Multiple Epidermal Cysts as a Complication of Gold Acupuncture

No abstract available.

Rare Manifestation of Giant Molluscum Contagiosum on the Scalp in Old Age

No abstract available.

Rare Manifestation of Giant Molluscum Contagiosum on the Scalp in Old Age

No abstract available.

Combination Therapy with Cyclosporine and Psoralen Plus Ultraviolet A in the Patients with Severe Alopecia Areata: A Retrospective Study with a Self-Controlled Design

BACKGROUND: Alopecia areata (AA) is believed to be an organ-specific autoimmune disease in which a mononuclear cell infiltrate develops in and around anagen hair follicles. There is no definitive therapy for AA. OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine whether the combination therapy of cyclosporine and psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) could be an effective treatment for severe AA. METHODS: A total of 41 patients with severe AA were treated with oral cyclosporine and topical PUVA. Cyclosporine was given at an initial daily dose of 200 mg for adult and 100 mg for children for periods of up to 16 weeks. Eight-methoxypsoralen (Methoxsalen) was applied topically 20 minutes prior to ultraviolet A (UVA) exposure, and the patients were irradiated with UVA twice a week for 16 weeks. RESULTS: Of the total 41 patients, 2 (7.3%) patients were lost to follow-up, and 1 (2.4%) patient discontinued the treatment due to abdominal discomfort. Six (14.6%) patients were treated for less than 12 weeks. Of remaining 32 patients, 3 (9.4%) showed excellent response, 3 (9.4%) showed good response, 12 (37.5%) showed fair response, and 14 (43.7%) showed poor response. CONCLUSION: Although limited by its uncontrolled character, this study shows that the combination therapy with cyclosporine and PUVA may be an additional choice for severe and recalcitrant AA.

Safety Evaluation of Stamp Type Digital Microneedle Devices in Hairless Mice

BACKGROUND: Microneedles provide a minimally invasive means to transport molecules into the skin. A number of specific strategies have been employed to use microneedles for transdermal delivery. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety of two new digital microneedle devices (Digital Hand(R) and Digital Pro(R); Bomtech Electronics Co., Ltd., Seoul, Korea) for the perforation of skin in skin-hairless-1 mice. This device replaces conventional needles and is designed specifically for intradermal delivery. METHODS: We used two newly developed digital microneedle devices to perforate the skin of skin-hairless-1 mice. We conducted a comparative study of the two digital microneedle devices and DTS(R) (Disk type-microneedle Therapy System; DTS lab., Seoul, Korea). To evaluate skin stability, we performed visual and dermatoscopic inspections, measurements of transepidermal water loss, and biopsies. RESULTS: The two novel digital microneedle devices did not induce significant abnormalities of the skin on visual or dermatoscopic inspection, regardless of needle size (0.25~2.0 mm). No significant histopathological changes, such as inflammatory cell infiltration, desquamation of the stratum corneum, or disruption of the basal layer, were observed. The digital microneedle devices and microneedle therapy system produced similar results on measures of skin stability. CONCLUSION: These two novel digital microneedle devices are safe transdermal drug delivery systems.

The Annual Changes of Clinical Manifestation of Androgenetic Alopecia Clinic in Korean Males and Females: A Outpatient-Based Study

BACKGROUND: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is characterized by the local and gradual transformation of terminal scalp hair into vellus hair, which has a shorter and thinner shaft. There are no studies that analyze annual changes in age, patterns, family history, and associated disease. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the severity of hair loss, age of onset, the frequency of family history, and past medical histories in Korean patients with AGA. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed to identify all patients with AGA referred to the Dermatology Clinic at Chung-Ang University Hospital from January 2006 to December 2010. RESULTS: The age of onset was also gradually decreased from 34.1+/-10.1 years to 31.6+/-10.9 years between 2006 and 2010. In female patients, specific annual changes were not observed. Hamilton-Norwood Type IIIv AGA was most common in male patients and Ludwig Type I AGA was most common in female patients at all times between 2006 and 2010. The majority of patients with AGA had a family history of baldness and was most commonly associated with a paternal pattern of inheritance. Seborrheic dermatitis was the most common associated disease in male and female patients. CONCLUSION: Our results show the possibilities that the average age of onset is decreasing. The period of the present study was only 5 years, which is not sufficient for the precise determination of onset age for AGA. Clearly, a long-term study is needed.

Could a Growth Spurt Cause Linear Focal Elastosis Like Striae Distensae?

Linear focal elastosis (LFE) is characterized by several asymptomatic, yellow, palpable, irregularly indurated, striae-like lines extending horizontally across the middle and lower back. A focal increase in elastic fibers is a hallmark of the disease as seen from biopsy specimens. The pathogenesis of LFE is unclear, as is the association between LFE and striae distensae (SD). However, the prevailing opinion is that LFE represents an excessive regenerative process of elastic fibers and is analogous to keloidal repair of SD. Although the timing of onset of LFE and SD was not synchronous in our patient, the triggering factor was the same, which was the growth spurt. This case is supporting the putative association between LFE and SD.

