The assessment of microcirculation architecture in keloids and hypertrophic scars : videocapillaroscopy

The aim of the study was the evaluation in vivo of the differences between the microcirculatory characteristics of the scars (keloids and hypertrophic scars) and healthy skin. Twenty three patients with keloids and twenty with hypertrophic scars were included in the study, evaluating fifty six scar areas and twenty healthy skin areas by means of contact optical probe videocapillaroscopy. Capillary density, length and capillary distribution pattern (punctiform, reticular, directional) together with the presence of microhemorrhages and neoangiogenesis were studied. Capillary length, capillary distribution pattern and presence of neoangiogenesis were found to be significantly increased in keloids and hypertrophic scars compared with controls. There were also significant differences between scars at the active stage and the ones in the atrophic phase as regards capillary length and the degree of neoangiogenesis. Patients with keloids and hypertrophic scars showed in videocapillaroscopy a variety of microcirculatory changes, often clustered in a characteristic pattern of abnormally oriented, dilated capillaries and neoangiogenesis phenomena. This methodology is highly likely to be of value in the assessment and prognostication of keloids and hypertrophic scars outcome

Current standards for diagnosis and treatment of syphilis : selection of some practical issues, based on the European (IUSTI) and U.S. (CDC) guidelines

Syphilis continues to be an important epidemiologic problem. For a few years a steady increase in the incidence of this sexually transmitted disease has been observed. Advances in medical science obligate the doctor to use only such diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that are scientifically proven. Based on the European (IUSTI) and U.S. (CDC) guidelines, in this manuscript, we present some selected practical issues concerning diagnosis and treatment of syphilis. We truly hope that the present review will help all doctors taking care of syphilitic patients to systematize the current knowledge

Contact eczema of hands caused by contact with potato protein

Introduction. Protein contact dermatitis (PCD) is an IgE-dependent allergic reaction which, despite enormous progress in knowledge, remains a ‘non-diagnosed’ nosologic unit in contemporary medicine. Skin lesion, with a chronic and recurring course, are analogous with the clinical picture in allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and irritant contact dermatitis (ICD); skin patch tests, however, are usually negative. This makes the diagnostics difficult, prevents a correct diagnosis and treatment based on the avoidance of allergen. Case description. A 48-year-old woman presented with erythemato-squamous skin lesions, accompanied by a strong itching, occurring on hands for about 6 months. The patient attributed the occurrence of skin lesions to household chores, above all – cooking and contact with food. The contact allergy was not confirmed. Positive results of the prick-by-prick test were observed for potato. Based on the above results, contact eczema induced by potato protein was diagnosed. Allergen elimination and use of emolients were prescribed. A complete remission of skin lesions was obtained. Discussion. PCD is rarely diagnosed, which is why there is no substantial epidemiologic data. It is estimated that about 50% of cases are related to atopy. This occurs more often in patients with a damaged dermal-epidermal barrier. Most often, the same products eaten by subjects do not produce any effects. A correct assessment of the substance provoking the occurrence of skin lesions is very important, as most often the products concerned are those commonly used in the household. A detailed PCD diagnostics is very important for obtaining the optimal treatment results

Air-borne dermatitis from "Chrysanthemum" : case report with a discussion of diagnostic procedures and therapy

Airborne dermatitis belongs to a heterogeneous group of dermatoses of various etiopathology and clinical characteristics. This disease is characterized by acute or chronic inflammation of the uncovered skin exposed to irritants or allergens. Initially skin lesions are transient. The paper presents a description of chrysanthemum growers diagnosed with air-borne dermatitis from chrysanthemum. Etiology, pathomechanism, clinical course, diagnostics and therapeutical methods are described