Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house via MedWorm.com

Review paper Chronic ulcerative stomatitis – pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and therapy

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:06:41 +0100

Chronic ulcerative stomatitis (CUS) is a rare mucocutaneous disease. It is characterized by the presence of chronic painful oral erosive or ulcerative lesions with relapses. The most commonly affected areas are the tongue, buccal mucosa and the gingiva. A diagnosis of CUS is made based on the characteristic direct immunofluorescence findings – the presence of IgG antibodies bound to nuclei of keratinocytes of the basal and parabasal cell layers, with the unique stratified epithelial specific-antinuclear antibody (SES-ANA) pattern. Indirect immunofluorescence, with monkey and guinea pig oesophagus as substrates, is used to confirm the diagnosis. In the treatment of CUS, hydroxychloroquine alone or with small doses of corticosteroids is found to be the drug of choice in limiting the di...

Report 82. Doroczny Zjazd Północnoniemieckiego Towarzystwa Dermatologicznego Halle, Niemcy 4–6 września 2009 r.

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:05:35 +0100

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Case report Acute drug eruption as a result of therapy with the new generation anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:04:24 +0100

We describe an 18-year old woman with generalized eruption which started 14 days after initiation of the new anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine. The patient was observed for mononucleosis, virus throat infection and angina before hospitalization. She was admitted to the Dermatology Clinic in Kraków in general good condition on the 4th day of steroid therapy with dexamethasone in a dose of 24 mg per day. On physical examination generalized erythema and inflammatory skin lesions were seen with colliquative tendency and positive Nikolsky sign. Laboratory tests (morphology, coagulation parameters, liver and kidney testes) were correct. Due to multi-aetiological and still unknown mechanisms of drug eruption, recommended therapy is inconsistent. We decided to stop lamotrigine therapy and to start ...

Case report Pathergy phenomenon in a patient with pyoderma gangrenosum – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:03:08 +0100

We present a case of a 48-year-old man with an ulcerative lesion on the left shank. The skin lesion was accompanied by abdominal pain, fever and shivers. According to the CT scan the diagnosis of retroperitoneal abscess was made and a surgical procedure was performed. At the site of the surgical incision, a non-healing skin ulcer appeared. Despite intensive treatment the patient's condition worsened, leading to multiorgan insufficiency and death. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Massive isolated breast carcinoma metastases to the skin. A case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:00:57 +0100

Do Kliniki Dermatologii Ogólnej, Estetycznej i Dermatochirurgii zgłosiła się 61-letnia chora na raka piersi lewej po amputacji piersi oraz chemioterapii przedoperacyjnej, pooperacyjnej i radioterapii z powodu rozsianych przerzutów do skóry o typie guzków i guzów umiejscowionych na tułowiu. W badaniach obrazowych nie stwierdzono przerzutów do innych narządów. U chorej zastosowano trzy linie chemioterapii, próbę hormonoterapii oraz paliatywne wycięcie najbardziej uciążliwych zmian skórnych. Mimo zastosowania różnych metod leczenia, nie spowodowały one zatrzymania progresji choroby. Chora zmarła 6 mies. od czasu pojawienia się pierwszych zmian skórnych na tułowiu. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Coexistence of Sweet’s syndrome with hepatitis C – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:59:45 +0100

We present a case of Sweet syndrome associated with hepatitis C. A 34-year old man was admitted to the Department of Dermatology because of a crop of erythematous and infiltrative skin lesions located mainly on the forehead, trunk, and upper and lower extremities, lasting for two days. Skin lesions were accompanied by malaise, fever, muscle and joint pains. Laboratory tests showed leukocytosis, neutrophilia, increased CRP and ESR, increase hepatic enzyme values and the presence of anti-HCV antibodies. In USG examination of the abdominal cavity slight hepatomegaly was observed. Based on clinical and histological findings a diagnosis of Sweet’s syndrome was established. All skin lesions and general symptoms improved after administration of systemic glucocorticosteroids. In USG examinat...

Review paper Sclerotherapy. Part I – indications, contraindications and procedure techniques

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:58:32 +0100

This paper is the first of a series of articles on sclerotherapy. This method, also known as obliteration, is mainly used in the treatment of telangiectasias, venulectasias and reticular veins. It is based on blood flow depletion related to chemical processes. Osmotic agents, detergents and caustic agents are among those used for sclerotherapy. There are various contraindications for sclerotherapy and therefore it is very important to perform a precise qualification of patients. Moreover, the proper selection of agent concentrations, procedure technique and management after the sclerotherapy essentially influence the effectiveness of treatment. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper The influence of P-glycoprotein and certain cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes on antimycotic azoles

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:56:20 +0100

Systemic antifungal drugs are widely used to treat superficial dermatomycosis as well as invasive fungal infections. Similarly to other therapeutic agents, these compounds may also cause adverse effects and drug-drug interactions. In the majority of these processes transmembrane transporter P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes are involved. They may be responsible for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions via either the influence on liberation, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion or on the modification of the treatment results. Co-administration of two or more drugs that may be substrates, inducers or inhibitors of P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P-450 isozymes can lead to alteration of the drug concentrations in biological fluids and – as a conseque...

Review paper The influence of certain cytochrome P450 isoenzymes on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:42:13 +0100

Cytochrome P450 comprises many enzymes that are involved in phase I metabolic pathways, including oxidation of endo- as well as exogenous compounds. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widespread therapeutic agents. Several isoenzymes, including CYP2C9, CYP2C8, CYP3A4 and CYP1A2, catalyze biotransformation of these drugs as well as many other compounds. Several NSAIDs are the substrates for CYP2C9; however, its activity can be inhibited or induced by many substances. The inhibition of CYP2C9 can decrease NSAID metabolism and lead to increased systemic drug concentration, which may cause adverse events. On the other hand, faster metabolism can increase the elimination of the therapeutic agents, and might decrease the drug concentration below the therapeutic range. (Source: Ar...

Review paper Foam sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, endovenous laser treatment and ambulatory phlebectomy – advances in the treatment of varicose veins

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:40:58 +0100

Approximately 20% of the general population suffers from symptomatic varicose veins. Many of the risk factors, for example standing or sitting work, habitual constipation or widely used oral contraception, are associated with the lifestyle of developed countries. This qualifies varicosity as a social disease. In this article, aetiology, pathomechanism and standardized international classification are presented. Modern management of varicose veins, such as foam sclerotherapy that has developed from liquid sclerotherapy, intravenous laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation and ambulatory phlebectomy, are also discussed. These procedures, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, are described. The new varicose vein treatment methods are considered to be safe and effective when properly ch...

Original paper Expression of skin lesions in surgically treated patients with neurofibromatosis type 1

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:38:46 +0100

Conclusions: Skin lesions in neurofibromatosis type 1 should be removed as early as possible when the tumours is small. It is important for functional and aesthetic reasons. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Bullous pemphigoid – a retrospective study of the population of patients hospitalized in the Chair and Clinic of Dermatology, Silesian Medical University, and Departments of Dermatology in Silesia

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:37:41 +0100

Conclusions: This study confirmed that bullous pemphigoid usually occurs after age 65; in patients comorbidities often coexist, with the possibility of some types of cancer among them. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Estimating the subjective efficiency after treatment of upper extremity hyperhidrosis using various methods

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:35:20 +0100

Introduction: There are many alternative methods used in treating hyperhidrosis. Unfortunately, none of them is one hundred per cent effective. All of them have some defects as well as advantages. Material and methods: In our research we observed 43 patients treated using various methods. We used iontophoresis in the first group, and in the second we applied botulinum toxin injections. In group three we applied a surgical procedure: endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy. After using those various methods patients’ subjective feelings were compared. Results and conclusions: In our research we found that surgical treatment of spontaneous hyperhidrosis gives the best subjective results; the effect lasted the longest in comparison with botulinum toxin injections and iontophoresis. Simultan...

Conjunctivitis – allergy or dry eye syndrome?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:56:09 +0100

This article is a guide proposition first of all for general practitioners, but also for other specialists. It consists of two steps: the questions which should be asked to the patient, and basic examination of the eye. In this way most mild allergic conjunctivitis can be diagnosed and treated successfully. The differential diagnosis of “red eye” and the urgent causes of this sign are also presented in this article. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Contact eczema

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:55:40 +0100

is one of the most common clinical pictures seen in general practice. This is not a defined disease, but rather an umbrella term for a group of diseases with various aetiology that share common features in the clinical picture and course of the disease. The term itself implies that the causative factor provokes disease through direct contact with the skin. The following diseases fit into the spectrum of contact eczema: 1) Allergic contact eczema (allergic contact dermatitis), in which a low-molecular weight chemical compound (hapten) penetrates into the skin, and binds to an autologous protein to form an antigen that can be processed and recognized by cells of the immune system. Hapten-specific hypersensitivity of an individual is a prerequisite for this reaction. The orchestrators and ma...

Reccurent infections and asthma and allergic diseases in children

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:55:29 +0100

The relationships between recurrent infections, asthma and allergic diseases have been analyzed for many years. Suggestions for practice seem important and expected. Quite often it is not easy to differentiate an allergic reaction and infection, especially in the case of viral infection with mild symptoms. Sometimes both pathologies are completely independent. The main discussion focuses on the role of infection in the development of diseases and its role as a triggering factor of asthma exacerbation. For many years the concept of promotion of asthma and allergy in the course of viral infection has dominated and has been supported by epidemiological observations, and clinical and experimental studies as well. In the late 1980s a new hypothesis was proposed named the “hygiene hypothes...

Application of antihistamines in ear, nose and throat disorders

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:55:18 +0100

This study was a review of the antihistamines (AH) in allergic rhinitis (AR). Most patients had comorbid ocular symptoms, asthma and anxiety. Fifty-five percent consulting for the first time were diagnosed with AR, of whom 2/3 also had conjunctivitis and 1/3 asthma. In other study 3/4 asthma patients had AR and 1/4 did not. Every five required in the preceding year a treatment in emergency departments. The routine use of antihistamines for treating otitis exudativa in children cannot be recommended. Antihistamines were the most commonly prescribed or recommended symptomatic medicines in sinusitis (1/4 of the patients). About 30% reported sleep disturbance, increased to 44% in sedating AH (sAH) users, with reduced cognition and productivity loss. As histamine is a wake-promoting amine known...

