Photodynamic Skincare: A Prospective Single-Center Study.

BACKGROUND: Peer-reviewed, clinical studies measuring the efficacy and usability of skin care products enhance their integrity and may guide experts in the field in providing recommendations. A single-blind, prospective clinical study was designed to assess the subject satisfaction, clinical benefit, and safety of three photodynamic topical formulations referred to as MMSRepose (MMSRep), MMSRevive (MMSRev), and MMSBalance (MMSB).  Methods: Thirteen male and female patients (mean age 49 +/- 17.8 years) applied one of the three topical serums twice daily over a period of 12 weeks. Subjects returned for photography, and blinded investigator evaluation of rhytides (fine lines) and dyspigmentation were measured on a 6- and 4-point scale, respectively. Patient-perceived efficacy of multiple clinical outcomes was measured on a 5-point scale.  Results: 100% of subjects reported at least a 1-grade improvement in global aesthetic at the conclusion of the study. Investigator assessment revealed an overall 53.3% decrease in rhytides, correlating to a mean point reduction from 1.65 +/- 0.77 to 0.77 +/- 0.53 (P<0.001) from baseline to week 12. Investigator assessment of dyspigmentation revealed a 62.7% decrease, correlating to a mean point reduction of 1.85 +/- 0.68 from week 1 to 0.69 +/- 0.48 at week 12 (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Photodynamic serums demonstrate clinical efficacy in skin rejuvenation and high user satisfaction. There were no serious adverse events. This study is limited by the inability to randomize to placebo due to the small sample size, as subject retention was heavily impacted by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Future studies may be indicated to undergo comparison with a larger cohort.  J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(5):332-337. doi:10.36849/JDD.7167.

Lasers for the Treatment of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

BACKGROUND: Lasers may present an alternative treatment modality for the management of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). OBJECTIVE: To investigate lasers as a definitive treatment of NMSC. METHODS: A comprehensive search was performed on MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and the National Institutes of Health (www.clinicaltrials.gov). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis was used to finalize a list of relevant literature studies evaluating the role of laser therapy for NMSC. Articles published through May 1, 2023, were included. RESULTS: The authors identified 37 studies investigating nonablative and ablative lasers alone and in combination with other lasers, noninvasive imaging, and additional modalities for the treatment of basal cell carcinomas, 10 focusing on squamous cell carcinoma in situ and 3 focusing on the treatment of both basal and squamous cell carcinomas. CONCLUSION: Although surgical management continues to be superior to laser therapy for the management of high-risk and cosmetically sensitive tumors, laser therapy may be an acceptable alternative for low-risk lesions on the trunk and extremities. However, further studies are needed to optimize parameters, determine maximal efficacy, and provide long-term follow-up before the adoption of laser therapy for NMSC into daily clinical practice.

Pathologic Upstaging of Cutaneous Melanoma After Mohs Micrographic Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is used for melanoma in situ (MIS) and thin invasive melanomas, particularly on the head and neck, during which a debulk section is typically prepared. Tumor upstaging occurs if the debulking specimen meets criteria for an increased tumor (T) stage per the American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition compared with the initial biopsy. Upstaging can alter survival and recurrence outcomes, resulting in increased patient morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: To determine the rate of cutaneous melanoma upstaging during MMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multicenter study was performed. Information from electronic medical records from 3 dermatologic surgeons performing MMS for cutaneous melanoma were logged from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2021. Deidentified information regarding patient demographics and tumor characteristics was recorded. RESULTS: Three-hundred and ten cases of cutaneous melanoma treated with MMS were identified. 2.3% of cases were upstaged, ranging from T1a to T3a. No significant risk factors for upstaging were identified. CONCLUSION: Our data demonstrate a lower rate of cutaneous melanoma upstaging during MMS than the current literature. Differences may be accounted for because of differing patient populations, cutaneous melanoma detection at an earlier clinical stage, and evolving melanoma histologic criteria.

Survival outcomes of rare cutaneous malignancies within an insured cohort of patients, 1988-2018.

