Structure–Activity Relationships and Prediction of the Phototoxicity and Phototoxic Potential of New Drugs

Relationships between the structure and properties of chemicals can be programmed into knowledge-based systems such as DEREK for Windows (DEREK is an acronym for "Deductive Estimation of Risk from Existing Knowledge"). The DEREK for Windows computer system contains a subset of over 60 rules describing chemical substructures (toxophores) responsible for skin sensitisation. As part of the European Phototox Project, the rule base was supplemented by a number of rules for the prospective identification of photoallergens, either by extension of the scope of existing rules or by the generation of new rules where a sound mechanistic rationale for the biological activity could be established. The scope of the rules for photoallergenicity was then further refined by assessment against a list of chemicals identified as photosensitisers by the Centro de Farmacovigilancia de la Comunidad Valenciana, Valencia, Spain. This paper contains an analysis of the mechanistic bases of activity for eight important groups of photoallergens and phototoxins, together with rules for the prospective identification of the photobiological activity of new or untested chemicals belonging to those classes. The mechanism of action of one additional chemical, nitrofurantoin, is well established; however, it was deemed inappropriate to write a rule on the basis of a single chemical structure.

Inhibitory effects of dietary soy isoflavone and gut microbiota on contact hypersensitivity in mice

Soy isoflavones (SIs) are abundant in soybeans and have inhibitory effects on contact hypersensitivity (CHS), which is often used as a mouse model for allergic contact dermatitis (ACD); however, their therapeutic mechanisms remain unknown. We studied the suppressive activity of dietary SI and gut microbiota on dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB)-induced CHS. Low-dose SI diets alleviated DNFB-induced ear swelling and oedema and decreased infiltration of Gr-1-positive cells into ear tissue. In addition, dietary SIs also decreased interleukin-1β and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 production in ear tissue compared to controls. Furthermore, ciprofloxacin and metronidazole treatments blocked the suppressive activity of dietary SIs on CHS, whereas vancomycin treatment had a marginal effect. These antibiotic treatments differed in their effects on the gut microbiota composition. These results demonstrated that consumption of physiologically relevant doses of SIs reduced CHS symptoms, and suggested that the gut microbiota influenced their suppressive activities on CHS.

A Single-arm, Practical Application Assessment of User Experience and Peristomal Skin Condition Among Persons With an Ileostomy Using a New Barrier Seal With Assisted Flow

Peristomal skin complications are a common problem for persons with an ileostomy.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this pilot study was to solicit user feedback and perform an initial assessment of the performance of a new barrier seal designed to decrease the risk of chemical-induced dermatitis.

METHODS

Seven (7) potential participants who were at least 18 years of age, >6 months post surgery, with an end or loop ileostomy and unbroken peristomal skin, and who were capable of changing their appliance themselves or had the availability of care assistance were identified and recruited by the stoma care nurse at the University Hospital, Limerick, Ireland. At the initial visit and after 1 and 2 weeks, participants were asked to rate device comfort, security, and handling; skin condition was assessed by the research nurse using the Ostomy Skin Tool. Descriptive statistics were used to tabulate the results.

RESULTS

Five (5) participants completed the study. Discoloration, erosion, and tissue overgrowth scores improved in 3 of 5 patients, and the mean Ostomy Skin Tool score decreased from 5.4 ± 2.19 at the initial assessment to 4 ± 1.87 at the week 2 visit. Comfort, handling, and security ratings increased from a median of 8 at the beginning of the study to 10 at week 2.

CONCLUSION

Initial patient feedback regarding the new product was positive, and skin assessment results suggest the new seal may help improve peristomal skin condition. Larger studies with longer patient follow-up are needed to confirm the results of this pilot evaluation.

Cultivating Incontinence-associated Dermatitis Prevention Practices in an Australian Local Health District: A Quasi-experimental Study

Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a common, painful, difficult-to-treat skin condition.

PURPOSE

A 2-part, quasi-experimental, post-test study was conducted to evaluate the impact of prevention initiatives on IAD prevalence and incontinence practices.