The food allergy in medical practice

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:55:07 +0100

The food protein triggering the allergic response is termed a food allergen. Six to eight percent of children under the age of three have food allergies and nearly four percent of adults have them. The most common food allergies in adults are shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and eggsand the most common food allergies in children are milk, eggs, peanuts, and tree nus. Conditions caused by food allergies are classified into 3 groups according to the mechanism of the allergic response. The reaction may progress to anaphylactic shock: a systemic reaction involving several different bodily systems including hypotension (low blood pressure), loss of consciousness, and possibly death. Allergens most frequently associated with this type of reaction are peanuts, nuts, milk, egg, and seafood, th...

Sesje plakatowe

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:54:52 +0100

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Non-allergic rhinitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:47:23 +0100

(NAR) can be defined as a chronic nasal inflammation which is not caused by systemic IgE-dependent mechanisms. Non-allergic rhinitis is common and probably affects far more than 200 million people worldwide, both children and adults. Asthma was more frequently associated with NAR than with AR. Non-allergic rhinitis was more frequently associated with older age, perennial symptoms and female gender. More NAR than AR patients also had drug allergy, pharyngitis, sinusitis (CRS) and urticaria. Chronic rhinosinusitis was not significantly different in allergic and non-allergic patients. Nasal polyps were found equally in both groups. Ten genes were found to be of pathophysiological interest for non- infectious non-allergic rhinitis (NINAR) and of these, c-fos and Cdc42 seemed to be of specific...

Asthma in children older than 5 years

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:46:15 +0100

High-risk birth cohorts continue to point to atopy as the main risk factor for developing asthma. However, rising trends in non-IgE-dependent asthma, such as viral-induced and exercise-induce asthma, are visible. There is a strong temporal association between viral respiratory infections and acute obstructive/asthmatic episodes. Nevertheless, the role of viral infections in the pathogenesis of asthma remains poorly characterized. The factors that could explain this association are heterogeneous and sometimes contradictory. While exercise-induced asthma seems to be less controversial, such symptoms attract attention and should also be included in the therapeutic approach. Defining the asthma phenotype seems to be the key issue in the management of this disease. Finally, in all cases we shou...

The significance of allergology in family medicine

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:45:59 +0100

A family doctor plays a crucial role in prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases, in children as well as in adults. In the population of patients under control of a family doctor are many people suffering from allergic diseases and the doctor has an influence on diagnosis, treatment and control of the progress of a disease. In the case of symptoms appearing or worsening, a patient goes to his family doctor to seek advice and release from suffering. It is essential to set plain algorithms of proceedings in individual allergic diseases, which are addressed especially at family doctors, because not all of them are familiar with some wide reports such as GINA or ARIA, as well as running courses and training prepared especially for primary care doctors increasing the level...

Difficult asthma in children

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:45:44 +0100

The assessment of patients with difficult asthma comprises three major issues: 1) does the patient really have asthma, 2) is the patient compliant with prescribed therapy, and 3) are there any environmental or co-morbid factors worsening asthma? (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Anaphylaxis in children

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:45:32 +0100

Anaphylaxis, though rare, is an increasing emergency especially in children and remains under-diagnosed and undertreated. Boys outnumber girls by 3 : 2 in preschool children, but from the age of 15 females predominate. Food is the main trigger of anaphylaxis in children with the commonest being nuts and milk. The diagnosis is primarily based on the clinical history and clinical criteria. The most to less frequent symptoms concern dermatological, respiratory, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular ones, respectively. Emergency management requires the life support ABCDE approach. Intramuscular adrenalin, repeated as required, is a drug of choice in the case of a severe systemic reaction. Intravenous fluids, oxygen and a certain position of the patient are the next steps of the treatment. When r...

The importance of small airways inflammation control in the course and therapy of bronchial asthma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:44:40 +0100

Changes in the structure and function of the small airways (< 2 mm diameter) play a major role in airflow limitation in bronchial asthma. Features of cellular inflammation, consisting of an infiltrate rich in lymphocytes and eosinophils, are present in the small airways of patients with asthma. It is suggested that inflammation in the small airways may be responsible for severe asthma and symptoms of nocturnal asthma. It was documented that applied inhaled therapy did not give sufficient control of inflammation in the small airways, because anti-inflammatory medicines were able to penetrate only into the middle bronchi. For this reason a new therapy has been proposed to extend the control process into the small airways. New formulations of inhaled corticosteroids with smaller particle aero...

What’s new in the treatment of atopic dermatitis?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:44:28 +0100

Atopic dermatitis (AD, atopic eczema) is one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases, with a chronic or relapsing course and strong itching. The prevalence of AD has increased over the last years tremendously. Atopic dermatitis impacts negatively the quality of life of both patients and their families. Largely on the basis of the recently described association of atopic dermatitis and the genetically inherited abnormalities in filaggrin expression, atopic dermatitis is considered at least partially a primary disorder of stratum corneum structure and function. Treatments improving this function may reduce the likelihood of further aggravation of the disease. The use of proper emollients continues to be the main therapeutic approach to this problem. Emollients have the potential to red...

Photoallergies

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:44:18 +0100

Photoallergic diseases – solar urticaria and photoallergic contact dermatitis – are encountered in every allergist’s practice. Unfortunately, most such cases are treated non-specifically as “sun allergy” and remain undiagnosed. Focused diagnostic procedures – photoprovocation and photopatch testing – would enable the managing physician to find the actual cause and select the most adequate treatment. Solar urticaria (SU) is an IgE-dependent photoallergic disease. The suspicion of SU should always be taken into account when the following features are observed: 1) development of pruritus, erythema and wheals on the sun-exposed skin, 2) appearance of the symptoms within minutes after sun exposure, 3) spontaneous resolution within a few hours. The diagn...

What’s new in contact allergy?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:43:59 +0100

Allergic contact dermatitis is a frequent, chronic skin disease, mainly of occupational origin. It affects younger and younger individuals, involves some economic costs and causes a decrease in quality of life. In the nineteen seventies and eighties the distribution of contact allergy in Poland was significantly different in comparison with Western Europe. The most frequent allergens were chromates, aromatic amines, turpentine and epoxy resins, while the frequency of sensitization to nickel, acrylic plastics and neomycin was lower than in other European countries. At present, there are only slight differences in occurrence of contact allergy between Poland and Western Europe. Recent observations pointed out changes in frequency of contact allergy to metals, rubber, fragrances, cosmetic pre...

Skin barrier dysfunction as a risk factor for development of allergic disorders

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:43:42 +0100

The outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, primarily mediates permeability barrier function. The formation of corneocytes is considered to be the result of a finely regulated differentiation process. During the terminal differentiation process structural change of the keratinocyte is associated with the sequential formation of differentiation marker proteins keratin 5 and 14 present in the stratum basale, keratin 1 and 10 in the stratum spinosum, and late differentiation marker proteins filaggrin, loricrin and involucrin in the granular layer. The granular layer is composed of secretory cells producing polar lipids and lipid converting enzymes. Polar lipids are packed into lamellar bodies and secreted into the intercellular space to be converted by enzymes to form non-polar lipi...

Selected problems of immunotherapy in children

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:43:26 +0100

As one of the causal treatment methods in patients with allergic diseases immunotherapy has almost a 100-year history. In spite of such a long period of practice, observation and research in this field, not all relevant problems have been solved. This concerns mainly immunotherapy in treatment of children. Indications for immunotherapy during development age are the same as in maturity. While qualifying for this form of treatment a possibility of allergic disease natural evolution in this age should always be taken into consideration, as well as the greater part of atopy in pathogenesis of asthma in children. Therefore the decision about starting immunotherapy in children should always be preceded by deep and individual assessment. Immunotherapy in children under the age of 5 is not recomm...

Immunotherapy in adults and seniors – clinical aspects

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:42:48 +0100

Specific allergen immunotherapy (SIT) is a broadly used and highly effective therapeutic method of treating respiratory allergies and insect venom allergy (venom immunotherapy – VIT). Specific allergen immunotherapy is generally recommended for adults > 60, but the age criterion does not apply to VIT since venom allergy is a life-threatening condition. The frequency of the occurrence of anaphylactic events during SIT is comparable in both groups of younger and older patients, but if the events do occur, they tend to be more severe in the latter group. The higher risk of a severe anaphylactic reaction occurring in older patients > 50 results, among other things, from an apparent or clinically asymptomatic ischaemic heart disease. Another factor that may exacerbate the anaphylaxis in S...

Should all children with asthma be treated with antileukotrienes – a review of clinical trials

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:42:30 +0100

In the treatment of persistent asthma, randomized controlled trials have shown leukotriene inhibitors to be more effective than placebo but less effective than inhaled corticosteroids. The use of leukotriene inhibitors has shown an inhaled-steroid-sparing effect, a reduction in need for systemic steroid treatment, or cost savings. In the light of the results of our study montelukast seems to be the best therapeutic option for exercise-induced asthma. Interestingly, montelukast may have some preventive activity against viral-induced asthma exacerbations. There is strong evidence for clinical effectiveness of montelukast in all asthma phenotypes, which makes this drug the most universal anti-asthma treatment option. As established for all drugs commonly used in the treatment of asthma, there...

The molecular traits of food allergens

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:42:15 +0100

Allergens are defined as environmental agents that induce IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity reactions following inhalation, ingestion or injection. Purified allergens are named using the systematic nomenclature of the Allergen Nomenclature Sub-Committee of the World Health Organization and International Union of Immunological Societies. Major allergens may have special aerobiological properties and allergenic structures. Allergens are derived from proteins with a variety of biological functions, including proteases, ligand-binding proteins, structural proteins, pathogenesis-related proteins, lipid transfer proteins, profilins, and calcium-binding proteins. Biological function, such as the proteolytic enzyme allergens of dust mites, might directly influence the development of IgE resp...

