EXIT from TRansrectal prostate biopsies (TREXIT): sepsis rates of transrectal biopsy with rectal swab culture guided antimicrobials versus freehand transperineal biopsy.

BACKGROUND: Transrectal prostate biopsy (TRUSBx) holds a risk of prostate biopsy related sepsis. We discuss our step-wise strategies aiming to reduce this risk, including targeted antimicrobials and switching to a freehand transperineal approach (FHTPBx). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This longitudinal cohort study included three groups. Group A underwent TRUSBx with empirical augmented antimicrobial prophylaxis; Group B underwent TRUSBx with targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis, based on rectal-swab cultures/sensitivity; Group C underwent FHTPBx with empirical antimicrobial prophylaxis. Post biopsy sepsis, defined according to the surviving sepsis campaign and confirmed with blood or urinary cultures, were determined and rates between groups were analysed using fisher's exact test. RESULTS: Of all 1501 patients, 23 developed post biopsy sepsis; Group A (12/609, 2.0%), B (9/403, 2.2%), C (2/489, 0.4%). Targeted antimicrobials did not reduce the risk of post biopsy sepsis following TRUSBx (A vs B, 2.0% vs 2.2%; p = 0.82). Patients with antimicrobial-resistant rectal flora had an increased post biopsy sepsis rate following TRUSBx despite targeted antimicrobials (9.1% vs 1.1%, p = 0.003). Switching to FHTPBx reduced the risk of developing post biopsy sepsis (A vs C, 2% vs 0.4%, p = 0.03; B vs C, 2.2% vs 0.4%, p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Targeted antimicrobials based on rectal swab culture failed to reduce the overall risk of post biopsy sepsis, while FHTPBx nearly eliminated this risk. We recommend the use of transperineal prostate biopsies for all patients as the most effective method to reduce the risk of sepsis.

Dermoscopy of pagetoid reticulosis, with dermoscopic-pathologic correlation.

Pagetoid reticulosis (PR), also known as Woringer-Kolopp disease, is a rare variant of mycosis fungoides with distinctive clinicopathologic features. It clinically manifests as a solitary, erythematous, gradually enlarging, scaly, or verrucous plaque on the lower extremities, and due to its indolent course and nonspecific clinical features, may remain undiagnosed for years. In the current study, we describe the clinical and dermoscopic characteristics of a rare case of PR disease and correlate them with the corresponding histopathologic findings. Dermoscopy may prove beneficial in early diagnosis of this rare entity.

Phosphodiesterase 2A as a therapeutic target to restore cardiac neurotransmission during sympathetic hyperactivity.

Elevated levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are regarded as an early compensatory response to cardiac myocyte hypertrophy, although exogenously administered BNP shows poor clinical efficacy in heart failure and hypertension. We tested whether phosphodiesterase 2A (PDE2A), which regulates the action of BNP-activated cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), was directly involved in modulating Ca2+ handling from stellate ganglia (SG) neurons and cardiac norepinephrine (NE) release in rats and humans with an enhanced sympathetic phenotype. SG were also isolated from patients with sympathetic hyperactivity and healthy donor patients. PDE2A activity of the SG was greater in both spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and patients compared with their respective controls, whereas PDE2A mRNA was only high in SHR SG. BNP significantly reduced the magnitude of the calcium transients and ICaN in normal Wistar Kyoto (WKY) SG neurons, but not in the SHRs. cGMP levels stimulated by BNP were also attenuated in SHR SG neurons. Overexpression of PDE2A in WKY neurons recapitulated the calcium phenotype seen in SHR neurons. Functionally, BNP significantly reduced [3H]-NE release in the WKY rats, but not in the SHRs. Blockade of overexpressed PDE2A with Bay 60-7550 or overexpression of catalytically inactive PDE2A reestablished the modulatory action of BNP in SHR SG neurons. This suggests that PDE2A may be a key target in modulating the action of BNP to reduce sympathetic hyperactivity.