BACKGROUND: There are limited survival data on cutaneous angiosarcoma (CAS), dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), and sebaceous carcinoma (SC). OBJECTIVE: To analyze survival trends in CAS, DFSP, MCC, and SC among a racially diverse, insured cohort of patients. METHODS: Using data from the Kaiser Permanente Southern California Cancer Registry, we identified adults diagnosed with CAS, DFSP, MCC, or SC between January 1, 1988 and December 31 2018, followed through December 31, 2021. RESULTS: Our cohort consisted of 83 diagnoses of CAS, 490 diagnoses of DFSP, 411 diagnoses of MCC, and 249 diagnoses of SC. Our analysis revealed no significant differences in overall or disease-specific 1000 person-years mortality rates among our populations of non-Hispanic Whites, Hispanics, African American/Blacks, and Asian American/Pacific Islanders diagnosed with CAS, DFSP, MCC, or SC. On multivariate analysis, controlling for patient and tumor characteristics, there was similarly no increased risk of overall mortality for minorities diagnosed with CAS, DFSP, MCC, or SC. LIMITATIONS: Retrospective nature of the analysis and small sample size. CONCLUSION: Contrary to existing literature, our results show a notable lack of racially driven survival disparities among insured individuals with CAS, DFSP, MCC, and SC, emphasizing the importance of health care coverage.

MMS hotspots: a cross-sectional comparison of U.S. counties with and without Mohs micrographic surgery.

Healthcare access greatly impacts skin cancer diagnosis and mortality rates. Recognition of current disparities in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) access can assist future policy and clinical decisions to correct them. For the years 2014-2018, the CPT codes for MMS (17,311 and 17,313) were counted on a per county level across the United States per the Medicare Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Prescriber Database. Any county with 0 MMS CPT codes recorded were classified as "without MMS cases." MMS "hotspots" were identified as counties that possessed a high average number of MMS cases compared to the national average, while also being surrounded by counties that possessed a low average number of MMS cases compared to the national average. Three thousand eighty-four counties in the United States were analyzed; 785 (25%) counties were designated as "with MMS cases" and 2301 (75%) "without MMS cases." There were no significant differences in age, ethnicity distribution, or cost per enrollee between the two designations. 74% of counties with MMS cases were considered urban, while only 25% of those without cases were urban (p < 0.01). The median household income was markedly higher in counties with MMS cases ($71,428 vs. $58,913, p < 0.01). With respect to education, more individuals in counties with MMS cases possessed their General Education Development (GED) (89% vs. 86%, p < 0.01) or a college degree (30% vs. 19%, p < 0.01). Forty-nine counties were considered MMS "hotspots." The density of MMS procedures varies greatly based on geography, maintaining the urban-rural disparity matched by the distribution of MMS surgeons. Additionally, there remains a wide income and educational gap between counties with and without MMS. Identifying MMS hotspots may facilitate further investigation into potential surgical access disparities.

From Centimeters to Millimeters: The Evolution of the Surgical Margins for Melanoma-A Historical Review.

BACKGROUND: With an improved understanding of tumor biology and behavior, the recommended margins for the surgical treatment of melanoma have evolved. OBJECTIVE: We describe the progression of these surgical margins, detailing the historical basis for the 5-cm margin and transitioning to current practice, in which Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) with immunohistochemistry (IHC) has become increasingly used. METHODS/MATERIALS: We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for articles published between January 2019 and April 2023 describing the use of MMS for melanoma in situ (MIS) and invasive melanomas. RESULTS: We identified 12 articles focusing on the use of MMS for MIS and invasive melanomas: 3 meta-analyses and 9 retrospective studies. Two retrospective analyses documented no differences in overall survival between MMS and wide local excision (WLE) and 2 found improved overall survival for MMS compared with WLE. Three retrospective analyses and 3 meta-analyses demonstrated low recurrence rates after the use of MMS for both MIS and invasive melanomas. Finally, 2 retrospective studies documented the success of MMS with IHC using MART-1. CONCLUSION: Over the past century, the surgical margins for the treatment of melanoma have undergone a marked transformation. MMS with IHC has become increasingly popular given its ability to reliably produce superior clinical outcomes.

Is There a Role for Radiofrequency Devices in Hair?

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) devices are being increasingly used for cosmetic dermatology applications. Recent studies have reported an apparent dualistic nature of RF devices for hair, causing either removal or growth depending on the modality of RF. Materials and Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science searches were conducted in July 2022 according to PRISMA guidelines for studies discussing RF technology in hair applications (n = 19). Results: The majority of studies describe the utility of RF devices in removal of unwanted hair (n = 15). Bipolar RF has been used in combination with intense pulsed light for effective long-term removal of body and facial hair. The chromophore-independent method of energy delivery in RF makes it a viable add-on therapy for treating lighter colored hair and darker Fitzpatrick skin types. Monopolar RF is used for eyelash removal in patients with trichiasis. In contrast, fractional RF has been used to stimulate hair growth in patients with alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia. Conclusions: Preliminary evidence supports the use of bipolar and monopolar RF devices for hair removal, while fractional RF appears to be an emerging technology for hair growth. Additional studies are needed to investigate the efficacy, mechanisms, and parameters of radiofrequency devices for various hair applications.

Combination of Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization and Dilute Calcium Hydroxylapatite Filler for Moderate to Severe Knee Skin Laxity.

Background: Microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) filler are modalities for improving skin laxity. Their use in combination on body sites other than the face is expanding. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness and safety of combination MFU-V and dilute CaHA (dCaHA) for lower anterior thigh and knee laxity over 12 and 24 weeks. Methods: Twenty women (40-71 years) with moderate to severe laxity of the anterior thigh and knee were enrolled in this split-body trial. Subjects received dual-depth (3.0mm, 1.5mm) or triple-depth MFU-V (4.5mm, 3.0mm, 1.5mm) to the inferior anterior thigh (127-381 lines) along with dCaHA (1:1 normal saline) injection (0.5-3mL). Clinical effectiveness was monitored using photography, qualitative clinician and subject assessments, and quantitative analysis of skin topography by three-dimensional imaging and dermal thickness by optical coherence tomography. Results: At 12 and 24 weeks, the treated thigh and knee experienced significant improvement in qualitative clinician scales (p<0.01), with subjective improvement on photography and subject-reported assessments; no significant changes were noted by quantitative measures. Adverse events were reported in 68 percent of patients, including mild bruising (n=12) and swelling (n=10). Conclusion: Combining MFU-V and dCaHA is safe and results in clinical improvement of anterior thigh and knee laxity.

A systematic review on the lipid composition of human hair.

Hair lipid composition varies by ethnic hair type and by hair layer. Lipids in the cuticle, cortex, and medulla of the hair shaft provide a protective barrier to environmental and chemical damage, prevent hair breakage and desorption, and affect the elastic and tensile properties of hair. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the lipid composition and ethnic differences of human hair, effects of external damage on lipid content and properties, and changes in hair lipid composition associated with disease states. PubMed/MEDLINE was searched up to March 2021 according to PRISMA guidelines for articles discussing the lipid content of human hair and effects of physical, chemical, or environmental damage, and disease. Fifty-nine articles investigating the lipid content of hair were included for review. Lipids affect fluid permeability, hydration, strength, and texture of ethnic hair fibers. Lipid loss is accelerated by hair-damaging treatments such as bleach, dye, perm, straightening, and surfactant use, and sun and aging processes, leading to dehydrated, breakable, disordered, and dull hair. Diseases including acne, alopecia, and breast, gastric, prostate, lung, and rectal cancers display elevated hair lipid levels. Lipids are vital in protection against damage and maintenance of healthy hair. Further studies are needed to investigate the effects of lipids on the structural properties of ethnic hair, and changes in hair lipid composition with various dermatologic and systemic diseases.

The "Flolan Rash": An Impressively Asymptomatic and Non-Inflammatory Eruption Following Long-Term Epoprostenol Therapy.