Allergic rhinitis and lower airways

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:41:58 +0100

A close relation between allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma has been reported by many epidemiological and clinical studies. However, the nature of this relation remains unclear. Asthma and AR most frequently coexist in children and adults. AR is a strong risk factor for non-specific bronchial hyperreactivity and is also an independent risk factor for development of asthma. Uncontrolled AR worsens the clinical course of asthma. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Food-related asthma – pro

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:41:42 +0100

Some foods are capable of provoking asthmatic symptoms. In over 8% of children, the aetiology of asthma was food-related. Children admitted to intensive care were significantly more likely to report food allergy (FA) – 7 times more at least one FA compared with children seen in the ambulatory setting. The association was stronger among children with multiple or severe FA. Children with FA developed asthma earlier and at higher prevalence. Asthma mortality in children and young adults: FA and inadequate treatment were the major risk factors. An alarming finding was that 11 of the 37 deaths were probably caused by FA. Asthma and FA co-exist in approximately one-third of children. When both conditions are present a patient is placed at greater risk of having a fatal reaction. For this r...

Can asthma control be achieved?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:41:21 +0100

International guidelines for asthma management and prevention – GINA 2006 (Global Strategy for Asthma) currently recommend low-dose ICS as a first line therapy for patients with mild persistent asthma (the second step of therapy), and medium-dose of ICS or combination therapy with LABAs as the preferred therapy for moderate asthma (the third step of therapy). Achieving asthma control is a main therapeutic goal. Although combination of ICS and LABA is generally effective pharmacotherapy, many patients fail to achieve partial or full control with available therapies. Experiments have led to the development of a fixed combination in a single inhalator (single inhalator therapy – SIT) of fluticasone/salmeterol and budesonide/formoterol. Single inhalator therapy is more convenient t...

Cardiovascular safety in treatment of bronchial asthma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:41:01 +0100

Nowadays interdisciplinary problems become more and more important in medicine. Most, if not all the patients in real world are treated not on one isolated disease but two or more serious concomitant diseases. Therefore, it happens more and more often that medications used in treatment of one disease have adverse effects or are even harmful in the treatment of another disease. In the patients with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases medications acting on beta receptors are problematic. It is known that b-blockers, one of the main group of cardiac drugs, have beneficial effects on the heart but might cause bronchospasm in “respiratory” patients. On the other hand b-mimetics used in treatment of bronchial asthma might cause harmful tachycardia in cardiac patients. These compl...

Allergen immunotherapy in polysensitized patients

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:40:42 +0100

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is effective in treatment of allergic diseases including allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic asthma. The majority of allergic patients are sensitized to at least two non-related allergens. Only a few controlled clinical studies report results concerning efficacy of AIT in polysensitized patients. Allergen immunotherapy with a single allergen in polysensitized patients is effective during AIT. In patients sensitized to two non-related allergens AIT with two non-related allergens seems to be more effective than AIT with any allergen alone. Before starting AIT it is very important to establish to which allergens sensitization is clinically important. Making a decision about AIT with two or more allergens one should keep in mind that efficacy of AIT depends o...

Original paper Urban-rural differences in the prevalence of atopic diseases in the general population in Lodz Province (Poland)

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:40:23 +0100

Conclusions: The study revealed a difference in the prevalence of atopic diseases between city and rural areas. The high prevalence of atopic dermatitis in the rural area may be a portent of an increase in other atopic diseases and the disappearance of the differences between city and rural areas. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Spirometry in healthy and diseased. How it looks and how it should look like?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:39:59 +0100

Spirometry is most widely used pulmonary function test. Good quality of a test is essential for reliable assessment of lung function and interpretation of the results. Spirometry is usually performed in seated position, because of safety reasons. Age, height and weight, sex, and race must be recorded for calculating reference values. The forced exhalation maneuver to measure FVC and FEV1 has three phases: full inhalation, initial blast, and smooth completion of exhalation. Application of a nose clip is recommended. The ATS/ERS set specific criteria that must be met in order for the test to be considered valid. To be acceptable each trial must be without artifacts, has good start with extrapolated volume < 5% of FVC or 0.15 l whichever is greater, and good ending of exhalation, that is dura...

Local allergic reaction in the conjunctiva – therapeutic implications

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:38:25 +0100

The eye is exposed to many foreign substances, and ocular tissues have a complete array of immune cells to initiate an immunological response. The external eye represents an ideal site for allergic reactions because of the high number of mast cells and potential local synthesis of IgE. Mild allergic diseases such as IAC and PAC are classical example of type I hypersensitivity. The central mechanism in the pathogenesis of these diseases is IgE-mediated reactions and then T lymphocytes, eosinophils and conjunctival structural cells activation. But the severest forms of ocular allergy are more complicated and involve a cellular, neurogenic and hormonal response. Knowledge about these differences between different kinds of allergic eye diseases is necessary to decide about appropriate therapy....

Dry eye in an allergic patient – how to avoid, how to treat?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:37:59 +0100

Allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye are major ocular surface disorders affecting millions of people. Although neither of them is a sight-threatening disease, they have a serious impact on patients’ quality of life. A typical clinical symptom of allergic conjunctivitis is itching, whereas the symptoms of dry eye are burning sensation, irritation or ocular fatigue, but allergic conjunctivitis and dry eye sometimes share very similar symptoms. Allergies are often associated with ocular surface diseases and in particular with dry eye syndrome. Reduced quantity or quality of tears increases the number of allergens, limits their evacuation through the canaliculi and increases inflammation, which is an aggravating factor for allergy. Allergic eye diseases, even SAC, are associated with adva...

When are glucocorticoids harmful for the eye?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:37:19 +0100

The glucocorticosteroids are medications showing high effectiveness in the treatment of many systemic diseases having an immunological basis, in particular of allergic diseases. Cataract and glaucoma are serious complications of taking local and general GKS. Both these diseases cause considerable visual impairment, and glaucoma can lead to permanent damage of the optic nerve. The adverse reactions depend on several factors: the kind of preparation, the dose, the duration of treatment of disease, and individual factors including age, sex, genetic predisposition and interaction with different medications. Glaucoma or lenticular changes can develop even after a short period of taking GKS, while in some patients long therapy does not provoke changes. The value of the medication depends not onl...

Allergy and contact lenses

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:36:56 +0100

Ocular allergy and contact lens wear affect a large percentage of the population, the implications for interaction of allergy and changes induced by contact lens wear are significant. To present all about allergic conditions in general and ophthalmic allergies in particular, and how these can affect contact lens wear. It suggests solutions that can be followed in order to alleviate problems that can arise during contact lens use and suggests ways of overcoming the allergic symptoms and signs. Studies proving the healthiest and the most comfortable way of contact lens wear is the daily disposables are also presented. Nowadays allergy has become an increasing worldwide problem. It is actually a very complex disease in which symptoms can appear without clinical signs and sometimes it is too d...

Status asthmaticus in the past and nowadays

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:36:27 +0100

The problem of status asthmaticus in the past and nowadays is discussed. This phenomenon in the recent period has diminished markedly. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Severe persistent allergic asthma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:36:10 +0100

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Approximately 60% of asthma cases can be attributed to allergic asthma. The aim of this article is to present the current results concerning the problem of severe persistent allergic asthma, the use of anti-IgE treatment (omalizumab) as well as our own results determining the clinical efficacy and anti-inflammatory activity of Xolair (omalizumab) in patients with severe allergic asthma. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Chronic urticaria – difficult clinical problem. What more can be done?

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:35:43 +0100

Numerous factors are proposed to be responsible for chronic urticaria (CU) manifestation. No aetiology is fund in many cases of the diseases in spite of many diagnostic tests available. Chronic urticaria and particularly idiopathic one is extremely disabling and can be difficult to treat. Although it is unusual to identify underlying specific precipitating factors mast cell degranulation is of central importance in the pathogenesis of CU. Update consensus highlights the current achievements in this field concerning both diagnostic procedures and methods of management. The cornestone of CU therapy are antihistaminics which according to the current guidelines could be administered in up to fourfold higher than recommended doses. Immunomodulatory treatments including cyclosporin A, plasmapher...

X MIĘDZYNARODOWY KONGRES POLSKIEGO TOWARZYSTWA ALERGOLOGICZNEGO Reminiscence on the polish allergology

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:35:01 +0100

(Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper The most common diseases of scalp in childhood

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:33:52 +0100

The total and partial lack of hair growth occurs in the form of several clinical forms, either as an isolated defect or in connection with many kinds of abnormalities. Logical classification should be based on careful histopathological and genetic studies, but such studies are, unfortunately, rarely carried out. Hair microscopic examination is necessary in cases of abnormal hair, regardless of the quantitative which was on the scalp and it should be carefully sought for other ektodermal defects and examination of the patients relatives. Congenital alopecia may be partial or total. I the moment of the damage the condition of hair on the head is correct but tends to fall between the first and the sixth mouth after. Then it grows not at all or very irregularly. Lanugo type of hair, eyebrows a...

Review paper Skin tests with native alimentary allergens in the diagnostics of food allergy

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:33:19 +0100

Despite continuous progress in the field of medical sciences, diagnostics of food allergy remains a difficult issue. First of all in order to diagnose food allergy specific elimination diet should be applied to the patient and accurate clinical examination followed by various diagnostic tests should be performed in order to exclude more probable causes of symptoms observed and decrease the risk of unnecessary, strict elimination diets. Double blind placebo controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) remains a golden standard in the diagnostics of food allergy. In cases when DBPCFC is difficult to perform, tests with native food allergens, such as atopy patch test (APT), skin application food test (SAFT) or prick-by-prick tests are very helpful diagnostic tools. The right choice of test depends on t...

Case report Erythema nodosum coexisting with ascariasis and pulmonary Chlamydia pneumoniae infection – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:32:45 +0100

Erythema nodosum belongs to a group of relatively common hypodermis inflammation. It occurs mainly among women and particularly affects young ones. The etiology of the disease is not clear. Most frequently the changes appear on the surface of the front part of shank. Initially, red nodules change their color into dark brown and then into yellow and green color. Exanthema undergo neither dissolution nor cicatrisation. Regression is frequent. The case of erythema nodosum we presented, caused by Ascaris lumbricoides infection as well as by an early Chlamydia pneumoniae infection, is numbered as rarely described in literature. The exanthema initially appeared on the front side of both shanks with gradual tendency of progression towards tights and shoulders. The exanthema appeared as numerous, ...