METHOD

In part 1, from May 2017 to November 2017, a quasi-experimental post-test study design was conducted in a health district in Australia. Following an audit of IAD prevalence and identification of evidence practice gaps in 4 hospitals in a local health district (12 wards, 250 patients), an implementation science approach was used to implement evidence-based initiatives. An IAD committee was formed, staff were educated about correct incontinence pad sizing, washable and disposable underpads and plastic sheets were removed from the care setting, and barrier cream cloths for cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting skin were introduced. Patients admitted to 1 of the 12 wards who were ≥18 years of age were recruited for participation and evaluation in the post-intervention implementation IAD and incontinence care practices audit. Post-intervention data were entered into a software program and compared to pre-implementation data using descriptive and bivariate statistics. In part 2, nurses from the 12 wards were asked to participate in 1 of 6 focus groups to share their impressions about the barrier cream cloths. Discussions were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

RESULTS

The rate of incontinence among audited patients (N= 259, 132 men, 124 women; mean age 73.2 ± 16.8 years) was 47.2% (119/252) and 2/259 (0.8%) had a pressure injury (PI). IAD prevalence was significantly lower in the post- than in the pre-implementation audit (6/259 vs 23/250, P = .015), as was hospital-acquired pressure injury (9/250 [3.6%] vs 2/259 [0.08%]) and the use of bed protection layers (154/238 vs 6/259; P <.01). The focus groups included 31 nurses (25 women, 6 men). Four (4) themes emerged: 1) benefits to the patient (eg, improved skin condition), 2) usability (eg, fewer steps), 3) problems encountered (eg, not seeing the barrier in place), and 4) related factors. Patient comfort was cited frequently as an important benefit.

CONCLUSION

Evidence-based initiatives led to a significant reduction in IAD prevalence and improved incontinence care practices. .

Outcomes of Revision Joint Arthroplasty Due to Metal Allergy and Hypersensitivity: A Systematic Review

Lower extremity total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures. However, it is estimated that as many as 10% to 20% of TJAs could fail due to various well-known causes. Furthermore, metal allergy-related complications have recently gained attention as one of the potential causes of failure when the common reasons have been excluded. Reported symptoms from metal allergy can include chronic eczema, joint effusions, joint pain, and limited range of motion. Few studies have explored the outcomes of patients undergoing revisions due to allergic complications. The aim of our study is to quantitatively evaluate the outcomes of revision joint arthroplasty due to metal allergy and hypersensitivity.

A Prospective, Experimental Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Home Care Nursing on the Healing of Peristomal Skin Complications and Quality of Life

Home care services are effective in many patient groups.

PURPOSE

The authors examined the effect of specialized ostomy care in the home on peristomal skin complications and patient quality of life (QOL).

METHOD

A prospective, experimental study was conducted among 35 people >18 years old with a colostomy or ileostomy and peristomal skin complications who were listed in 2 ostomy supplier databases. Participants were alternatively allocated to 6 home care visits (intervention [IG], n = 18) or 2 outpatient/clinic care [CG] visits (control, n = 17). Demographic and patient variables were assessed at the initial visit in both groups. The Ostomy Skin Tool (OST) and the Stoma-Quality of Life instrument were used to assess study characteristics; data were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The Discoloration, Erosion, Tissue Overgrowth scores of the OST of the 2 groups were similar in the first assessment (IG = 6.22 ± 1.47; CG= 6.11 ± 1.96; P = .776), but a statistically significant difference was noted between groups at the end of study (IG = 0.44 ± 0.85, CG = 4.76 ± 2.30; P = .00). At the first assessment, QOL scores of the IG and CG groups were 72.63 ± 11.48 and 66.73 ± 17.52, respectively (P = .197). At the final assessment, QOL scores were 78.12 ± 9.66 and 71.83 ± 18.37 for IG and CG, respectively (P = .390).

CONCLUSION

Home nursing care was found to be effective in treating peristomal skin complications. The QOL scores achieved at the final assessment were significantly improved compared with the initial assessment. The results demonstrated the importance of follow-up after stoma surgery.

Genetic and Imaging Approaches Reveal Pro-Inflammatory and Immunoregulatory Roles of Mast Cells in Contact Hypersensitivity

Contact hypersensitivity (CHS) is a common T cell-mediated skin disease induced by epicutaneous sensitization to haptens. Mast cells (MCs) are widely deployed in the skin and can be activated during CHS responses to secrete diverse products, including some with pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions. Conflicting results have been obtained regarding pathogenic versus protective roles of MCs in CHS, and this has been attributed in part to the limitations of certain models for studying MC functions in vivo. This review discusses recent advances in the development and analysis of mouse models to investigate the roles of MCs and MC-associated products in vivo. Notably, fluorescent avidin-based two-photon imaging approaches enable in vivo selective labeling and simultaneous tracking of MC secretory granules (e.g., during MC degranulation) and MC gene activation by real-time longitudinal intravital microscopy in living mice. The combination of such genetic and imaging tools has shed new light on the controversial role played by MCs in mouse models of CHS. On the one hand, they can amplify CHS responses of mild severity while, on the other hand, can limit the inflammation and tissue injury associated with more severe or chronic models, in part by representing an initial source of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10.

