Herpes simplex virus mucocutaneous tumoural lesions - Systematic review.

The goal was to characterize the clinical-epidemiological profile of patients with mucocutaneous tumoural herpes simplex virus (MCT HSV) lesions across the world. Two researchers extracted and independently reviewed data from the literature search engine PubMed/MEDLINE through October 2018. From 110 reported patients, the following data were available: the patients' ages ranged from 7 to 76 years; the majority was male (62.73 %-69/110) and immunosuppression was found in 97.25 % (106/109, missing 1) cases, of whom 88 were HIV- related. Lesions size varied from 0.2-13 cm, settling in the anogenital region in 76.36 % (84/110) patients; 84.13 % (53/63, missing 47) complained of pain and multiple recurrences were found in 44.94 % (40/89, missing 21) cases. On clinical basis, the initial hypothesis was neoplasia in 36/53 patients. Histopathological diagnosis was achieved in 90 % (90/100, missing 10) cases and was sample size-dependent. Type 2 HSV was detected in 86.07 % (68/79, missing 31) lesions. MCT HSV lesions recurrence after treatment was reported in 33.96 % (18/53, missing 57) patients. Pathophysiology is poorly understood. Physicians should be aware of MCT HSV lesions in immunosuppressed patients to avoid inappropriate therapeutic strategies.

Second-harmonic generation imaging analysis can help distinguish sarcoidosis from tuberculoid leprosy.

Sarcoidosis and tuberculoid leprosy (TL) are prototypes of granulomatous inflammation in dermatology, which embody one of the histopathology limitations in distinguishing some diseases. Recent advances in the use of nonlinear optical microscopy in skin have enabled techniques, such as second-harmonic generation (SHG), to become powerful tools to study the physical and biochemical properties of skin. We use SHG images to analyze the collagen network, to distinguish differences between sarcoidosis and TL granulomas. SHG images obtained from skin biopsies of 33 patients with TL and 24 with sarcoidosis retrospectively were analyzed using first-order statistics (FOS) and second-order statistics, such as gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM). Among the four parameters evaluated (optical density, entropy, contrast, and second angular moment), only contrast demonstrated statistical significance, being higher in sarcoidosis (p = 0.02; 4908.31 versus 2822.17). The results may indicate insufficient differentiating power for most tested FOS and GLCM parameters in classifying sarcoidosis and TL granulomas, when used individually. But in combination with histopathology (H&E and complementary stains, such as silver and fast acid stains), SHG analysis, like contrast, can contribute to distinguishing between these diseases. This study can provide a way to evaluate collagen distribution in granulomatous diseases.

Histomorphometric approach to differentiate skin lesions of tuberculoid leprosy from sarcoidosis.

BACKGROUND: More than 200 000 new cases of leprosy are detected worldwide annually. Physicians commonly have difficulty in differentiating tuberculoid form of leprosy (TL) from sarcoidosis' cutaneous manifestation. METHODS: Skin biopsies of 33 patients with TL and 24 with sarcoidosis were reviewed on hematoxylin and eosin- and Gomori-stained sections, in order to find reliable criteria for distinguishing one disease from another. RESULTS: Nine of the 24 features analyzed presented significant predictive value for diagnosis (P < .05). Predominance of tuberculoid granulomas in adnexal and neural distribution, and granulomas replacing the nerves localized within sweat gland glomeruli were predictive to TL diagnosis. For sarcoidosis, dermal fibrosis, back-to-back distribution of the granulomas, presence of atypical giant cells and plasma cells, greater number of conventional giant cells, and spared nerves beside the granuloma were predictive criteria. The median surface density of reticulin fibers was significantly higher in sarcoidosis (3.44) than in TL (2.99). Nonetheless, using logistic regression, this variable did not discriminate between the diseases (P = .096). CONCLUSIONS: Isolated histological features are not fully predictive to differentiate the 2 diseases. However, those with statistical value can assist this distinction in diagnostic practice. Although the results of the analysis of the reticulin fibers density did not tell apart TL from sarcoidosis, they corroborate the idea of fiber fragmentation within tuberculoid leprosy granulomas, reiterating the importance of morphometry in the histological examination.

p53 immunoexpression in stepwise progression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and correlation with angiogenesis and cellular proliferation.

Multistep carcinogenesis involves loss of function of tumor suppressor proteins such as p53 and induction of angiogenesis. Such mechanisms contribute to cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression and may be interconnected. We aimed to explore p53 immunoexpression in spectral stages of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and correlate expression to both neovascularization and cellular proliferation. We estimated the percentages of immunostained cells for p53 and Ki67 (proliferation marker) in three groups: 23 solar keratoses, 28 superficially invasive squamous cell carcinomas and 28 invasive squamous cell carcinomas. The Chalkley method was used to quantify the microvascular area by neoangiogenesis (CD105) immunomarker in each group. There was no significant difference for rate of p53- and Ki67-positive cells between groups. Significant positive correlation was found between the CD105 microvascular area and the rate of p53 positive cells in superficially invasive squamous cell carcinoma as well as between the rate of p53- and Ki67-positive cells in invasive squamous cell carcinoma. p53 and Ki67 immunoexpression did not increase with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression. Neovascularization in the initial stage of invasion and proliferative activity in the frankly invasive stage were both associated with p53 immunoexpression. Loss of p53 tumor suppressor function through progressive steps may be directly involved in skin carcinogenesis.