Case report Urticaria vasculitis in the course of subacute cutaneous erythematosus – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:16:17 +0100

Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) is a non-scarring, non-atrophy-producing disease, with significant photosensitization. Even though during the course of the disease systemic symptoms are observed (subfebrile body temperature, myalgia, arthralgia), SCLE usually does not involve the kidneys. Furthermore, in some patients SCLE may be induced by drugs (antihypertensive agents, terbinafine). Urticarial vasculitis is a sort of chronic autoimmune urticaria resulting from vascular disorders, associated with immune complexes deposition and inflammatory cell infiltration around vessels (type III immune reaction according to the scheme of Gell and Coombs). Dissemination of urticarial wheals may be accompanied by arthralgia, myalgia and abdominal pain, and, very rarely, renal disturbances...

Case report Transient manifestation of dermatitis herpetiformis in a female with familial predisposition induced by propafenone

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:15:04 +0100

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is an autoimmune blistering disorder pathogenetically associated with a gluten-dependent enteropathy. It is characterized by intensively pruritic, symmetrically distributed papulovesicular lesions found mainly on the extensor surfaces of the forearms, elbows, knees and gluteal region. Familial occurrence is frequently observed. Many drugs and chemical substances are triggers of the disease. In the paper the case of a 29-year-old woman with DH induced by propafenone and a positive familial history of DH is described. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Reccurrent neurotrophic ulcerations in a patient with meningomyelocele – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:13:45 +0100

We present a case of a 29-year old woman with spina bifida and inherent myelomeningocele of the lumbo-sacral region of the spinal column, in whom from early childhood non-painful and non-healing erosions and deep ulcerations appeared within the left foot due to small injuries. Multi-annual inefficacious treatment and lack of proper diagnosis precluded the correct causal treatment and led to amputation of the 5th toe of the left foot, osteolytic changes in the metatarsal bones, and finally to a life-threatening condition (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Conglobate acne in a pregnant woman – an important therapeutic problem. A case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:12:17 +0100

A case of a 29-year-old pregnant woman suffering from conglobate acne that appeared in the 1st trimester is presented. The influence of pregnancy on the course of acne as well as limitation of anti-acne treatment is discussed. The severe course of acne in this patient required systemic antibiotic treatment followed by laser therapy to correct post-inflammatory lesions. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Behçet disease – case report and review

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:11:25 +0100

We report a rare case of Behçet’s disease in a Caucasian man. Behçet’s disease is a chronic recurrent generalized vasculitis whose manifestation seems to be dependent on genetic predisposition triggered by environmental factors. It occurs endemically in central and eastern Asia. Dermatological symptoms are most common, including recurrent oral and genital aphthous ulcers. Severe ocular inflammation can lead to permanent impairment of vision. The involvement of other organ systems can potentially lead to life-threatening complications. We discuss the course of the disease, the clinical symptoms, the diagnostic criteria and methods of treatment. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper Aetiopathogenesis, clinical picture and treatment of vitiligo

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:10:35 +0100

Vitiligo is a common idiopathic depigmentary skin disorder, characterized by destruction of melanocytes, which has been reported in about 0.5-4% of the global population. The pathogenesis of vitiligo is still unclear. There are some theories regarding the mechanism of melanocyte dysfunction and disappearance (autoimmune, neural, self-destruction, oxidant and melanocytorrhagy). Treatment is difficult, prolonged and usually disappointing. An important part of therapy should involve proper education of the patient concerning not only medical methods, but also camouflage and often psychotherapy. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper Genital ulcer diseases as an entry for HIV infection

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:09:37 +0100

Genital ulcer diseases (GUDs) are documented agents facilitating HIV-1 infection. The main pathogens causing GUDs are: Herpes simplex virus (HSV), Treponema pallidum and Haemophilus ducreyi. It is suggested that these diseases may increase the risk of HIV transmission even a hundredfold. A few mechanisms facilitating HIV penetration into the organism are considered. The first one is disruption of the epidermis or mucous membranes, creating a physical entry point for an infection. The next one is an increased number of inflammatory infiltration cells such as macrophages and T-lymphocytes. Increased expression (up-regulation) of HIV co-receptors – CCR5 and CXCR4 – on the surface of macrophages and lymphocytes in lesions is an additional risk factor of HIV infection. In the paper ...

Review paper Co-morbidity of depression, anxiety disorders and cognitive function impairment among patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:08:40 +0100

Chronic respiratory system diseases are a serious public health issue all over the world. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most frequent pulmonary diseases. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease limits to a wide extent patients’ everyday functioning in physical, emotional and social aspects. It is the reason for the decrease in patients’ quality of life. Not many reports, especially Polish studies, are concerned with COPD’s influence on emotional and cognitive functioning. The aim of the study is to present the co-morbidity of depression, anxiety disorders and cognitive impairment among patients who suffer from COPD (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Photodynamic diagnosis of skin cancers – own experiences

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:07:21 +0100

Conclusions: The method of photodynamic diagnostics does not replace the necessity of performing histopathological examinations, which still are of basic importance, but the places of affected skin specimen sampling may be determined by a non-invasive method. Moreover, the method of so-called “optic biopsy”, supplementing diagnostic investigations by determining the precise boundary line of the change, enables first of all total tumour excision, obtaining simultaneously an optimal cosmetic effect, particularly in the case of superficial changes. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Primary skin cancers – results of photodynamic therapy

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:06:07 +0100

Photodynamic diagnosis and therapy of tumours is a new procedure utilizing the combined action of light and a photosensitizing drug. The laser-fibre optic delivery system allows the visualization and treatment of superficial and deeply located neoplasms including malignancies of the skin, head and neck, oesophagus, endobronchial tract, stomach, urinary bladder, female genital tract and other sites. The putative action mechanism depends on evocation of fluorescence of a photosensitizing drug within cancer tissue (important for non-invasive optical diagnosis) and involves photochemical destruction of tumour tissue membranes mediated by singlet molecular oxygen (important for destruction of tumour cells). (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house...

Original paper Health self conciousness of the general practitioner’s and oncologist’s patients in relations to melanocytic lesions and melanoma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:05:12 +0100

The aim of this article is to sum up level of health consciousness of general practitioners and oncologists patients about naevus and malignant melanoma. Although melanomas are rare lesions in many countries worldwide, every 10 years the number of melanoma has doubled. General practitioners and oncologists play a basic role in primary strategy to avoid risk factors to develop lesions and to detect melanoma at an early stage. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Angiogenesis assessment in patients with mycosis fungoides

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:03:40 +0100

Conclusions: The studied factor does not fulfil the criteria for a biomarker distinguishing mycosis fungoides and parapsoriasis en grandes plaques, despite being a characteristic feature of advanced mycosis fungoides, and increased angiogenesis measured by CD34 expression is a poor prognostic marker of the disease. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Epidermal proliferation and intracellular adhesion impairment as one mode of action of ultraviolet-B radiation

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:01:45 +0100

Conclusions: The obtained results suggest the role of UVB in impairment of cellular proliferation and adhesion. These phenomena are likely to be among the factors involved in photocarcinogenesis. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Storage mite sensitivity in patients suffering from perennial rhinitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 08:59:39 +0100

Conclusions: These results suggest that storage mites may be an underestimated cause of perennial allergic rhinitis. The pattern of nasal symptoms does not differ significantly between SM– and SM+ groups. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original papers Usefulness of dermoscopy for diagnosing pearly penile papules

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:29:33 +0100

Conclusions: Finding the above-mentioned dermatoscopic features of pearly penile papules allows one to establish the diagnosis and to restrict the use of therapy. Also, differentiation of pearly penile papules and genital warts in patients with both diseases coexisting allows one to restrict the area of treatment. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original papers Comparison of cryotherapy and photodynamic therapy in treatment of actinic keratosis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:28:40 +0100

Conclusions: MAL-PDT is an effective method in AK therapy, which makes it possible to achieve better cosmetic results, because it is less destructive and more selective. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original papers Surgical treatment of rhinophyma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:23:04 +0100

Conclusion: The long-term observations have proved satisfactory cosmetic and functional results. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original papers The role of benzoyl peroxide in prevention of development of antibiotic-resistant Propionibacterium acnes during combined treatment with erythromycin and tretinoin

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:22:25 +0100

The objectives of the study were to determine: (1) the prevalence of skin colonization by propionibacteria resistant to erythromycin among acne patients of the Spa Dermatological Clinic in Iwonicz Zdrój, (2) the development of antibiotic resistance during the 12-week treatment by different topical medications, (3) the role of topical benzoyl peroxide in prevention of development of antibiotic-resistant Propionibacterium acnes during combined treatment with erythromycin and tretinoin. Material and methods: Sixty patients of both sexes between the age of 16 and 26 suffering from mild to moderate acne (Leeds scale 2-6) were classified in 3 groups (20 in each). The first group was treated with topical 4% erythromycin, the second group with 4% erythromycin and 0.025% tretinoin, and the third g...

Review papers Aethiopathogenesis of mastocytosis: current options

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:21:40 +0100

Mastocytosis is a group of rare, heterogeneous disorders characterized by abnormal growth and/or accumulation of mast cells (MC) in one or more organ systems. Signs and symptoms of the disease mostly result from MC-derived mediators and MC organ infiltration. Here we present major advances that have been made over the last 10 years in the understanding of mastocytosis pathogenesis. Genetic findings indicate the key role of activating mutation of c-kit, encoding the stem cell receptor (SCF) in systemic mastocytosis. However, this mutation does not explain all aspects and the heterogeneity of the disease. Numerous factors, such as other gene defects, genetic polymorphisms, abnormal expression of cell surface adhesion antigens, dysregulation of MC proliferation and apoptosis have also been di...

Review papers Personal data protection regarding health protection actions

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:21:13 +0100

This article constitutes an outline of the most important legal regulations concerning the issue of personal data protection in the health services. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review papers Legal issues regarding HIV infection and AIDS disease

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:20:46 +0100

This article is connected with derogation of the previous and implementation of the new bill from 5th of December 2008 on preventing and combating human infections and infectious disease. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case reports Suspicion of Behçet’s disease – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:20:19 +0100

Behçet’s disease is a chronic, multi-systemic disease, characterized by relapsing ulceration of the mucous membrane of the oral cavity and genitals, and very often eye disorders are among the leading manifestations. Aetiology of the disease is not known, with genetic, environmental and also infectious factors taken into consideration. Though clinical cases are found all over the world, it is mostly diagnosed in Mediterranean countries and along the old commercial Silk Road (East Asia, China, Korea, Japan). First signs and symptoms of the disease appear at the age of 20-35 years. Presence of HLA-B51, male gender and early onset of systemic symptoms worsen the prognosis. Diagnostic criteria of the disease proposed by the International Study Group for Behçet’s disease in 1990 in...