Efficacy of Hydrogel Mask with 2% Arbutin for Melasma / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: Melasma is a common, acquired, symmetrical hypermelanosis that occurs on sun exposed areas of the skin. It is more prevalent among Asian women than among Caucasian women. Many different treatment modalities have been used with various efficacies, but none of them have been completely satisfactory. Arbutin is a naturally occurring gluconopyranoside that may reduce tyrosinase activity, which is a rate-limiting enzyme for melanin production. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the depigmenting effect and safety of a mask that contains 2% arbutin for the treatment of melasma. METHODS: A total of 54 female volunteers with melasma were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, 8-week treatment study. The patients were instructed to apply an arbutin-containing mask or an arbutin-free mask once a day for 8 weeks. The assessment of outcomes included the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score, colorimetric value (L*), overall patient satisfaction and investigator assessment score (evaluated using photography). RESULTS: The arbutin-containing mask significantly increased the right and left colorimetric values (L*) after the 8-week treatment (p0.05). The arbutin mask scored better than the control in patient satisfaction and investigator assessment. No significant adverse reactions were observed. CONCLUSION: The arbutin mask appears to be effective and well-tolerated when used for the treatment of melasma.

A Study on Tests of Skin Safety and Inhibition of Atopic Dermatitis Using a StoneTouch(R) Infrared Scanner in a Mouse Model / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. It is caused by immunological abnormalities, abnormalities of the skin barrier, environmental factors and genetic factors. Atopic dermatitis destroys the skin barrier and passes through the skin, triggering an immune response. To treat atopic dermatitis, we anticipate use of hypoallergenic cures to hydrate skin that has been dried by destruction of the skin barrier. OBJECTIVE: We did a preclinical trial to identify inhibitory effects of the StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner on atopic dermatitis. We conducted skin safety tests, comparing the use of infrared energy to drug treatment. We then confirmed the effects of the StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner through animal tests using Nc/Nga mice as a model of atopic dermatitis in order to identify any inhibition of the immune response in atopic dermatitis. METHODS: We irradiated Nc/Nga mice using a StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner under a variety of conditions. During skin safety tests of the StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner on hairless mice, we assessed immune response and burn risk in irradiated mouse skin. We identified any inhibitory effects on atopic dermatitis using Dermoscope assessments, measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and IgE levels, measurements of pro-inflammatory cytokines, H&E staining and immunofluorescence staining (IF) of substance P and CGRP as neurotransmitters on the backs and ears of Nc/Nga mice irradiated by the StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner. RESULTS: We did not observe any skin abnormalities after using the StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner on Nc/Nga mice. We confirmed the inhibitory effect of the StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner irradiation on atopic dermatitis. We found that irradiated epidermis was thinner than that of the epidermis in Nc/Nga mice in which atopic dermatitis was induced. We observed no significant between groups differences in expression level of substance P. The expression of CGRP in mice with atopic dermatitis was decreased, but, the increased irradiation led to greater expression of CGRP in irradiated skin. CONCLUSION: The StoneTouch(R) infrared scanner does not as a function of irradiation dosage. It inhibits the development of atopic dermatitis.

Localized Penile Involvement Presenting as a Sole Manifestation of Syphilid / 대한피부과학회지

Cutaneous manifestations of secondary syphilis vary widely. Clinicians learn to consider the "great imitator" when confronting a combination of signs and symptoms that cannot be readily explained. A 29-year-old man presented with a 3-month history of well-circumscribed, scale-covered, erythematous plaque on the proximal part of his penis. On the basis of a serologic test for syphilis and skin biopsy, syphilid was confirmed. We report an unusual case of syphilid that presented with localized penile involvement presenting as a sole manifestation.

Branch-shaped Cutaneous Hypopigmentation and Atrophy after Intralesional Triamcinolone Injection

Cutaneous changes after local corticosteroid administration may include dermal atrophy, hyperpigmentation, alopecia, and hypopigmentation. Linear hypopigmentation and atrophy after intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide has been reported in the literature as a very rare side effect. A 30-year-old woman visited our dermatology department for a linear hypopigmented patch with atrophy from her left foot to the lower margin of the knee. The lesion developed after injection of an intralesional corticosteroid. The patient was diagnosed with linear hypopigmentation and atrophy secondary to the triamcinolone injection.