Skin Clips are Contraindicated when there is Nickel Allergy

Four patients are described who developed generalized dermatitis following surgical wound closure with disposable skin clips. In 3 of them a vesicular palmar eczema was a prominent feature. They were found to have contact allergy to nickel, a component of the clips. If skin clips are to be used to close a surgical wound, it should be established that the patient is not allergic to nickel.

Contact Dermatitis Reaction to 2-Octyl Cyanoacrylate Following 3 Orthopedic Procedures

Two-octyl cyanoacrylate is a popular skin adhesive used for closing surgical incisions. Since Food and Drug Administration approval in 1998, the few reports of adverse reactions following its use have primarily been limited to the nonorthopedic literature. The authors present a case series of contact dermatitis associated with 2-octyl cyanoacrylate following orthopedic surgery and a review of the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of this complication. All 3 patients presented with blistering around their incisions within 2 weeks of surgery and responded to treatment involving removal of the offending agent and use of oral diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine and topical triamcinolone. One case was complicated by a draining hematoma, requiring irrigation and debridement. Complete resolution occurred in all cases. This case series is intended to increase awareness in the orthopedic community of allergic contact dermatitis to 2-octyl cyanoacrylate and its appropriate treatment. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(2):e289-e291.].

Systemic contact dermatitis due to corrosion of titanium-coated nickel and cobalt bone plate fixation: A case report

RATIONALE

Corrosion refers to the degradation of a material that occurs following its interaction with other substances in the environment. Corrosion of metallic substances into tissues may lead to inflammatory responses such as systemic contact dermatitis (SCD), a skin condition where an individual who has previously been sensitized to a particular allergen via the cutaneous route will subsequently react to same allergen via the systemic route. This condition occurs following exposure to allergens such as metals, medications, and certain food substances. In recent years, the use of metal plates for internal fixation has become increasingly common in bone fracture repairs.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 34-year-old Indonesian male presented with systemic erythema with itching 7 days following a bone plate fixation as a management for mandibular fracture.

DIAGNOSES

Physical examination showed pruritic red macules, papules, and scales on almost his entire body, along with facial swelling. The patch test results revealed a positive reaction to nickel and cobalt. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with SCD.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient was treated with topical and systemic corticosteroids as well as bone plate removal.

OUTCOME

After treatment, the eruption turned brown, the itching was resolved, and there were no facial swelling as well.

LESSONS

This case report highlights the need to consider the occurrence of SCD in patients following bone plate fixation.

Comparison of Hypersensitivity in Metal Ceramic Crowns cemented with Zinc Phosphate and Self-adhesive Resin: A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

Luting agents used to fix artificial prostheses, such as fixed partial denture (FPD) to tooth are basically viscous in nature and show chemical reaction for fixation. Postcementation hypersensitivity is a frequent complaint of patients. The present study was conducted to compare postcementation hypersensitivity with zinc phosphate and self-adhesive resin in complete coverage crown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 30 patients in which 60 porcelein fused to metal crowns was placed. Two metal crowns were placed in each patient in nonantagonis-tic contralateral quadrants. First crown was cemented with zinc phosphate cement, while the other was cemented with self-adhesive resin. Hypersensitivity was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) score and by clinical test. For clinical evaluation of sensitivity, hot and cold water was applied to the cervical margin of restoration for 5 seconds and response was recorded.

RESULTS

This study consisted of 30 patients in which 60 crowns were given. There was no statistical difference in VAS score of mastication in zinc phosphate cement recorded at baseline, 1 week, 4 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years (p > 0.05). Cold response also did not show a significant difference at six time points. Warm response showed slight decrease in subsequent time points but was nonsignificant (p > 0.05). Similarly, with self-adhesive resin cement, VAS score during mastication, hot and cold response was statistically nonsignificant (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Postcementation hypersensitivity is a frequent complaint that patient may experience. However, we found no statistically significant difference in both cements tested.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Postcementation hypersensitivity is an unpleasant sensation experienced by patients. This may affect the success of any prosthesis. Thus, selection of luting agent for cementation plays an important role to eliminate this symptom.

