International journal of dermatology
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The existent therapeutic options for post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) are varied, albeit not sufficiently effective. The aim of this study was to try a new treatment modality for PHN. A spray of liquid nitrogen (LN) was used in 47 patients suffering from PHN as a stimulator of a mechanism not yet completely understood. ⋯ Before the sixth treatment session, good or excellent improvement was obtained in 94% of the study patients. Pain was eliminated with one session in nine patients (19%), and with two sessions in eight patients (17%). We conclude that this non-freezing technique is absolutely safe and injury-free, and is very efficient in calming PHN.
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This study aimed to measure the herpes zoster-associated burden of illness, healthcare utilization, and costs among Thai patients. ⋯ Herpes zoster contributes a significant burden of illness to both patients and the wider community.
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Case Reports
Should we say NO to body piercing in children? Complications after ear piercing in children.
The popularity of body piercing procedures is increasing around the world. The trend for body ornamentation is not free from risks. The percentage of various complications following such procedures is growing. The aim of this paper is to present a rare complication after earlobe piercing, which happened to a child. ⋯ Complications after body piercing are observed in adults, as well as in children, in whom the decision of piercing performance should be carefully considered and rather postponed until self care is achievable.
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Carbamazepine (CBZ), a frequently used anticonvulsant drug, is one of the most common causes of life-threatening cutaneous adverse drug reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). Recent studies have revealed a strong association between HLA-B*1502 and CBZ-induced TEN/SJS in the Taiwan Han Chinese population. ⋯ HLA-B*1502 is strongly associated with CBZ-induced TEN/SJS in the Malay population in Malaysia, as has been seen in Han Chinese in Taiwan. This indicates that the genetic association apparent in the incidence of CBZ-induced TEN/SJS is linked with the presence of HLA-B*1502, irrespective of racial origin. Screening of patients for this genetic marker can help to prevent the occurrence of TEN/SJS.