Dermatological management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Atypical presentations of typical dermatological conditions are common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This article will focus on three specific topics: eosinophilic folliculitis, psoriasis, and cutaneous mycoses. Their unique presentations in HIV and treatments are discussed.

An evaluation of dermoscopy fluids and application techniques.

BACKGROUND: Dermoscopy, a noninvasive technique used to help physicians better visualize pigmented skin lesions, is becoming widely used by dermatologists. Yet despite its popularity, to our knowledge basic aspects such as the best immersion fluid (IF) to use and proper procedures for applying the IF and dermatoscope have never been the subject of a systematic investigation. OBJECTIVES: To determine the best techniques for application of IF and the dermatoscope; to discover which IF results in the least amount of air inclusions; to determine which IF provides the best image quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was divided into three phases. Phase I examined several techniques of taking digital dermoscopic photographs in an attempt to eliminate air bubbles. Phase II tested seven IFs to analyse quantitatively the number of air inclusions for each IF. Phase III investigated these same IFs to judge the image quality for each. RESULTS: Phase I: in our hands, the best technique to apply an IF is to use an eyedropper and place the IF directly onto the skin in combination with a 'roll-on technique': the dermatoscope's edge is placed on the skin first and is then rotated until the glass plate lies flat against the skin. Phase II: the alcoholic IF resulted in the least amount of air bubble inclusions (70% ethanol, 90% isopropanol and alcoholic disinfectant), while liquid paraffin (a mineral oil) resulted in the most air bubbles. Phase III: dermoscopic structures were equally clear with alcohols and liquid paraffin, but slightly blurry with ultrasound gel and water. CONCLUSIONS: Although 90% isopropanol performed slightly better in terms of air inclusions, we prefer to use 70% ethanol in most circumstances because it has the advantage of being odourless, unlike its counterpart. Additionally, ethanol will not stain clothing, does not crystallize on the dermatoscope, disinfects and evaporates immediately (does not need to be wiped off). For certain local considerations, such as dermoscopy on mucosa or the nail, we prefer to use ultrasound gel because it will not flow.

Computerized digital dermoscopy.

Within the past 15 years, dermoscopy has become a widely used non-invasive technique for physicians to better visualize pigmented lesions. Dermoscopy has helped trained physicians to better diagnose pigmented lesions. Now, the digital revolution is beginning to enhance standard dermoscopic procedures. Using digital dermoscopy, physicians are better able to document pigmented lesions for patient follow-up and to get second opinions, either through teledermoscopy with an expert colleague or by using computer-assisted diagnosis. As the market for digital dermoscopy products begins to grow, so do the number of decisions physicians need to make when choosing a system to fit their needs. The current market for digital dermoscopy includes two varieties of relatively simple and cheap attachments which can convert a consumer digital camera into a digital dermoscope. A coupling adapter acts as a fastener between the camera and an ordinary dermoscope, whereas a dermoscopy attachment includes the dermoscope optics and light source and can be attached directly to the camera. Other options for digital dermoscopy include complete dermoscopy systems that use a hand-held video camera linked directly to a computer. These systems differ from each other in whether or not they are calibrated as well as the quality of the camera and software interface. Another option in digital skin imaging involves spectral analysis rather than dermoscopy. This article serves as a guide to the current systems available and their capabilities.

Eruptive keratoacanthomas following carbon dioxide laser resurfacing.

BACKGROUND: Skin resurfacing with the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is currently a popular means of improving rhytides and scars. Scarring, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and infection are among the complications that have been known to occur in some patients treated with the CO2 laser. OBJECTIVE: We wish to communicate a previously unreported complication of CO2 laser resurfacing-multiple eruptive keratoacanthomas. METHOD: We describe a 61-year-old woman who presented with multiple eruptive keratoacanthomas subsequent to CO2 laser resurfacing. Her lesions were cultured for fungus and bacteria. Biopsy specimens of two lesions were taken. RESULTS: Cultures were negative for pathogens. Biopsy specimens revealed atypical squamous epithelial proliferation and changes consistent with eruptive keratoacanthomas. CONCLUSION: Multiple eruptive keratoacanthomas should be considered as a rare complication of CO2 laser resurfacing.

Botfly infestation (myiasis) masquerading as furunculosis.

With air travel so prevalent, diseases endemic to certain regions may appear anywhere. The botfly (Dermatobia hominis) is not native to North America. We describe a case of a young boy and his father who presented with furunculosis secondary to infestation with the botfly. The infected patients live in South Florida and had been vacationing in Central America. Standard surgical treatment as well as multiple native remedies are described.

Botfly infestation (myiasis) masquerading as furunculosis

With air travel so prevalent, diseases endemic to certain regions may appear anywhere. The botfly (Dermatobia hominis) is not native to North America. We describe a case of a young boy and his father who presented with furunculosis secondary to infestation with the botfly. THe infected patients live in South Florida and had been vacationing in Central America. Standard surgical treatment as well as mutliple native remedies are described.(AU)