Screening for skin-sensitizing allergens among patients with clinically suspected allergic contact dermatitis

Objectives:

To detect common skin-sensitizing agents among patients experiencing allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of 152 patients with clinically suspected ACD who underwent patch testing in an allergy clinic at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between January 2012 and February 2015. Of these patients, only 74 (48%) patients reacted to one or more contact allergens. This group of patients included 58 (78.4%) women and 16 (21.6%) men (mean age: 37.8±13.8 years). Patch testing was performed using the thin-layer rapid-use epicutaneous patch test panels.

Results:

Nickel sulfate was the most common sensitizing agent, with 26 (35.1%) patients yielding a positive result; followed by p-phenylenediamine in 17 (22.9%), butyl-tetra-phenol formaldehyde in 12 (16.2%), gold sodium thiosulfate in 10 (13.5%), and thimerosal in 6 (8.1%) patients. Nickel reactivity was significantly higher among women (41.4%) than among men (12.5%) (p<0.0001). Similarly, gold reactivity among women (15.5%) was also higher than among men (6.2%) (p≤0.02).

Conclusion:

The high level of skin sensitization due to nickel, PPD, and gold in patients with ACD emphasizes the need for measures to decrease exposure to these sensitizing agents.

Debunking the Myth of Wool Allergy: Reviewing the Evidence for Immune and Non-immune Cutaneous Reactions

Although wool is commonly believed to cause irritant (non-immune) and hypersensitivity (immune) cutaneous reactions, the evidence basis for this belief and its validity for modern garments have not been critically examined. Publications from the last 100 years, using MEDLINE and Google Scholar, were analysed for evidence that wool causes cutaneous reactions, both immune-mediated (atopic dermatitis exacerbation, contact urticaria, allergic contact dermatitis) and non-immune-mediated (irritant contact dermatitis, itch). Secondary aims of this paper were to examine evidence that lanolin and textile-processing additives (formaldehyde, chromium) cause cutaneous reactions in the context of modern wool-processing techniques. Current evidence does not suggest that wool-fibre is a cutaneous allergen. Furthermore, contact allergy from lanolin, chromium and formaldehyde is highly unlikely with modern wool garments. Cutaneous irritation from wool relates to high fibre diameters (≥ 30-32 µm). Superfine and ultrafine Merino wool do not activate sufficient c-fibres to cause itch, are well tolerated and may benefit eczema management.

Topical Approaches to Improve Surgical Outcomes and Wound Healing: A Review of Efficacy and Safety

<p>Surgical procedures are an important piece of a dermatologist's daily practice. Therefore, the optimization of post-surgical wound healing is an area of utmost importance and interest. Although low risk, one notable barrier to proper wound healing is surgical site infection.</p> <p>In an attempt to mitigate this risk and improve surgical outcomes, multiple topical products continue to be used both pre- and postprocedure. Traditionally, this includes both topical antibiotics and antiseptics. However, these products are not without consequence.</p> <p>The overuse of topical antibiotics as prophylaxis for infection has contributed to increased bacterial resistance, and in fact is no longer recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology in clean post surgical wounds. Topical antiseptics, including chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine, can have a cytotoxic effect on keratinocytes and may actually impede wound healing as a result. In addition, chlorhexidine in particular can produce both otologic and ocular toxic effects when used on the face. Emerging products, such as hypochlorous acid, may be a potential alternative to the more commonly used agents, as it has effective antimicrobial actions and minimal adverse effects. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to highlight several topical products used to optimize post-surgical wound healing and discuss both their efficacy and safety.</p> <p><em>J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(3):209-212.</em></p>.

Prevalence and risk factors of contact dermatitis among clothing manufacturing employees in Beijing: A cross-sectional study

Little is known about the epidemiology of contact dermatitis (CD) in the Chinese clothing industry. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and some risk factors of contact dermatitis among clothing manufacturing employees in Beijing.This cross-sectional study was conducted by interview using self-administered questionnaires and skin examination between May and August in 2016. Five-hundred twenty-nine employees who had worked at sewing, ironing, and as managers at 12 clothing manufacturing factories were studied.The overall 1-year prevalence of CD among the clothing employees was 28.5% (151/529 employees), with significantly higher prevalence among ironing workers (50%) and sewers (31.7%) compared with managers (12.7%; P < 0.001, n = 529). A significant association was noticed between the 1-year prevalence of CD and types of occupation (sewers and ironing workers versus managers, respectively), exposure to garment materials (leather and feather), dry skin, allergic rhinitis, age, and smoking.Among employees in Chinese clothing industry, sewers and ironing workers had a higher 1-year prevalence of CD than managers. It is noteworthy that exposure to leather and feather materials and the types of manual work are associated with CD, as well as dry skin and allergic rhinitis.