ABSTRACT
Background: Melasma is a common acquired hyperpigmentary disorder of the sun exposed skin, especially the face. The pathogenesis is unclear but interplay between genetic factors, hormones and ultraviolet radiation is important. We have evaluated the histological characteristics of melasma and compared the findings with adjacent normal skin. Methods: Skin biopsies were taken from both melasma and the surrounding perilesional normal skin in 50 Indian women. The sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Fontana–Masson and Verhoeff–Van Gieson stains. Results: Biopsy from melasma showed significant epidermal atrophy, basal cell hyperpigmentation and solar elastosis when compared with the perilesional skin. We found that the proportion of pendulous melanocytes was significantly higher in the lesional biopsy compared with the perilesional biopsy (76% vs 42%, P < 0.001). Similarly, pigmentary incontinence and features of solar elastosis were significantly higher in the lesional skin compared with the perilesional skin. Conclusion: The characteristic histopathological features such as epidermal atrophy, basal cell hyperpigmentation and solar elastosis suggest the role of chronic sun exposure in the pathogenesis of melasma. Presence of pendulous melanocytes is a characteristic feature of melasma. The presence of pendulous melanocytes may have prognostic implications in melasma.
ABSTRACT
Since their introduction, topical corticosteroids have become indispensable in the treatment of various dermatoses. Hydrocortisone was the fi rst compound. Modifi cations in the basic structure generated in vivo activity and thus different topically active compounds were discovered. Apart from the Stoughton vasoconstrictor assay, various other methods are used for potency assessment of topical corticosteroids. Topical corticosteroides are classifi ed based upon potency and action of these molecules. Mechanism of action at the cellular level and indications of topical corticosteroid use have been discussed. Various adverse effects often occur as an extension of their activity combined with inappropriate usage. Tachyphylaxis and contact allergy are potential problems in clinical practice. Newer compounds with improved risk-benefit ratio are available.
Subject(s)
Administration, Topical , Adolescent , Adult , Dermatologic Agents/administration & dosage , Drug Combinations , Female , Humans , Male , Methoxsalen/administration & dosage , Middle Aged , PUVA Therapy/adverse effects , Photosensitizing Agents/administration & dosage , Propylene Glycols/administration & dosage , Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate/administration & dosage , Sunlight , Vitiligo/drug therapySubject(s)
Adult , Female , Fingers , Glomus Tumor/metabolism , Humans , Mucins/metabolism , Skin Neoplasms/metabolismABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Chronic urticaria has a spectrum of clinical presentations and causes. About 25%-45% of patients have histamine releasing autoantibodies in their blood. The term autoimmune urticaria is increasingly being accepted for this subgroup of patients. The term autoimmune urticaria is used to reflect advances in knowledge about functional autoantibodies that activate mast cells and basophils through cross linking high affinity IgE receptors to secrete histamine. This study was started to find out incidence of autoimmune urticaria in Indian patients. METHODS: The autologous serum skin test was done in 45 patients with chronic urticaria of more than six weeks duration. Physical urticaria patients were not included in the study. RESULTS: Twelve patients had positive autologous serum skin test suggestive of autoimmune urticaria. CONCLUSIONS: Positive autologous serum skin test was seen in 26.67% of patients which is less than reports from Western literature. This is a useful screening test for autoimmune urticaria.