Confusion and abdominal symptoms following a rugby tackle.

A 19-year-old man was sent to the emergency department following a pitch-side assessment for suspected concussion, unexplained upper abdominal tenderness and vomiting, following a high-impact tackle during a rugby match. A Focussed Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) scan performed in the emergency department suggested intra-abdominal free fluid, and subsequent head and abdominal CT imaging showed no intracranial lesion but confirmed a significant haemoperitoneum due to large splenic tear and bleeding. An emergency splenectomy was performed, which confirmed the rupture of an enlarged spleen with blood loss of almost 2 L into the peritoneal cavity. The patient made a full recovery following surgery. A subsequent histological examination revealed granulomatous inflammation characteristic of infectious mononucleosis. This unique case illustrates that physically fit patients with early hypovolaemic shock can present with symptoms mimicking concussion.

IL-17A, IL-22, and IL-23 as Markers of Psoriasis Activity: A Cross-sectional, Hospital-based Study.

INTRODUCTION: T-helper 1 (Th1), Th17 cells, and their related cytokines are implicated in psoriasis pathogenesis although the contribution of each group of cytokines in psoriasis activity has not been fully clarified. OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether Th17-related cytokines are associated with psoriasis activity. METHODS: The serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1ß, 6, 8, 17Α, 22, 23, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) were measured with flow cytometry in 35 patients with plaque psoriasis (21 with stable and 14 with active disease) and in 20 healthy controls. RESULTS: Interleukin-6, 8, 17A, 22, 23, and TNFα were significantly elevated in psoriasis patients compared with controls. In the sensitivity analyses, patients with active disease showed significantly increased levels of IL-17A, IL-23, and IL-22 as compared to the group of patients with stable psoriasis. CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights a possible crucial role of IL-17A, IL-22, and IL-23 in the activity of psoriasis and the early stages of the disease.

Onychomadesis after hand-foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in northern Greece: case series and brief review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Nail abnormalities in childhood are generally uncommon. Recently, onychomadesis was described as a late complication of hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD). Onychomadesis outbreaks following HFMD have been reported in many countries worldwide. AIM: To present a case series of onychomadesis in children, following HFMD outbreak in Northern Greece, and review literature data. METHODS: Children with evident onychomadesis attending the outpatient clinic between November 2012 and January 2013 were included in the study. A questionnaire including demographic personal and family history information of the children was completed by the parents. Patients were clinically examined, and their pediatric and dermatological records were studied to confirm precedent HFMD. Direct microscopic examination and cultures for fungi were performed. Exposure of participants to coxsackievirus, based on serology testing during infection, was also recorded. RESULTS: Sixty-eight children with onychomadesis were included. The mean number of affected nails was 8.82. Fingernails were more often involved. Previous clinical diagnosis of HFMD was confirmed in 67/68 cases. The mean time from HFMD diagnosis to onychomadesis development was 39.6 days (range: 28-56 days, STD: 7.33). Direct microscopic examination, as well as cultures for fungal species, was negative for the whole sample size. All the nail changes were transient with spontaneous regrowth after 1-4 months. CONCLUSION: Our data indicate that onychomadesis outbreak in the region of Thessaloniki during fall-winter 2012-13 was highly related to the outbreak of HFMD. Our study reinforces existing evidence for the association between onychomadesis and HFMD.

Recalcitrant psoriatic uveitis and anti-tumor necrosis factor-α monoclonal antibodies: experience from a psoriasis referral center.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of non-infectious uveitis on a background of psoriasis is estimated to be 7-20%. The use of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors as a treatment for refractory uveitis is emerging. METHODS: The psoriasis outpatient database at our referral center was searched for patients with concurrent diagnoses of psoriasis and uveitis. The medical records of the patients identified were reviewed for the use of TNF-α inhibitors. RESULTS: Five patients (three women and two men) were identified. All of them suffered moderate to severe psoriasis and chronic, bilateral uveitis. The patient with the most severe ocular inflammation was the only patient positive for human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27) and the only one to suffer from psoriatic arthritis. All patients had received treatment with adalimumab and had been evaluated at three and six months. Their psoriasis had responded excellently, and in four patients, uveitis had shown the complete remission of inflammation at six months. The fifth patient (HLA-B27+) exhibited improved uveitis activity but not complete remission at six months. CONCLUSIONS: Uveitis is an entity that should be considered when evaluating psoriasis patients with ocular complaints, even in the absence of arthritis. Anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibodies and adalimumab in particular seem to represent a promising therapeutic avenue for the treatment of refractory psoriatic uveitis. Larger randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm our conclusions.

