL intradermal injections of purified protein derivative (PPD), Candida (C), mumps (M), mixed respiratory vaccine (MRV), and saline control solutions. Koebner status was also determined in the psoriatic patients. Injection sites were evaluated at 72 h and on the eighth, 12th, 16th, and 20th days for erythema, induration, and local development of psoriasis. ResultsTwo patients were Koebner positive and developed psoriasis at all five injection sites. However, local psoriasis development was observed at one or more injection sites in five Koebner‐negative patients. In addition, intensity of delayed hypersensitivity reaction and resolution times demonstrate no significant difference between psoriatic and nonpsoriatic subjects statistically (P > 0.05). Conclusions These findings may indicate that intradermal antigens used in this study were more effective in inducing the Koebner phenomenon than injury alone. Furthermore, we observed that there is no meaningful difference between psoriatic and nonpsoriatic subjects in developing cutaneous cellular immune reactions.
Head louse infestations: epidemiologic survey and treatment evaluation in Argentinian schoolchildren
Authors: Chouela Edgardo , Abeldaño Alejandra , Cirigliano Marcela , Ducard Mariana , Neglia Vicenta , Forgia Marta L. , Colombo Alejandra 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Our aim was to demonstrate that the treatment of individual cases is effective, but not sufficient, to control endemic Pediculus capitis, and that eradication of the epidemiologic school focus may lower significantly the prevalence of infestation. Statistical data on the degree of infestation relating to socio‐economic and cultural variables were also updated. Therapeutic effects and educational impact were evaluated. Methods An educational and motivational program was designed for pupils, parents, and teachers: 326 children and 15 adults were subjected to clinical and parasitologic evaluation. The recorded parameters included the age, sex, hair style and length, presence of other dermatologic diseases, degree of infestation, clinical remission, parasitologic remission, dwelling type and features, need to share a bed with co‐dwellers, availability of home tap water supply, level of family income, and periodic medical controls. The entire population received treatment with neutral shampoo and rinsing cream containing 1% permethrin. Exclusion criteria were the presence of acute scalp inflammation and a history of pyrethrin and/or pyrethroid sensitivity. Statistical analysis was performed as required on data expressed as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations by chi‐square and Fisher exact tests. Results The overall infestation prevalence rate was 81.5%, the highest values corresponding to children from 6 to 11 years of age, with a slight predominance in males (55.4% vs. 44.6%). A significantly greater rate of clinical remission was observed in subjects enjoying home tap water supplies (p<0.01). Conclusions The model of research plus action adopted allows the following conclusions to be drawn; (i) individual and isolated treatments for pediculosis are useful, but will not by themselves allow for the epidemiologic control of this parasitosis; (ii) massive, complete, and simultaneous treatments lead to a significant decrease in infestation prevalence; (iii) educational measures tending to foster collective awareness enable greater epidemiologic surveillance to be achieved; (iv) careful inspection of the entire scalp is essential with the use of a powerful light source and lenses with high magnification, as the parasite has no predilection for any given area; (iv) socio‐economic and cultural conditions are not relevant for infestation, although a good home tap water supply is essential for treatment.
Intralesional therapy of American cutaneous leishmaniasis with pentavalent antimony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – an area of Leishmania (V.) braziliensis transmission
Authors: Oliveira‐Neto Manuel P. , Schubach Armando , Mattos Marise , Gonçalves da Costa Sylvio C. , Pirmez Claude 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background The drug of choice for leishmaniasis is pentavalent antimony and different regimens are under continuous evaluation. The ideal therapy should be simple, effective, and with no or minor side‐effects, in this paper we have studied the efficacy of intralesionally applied antimony in New World cutaneous leishmaniasis. Methods Seventy‐four patients from Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, and presenting with single ulcerative cutaneous lesions mainly located on the trunk or extremities were enrolled in the study. The drug employed was N‐methyl glucamine (425 mg of Sbv in each 5 ml ampoule). Each lesion was infiltrated with the drug at the four cardinal points in order to achieve complete blanching. Results Of the 74 patients, 59 (80%) were healed after a 12–week interval. Extensive follow‐up (up to 10 years) disclosed no relapses or the development of mucosal lesions. Conclusions The aim of therapy in New World cutaneous leishmaniasis is the healing of the cutaneous lesion and the prevention of late mucosal damage. Both conditions were achieved with the treatment employed with no side‐effects and a considerable decrease in costs. In addition, the method is easy to apply in the field.
