RESUMO
Loss-of-function variants in the FLG gene have been identified as the strongest cause of susceptibility to atopic dermatitis (AD) in Europeans and Asians. However, very little is known about the genetic etiology behind AD in African populations, where the prevalence of AD is notably high. We sought to investigate the genetic origins of AD by performing whole-genome sequencing in an Ethiopian family with 12 individuals and several affected in different generations. We identified 2 variants within FLG2 (p.D13Y) and NOD2 (p.A918S) genes cosegregating with AD in the affected individuals. Further genotyping analyses in both Ethiopian and Swedish AD cases and controls revealed a significant association with the FLG2 variant (p.D13Y, P < .0013) only in the Ethiopian cohort. However, the NOD2 variant (p.A918S) did not show any association in our Ethiopian cohort. Instead, 2 previously recognized NOD2 variants (p.A849V, P < .0085 and p.G908R, P < .0036) were significantly associated with AD in our Ethiopian cohort. Our study indicates that the FLG2 and NOD2 genes might be important in the etiology of AD in Ethiopians. Additional genetic and functional studies are needed to confirm the role of these genes and the associated variants into the development of AD.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of virtual dermatology curricula in developing countries remains unclear despite an urgent need due to the pandemic and other factors. OBJECTIVE: To compare a virtual dermatology curriculum deployed in Gondar, Ethiopia with a traditional in-person course. METHODS: We developed a free, on-line dermatology course. 104 trainees from the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, completed the course. Pre- and post-course surveys measuring self-reported proficiency were administered. End-of-Course surveys were distributed to elicit feedback on the course. Performance on final examinations was compared to a historical control group, which did not participate in the course but received standard in-person training. RESULTS: Compared to historical controls (n = 236), the pilot cohort (n = 104) averaged over 4 points higher on the final exam (P < .0001). Most participants were satisfied with all aspects of the on-line course and desire at least a component of virtual learning in the future. LIMITATIONS: This pilot study was performed at a single institution, and the participants were not randomized. Further studies in demographically diverse cohorts are needed to validate the results. CONCLUSION: This dermatology curriculum is a free, innovative platform that can be adapted for dermatology trainees in resource-limited settings.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Determination of the distribution pattern and associated factors of skin and soft tissue infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a fundamental step to set up an effective control program to improve the health status. The purpose of this study was to assess the antibiotic susceptibility pattern and associated factors of MRSA among dermatological patients. METHODS: In this hospital-based, prospective, cross-sectional study, 189 pus and skin swabs were collected from dermatological patients through a convenient sampling method in 2019. A structured questionnaire was employed for data collection of associated factors. Pus and skin swabs were collected using a sterile cotton swab and needle aspiration, then inoculated on mannitol salt agar. We followed a standard bacteriological procedure for identification of MRSA. Logistic regression models at a 95% confidence interval and p-value < 0.05 was considered for significance. RESULTS: A total of 127/189 (67.2%) of Staphylococcus aureus isolates were recovered and 80/127 (63.0%) were MRSA. Over 97% of Staphylococcus aureus isolates showed resistance to penicillin. MRSA was sensitive to gentamicin (78.75%), ciprofloxacin (83.75%), and clindamycin (86.25%). Frequency of washing body, method of hand washing, and recent hospitalization had a significant association with MRSA skin infection. CONCLUSIONS: The study revealed a high prevalence of MRSA among dermatological patients. Staphylococcus aureus showed a very high degree of resistance to different antimicrobials and most of Staphylococcus aureus isolates also showed multidrug-resistance patterns.