Case reports Bullous scabies – a case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:19:45 +0100

We present a case of scabies with clinical manifestations similar to bullous pemphigoid. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case reports Difficulties connected with diagnosis of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:19:20 +0100

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is a rarely occurring disease, characterized by the triad of symptoms: recurrent orofacial swelling, relapsing facial palsy, and fissured tongue and wrinkles of tongue (lingua plicata). The aetiology of the disease has not yet been explained. Infectious factors, inheritance as well as allergic and immunological factors are considered in the aetiopathology of this syndrome. It is estimated that the syndrome affects less than 1% of the population, mainly young adults between 20 and 30 years of age, but it can appear regardless of age. Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is diagnosed all over the world. The classical form of this syndrome with the complete triad of clinical symptoms is observed rarely (8-25% of patients). Incomplete and monosymptomatic variants are dom...

Case reports Familial multiple cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis. Case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:19:02 +0100

Cutaneous leiomyomas are uncommon, benign tumours originating from the smooth muscles. They are pink-violet, red-brown or skin-coloured nodules with characteristic tenderness exacerbated by pressure, stress and temperature changes. They usually involve the extensor surfaces of the extremities and trunk. Multiple leiomyomas are mainly pilar leiomyomas. Familial leiomyomatosis is a genetically determined disease connected with uterine leiomyomas and known as multiple cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis (MCUL). In the paper the case of a 56-year-old woman with multiple cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis of the left shoulder and trunk with familial occurrence of similar skin changes is presented. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Inflammatory linear verrucous epidermal nevus – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:11:26 +0100

Inflammatory linear verrucous epidermal nevus is a rare type of epidermal nevus which clinically resembles psoriatic plaques. The disease is characterized by an early onset; it appears at birth or in the first years of life. Skin lesions are accompanied with inflammation and intensive pruritus. The paper presents a case of a 51-year old man, in whom the first signs of the disease in the form of a linear erythematous, verrucous, itchy band situated on the lateral side of the right extremity appeared in adulthood. Histopathological examination showed psoriatic features. Typical anti-psoriatic treatment brought only a short period of clinical improvement (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum – a case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:11:19 +0100

Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum is a very rare entity coexisting with diabetes. It is estimated that the prevalence of necrobiosis lipoidica is very low – it affects less than 1% of patients suffering from diabetes. Among patients with diagnosed necrobiosis lipoidica the percentage of those with diabetes is over 60%. This paper presents a case of a 16-year old girl with a 10-year history of insulin-dependent diabetes, in whom necrobiosis lipoidica was diagnosed (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original papers Lipomatosis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:11:13 +0100

Conclusions: We confirmed neither the influence of aetiopathogenetic factors nor the coexistence of similar systemic disorders. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Bilateral sudden deafness in patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:11:06 +0100

Sudden deafness is a particularly complex problem in an otolaryngologist’s practice. In this paper we analysed a case of sudden, profound, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in a 55-year-old woman chronically suffering from lupus erythematosus in whom the presence of lupus anticoagulant and viral infection coexisted. Despite intensive treatment, improvement was not achieved. The discussed case presents difficulties in determining explicit aetiopathology, the complexity of the clinical state and resultant difficulties in gaining a positive outcome for hearing loss in SLE treatment (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review articles Cannabinoid receptor agonists in topical anti-pruritic and anti-inflammatory therapy

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:11:00 +0100

Itching sensation is a common dermatological problem accompanying various inflammatory skin diseases. Usually it is related to the complicated interactions between the immunological and nervous system with various cytokines, neuropeptides and other signalling molecules being involved. Apart from treatment of the underlying skin disease, effective anti-pruritic therapy is absolutely necessary because the itching sensation significantly reduces the quality of life of the patients. Topical cannabinoid agonists seem to be an effective new alternative for treating chronic pruritus. Physiogel A.I.® contains N-palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) belonging to the family of N-acylethanolamines. Via their cannabinomimetic action these substances present analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti...

Review paper Trichosporon sp. – pathogenicity, diagnostics and treatment

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:10:54 +0100

Trichosporon spp. are anamorphic yeast-like fungi widely distributed in the natural environment. They may be isolated from soil and water and can occasionally belong to the human and animal microbiota. In humans, Trichosporon is mainly found on the skin, mucous membranes and nails. The fungus is the causative agent of benign superficial infections but it may also cause serious deep mycoses. Systemic trichosporonosis concerns mainly immunocompromised patients and has a high mortality rate, ranging from 80 to 100%. Difficulties in identification of different species as well as the lack of standardized sensitivity tests in vitro contribute to the limited knowledge available on epidemiology, diagnosis and therapy of Trichosporon infections (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Aller...

Review articles Management of chronic hand eczema

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:10:45 +0100

Hand eczema (HE) is a common dermatological condition with a prevalence of about 10% in the general population. It is also the most common occupational skin disorder. The disease is caused by multiple factors, most often irritants and contact allergens. Hand eczema varies because of aetiology and morphology of skin lesions. It often has a chronically relapsing course resulting in a high social and economic impact for the individual. Although different treatment options exist, long remission is hard to achieve. As known from the literature, very few randomized controlled trials exist to provide evidence-based recommendations for therapy of this disorder. Hope for better management of patients with chronic HE is provided by new drugs, e.g. alitretinoin, whose efficacy and safety have been co...

Original papers Polymorphism of the vascular endothelial growth factor gene and susceptibility to basal cell carcinoma – preliminary study

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:34:12 +0100

Conclusions: This is the first report concerning VEGF gene polymorphism and BCC. Presented data suggest that the SNP at position -1154 of the promoter region of the VEGF gene may play a role in pathogenesis of BCC. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Correlation of serotypes, molecular and biological characteristics of Chlamydia trachomatis and clinical manifestations of Chlamydia infection

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:41:07 +0100

Conclusions: Serotypes D and K of C. trachomatis turned out to be the most frequent cause of pathology of the urogenital tract. An associative correlation has been noted between C and K C. trachomatis serotypes. These two serovariants of C. trachomatis tend to more often possess resistance to antibiotics, which can serve as the main cause of development of arthropathic forms (Reiter’s syndrome) and sterility in women. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Molecular and biological criteria of activity of the infectious process in Chlamydia infection

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:41:02 +0100

Conclusions: The established ranges of fluctuation of Chlamydia DNA will enable us to add to the list of clinical and laboratory criteria for evaluation of the activity rate of the infectious process, to reconsider indications for administration of rational antibiotic therapy in categories of patients with different course and activity rate of the disease, to adequately schedule monitoring of DNA concentration within the course of therapy, and to predict the outcome (elimination, persistence) of the disease in various variants of clamidiosis. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper The contribution of chemokines and chemokine receptors in dermatitis herpetiformis pathogenesis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:57 +0100

Conclusions: In conclusion, these data provide evidence that chemokines may play an essential role in activating and recruiting leukocytes, which ultimately contribute to the tissue damage in DH. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Expression of Ki-67 and β-catenine in nodular and superficial form of basal cell carcinoma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:53 +0100

Introduction: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer in white populations. Growing BCC incidence results in numerous studies on its pathogenesis and treatment. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation leading to dysregulation of cell-cycle-related proteins and intracellular adhesion molecules expression plays a key role in skin carcinogenesis development. BCCs are divided into subtypes, depending on their clinical picture, localization, histology and recurrences. The main groups are superficial (sBCC) and nodular (nBCC) ones. Aim: To determine Ki-67 antigen and b-catenine expression in superficial and nodular form of BCC. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 22 Caucasians with histologically confirmed superficial (group 1, n=11) or nodular (group 2, n=11) ...

Original paper Usefulness of capillaroscopy in assessment of angiogenic vascular changes in psoriasis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:47 +0100

Conclusions: Psoriatic patients presented microvascular abnormalities, confirmed by altered capillaroscopic image, in comparison with healthy controls. In capillaroscopically examined patients some characteristic microvascular changes, which may result from disturbed angiogenetic processes, were detected. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper The use of biological agents in the treatment of psoriasis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:43 +0100

This article is a review of literature regarding the efficacy and safety of these modern biological agents in the treatment of nail psoriasis. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Coexistence of Sweet’s syndrome with hepatitis C – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:39 +0100

We present a case of Sweet’s syndrome associated with hepatitis C. A 34-year old man was admitted to the Department of Dermatology because of a crop of erythematous and infiltrative skin lesions lasting for two days and located mainly on the forehead, trunk, and upper and lower extremities. Skin lesions were accompanied by malaise, fever, and muscle and joint pains. Laboratory tests showed leukocytosis, neutrophilia, increased CRP and ESR, increased hepatic enzyme values and the presence of anti-HCV antibodies. In USG examination of the abdominal cavity slight hepatomegaly was observed. Based on clinical and histological findings a diagnosis of Sweet’s syndrome was established. All skin lesions and general symptoms improved after administration of systemic glucocorticosteroids....

Report Od teorii do praktyki – XXIX Zjazd Polskiego Towarzystwa Dermatologicznego

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:34 +0100

(Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Report Sprawozdanie z wyjazdu do Tanzanii

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:40:29 +0100

(Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) in the treatment of common warts, plane warts and warts of the feet

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:26:33 +0100

Conclusions: The significant advantages of ALA-PDT over methods applied previously are the relatively slight side effects and very good cosmetic results. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Retrospective evaluation of Malassezia fungi occurrence

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:26:24 +0100

Conclusions: The retrospective 16-year analysis provided evidence that increases and decreases in the prevalence of Malassezia occurred in particular years. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper The role of cyclin expression in superficial and nodular type of basal cell carcinoma

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:26:19 +0100

Conclusions: The obtained results indicating distinct expression of cyclin D1 partially testify other mechanisms of sBCC and nBCC development. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper Provocation tests for diagnosis of acetylsalicylic acid intolerance

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:26:15 +0100

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is one of the most commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are, after antibiotics, the second most frequent agent causing drug hypersensitivity. ASA intolerance may be accompanied by asthma, nasal polyps and urticaria. Diagnosis of ASA intolerance includes provocation tests: oral, bronchial, intranasal and intravenous (used very rarely, generally only in Japan). Oral and bronchial aspirin challenge are associated with a high risk of severe complications; therefore it is advised to perform them only in specialist diagnostic centres. We would like to accentuate the usefulness of the intranasal provocation test for diagnosis of ASA intolerance as a safe and easy procedure which may be performed in out-patient care. ...

