Cutaneous manifestations in polycystic ovarian syndrome: a clinico-epidemiological study

Objective: to document various cutaneous manifestations and associated hormonal abnormalities in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS]

Methods: this was a cross-sectional study done which included 50 patients of PCOS. After noting the demographic variables, detailed history with particular reference to menstrual irregularity, infertility, family history etc. was taken. Cutaneous examination was done to note the various cutaneous features of PCOS. Relevant laboratory investigations and hormone assays like follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone [free and total], dehydroepiandrostenedione, sex hormone binding protein, insulin, thyroid stimulating hormone and prolactin were done in patients with PCOS on second day of spontaneous menstruation

Results: mean age of patients in our study was 22.4 +/- 2.5 years. Menstrual disturbances were noted in 38 [76%] patients. The most common cutaneous feature noted in our study was acanthosis nigricans, seen in 31 [62%] cases followed by acne vulgaris noted in 26 cases [52%]. Most common hormonal abnormality found in our study was elevated fasting insulin levels seen in 28 cases [56%] followed by elevated luteinizing hormone levels [22 cases, 44%]

Conclusion: PCOS is fairly common disorder in women of reproductive age group and is associated with various complications if left unrecognized and untreated. Cutaneous features of PCOS are first to manifest clinically and their screening in suspected cases help in early diagnosis

Streptomycetes from Marine Seaweeds: Their Antimicrobial and Antibiotic Potential.

Recent research has increased our knowledge and understanding of the antimicrobial effect of marine Streptomyces. In a systematic screening effect, Streptomyces isolates from different marine seaweeds were investigated for antimicrobial activity against Vibrio pathogens (V. harveyji, V. parahemolyticus, V. vulnificus and V. algniolyticus) and potentially active secondary metabolites. The different solvent extracts (Butanol, Ethyl acetate, Methanol, hexane) of selected isolates were screened for their antivibrio activity by disc method. The Zone of inhibition was measured in all extracts revealed a wide range of antimicrobial activity against pathogenic vibrios. The overall results of the antimicrobial activity indicates the abundance of purine riboside antibiotic in streptomycetes from marine seaweeds evidenced by the presence of precursor molecules such as guanosine, xanthosine in the extractions of Streptomyces which can be exploited for the production of purine riboside antibiotics which are in use of pharmaceutical industry.

Cutaneous Manifestations of Chikungunya Fever.

Chikungunya fever, a re-emerging RNA viral infection produces different cutaneous manifestations in children compared to adults. 52 children with chikungunya fever, confirmed by positive IgM antibody test were seen during 2009- 2010. Pigmentary lesions were common (27/52) followed by vesiculobullous lesions (16/52) and maculopapular lesions (14/52). Vesiculobullous lesions were most common in infants, although rarely reported in adults. Psoriasis was exacerbated in 4 children resulting in more severe forms. In 2 children, guttate psoriasis was observed for the first time.

Dentigerous Cyst Associated With Mandibular Lateral In Cisor- Report of A Rare Case.

The dentigerous cyst is a common type of odontogenic cyst that encloses the crown of an unerupted tooth by way of expansion of its follicle due to the collection of cystic fluid. Reported cases commonly involved the mandibular third molars and maxillary canines. They rarely involve the incisors. The highest incidence of dentigerous cysts occur during the second and third decades. We report a case of dentigerous cyst involving the permanent mandibular lateral incisor which is a rare occurrence. The pathogenesis, clinical and radiological features are discussed.

Can throat swab after physiotherapy replace sputum for identification of microbial pathogens in children with cystic fibrosis?

OBJECTIVE: To compare cultures throat swab after physiotherapy with results of sputum culture in identification of lower airway pathogens in children with cystic fibrosis. METHODS: 387 samples of sputum cough swabs, throat swab and throat swab after physiotherapy were collected from 48 patients of cystic fibrosis and cultured for aerobic bacteria. The results of cultures of cough swabs, throat swab and throat swab after physiotherapy were compared with results of sputum culture. RESULTS: There was good concordance between culture results of sputum and other methods. Over all concordance was 70%, 81% and 92% with cough swab, throat swab and throat swab after physiotherapy. Sensitivity for isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by throat swab, cough swab and throat swab after physiotherapy was 40%, 42% and 82% respectively. Specificity for isolation of Pseudomonas by throat swab, cough swab and throat swab after physiotherapy was 99%, 100% and 99% respectively. Sensitivity for isolation of Staphylococcus aureus by throat swab, cough swab and throat swab after physiotherapy was 57%, 50% and 100% respectively. Specificity for isolation of Staphylococcus by throat swab, cough swab and throat swab after physiotherapy was 99% for all these methods. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that throat swab after physiotherapy in a child with CF can be used reliably for identification of lower airway pathogens.