Lichen planus and lichenoid drug-induced eruption: a histological and immunohistochemical study.

INTRODUCTION: Lichenoid drug eruption (LDE) shares similar features with lichen planus (LP), that could reflect the same pathogenesis. In LP, an autoimmune attack is accepted and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+) predominate, especially in late lesions. Apoptosis of keratinocytes may be mediated by CD8+ T and NK cells in two distinct ways: by the release of cytotoxic molecules such as perforin and granzyme B or by the Fas/FasL system. The immunological mechanisms involved in LDE are not yet fully established. OBJECTIVES: Investigate immunohistological features in LP and LDE to add clues to better understand their pathogenesis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-two patients fulfilled all clinical, laboratory, histopathological, and follow-up features of lichen planus (n = 16) and lichenoid drug eruption (n = 6). Classic histological features favoring LP or LDE were evaluated by two observers. HAM56, MAC387, UCHL-1, OPD4, CD8, Granzyme B, Perforin, and ICAM-1 antibodies were used to decorate the immune infiltrate. Results were analyzed through Pearson correlation, Student's t-test, and linear discriminant analysis. RESULTS: A higher number of necrotic keratinocytes as well as plasma cells and eosinophils within inflammatory cells were associated with LDE diagnosis. Only in LDE, a correlation was found between the number of T and CD8+ cells and between the number of granzyme B+ cells and apoptotic keratinocytes. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest a more important role of CD8+ granzyme B-containing cells in LDE group, being its synthesis associated with more intense apoptosis. So, LP and LDE may have a somewhat distinct pathogenesis.

Histopathology and immunohistochemistry of depigmented lesions in lupus erythematosus.

BACKGROUND: Depigmented lesions (DL) have been described in areas previously damaged by inflammation in lupus erythematosus (LE). In the absence of typical lesions, distinction with other achromic diseases might be challenging. We studied the histological features and the behavior of melanocytes in these lesions. METHODS: Tissue sections of 12 patients with lupus and DL were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, periodic acid-Schiff and Fontana-Masson. Melanocytes were counted by immunohistochemistry methods using Melan A and HMB-45. Ten biopsies of normal skin were used as controls. RESULTS: The most common histological findings were: cellular infiltration (75%); hyperkeratosis (66.7%); thickening of basement membrane (66.7%); thinning and flattening of the epidermis (58.3%) and degenerative changes in collagen fibers (50%). Epidermal melanin and melanocytes were found in 41.7%. The melanocyte counts by HMB-45 and Melan A were significantly lower than in normal skin. CONCLUSIONS: The DL still fulfill histological criteria for lupus. In the absence of a precise histological diagnosis, thickening of basement membrane, hyperkeratosis, cellular infiltration, epidermal atrophy and elastosis are the most common features. Loss of melanocytes and the dermal fibrosis suggests that DL in cutaneous LE behave as post-inflammatory scars.

Tunga penetrans as a traveler's disease.

Tunga penetrans are ectoparasites distributed widely. The infestations are endemic in some areas. People both from and visiting this region are susceptible to these infestations.

[Dermatology in the arts]. / Dermatologia nas artes.

Medicine has been represented in the most diverse artistic expressions, from primitive cultures to present days, with a considerable degree of variety and evolution, according to the geographical areas and the historic heritage in different societies. There has always been concern regarding recording of the human figure, be it in its splendor, be it at morbidity condition. The authors present illnesses with dermatological expression in European paintings.

Vasculonecrotic reactions in leprosy.

Multibacillary, lepromatous or borderline leprosy patients may present two types of vasculonecrotic reactions: Lucio phenomenon and that associated with erythema nodosum leprosum. Despite they can be distinguished through clinical and histological characteristics; both are often used as synonyms. It is said that leprosy reaction should be properly classified for therapeutic reasons, since it is well known that in Lucio phenomenon there is not a good response to thalidomide. The authors reported two cases of vasculonecrotic phenomena in lepromatous leprosy sharing clinical and histopathological characteristics of both reaction subtypes. The findings may indicate the spectral nature of the reaction phenomena in leprosy and emphasize the importance of the clinic-pathological correlation for proper classification. Our findings may contribute to the understanding of leprosy reactions pathogenesis, broaden the knowledge about their outcome with standard treatment, and provide the scientific background to design better therapeutic strategies for these complications.

Cryosurgical treatment of lentigo maligna.