Epoprostenol (Flolan) is a last-resort intravenous medication for the treatment of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Cutaneous adverse events of Flolan are well-known by pulmonologists, though lacking in dermatologic literature. We report a near erythrodermic appearing, yet asymptomatic eruption lasting 10 years in a woman with end-stage PAH treated with long-term intravenous epoprostenol. Non-pruritic, blanching, erythematous papules coalescing to plaques surrounded by a hypopigmented halo encompassed her entire torso, as well as bilateral upper and lower extremities. Additional findings included bright red palms and soles associated with pain and tingling while walking. Laboratory workup revealed thrombocytopenia and a slightly elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR); connective tissue disease markers were negative. Skin biopsies were, surprisingly, largely unremarkable without an inflammatory infiltrate. The patient was trialed on topical clobetasol ointment without effect. Her striking, yet asymptomatic and non-inflammatory eruption was thought due to long-term use of epoprostenol, a last-resort synthetic prostacyclin used to treat severe PAH. As her cutaneous findings were not bothersome, her dose of Flolan was not lowered and her lower extremity pain was treated with gabapentin. With this case, we aim to increase awareness of the impressive “Flolan rash”, a persistent erythematous eruption well-known by pulmonologists, yet scarcely described in dermatologic literature. Significant Finding: We report a striking, yet asymptomatic and non-inflammatory skin eruption lasting 10 years presumed due to long-term use of epoprostenol for end-stage pulmonary arterial hypertension. Meaning: Cutaneous adverse events of intravenous epoprostenol are well-known by pulmonologists, though lacking in dermatologic or primary care literature. The extensive body surface involvement, and near erythroderma, associated with Flolan necessitates awareness by patients, dermatologists, and other healthcare providers outside of the field of pulmonology. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(11):1249-1251. doi:10.36849/JDD.6821.

The Role of Antihistamines and Dupilumab in the Management of Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Approximately 30% to 40% of alopecia areata (AA) patients have atopic dermatitis. Studies suggest that antihistamines and dupilumab may be effective treatments; however, the potential benefit of these therapies as either adjunct or monotherapy has yet to be elucidated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of antihistamines and dupilumab in the treatment of AA. METHODS: A literature search was conducted in August 2021 according to PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were articles describing the use of antihistamines or dupilumab for AA or those discussing AA development as an adverse event of these therapies. RESULTS: Forty-two articles with 395 patients describe the use of antihistamines or dupilumab in AA. The most common antihistamine regimens were oxatomide 30 mg twice a day, fexofenadine 60 or 120 mg/day, and ebastine 10 mg/day; and the majority of cases reported significant hair regrowth, decreased pruritus, and erythema. Studies on the use of dupilumab for AA demonstrated remarkable hair growth in some patients (n=23), no change in others (n=3), and no new hair loss in a patient with resolved alopecia universalis (AU) (n=1). In contrast, dupilumab therapy for AD has been implicated as a cause of AA (n=21), drug-induced alopecia (n=2), and AA-like psoriasis (n=1). CONCLUSION: Current literature is promising for the use of antihistamines as adjunct treatments for AA, while monotherapy needs to be further explored. The role of dupilumab in AA treatment and/or development also requires further research.J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(10):1070-1083. doi:10.36849/JDD.6553.

Patient Satisfaction and Adverse Effects Following the use of Topical Hair Fiber Fillers.

Introduction: Alopecia (hair loss) commonly affects patients and can severely affect one's confidence and self-esteem. In addition to medical therapy, hair filler fibers can improve the gross appearance of thinning hair in a targeted manner by making hair appear fuller and thicker. The objective of this study is to assess patient use, satisfaction, and adverse effects following the application of a commercially available hair fiber filler product. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at an academic tertiary dermatology center. Alopecia patients were supplied a keratin hair fiber filler, which best matched their natural hair color. Following 90 days of application, patients were asked to complete questionnaires to assess patient satisfaction and record patient-reported adverse events. Results: Twenty women and 20 men with hair loss participated. Patients reported improved hair volume and increased perceptions of confidence and attractiveness after applying fiber. Most subjects (92.5%) reported a high level of satisfaction with the fiber's ability to match hair color and provide sufficient coverage. No serious adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: Alopecia has a negative impact on quality of life and several psychological domains. Topical hair filler fiber can serve as an effective and safe camouflage for patients with alopecia with high user satisfaction.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis of the Scalp Associated With Scalp Applied Products: A Systematic Review of Topical Allergens.