Review paper DIHS – drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome – an update with special emphasis on the role of herpesviruses in syndrome aetiopathogenesis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:26:01 +0100

The first cases of DIHS were described almost 70 years ago, but so far elucidation of its aetiopathogenesis has remained a challenge for researchers. DIHS can be distinguished from other types of drug eruptions by the limited number of culprit drugs, delayed onset in relation to the introduction of causative medication and also clinical similarity to infectious mononucleosis. Besides the undoubtedly crucial role of exposure to the causative drug, it seems that another important element of DIHS pathogenesis is reactivation of human herpes virus-6 (HHV-6) and possibly other viruses included in this group. DIHS patients present an increased level of anti-viral IgG after approximately 3 weeks from the onset of symptoms, and furthermore viral DNA can be detected in patients’ blood and ski...

Review paper Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:25:54 +0100

Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA) is, together with anaphylactic shock, one of the most serious forms of food allergy. FDEIA is defined by the onset of anaphylaxis during (or soon after) exercise, preceded by the ingestion of food. Although FDEIA is a rare entity, the recurrent, life-threatening episodes of the disease require serious consideration. FDEIA mostly affects young, active patients and therefore episodes of the disease are most often observed during gym classes at school or training in sportsmen. Individuals practising sport considerably more often consume foods with high calorific value, containing substances characterized by strong allergenic potential (nuts and grains). Patients with a history of FDEIA should be told to avoid consuming causative foods for at...

Case report Photodynamic therapy in the treatment of multiple solar keratosis foci caused by chronic exposure to sunlight

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:25:50 +0100

This case presents the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of solar keratosis in a patient exposed to sunlight in occupational conditions. The patient spent several years in southern Europe and Africa. An additional factor was that he had skin phototype II (blue eyes, red hair). Multiple lesions of solar keratosis were found on the back and limbs as grey to yellow plaques showing some fluid on the surface. The patient was given a 20% solution of aminolevulinic acid (ALA) in the form of cream in a eucerin base. Light irradiation was performed within 6 hours after application of the cream. The light source was a halogen lamp (Penta Lamps Teclas) l =630 nm. The total light dose was 120 J/cm2. The lesions of solar keratosis completely healed after single exposure to light. P...

Case report Progression of graft- versus -host disease in a patient after bone marrow transplantation due to chronic myeloblastic leukaemia – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:25:45 +0100

We report a case of a patient with poikiloderma, as the symptom of GVHD. Skin lesions were the only sign of acute GVHD, and appeared 3 weeks after bone marrow transplantation due to chronic myeloblastic leukaemia. The patient was admitted to hospital in 2005 – at that time topical treatment was sufficient. In 2007 the patient was admitted to hospital with generalized scleroderma which caused him huge troubles in normal living. After haematological consultation the patient was started on PUVA therapy. This paper presents the evolution of skin lesions in the patient described above, which in a short period of time led to his serious disability. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

European Board Examination in Dermatology and Venereology European Union of Medical Specialists

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 12:25:39 +0100

(Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Estimation of bFGF and TGF-β1 sera concentrations in vitiligo patients – pilot study

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:14:30 +0100

Conclusions: Since the results of studies on bFGF and TGF-β presented in the literature are inconsistent, the role of cytokines in the vitiligo development is still inconclusive. Therefore, in order to clarify the effect of bFGF on repigmentation of vitiliginous lesions as well as the possibility of using TGF-β immunosuppressive activity in vitiligo treatment, further studies are required. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original article Serum level of IL2sα in patients with selected inflammatory dermatoses

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:14:22 +0100

Skin lesions developing in the course of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) are probably due to activation of inflammatory processes. Histopathological examination of the skin biopsies obtained from patients with CVI revealed both lymphocyte and macrophage domination and significantly increased lymphocyte T helper (Th) and T suppressor ratio. Delayed type of allergic reaction was related to Th1 lymphocyte activation and the presence of Th1 profile cytokines, including interleukin 2 (IL-2). IL-2 plays an important role in effector lymphocyte differentiation and formation of specifically sensitized cells. Moreover, increased level of the a chain of the soluble receptor for IL-2 (IL2sR) is known as a sensitive and specific marker of T lymphocyte activation. The main aim of the study w...

Review paper The role of filaggrin gene mutations in pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Literature review

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:14:18 +0100

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic and relapsing skin disease of complex aetiology, with interactions between susceptibility genes and environmental factors. An impaired epidermal barrier resulting in increased water loss and reduced hydration of the skin is a prominent part of the AD clinical picture. Though primary epidermal barrier defect was taken into account as a possible causative factor for AD, in the last decades most genetic studies on pathogenesis of atopic diseases have focused on immunological mechanisms. Filaggrin, a major component of keratohyalin granules in the granular layer, is a protein which function is to aggregate filaments of keratin, resulting in formation of the corneocyte’s cornified envelope. The cornified cell envelope prevents not only water los...

Review paper Ear involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:14:06 +0100

Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease. There are many symptoms from different organs, and also ear involvement is examined. Sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus are the most common symptoms of ear involvement in SLE. Literature data are presented. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review article The role of T-cell subpopulations in psoriasis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:13:59 +0100

The pathogenesis of psoriasis is still an unresolved problem. The dysregulation of innate and adaptive skin defence mechanisms plays a main role in the induction of psoriatic lesions. There is clear evidence that T-cells have a central role in psoriasis, but the role of subpopulations of such cells is still debated. The aim of this article is to describe the participation in the pathogenesis of psoriasis of T helper lymphocytes, NK and NK-T cells, TCRγδ lymphocytes, regulatory T cells, CD8+ suppressors cells, and the newly described population of Th17 cells. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Segmental Darier’s disease – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:13:55 +0100

A 54-year-old woman with brown, hyperkeratotic papules on the right, anterior part of her trunk for 4 years is described. Diagnosis of segmental Darier’s disease was based on clinical manifestation and histological findings (focal acantholysis and dyskeratosis). Literature data of pathogenesis and therapeutic options are also described. This case report is presented because of the rarity and diagnostic problems of segmental Darier’s disease. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Skin melanoma associated with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:13:49 +0100

We report a 61-year-old patient with metastatic melanoma that appeared 3 years after diagnosis of CLL. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. Case report and review of the literature

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:13:34 +0100

Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is characterized by a triad of signs: oedema of the face and lips, recurrent peripheral facial nerve paralysis, and fissured tongue (lingua plicata). Monosymptomatic or oligosymptomatic forms of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome are common. Aetiology is still unclear. Genetic, autoimmune and infectious factors have been proposed. The authors present a case of a 40-year-old man with Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome treated with good effect by combination therapy consisting of intralesional injection of triamcinolone, and oral dapsone. The authors also review the literature of clinical presentation and current treatment of this rare syndrome. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper Cutaneous adverse effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 14:43:54 +0100

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequently prescribed drugs. Most of them are widely available and purchased without prescription. NSAIDs are used not only for their antipyretic, but also analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. They are used very often in various chronic diseases. Increased incidence of adverse effects after these drugs is connected with the lack of good information for patients about the risks of taking NSAIDs for a long time, polypragmasy and wide media advertising. The fact that various drugs often provoke similar skin lesions and even the same drug can provoke different morphological reactions makes the diagnostic process of the described dermatoses very difficult. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, similarly to radiological contrast medi...

Review paper Congenital and acquired changes of hair structure

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 14:43:42 +0100

Numerous physical and chemical factors, usually associated with improper hair care and styling, may cause changes in the structure of the hair shaft. Other changes can appear as a result of unknown endogenous factors. The most important structural abnormalities include: ringed, twisted, fleecy, moniliform, bamboo and knotty hair. Furthermore, this group also comprises knotty and longitudinal hair splitting, trichoschisis and trichothiodystrophy. These disorders are characterized by thin, breakable, matt, brittle and dry hair. Such abnormalities are more often observed in women, especially those with fair hair. Mechanical damage is the most common reason for these disorders. Damage may result from excessive and improper combing and brushing, perming, cutting with blunt tools, straightening,...

Original paper The activity of selected lysosomal proteases of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in patients with actinic keratosis treated by photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT)

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 11:39:59 +0100

Actinic keratosis is the most common precancerous state of the skin, observed in about 50% of the population over 40 years. The dissertation assesses the activity of chosen lysosomal proteases (cathepsin G and thiol cathepsins in free and bounded form) in patients with actinic keratosis who were given a photodynamic therapy were estimated in that work. The research was conducted on 35 clinically healthy men and women, as well as 26 patients with actinic keratosis. The research was conducted twice: before the radiation treatment and after a second cycle of ALA-PDT irradiation. The results of the research were subjected to statistical analysis. The examination conducted before the radiation treatment indicated higher activity of the examined proteases in patients with actinic keratosis, in c...

Original paper Psychological and social problems of patients with chronic venous disease

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:57:16 +0100

The aim of the study was to assess psychological and social problems in patients with skin symptoms of chronic venous disease (CVD). The study was conducted in 2006 in the Chair and Clinic of Surgery, Biziel Hospital in Bydgoszcz. Fifty patients between 40 and 80 years old with skin problems associated with CVD – phase C4-C6 in CEAP classification – were included in the study. The diagnostic questionnaire method was used and a questionnaire was specifically created for the purpose of this study. Statistically significant correlations and influence of CVD on everyday duties and job performance were observed (p (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Topical therapy with tacrolimus as an alternative therapy for seborrheic dermatitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:57:00 +0100

Tacrolimus is a macrolactam and has anti-inflammatory properties. Compared to glucocorticosteroids, it is characterized by a high level of selectivity and safety. The topical efficacy of this drug allows it to be used in the therapy of selected inflammatory dermatoses, including seborrheic dermatitis. Because of the few clinical reports in the literature concerning application of tacrolimus (ointment 0.1%), the authors observed its use as a therapy of seborrheic dermatitis. Tacrolimus was applied twice daily in 4 patients with seborrheic dermatitis for up to month, which resulted in clearance of skin lesions. In all the patients, total disappearance of skin lesions was noted. The most common side effects were itching and burning at the sites of application. Tacrolimus seems to be a new the...