BACKGROUND: Lentigo maligna (LM) is a common melanocytic malignancy which requires therapy because of the risk of progression to invasive lentigo maligna melanoma which a much worse prognosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 18 patients with clinical and histopathological diagnosis of LM were treated with cryosurgery. The patients were older Caucasians (mean age 59.5 years) and 11 were male. They were chosen for cryosurgery because the lesion posed a surgical challenge or the patient was not a good surgical candidate. They were treated with two freeze-thaw cycles of liquid nitrogen under local anesthesia in a single sitting. Lesions larger than 2 cm(2) were divided into smaller segments for freezing. RESULTS: The lesions resolved clinically in all cases, with no recurrence or metastasis detected during a mean follow-up of 75.5 months. Some patients developed hypopigmented scars. CONCLUSIONS: Cryosurgery with liquid nitrogen is an efficient, safe and in most cases aesthetically acceptable alternative method to treat LM.

Anetoderma associated with primary antiphospholipid syndrome.

We report the case of a 34-year-old white man with a 7-year history of nodules on the face, neck, upper torso, and arms which evolved to anetodermic lesions. After onset of these lesions, deep vein thrombosis developed in the patient's right arm and leg in association with circulating antiphospholipid antibodies.

Diagnosis of mycosis fungoides: a comparative immunohistochemical study of T-cell markers using a novel anti-CD7 antibody.

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common form of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. In its early stage it may mimic benign dermatoses both on a clinical and histologic basis. MF usually expresses CD3 and CD4 (T-cell) markers. CD7 is expressed on about 90% of CD4 T cells and is often deficient on malignant T cells. Thus, CD7 may be useful in evaluating the nature of dermal lymphoid infiltrates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of immunohistochemical detection of T-cell markers on paraffin-embedded sections, CD3 and CD7 (clone CBC.37), in the differential diagnosis of MF and benign dermatoses. Forty-two patients with diffuse dermal T-lymphocytic infiltrates were selected. Previous clinicopathologic correlation and follow-up had established the diagnosis of MF in 31 patients and benign dermatoses in 11. The mean value of stained cells in MF was 86.45% for CD3 and 53.09% for CD7 (P<0.001); in benign dermatoses it was 79.09% for CD3 and 73.63% for CD7 (P=0.669). CD7 immunolabeling was significantly lower in the MF group (P=0.048). A semiquantitative evaluation revealed a considerable loss of CD7 immunolabeling in comparison with CD3 in patients with MF. The authors conclude that CD7 study may represent a valuable tool in the distinction between inflammation and neoplasia in T-lymphoproliferative skin disorders.

Amygdalae calcifications associated with disease duration in lipoid proteinosis.

OBJECTIVES: To describe imaging findings of central nervous system involvement in patients with lipoid proteinosis. METHODS: Patients with lipoid proteinosis followed in the dermatology and neurology departments of the State University of Campinas between 2002 and 2004 were evaluated using high-resolution MRI and computerized tomography (CT). RESULTS: We reviewed the charts of three patients (two women) with lipoid proteinosis with, ages ranging from 5 to 44 years. Symptomatic disease duration ranged from 2 to 39 years. MRI scans showed hypointense signal in FLAIR and T2 images in the amygdalae in two of three patients. Brain CT scans from two patients showed that MRI findings were calcifications. The calcification was more evident in patients with longer disease duration. Epilepsy was identified in one patient with longer disease duration. No other epileptogenic lesion was identified on MRI in this patient. CONCLUSION: Lipoid proteinosis is associated with bilateral amygdalae calcification. These findings were more evident in patients with longer disease duration. Epilepsy, when present, may be related to these calcifications. Patients with lipoid proteinosis should be followed with MRI/CT in order to identify these abnormalities.

Reassessment of diagnostic criteria in cutaneous lymphocytic infiltrates.

CONTEXT: Non-specific lymphocytic infiltrates of the skin pose difficulties in daily practice in pathology. There is still a lack of pathognomonic signs for the differential diagnosis between benign and malignant lymphocytic infiltrates. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the morphological and immunohistochemical profile of lymphocytic infiltrations of the skin according to clinical outcome. TYPE OF STUDY: Retrospective; histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. SETTING: Referral center, university hospital. SAMPLE: 28 cases of lymphocytic infiltrates of difficult differential diagnosis selected from the records. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Eighteen histological variables and the immunophenotypic profile were assessed using the CD4, CD8, CD3, CD20 and CD30 lymphoid markers and compared to subsequent follow-up. RESULTS: The most common diagnoses were: initial mycosis fungoides (eight cases) and drug reactions (five cases). Single morphological variables did not discriminate between benign and malignant infiltrates except for the presence of Pautrier-Darier's microabscesses, which were found only in mycosis fungoides (p = 0.015). Patterns of superficial and deep infiltration (p = 0.037) and also the presence of eosinophils (p = 0.0207) were more frequently found in benign lymphocytic infiltrates. Immunohistochemical profile of T-cell subsets showed overlap between benign and malignant infiltrates with a predominance of CD4-positive (helper) lymphocytes in the majority of cases. CONCLUSIONS: A combination of clinical and histological features remains the most reliable approach for establishing a definite diagnosis in cases of lymphoid skin infiltrates.

Larva migrans: a case report and review.

A case of massive Ancylostoma sp. larval infestation is presented in a patient who had received systemic corticosteroid therapy. What attracts attention in this case is the exuberance and rarity of clinical manifestation. Based on the pertinent literature, we discuss the mechanisms of parasital infection, the natural history of the disease and its treatment.