International journal of dermatology
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Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is an acquired scarring alopecia currently considered a clinical variant of lichen planopilaris (LPP). Our purpose was to examine the clinicopathological features of FFA. In addition, we investigated the similarities and differences between FFA and LPP. ⋯ The characteristic findings for FFA were more prominent apoptosis and less inflammation than found in LPP, along with spared interfollicular epidermis. FFA cases showed a rather characteristic histopathological pattern, although we could not find any clear-cut histological differences between FFA and LPP.
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For early melanoma diagnosis, experienced dermatologists have an accuracy of 64-80% using clinical diagnostic criteria, usually the ABCD rule, while automated melanoma diagnosis systems are still considered to be experimental and serve as adjuncts to the naked-eye expert prediction. In an attempt to aid in early melanoma diagnosis, we developed an image processing program with the aim to discriminate melanoma from melanocytic nevi, establishing a mathematical model to come up with a melanoma probability. ⋯ Through a digital image processing system and the development of a mathematical model of prediction, discrimination between melanomas and melanocytic nevi seems feasible with a high rate of accuracy using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The proposed model is an alternative method to aid in early melanoma diagnosis. Expensive and sophisticated equipment is not required and it can be easily implemented in a reasonably priced portable programmable computer, in order to predict previously undiagnosed skin melanoma before histopathology results confirm diagnosis.
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Familial gigantic melanocytosis (FGM) is a rare disorder first described in 1984 and termed "familial melanopathy with gigantic melanocytes". The cause of the disorder is still unknown. Melanocytes in both hyper- and hypopigmented skin seem to be unable to deliver melanin to the surrounding keratinocytes. ⋯ The raindrop-like hypopigmentation in this disorder can be explained by a failure of melanocytes to deliver melanin to their surrounding keratinocytes. The cause of the presence of heavily pigmented keratinocytes in the hyperpigmented zones could not be determined. There is a strong possibility of a more widespread abnormality affecting not just the melanocytes.
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There are controversial reports about the direct role of Helicobacterpylori infection in chronic idiopathic urticaria. The indirect role of H. pylori infection in the induction of pathogenetic antibodies is not fully elucidated either. This study aims to reveal the association of H. pylori infection with autologous serum skin test positivity in chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) patients. ⋯ The results of our study suggest that chronic H. pylori infection does not appear to have a role in the induction of autoantibodies in CIU.
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Letter Case Reports
Pemphigoid gestationis post partum after changing husband.