Two feet–one hand syndrome: a retrospective multicenter survey
Authors: Daniel C. Ralph , Gupta Aditya K. , Daniel Melissa P. , Daniel Carlton M. 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background The two feet‐one hand syndrome is not uncommon; however, there have only been a few reports on this condition. This study was undertaken to obtain a better understanding of the epidemiology of the two feet‐one hand syndrome. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted of all the patients seen in our practices over the past 15 years with the diagnosis of two feet‐one hand syndrome. Results A total of 80 patients with mycologically confirmed disease were identified (men, 72 (90%); women, 8 (10%); 77 (96%) Caucasian; 3 (4%) African‐American; age (mean ± standard error (SE)), 55.9 ± 2.1 years). The mean age of the patients when the physician was first seen for the condition was 51.3 ± 2.0 years. The mean ages when the symptoms first developed on the feet and hand were 37.1 ± 2.4 years and 45.7 ± 2.2 years, respectively. Tinea pedis was found to occur at an earlier age than tinea manuum (t(65)=6.92, P<0.01). There was a significant relationship between the hand in which tinea manuum developed, the hand used to excoriate the soles of feet (Ch2(4)=14.82, P<0.01), and the hand used to pick toenails (χ2(4) = 14.82, P<0.01); however, there was no significant relationship between handedness and the development of tinea manuum in the dominant hand. The occupation of the patient at the time of development of the two feet‐one hand syndrome was categorized according to whether the intensity of hand use was high, moderate, or low. Patients with a high intensity of hand use in their jobs were significantly more likely to develop tinea pedis/onychomycosis (r=‐0.27, F(1,61)=4.77, P<0.05) and tinea manuum (r=‐0.30, F(1,62)=6.31, P<0.05) at an earlier age. The best multiple predictors of the age at which medical attention was sought were the age of onset of tinea manuum and a family history of tinea infection (r=0.86, F(2,59)=86.9, P<0.01). The age of onset of tinea manuum was the best single predictor, with a correlation of 0.85. Conclusions In the two feet‐one hand syndrome, the development of tinea pedis/onychomycosis generally preceded the development of tinea manuum. Tinea manuum usually developed in the hand used to excoriate the feet or pick toenails. Patients whose occupation involved a high intensity of use of the hands were more likely to develop the disease at an earlier age. Patients were more likely to seek attention once tinea manuum had developed, particularly if there was a family history of tinea infection.
Dermatologists combat leprosy in Yemen
Authors: Al‐Qubati Yasin , Al‐Kubati Abdul Samad 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Leprosy has been prevalent in Yemen for many years. The ostracization and stigmatization of leprosy patients are well documented in the Yemeni literature. No control activities were carried out until 1980. Aim To document the development of leprosy control activities in the Republic of Yemen during the period from 1982 to 1996. Materials and methods The dermatologists in Yemen used various methods, including the media, to fight the stigma of leprosy and thus to mobilize the community for the reintegration of leprosy patients. They sought support from international non‐governmentai organizations (NGOs) to start mobile teams all over the country. Results The support of the German Leprosy Relief Association (GLRA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) enabled the National Leprosy Control Program (NLCP) to reach people in remote areas. The prevalence of leprosy has declined from 1.9 per 10,000 population in 1989 to 0.5 per 10,000 population in 1996. Conclusions The stigma associated with leprosy also extends to other skin diseases. To combat this stigma, various methods, such as health education, training of medical personnel, and mass treatment for skin diseases, have been used.
Increased cutaneous toxicity to ionizing radiation in HIV‐positive patients
Authors: Smith COL Kathleen J. , Skelton CAPT Henry G. , Tuur Sylvana , Yeager Josef , Decker Catherine , Wagner Kenneth F. 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background There are reports of increased reactions in HIV‐1 + patients to ultraviolet light sometimes in association with medication. In addition, there are also reports of increased morbidity associated with radiation therapy in HIV‐1 + patients. Methods Three HIV‐1 + patients developed cutaneous toxic reactions to radiation therapy; two with Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) and one with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Conclusions Although the mechanisms which resulted in these reactions are not clear, they may be related to depletion of endogenous scavengers and may be accentuated by the pattern of immune dysregulation present in HIV‐1 disease.
Can school teachers improve the management and prevention of skin disease? A pilot study based on head louse infestations in Guerrero, Mexico
Authors: Paredes Sergio S. , Estrada Roberto , Alarcon H. , Chavez Guadalupe , Romero Marina , Hay Roderick 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background The effect of health education provided by teachers, in three primary schools of Guerrero, Mexico, on the prevalence of head louse infestation was compared. Methods A cross‐sectional survey and rapid appraisal methods were performed, including a child questionnaire and qualitative data from teachers and focus groups of mothers in the same schools. Results Nine hundred and forty‐four students and 33 teachers were interviewed; a focus group discussion with 6–8 mothers per school was performed. In the self‐diagnosis of pediculosis, the prevalence was 22% (range, 18%–33%) with a sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 86%, In one school, 100% of the teachers applied a health program, whereas in the other two schools this percentage was only 20%. A child under 9 years of age who attended a school without information on health was 3.6 times more likely to have head louse infestation (OR=3.6, CI95%=2.1–6) than a child of the same age who attended a school where information was given. In older children the effect and potential impact were lower. The difference between the two age groups is unlikely to be explained by chance (X2 het=5.7, df=1, p=0.01). Conclusions This study emphasizes the potential value of simple, but effective, health education provided by school teaching staff through liaison with patents in the amelioration of endemic disease.
The role of human papillomavirus in the development of pyogenic granulomas
Authors: Miller Anne M. , Sahl William J. , Brown Sarah A. , Young Stephen K. , Quinlan Christie M. , Patel Prashant R. , Benbrook Doris M. , Naylor Mark F. 
Published: November 2003

Abstract Background Pyogenic granulomas (lobular capillary hemangiomas) and condyloma acuminata share similar locations and risk factors. Human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11 are commonly associated with condyloma acuminata, but their association with pyogenic granulomas has not been evaluated. The purpose of this study was to determine whether pyogenic granulomas contain evidence of infection with condyloma producing HPVs. Methods Polymerase chain reaction assays for the E6 and E7 gene sequences of HPV types 6 and 11 and another assay for the E7 region of HPV types 16, 31, 33, 35, 42, and 58 were used to evaluate decxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from archival pyogenic granuloma biopsies taken from cutaneous and oral epithelium. Results Neither cutaneous nor oral pyogenic granulomas contain amplifiable E6 or E7 sequences from any of these viruses. Conclusions Pyogenic granulomas are not caused by HPV 6, 11, 16, 31, 33, 35, 42, or 58. This study does not exclude the possibility that other viruses may be responsible for these tumors.