Review paper Trophoallergens in the aetiopathogenesis of atopic dermatitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:56:55 +0100

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, inflammatory disease, affecting the epidermis and the dermis. AD is a very common disease – it is recognized to affect 5% of children. Trophoallergens, particularly in children, seem to play a key role in the aetiopathogenesis of AD. Sensitization to food allergens seems to be a triggering factor for the so-called allergic march phenomenon – from food allergy to AD and then to asthma. Clinical outcome of the disease depends on the immunological system, the age of the child, and whether it was breast-fed or not. Due to the immaturity of the immune and digestive system in infants, breast-feeding up to 4-6 months and avoiding solid food until the 6th month of life are optimal. Recently, a lot of attention has been paid to the possible role of...

Original paper Impact of phototherapy on selected lipid profile indices in psoriatic patients allowing

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:56:45 +0100

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, which is often accompanied by lipid metabolism disorders related to an increased risk of sclerosis development. The study aimed at assessing concentrations of selected lipid profile indices, oxidation markers and the efficiency of antioxidant defence in psoriatic patients with different intensification of pathological lesions before and after phototherapy treatment. On the basis of calculated PASI score the patients were divided into two 30-person groups: PASI 1 (from 5.4 to 22.1, mean 15.2±4.9), and PASI 2 (from 22.5 to 49.20, mean 30.3±5.8). All patients underwent 10 therapies using one of three phototherapy methods (UVA, UVB, UVB 311 nm). The analysis of acquired data showed the proatherogenic nature of lipid profile in pso...

Case report Syphilis – issue of the 21st century

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:55:45 +0100

We present three cases of secondary recidivans syphilis, characterized by rich manifestation, which were at first misdiagnosed by general practitioners. As atypical primary symptoms within lips were present in the patients, at first herpes simplex infection and squamous cell carcinoma were diagnosed. Diagnostic difficulties and subsequently delay in appropriate treatment resulted in simultaneous development of many symptoms of secondary syphilis. Medical history revealed numerous sexual contacts, including homosexual ones, which was why laboratory examination for HIV infection was performed. In one of the patients anti-HIV antibodies were detected. Described cases are presented because of high didactic value (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing...

Case report Painful piezogenic papules – case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:55:41 +0100

Painful piezogenic papules – numerous adipose hernias – is a rather frequent sickness. A case of painful piezogenic papules will be introduced. They were found on the feet and in the area of the wrists of an eighteen-year-old patient. At the beginning there were some difficulties with the diagnosis. On admission thanks to the physical examination numerous small, hard, diaplastic nodules of yellow colour were found at the margins of both feet, heels and on the internal area of the wrists. The changes on the feet were visible in a standing position, palpably painful, causing difficulties while walking. In laboratory examinations no significant abnormalities were found. The clinical picture and the medical history of the patient confirmed the diagnosis of painful piezogenic papule...

Case report Unusual skin manifestation of Sweet syndrome

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:55:37 +0100

In 1986 two major and two minor diagnostic criteria of Sweet syndrome were proposed by Su and Liu. In this paper we report a case of Sweet syndrome manifested as erythema nodosum-like lesions without a tendency for disintegration, but with pustules predominantly on the surface of the face. The mentioned lesions occurred after a few days of treatment with azathioprine. This drug was introduced by the nephrologist due to symptoms of nephrotic syndrome of unknown background, lasting for more than one year. For more than thirty years the patient has been treated (mostly surgically) for recurrent perirectal fistula. Because of the long-lasting inflammation in this area secondary (AA-type) amyloidosis was considered as the most likely reason for the kidney damage (although the histological asses...

Special work The genetic diagnostics of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas Part I: Application of TCR gene rearrangement analysis in diagnostics of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 08:45:00 +0100

T-cell receptor rearrangement has become a standard in diagnostics of cutaneous T-cell lympoma (CTCL). The process of somatic recombination and description of polymerase chain reaction method necessary in analysis of TCR genes monoclonality have been described in the 1st part of the trilogy consisting of genetic analysis of CTCL (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Special work The genetic diagnostics of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Part I: Application of TCR gene rearrangement analysis in diagnostics of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:23:04 +0100

T-cell receptor rearrangement has become a standard in diagnostics of cutaneous T-cell lympoma (CTCL). The process of somatic recombination and description of polymerase chain reaction method necessary in analysis of TCR genes monoclonality have been described in the 1st part of the trilogy consisting of genetic analysis of CTCL. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Special work The genetic diagnostics of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Part II: The role of chromosomal aberrations in diagnostics and pathogenesis of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:22:40 +0100

. Primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL) are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms, from which mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sezary syndrome (SS) are the most frequently observed. The aetiology of CTCL is still unknown. The most probable factors involved in CTCL pathogenesis are chronic response to antigens (chemicals, viruses, bacteria), smoking and chronic exposure to UV causing gene and chromosome mutations and consequently establishing genomic instability phenotype. Cases of MF/SS diagnosis dominate among published results of cytogenetic analysis of CTCL. Chromosomal aberrations are observed mostly in advanced stages of disease and precede disease progression. No specific, recurrent chromosomal aberrations were found for this type of neoplasms. The karyotypes of examined lymphomas are ...

Special work The genetic diagnostics of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Part III: The comparison of abnormal cell clone incidence in cutaneous T-cell lymphomas using molecular method of TCRγ rearrangement and cytogenetic techniques

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:22:18 +0100

TCRγ genes rearrangement analysis has already become a standard diagnostic method in cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL). Chromosomal aberration analysis has been more commonly used in diagnostics of leukaemias and lymphomas. The aim of the study was to compare the frequency of neoplastic clone incidence in CTCL determined by cytogenetic and molecular methods (TCRγ genes rearrangement analysis). The skin, lymph nodes and peripheral blood from 31 patients (25 with mycosis fungoides, 3 with Sezary syndrome, 2 with CTCL CD30+, 1 with angiocentric NK/T cell lymphoma) were analyzed. The chromosomal aberrations in metaphase culture of peripheral blood lymphocytes from 27 patients with CTCL (17 – MF, 7 – SS, 2 C-ALCL, 1 – angiocentric T/NK cell lymphoma) were tested with...

Original paper Serum soluble tumour necrosis factor a receptor type I measurement in patients

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:21:20 +0100

The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of soluble tumour necrosis factor a type I receptor (sTNFaRI) concentration as a prognostic parameter of systemic sclerosis (SSc) development and progression. Serum sTNFaRI levels were measured by ELISA in 50 patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon (30 patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon alone, 20 SSc patients) and 15 healthy controls. Mean level of sTNFaRI in patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon without clinical symptoms of connective tissue disease was significantly increased compared with normal controls (p (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper Melanocytes – immunocompetent pigmented cells

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 10:20:30 +0100

Melanocytes are not only unique melanin-producing cells, but also immunocompetent cells, which are considered as important components of the skin immune system. Stimulated melanocytes can express MHC molecules and immunologically important surface markers. Additionally, they are capable of processing and presenting antigens to T cells. In response to stress, they secrete proinflammatory cytokines, growth factors and other inflammatory mediators, including nitric oxide. On the other hand, the mediators can directly affect melanocyte functions and may be involved in the altered melanin production associated with hypo- or hyperpigmentation. Exploration of the immunologic functions of melanocytes will allow a better understanding about the pathomechanism of pigmentary disorders, especially tho...

Jubileusz 75-lecia urodzin Profesora Jerzego Bowszyca

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:44:57 +0100

(Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Staphylococcus aureus skin colonization in atopic dermatitis patients

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:40:17 +0100

We examined 25 patients with atopic dermatitis selected according to features of Hanifin and Rajka. Two sex- and age- matched groups were selected as controls: 25 patients suffering from psoriasis and 25 healthy individuals. In all of them we examined the prevalence of nasal S. aureus carriage, and staphylococcal colonization on the skin (normal appearing and lesional skin). Using contact plates the density of staphylococcal skin colonization was estimated. We examined the prevalence of producers of SEA or SEB among strains of S. aureus isolated from sampled skin. Results and conclusions: In patients with atopic dermatitis the prevalence of nasal S. aureus carriage was 64%. The prevalence of S. aureus skin colonization was 56% on normal appearing skin and 68% on lesional skin. The density ...

The level of bFGF and TGF-beta 1 in alopecia areata patients’ sera and their role in angiogenesis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:27:56 +0100

Alopecia areata (AA) is regarded as a non-scarring, inflammatory disease of the hair follicle. The pathophysiology of abnormal hair cycle with premature catagen development in this disease remains unknown. Angiogenesis is defined as the growth of new capillaries from pre-existing blood vessels. In the adult skin this process physiologically occurs in the dermis around anagen hair follicles. Furthermore, anagen follicles possess angiogenic properties. The data suggest that inhibiting angiogenesis leads to retardation of anagen development and initiation of catagen phase ally causing hair loss. The aim of our study was to assess the level of bFGF and TGF-beta 1 in alopecia areata patients’ serum. There were no significant difference in bFGF and TGF-beta 1 levels between alopecia areata...

Contact allergy in children with atopic dermatitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:27:26 +0100

This article presents current views on the clinical and immunological association of AD and ACD in children. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Photodynamic therapy – current indications and effectiveness in particular premalignant and malignant skin diseases

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:26:57 +0100

Although the concept of combining light with a photosensitizing agent for the treatment of disease states has been around for centuries, the understanding of mechanisms of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and the rapid development of PDT strategies have been enhanced over the past few years. PDT is a promising modality for the management of various tumours and non-malignant diseases. PDT is a well-established treatment modality which has been mainly shown to be effective for dermato-oncological conditions like: actinic keratoses, basal cell carcinoma, Bowen’s disease and squamous cell carcinoma. This review summarizes the current status for topical PDT. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Finasteride in androgenetic alopecia in men

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:26:12 +0100

Androgenetic alopecia in men occurs in the majority of men over 40 years old and is becoming a significant psychological problem. Androgens have profound effects on scalp and body hair in the human scalp. Testosterone acts in tissues after conversion into dihydrotestosterone. Miniaturization of the scalp hair follicles due to the androgens’ activity constitutes the process background. The alpha 5 reductase enzyme, a key mediator of male pattern loss participating in testosterone metabolism, plays a significant role in the disease aetiopathogenesis. Diagnosis of andogenetic alopecia was based on an interview and the clinical picture. The clinical picture is quite typical and consists of hair loss in the fronto-parietal area. The 8-step Hamilton-Norwood scale is used to evaluate the se...