ABSTRACT: Hair products are commonly used to maintain hair health or cosmesis. Products applied to the scalp and hair contain multiple active and inactive ingredients that can potentially cause irritant and/or allergic contact dermatitis. The objectives of this study were to identify and to discuss the most common allergens in scalp and hair applied products causing scalp allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). A PubMed search identified 99 studies, with 3185 patients and 31 categories of scalp products. Hair products reportedly associated with scalp ACD were hair dyes (41%), shampoos (28%), and conditioners (22%). The most commonly reported patch test-positive allergens were p -phenylenediamine (23%), nickel (15%), fragrance mix (13%), balsam of Peru (10%), cocamidopropyl betaine/3-dimethylaminopropylamine (7%), and methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (6%). Common symptoms and signs include eczematous lesions, pruritus, and a burning sensation. Medical practitioners should be aware of causative agents to provide appropriate patient education, counseling, and/or treatment.

The Association of Frontal Alopecia with a History of Facial and Scalp Surgical Procedures.

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is increasing worldwide, though the pathogenesis remains unknown. Anecdotal reports describe alopecia occurring in an FFA pattern following facial surgical procedures, but this potential link remains unexplored. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine if a significant association exists between the diagnosis of FFA and a history of facial and scalp surgical procedures. METHODS: This retrospective study comparing data from frontal alopecia patients to controls was conducted at a tertiary medical center. Additionally, a literature review was conducted on scarring alopecias occurring from scalp procedures. RESULTS: Fifty percent of frontal alopecia patients (n = 54) reported a history of facial surgical procedures compared to 9.8% of controls (n = 51) (OR: 7.8 [95% CI: 2.77-25.98, p < 0.001]). Although no significant differences were observed in current daily facial sunscreen use, sunscreen use prior to alopecia onset was significantly higher in frontal alopecia (p = 0.295; p = 0.021). Sunscreen use was not a significant modifier in the association between frontal alopecia and facial surgical procedures (p = 0.89). CONCLUSIONS: A significant association exists between frontal alopecia clinically consistent with FFA and a history of facial surgery, the nature of which is unclear. The role of sunscreen use and frontal alopecia development in this setting needs to be better elucidated.

A Systematic Review: Application of Rice Products for Hair Growth.

BACKGROUND: Rice bran extracts (RB) derived from Oryza sativa are part of cultural skin and hair care practices in Asia. Given the knowledge gap regarding clinical efficacy, marketplace availability, and safety, the growing popularity of nutraceuticals calls for better clinician awareness and scientific understanding of their applications and limitations. OBJECTIVE: To review available scientific evidence regarding therapeutic efficacy, safety, and consumer availability of RB on hair health. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A primary literature search was conducted using PubMed to identify articles on RB and hair growth in May 2021. A limited market analysis of rice-derivative-containing hair products was also conducted on Amazon.com. RESULTS: 10 studies were analyzed: six regarding the efficacy of RB for hair growth, and four analyzing the safety profile of RB. Topically applied RB increases expression of growth factors and molecular signals which promote cell proliferation in the anagen phase including β-catenin, while inhibiting enzymes responsible for propagating anagen to catagen/telogen transition including TGFβ and Type I 5α-reductase. RB is non-genotoxic, non-cytotoxic, and appropriate for human use in cosmetics. The Amazon.com search yielded 119 rice-containing hair products, reflecting their over-the-counter popularity. CONCLUSIONS: Current literature is promising for RB promoting hair growth given its ability to increase expression of growth factors and molecular signals associated with maintaining anagen phase, decreasing inflammation, inhibiting 5α-reductase, and promoting melanogenesis. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(2):177-185. doi:10.36849/JDD.6345.