Subject(s)
Antineoplastic Agents/adverse effects , Neoplasms/drug therapy , Photosensitivity Disorders/epidemiology , Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/adverse effects , Clinical Trials as Topic , Humans , Incidence , Molecular Targeted Therapy , Nivolumab/adverse effects , Piperidines/adverse effects , Quinazolines/adverse effects , Risk Assessment , Vemurafenib/adverse effectsABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a rare malignant cutaneous neoplasm presenting as a slow-growing, indurated nodule, papule or plaque. Clinically, the lesion can blend into the surrounding skin, obscuring borders and consequently delaying diagnosis histologically. Surgical and histologic techniques that emphasize examination of all margins may optimize management through early diagnosis and prevention of recurrences. OBJECTIVE: This review aims to assess the current surgical and histology techniques that result in lower rates of tumor recurrence and, consequently, better clinical outcomes. METHODS: A literature search of the PubMed database was conducted to identify studies examining wide local excision (WLE), Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy in the treatment of MAC. RESULTS: WLE had a high likelihood of positive margins and local recurrence. MMS was found to have the lowest recurrence rates. Definitive RT could be considered for elderly patients or those who are poor surgical candidates, as large surgical defects may be required to obtain free margins with either WLE or MMS. Chemotherapy was found to be ineffective. CONCLUSION: Complete margin evaluation with MMS permits complete tumor removal with subsequently low recurrence rate.
Subject(s)
Skin Neoplasms/therapy , Sweat Gland Neoplasms/therapy , Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use , Humans , Mohs Surgery , Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology , Radiotherapy , Skin Neoplasms/drug therapy , Skin Neoplasms/pathology , Skin Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Skin Neoplasms/surgery , Sweat Gland Neoplasms/drug therapy , Sweat Gland Neoplasms/pathology , Sweat Gland Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Sweat Gland Neoplasms/surgeryABSTRACT
Dermatologists should be aware that autoantibody formation may occur after the initiation of biologic therapy. This phenomenon has been referred to as immunogenicity and biologic fatigue. Because of this, patients may experience loss of clinical efficacy to a particular drug. To combat this phenomenon, low-dose immunomodulators may be used in hopes of preventing autoantibodies. We review the current literature and provide a basic treatment algorithm for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Herbal medicines are used by thousands of patients all over the world. However, they can often cause adverse effects. Turmeric, made from the root of Curcuma, longa, is a yellow spice used throughout South Asia for its flavor as well as for its medicinal properties. Curcumin is the main ingredient in turmeric. It is known for downregulating the expression of various proinflammatory cytokines and has been studied for its antiinflammatory mechanism. However, it has also been reported to cause contact dermatitis. Kumkum, a turmeric-based powder applied by Hindu women on their foreheads, has also been found as an allergen. OBJECTIVE: The authors have reviewed the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin and reports of contact dermatitis to understand the possible harmful effects of this commonly used spice, while also examining its beneficial role in dermatologic conditions. They aim to increase awareness regarding this common herb and its prevalent use not only in South Asia, but also in North America. METHODS: A thorough literature search of the PubMed database was conducted to identify studies that examined the antiinflammatory role of curcumin and its role in contact dermatitis. RESULTS: Eleven studies demonstrate that although curcumin does have antiinflammatory properties, it is an allergen. CONCLUSION: Curcumin has many valuable properties that can be exploited to treat dermatologic conditions. However, patients and dermatologists must be keen of possible allergic reactions. Further studies are needed to completely understand this widely used herb and its efficacy in dermatology.