Granular cell tumour of the skin (Abrikossoff’s tumour) – case report and review of the literature

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:25:43 +0100

Granular cell tumour, also known as Abrikossoff’s tumour, is an uncommon tumour of nerve sheath origin. The average age of presentation is the fourth or fifth decade of life. The most common locations include soft tissues, skin and mucosa of the upper respiratory and digestive tract. Tumours are usually solitary. Multiple foci were observed in about 10-25% of cases and malignant course in about 3-7%. The treatment of choice is radical resection with clear surgical margin. The authors present a case of a 15-year-old boy with granular cell tumour of the skin of the arm. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Systemic sclerodermia associated with chronic hepatitis. Case report

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 09:25:19 +0100

We present a case of a 43-year man, who had rapid progression of the disease, with the skin and the internal organs – including the liver – affected nearly simutaneously. Liver disorder found in association with scleroderma is considered to be rare. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Special paper Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp – pathogenesis, clinical Picture and therapeutic aspects

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 10 May 2007 11:17:45 +0100

Dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD) are common, chronic and recurrent inflammatory skin disorders which are among the dermatological diseases most resistant to therapy. The aetiology of dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis is still unknown. Malassezia yeast, hormonal disorders, some genetic and environmental factors and also wrong epidermal turnover are strongly suspected of playing a role in the manifestation of dandruff. The aetiology of SD is poorly understood. Seborrhoeic dermatitis results from a few aetiological factors: sebaceous secretions, an immunological component, Malassezia fungi and superficial factors. Treatment of SD and dandruff lasts for years and very often patients are not satisfied because of temporary remission. We use mainly topical therapy for dandruff – c...

Original article Association of interleukin 13 promoter gene polymorphism with atopic dermatitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 10 May 2007 11:17:40 +0100

Interleukin 13 (IL-13) is a major cytokine involved in IgE synthesis, increased levels of which are observed in the majority of atopic dermatitis (AD) patients. The IL-13 gene has been mapped to the cytokine cluster on chromosome 5q31-33, which has been associated with atopic conditions. Numerous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) have been identified in the IL-13 gene and have been found to be associated with IgE levels and/or allergic diseases. Recently, polymorphism (C to T exchange) at position -1024 of the promoter region in the IL-13 gene has been described. Some reports indicate that these polymorphisms are associated with allergic asthma, altered regulation of IL-13 production and increased binding of nuclear proteins to this region. The aim of this study was to analyse the asso...

Original article Polymorphism in cytochrome P-450 (CYP1A1) in acne vulgaris – preliminary study

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 10 May 2007 11:17:33 +0100

Conclusions: Two times higher incidence of CYP1A1 m1 and m2 mutations and frequently higher coexistence of both mutations in the group of patients with acne seems to indicate significant role of CYP1A1 polymorphism in aetiopathogenesis of that skin disorder. Further investigations are required to yield more information on this field. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original article Serum levels of metalloproteinases-2 and -9 (MMP-2, MMP-9) – correlation with their expression in skin lesions in systemic sclerosis – the preliminary examination

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 10 May 2007 11:17:27 +0100

The role of extracellular matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is implicated in pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of present study was a comparison of serum levels of two metalloproteinases %u2013 gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 with their expression in lesional skin biopsies from patients with systemic sclerosis. 10 patients with systemic sclerosis (6 with limited SSc and 4 with diffuse SSc) and 10 healthy volunteers without any skin disease were examined. Evaluation of serum levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was performed by ELISA method with R&D Systems. Expression of MMPs was determined by immunohistochemistry in DAKO En Vision detection system using immunoperoxidase method with mouse monoclonal antibodies. Mean serum levels of MMP-2 were not statistically different between SSc patient...

Special paper Diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines in urticaria

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:45 +0100

Urticaria is characterized by a complex and diverse aetiology. It is an easy disease to diagnose but identification of elicitating factors as well as treatment present a great challenge for physicians. Each individual patient requires the whole panel of diagnostic procedures including specific provocations, selected according to the clinical characteristics of the case. The first line therapeutic approach is composed of avoidance of triggering factors and treatment of any associated diseases. Symptomatic pharmacological treatment with second generation antihistamines presenting antiinflammatory properties and low adverse effect profile is effective in most patients. In severe nonresponding cases higher doses of antihistamines (up to fourfold) should be applied before switching to selected ...

Original article Association of polymorphism 181 Ile/Leu of the high-affinity immunoglobulin E receptor beta chain gene with atopic dermatitis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:39 +0100

Genetic and environmental factors are known to play a role in the development of atopic dermatitis (AD). The high affinity receptor for IgE (FcεRI) is considered to play a main role in mast cell degranulation and IgE mediated allergy. Previous studies reported linkage between maternally inherited atopy and the gene of beta subunit of FcεRI located on chromosome 11q13. The aim of our study was to compare the frequency of occurrence of the polymorphic variants 181 Ile/Leu FcεRI-β between patients with AD and healthy members of their families. Using amplification refractory mutation system – polymerase chain reaction method (ARMS-PCR) we have analyzed polymorphism 181 Ile/Leu FcεRI in 172 members of 43 families with atopic dermatitis children. In the examined po...

Original article Tropical skin diseases imported by travellers returning from Equatorial Africa or Asia

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:32 +0100

We describe three cases of Wuchereria bancrofti invasion imported by missionaries from Cameroon and India, one case of Leishmania major infection after trekking through Mali and Burkina Faso, and a very rare case of co-existence of bancroftian filariasis and cutaneous leishmaniosis in a nurse who was working for years in a missionary centre in Chad. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original article Retrospective analysis of prognostic factors of the skin melanoma patients with local tumor excision and the patients with regional lymphadenectomy

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:27 +0100

In this study data obtained from 202 melanoma patients operated on in the Great Poland Cancer Centre between: 1994-2000 was analyzed. Univariate statistical analysis was performed and clinical, histopathological data of statistical significance were correlated with survival time using the multivariate Cox nonparametric proportional hazard regression model. There were no differences between survival time in the observed groups of patients. The results suggested that the most important prognostic factors correlating with survival time were: melanoma-positive regional lymph nodes. In the group of patients with local melanoma excision following factors showed a statistical correlation with survival time: the thickness of the melanoma, as measured by the Breslow method in mm, the level of invas...

Review paper The using of biological agents in dermatology

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:22 +0100

This article is a survey of the opinions of the efficacy and safety of biological agents and the possibilities for broadening the therapeutic options in dermatology. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Review paper Clinical significance of vehicles in topical corticosteroids

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:17 +0100

This article presents differences in the composition of bases of selected topical corticosteroids containing mometasone furoate: Elocom® – original medication (Schering Plough) and Elosone® – generic medication (Blau Farma) as well as clobetasole propionate: Dermovate® – original medication (GlaxoSmithKline) and Novate® – generic medication (Blau Farma). Results of the investigation performed in a population of dermatologists revealed a good opinion and significance of arguments presented in the promotion materials prepared for the Blau Farma modern bases of topical corticosteroids. When making a decision about administration of any generic medication we should have knowledge of their efficacy and safety. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatol...

Review paper Clinical usefulness of cyclin D1 investigation in neoplastic tumors – review of the literature

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:05:08 +0100

Cyclin-dependent serine-threonine kinases, among them D1 cyclin, are responsible for cell cycle regulation in the G1 phase. Cyclins, as well as proteins cooperating with them, are broadly investigated, because their dysfunction may lead to neoplastic transformation. In this article we present an overview of the literature concerning cyclin D1 expression in: gastric cancer, breast cancer, prostate adenocarcinoma, colon and rectum cancer, lung adenocarcinoma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The authors have underlined the articles were cyclin D1 expression is studied in: skin cancers (squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas), dysplastic nevi and malignant melanoma. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERME...

Case report Diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis with anaphylaxis

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:04:58 +0100

We present a 3-year-old boy suffering from DCM with generalized bullous rash, severe mediator-related symptoms and anaphylaxis. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Case report Giant basal cell carcinoma – case report and literature review

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 14:55:14 +0100

(Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper Eyelid xanthelasma treated with surgical excision – evaluation of long-term results

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 14:52:33 +0100

Twenty-five women with xanthelasma located on the eyelids were treated with surgical excision. Five patients suffered from systemic diseases or had the level of serum lipids increased. Follow-up examination after 5 years revealed reoccurrence of xanthelasma in four patients. The rest of the patients had aesthetic scars and the function of eyelids was correct. (Source: Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house)

Original paper An influence of disease severity on family quality of life in atopic dermatitis patients

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 14:50:49 +0100

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin condition. It is characterized by typical localization and morphology of itchy lesions. It often occurs in patients with family or personal history of atopy and places a large burden on patients, their families and society. It presents a significant health problem and in 40-60% results in development of other atopic diseases. Epidemiologic studies conducted in the past 3 decades have revealed a significant increase in the prevalence of AD. It affects between 10 and 20% of preschool and school children in developed countries of Western Europe and the United States. The global epidemiological project named the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) carried out in several countries of Western and Easte...

Article paper Quality of life in psoriatic patients

Articles of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology - TERMEDIA publishing house — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 14:50:40 +0100

Psoriasis is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory disease, which affects 1-3% of the population. In the course of the disease lesions are often extensive and disfiguring. Stigmatization accompanies patients all the time, influences their families, social and occupational life. We are still looking for new methods of treatment, which could reduce the negative impact of psoriasis on patients’ mental health. There are many measures that are used in assesing general quality of life, scales concerning patients with dermatologic diseases and questionnaires only for psoriatic patients. This paper describes the influence of the disease on certain parts of patients’ life and the most often used questionnaires for evaluation of the impact of psoriasis on the quality of life. (Source: Artic...