A prospective open-label clinical trial of efficacy of the every week administration of adalimumab in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa.

BACKGROUND: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating disease refractory to treatment. As its impact on patients' quality of life is strong, it requires effective treatment. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adalimumab using a higher dosage regimen for HS treatment and establish the recurrence-free interval after treatment discontinuation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients with moderate to severe HS were treated with 80 mg adalimumab at baseline, followed by 40 mg every week for 24 weeks. Subsequently, patients entered an observational period for another 24 weeks. Clinical evaluation took place every 4 weeks during the study period. Sartorius scoring system was used as assessment tool regarding disease activity. At the same time points patients evaluated disease activity by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). They completed a Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire at baseline and at weeks 24 and 48. RESULTS: Fifteen patients completed the study. Significant reduction in Sartorius score was obtained by week 24 with a marked improvement during the first month. Mean time to relapse was 11 weeks after treatment cessation, but even at the final visit Sartorius score was significantly lower than at baseline. VAS score and DLQI showed a significant decrease at week 24. There was significant worsening at week 48, however both scores remained significantly lower than baseline levels. CONCLUSIONS: Our study data demonstrate the significant efficacy of the once weekly regimen, as well as its benefit regarding time to recurrence. However, the question if benefit outweighs the risk of a long-term anti-TNF-α antagonist's administration needs still to be answered.

The impact of different fluence rates on pain and clinical outcome in patients with actinic keratoses treated with photodynamic therapy.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Literature data suggest that lower fluence rates are preferable in terms of clinical response and tolerability for treating patients with actinic keratoses (AKs). We aimed to clarify the impact of different fluence rates on pain during photodynamic therapy (PDT) for AKs, as well as on treatment outcome. METHODS: Individuals with at least three discrete AKs were recruited. Each lesion was randomly allocated to 25, 50 or 75 mW/cm2 of topical 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) PDT, using non-coherent light source. Primary end point was pain during illumination, evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Secondary end points were clinical outcome and adverse events. RESULTS: Fifty adults, with 150 AKs lesions were recruited in the study. Mean VAS score did not significantly differ between the groups of 25 and 50 mW/cm2 (P=0.714). However, mean VAS was significantly higher at the group of 75 mW/cm2 in comparison to the former ones (P=0.000). With respect to the clinical outcome and adverse events during the first year of follow-up, no differences were observed between the three groups. Comparison between the 25 and the 50 mW/cm2 (P=0.749), as well as between the former and the 75 mW/cm2, did not show a dependence of complete response rate on fluence (P=0.749 and P=1.000, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: According to our observations a fluence rate between 25 and 50 mW/cm2 is effective and better tolerated by patients treated with topical 5-ALA PDT for AKs.

Treatment of giant Bowen's disease with sequential use of photodynamic therapy and imiquimod cream.

We present a 79-year-old man with a 2-year history of Bowen's disease. The 10 × 10 plaque was located on the right frontotemporal area. The patient was treated with two photodynamic therapy (PDT) sessions, performed 1 week apart, followed by five times per week application of imiquimod 5% cream for 6 consecutive weeks. Complete clinical and histological response was achieved 3 months after treatment was completed. The patient remains recurrence free 12 months after treatment. Cosmetic outcome was evaluated as fair because of residual erythema. Long-term follow-up is mandatory for assessment of recurrences. Further studies are needed in order to confirm the improved outcome using the combination of PDT and imiquimod cream.

