Effect of continuous positive airway pressure therapy on a large hemangioma complicated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a case report

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Hemangiomas involving the upper airway can be an uncommon cause of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>A 26-year-old Caucasian man with a known history of a large hemangioma of his head and neck presented with sleep-disordered breathing to the sleep unit of our hospital. Severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome was revealed on polysomnography. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure was implemented effectively, reducing daytime hypersomnolence and significantly improving sleep parameters. After three years of adherent use, the patient remains in a good condition and the hemangioma is stable.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Application of continuous positive airway pressure can be an effective treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome complicated with vascular tumors. Periodic follow-up of these patients is necessary, as little is known about the long-term effects of continuous positive airway pressure therapy.</p

Vascular Laser and Light Treatments

This chapter provides an overview of vascular targeting light treatments applied to treatment of commonly encountered cutaneous vascular lesions, specifically port wine birthmarks (PWBs), infantile hemangiomas (IHs), and telangiectasias. Evidence-based recommendations are provided regarding light-based treatment effectiveness, preoperative evaluation, treatment techniques, safety, and postoperative management. We also discuss device and drug combinations which have been utilized including photodynamic therapy or laser in combination with antiangiogenic agents for PWBs and beta-blockers with lasers for IHs. This chapter provides a practical, concise, and evidence-based guide for the utilization of vascular-specific laser treatments available today

Functional Symptoms in Pediatric Dermatology: The Canary in the Coal Mine

The skin is a window into the state of health revealing genetic predispositions, hormonal balance, nutritional status, and internal wellness. It exposes stress burden, emotional well-being, and psychological health. In this way the skin can operate as the metaphorical canary in the coal mine announcing the body’s hidden alarm signals. Psychocutaneous disorders draw attention to the intimate connections between the mind and the skin. During development, the brain and skin are born from the same embryonic tissue and throughout life they continue to be connected through elegant interactions involving neuropeptides, hormones, and inflammatory mediators, the so-called molecules of emotion. Disfiguring skin disease such as vitiligo, acne vulgaris, and ichthyosis have large emotional and psychological interactions. Perhaps surprisingly, the extent of the psychological fallout that results from these conditions is not necessarily related to the objective nature of the disease. Instead it is highly correlated with its subjective severity, which is dependent on self-perception and is highly personal. Recurrent skin disease often results in anxiety, depression, social isolation, body dysmorphic disorder, and dramatic reductions in quality of life rivaling those associated with debilitating systemic illnesses. Crosstalk between the mind and skin also exists wherein physical or psychological stressors can both initiate and worsen skin disease that has clear organic underpinnings such as acne vulgaris, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, and cutaneous warts. Primary psychiatric disorders may result in skin and hair conditions such as trichotillomania, psychogenic excoriation, dermatitis artefacta, and delusions of parasitosis. Although mind–skin interactions can cause obstinate symptoms and skin disease, these same connections can also be harnessed for therapeutic benefit