A Study of Potential Application of Rubus coreanus Miquel Extract for Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment / 대한의진균학회지

BACKGROUND: Seborrheic dermatitis is chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disorder. Bokbunja (Rubus coreanus Miquel) is a wild berry to Rosaceae genus and also known to have an anti-inflammation effect. OBJECTIVE: We were to determine the effect of Rubus coreanus Miquel extract for seborrheic dermatitis in vivo and in vitro. METHODS: Seven patients with mild seborrheic dermatitis were enrolled in this study. PCR and culture were performed to identify subtypes of six Malassezia species (M. restricta, M. globosa, M. furfur, M. slooffiae, M. sympodialis, M. obtusa). Topical application of Rubus coreanus Miquel Extract was applied twice daily for 2 weeks. Clinical improvement and safety assessment were performed initially and 2 weeks later. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was evaluated on Malassezia globosa comparing with ketoconazole and itraconazole. Sebum production was also checked prior the experiment and 2 weeks later. RESULTS: Five of seven patients showed improvement. No significant adverse effects were found during the clinical trial. Mild dryness was reported in 2 patients but they resolved spontaneously without any treatment. Rubus coreanus Miquel Extract didn't show antimicrobial effect to Malassezia globosa. However, Rubus coreanus Miquel Extract showed anti-inflammatory effect. CONCLUSION: In this study, we were verified that Rubus coreanus Miquel Extract can be applied for seborrheic dermatitis treatment. And this action mechanism is not related with antimicrobial effect.

A Case of Ingrown Toenail Associated with Tinea Unguium Treated with K-D(R) Wire / 대한의진균학회지

Ingrown toenail is a common disorder resulting from various etiologies including excessive external pressure, ill-fitting footwear, and improper nail-trimming techniques. Patients commonly present with pain in the affected nail but with progression, drainage, infection and difficulty walking occur. It is often difficult to manage and frequently recurs, despite the multitude of treatment techniques that have been reported. Conservative therapy is a reasonable approach in patients with a mild to moderate ingrown toenail that do not have significant pain, substantial erythema, or purulent drainage from the lateral nail edge. We report a case of ingrown toenail in a 45-year-old female treated with K-D(R) wire, a corrective device. After application of K-D(R) wire for 3 weeks, ingrown toenail healed and the nail deformity was corrected.

Primary Cutaneous Mucinous Carcinoma on the Abdomen / 대한피부과학회지

Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma is a rare epithelial neoplasm that arises from the deepest portion of the eccrine duct. It most commonly occurs on the scalp and face with a preference for on the eyelids. The histopathologic characteristics are large mucinous pools with fibrous septae and clusters of tumor cells. We report here on a case of mucinous carcinoma that developed on the abdomen of a 47-year-old woman.

Primary Cutaneous Mucinous Carcinoma on the Abdomen / 대한피부과학회지

Primary cutaneous mucinous carcinoma is a rare epithelial neoplasm that arises from the deepest portion of the eccrine duct. It most commonly occurs on the scalp and face with a preference for on the eyelids. The histopathologic characteristics are large mucinous pools with fibrous septae and clusters of tumor cells. We report here on a case of mucinous carcinoma that developed on the abdomen of a 47-year-old woman.

Effects of Alcohol Intake on the Skin Physiology / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: Alcohol intake induces complex changes in the human body. However, there has not been much investigation on the interaction between alcohol and human skin. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of alcohol intake on the skin's physiology. METHODS: A total 16 Korean males was enrolled in this study and they were divided into two groups (group A and group B). Each group included 8 people. Group A drank alcohol (20.1%, 360 ml) for 90 min and Group B drank 360 ml of normal saline. The body temperature, the skin erythema index, the transepidermal water loss (TEWL), the skin hydration, the skin pH and skin sebum were measured before and 30 min and 120 min after alcohol intake. RESULTS: In group A, the skin erythema index, TEWL, skin hydration and skin pH significantly increased 30 min after alcohol intake, while the body temperature and sebum decreased. All the measurements except sebum recovered 120 min after alcohol intake. However, in group B, all the measurements were not significantly changed. CONCLUSION: Alcohol intake affects thermoregulation, the skin barrier function and the skin pH. This study showing that physiologic changes are induced by alcohol intake may help investigate the interaction between alcohol and skin disease.

Cutis Verticis Gyrata and Alopecia Areata: A Synchronous Coincidence?

Cutis verticis gyrata (CVG) is a descriptive term for a scalp condition that is convoluted folds and deep furrows that resemble the surface of the cerebral cortex. It is categorized by the underlying etiology, as primary essential, primary non-essential and secondary. Alopecia areata (AA) is a common, organ specific autoimmune disease, and most AA cases are sporadic. There is clearly a strong genetic component. There is no established relationship between CVG and AA. We report one case which was affected with essential primary CVG and alopecia areata, and suggest a possibility of genetic association between CVG and AA, possibly both being related to mutations in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2).