The potential role of microorganisms in the development of rosacea.

Rosacea is a chronic cutaneous disorder characterized by centrofacial persisting erythema, telangiectases, papules, pustules, edema, phymas and ocular involvement. Despite being one of the most common skin disorders, its pathogenesis remains unclear and controversial. Although the disease triggering factors are well recognized, the underlying causes of rosacea have not yet been identified. Several different postulates about its pathogenesis can be found in the medical literature. Abnormalities of the pilosebaceous unit, as well as genetic, vascular, inflammatory, environmental and microbial factors have been described. The microorganisms that have been associated include Helicobacter pylori, Demodex folliculorum, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Chlamydia pneumonia; all the studies have been inconclusive. We review currently available scientific data on the potential pathogenetic role of microorganisms in the development of rosacea.

Complete resolution of a squamous cell carcinoma of the skin using intralesional 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy intralesional PDT for SCC.

We present an 82-year-old female patient with a 2-year history of an infiltrative squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) on her right cheek. The patient was treated with one intralesional photodynamic therapy (PDT) session using 10% 5-aminolevulinic acid solution. We used red light by a non-coherent light source at a light dose of 100 J/cm² and a fluency rate of 100 mW/cm². Complete clinical and histological response was achieved 3 months after the treatment procedure. Cosmetic outcome was evaluated as fair. The patient remains disease free with the absence of any clinical sign of recurrence 16 months after PDT. Long-term follow-up is needed for assessment of recurrences. Optimization of the therapeutic protocol, as well as justification of our results in larger studies are needed in order to elicit safe conclusions.

Resistant pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta in a 3-year-old boy: successful treatment with methotrexate.

Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA) represents the acute clinical subtype of pityriasis lichenoides (PL) and its occurrence is relatively common during childhood. Diagnosis and treatment may sometimes pose certain difficulties. We present the recalcitrant case of a 3-year-old boy with an asymptomatic polymorphic eruption consisting of multiple, scattered, 0.5 cm, round to ovoid, erythematous papules covered in places with a fine scale, vesicles and superficial erosions with thick hemorrhagic crusts. The correlation of the clinical features with the lesional histopathology favored the diagnosis of PLEVA. No first-line treatment scheme succeeded in controlling the eruption of new lesions. The only therapeutic approach that eventually managed to cease the disease evolution was the combination of prednisolone and methotrexate.

Telangiectasia macularis eruptive perstans successfully treated with PUVA therapy.

We present the case of a 58-year-old woman who was diagnosed as having telangiectasia macularis eruptiva perstans (TMEP) and was successfully treated with PUVA photochemotherapy. During the 6-month follow-up, no recurrence of pruritus or skin lesions was observed. TMEP represents a rare form of cutaneous mastocytosis, which is clinically characterized by reddish-brown telangiectatic macules symmetrically distributed over the trunk and extremities. Although in the majority of cases the disease is limited to the skin, systemic involvement may occur. The treatment of TMEP is challenging and several therapeutic modalities have been proposed in the past.

Parry-Romberg syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Parry-Romberg syndrome (PRS) or idiopathic hemifacial atrophy is a rare neurocutaneous syndrome. It is characterized by slowly progressive atrophy, located on one side of the face, primarily involving the skin, fat and connective tissue. PRS seems to overlap with "en coupe de sabre" morphea. MAIN OBSERVATIONS: We present a case of hemifacial atrophy in a 14-year-old boy treated with topical calcipotriol-betamethasone ointment. The diagnosis of PRS was established mainly based on the clinical findings and histological picture. The time to diagnosis was almost 9 years, similar to the mean time reported in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: Understanding the pathogenesis and stopping disease progression is important as it can cause severe disfigurement and has neurological and psychiatric complications. Not much is known about the efficacy of agents used in the treatment of this syndrome making treatment decision very difficult. Possible complications, pathophysiology and therapeutic options are being discussed.