Immunohistochemical expression of metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 in abdominal aortic aneurysms: correlation with symptoms and aortic diameter.

Our purpose was to investigate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 in all types of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA): symptomatic, asymptomatic, and ruptured. MMP-2 and -9 activity was investigated in surgical samples from the arterior wall of 46 AAA, using a standard immunohistochemical technique. The MMP-9 activity was significantly higher in large AAA (>6 cm), but there was no relation between AAA size and MMP-2 activity. Neither MMP-2 nor MMP-9 were related with AAA rupture, other complications or symptoms. The MMP-9 activity in AAA is a determinant of the aneurysm size, but it is not related to clinical manifestations.

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens successfully controlled with topical isotretinoin.

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens (or dissecting folliculitis of the scalp or dissecting cellulitis of the scalp or dissecting perifolliculitis of the scalp) is a rare entity and constitutes the equivalent over the scalp, of hidradenitis suppurativa and acne conglobata. Etiologic factors are unknown. Diagnosis is proven histologically. Management is very difficult and consists in systemic administration or intralesional injection of several drugs or in surgical manipulations. An 18 year-old white patient with cystic infiltrations, alopecia plaques, pustules and other inflammatory elements (clinicohistological features consistent with dissecting folliculitis of the scalp), is presented. Isotretinoin topical application assured successful control of the disease and averted the evolution of the clinical aspect to scarring alopecia and nodule formation. Topical isotretinoin exercises a curative, inhibitory and antiproliferative action, in perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens.