Fluorescence spectroscopy as a tool to detect and evaluate glucocorticoid-induced skin atrophy

Is inhaled glucocorticoids the only culprit in angina bullosa hemorrhagica?

Angina bullosa hemorrhagica (ABH) is an infrequent dermatosis characterized by acute onset of hemorrhagic bulla in the oral cavity. Clinical presentation of ABH may be quite worrisome, and clinicians often feel skeptical regarding their clinical diagnosis and lack confidence in managing this distinct entity. Indeed, ABH is a completely benign and self-limited disorder. The exact etiopathogenesis of ABH is still unknown. There have been reports in the literature addressing a central role for mechanical instability of the epithelial-connective tissue connection in the pathogenesis of ABH. Moreover, it has been claimed that long-term usage of inhaled glucocorticoids (GCs) is involved in the development of ABH, since most of the reported cases are asthmatic patients, who were treated with inhaled GCs, and GCs are well known for their degradative activities on collagen formation. Here, we describe a case with ABH, who had a drug history of inhaled GCs and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). We assume that our case not only supports the association of inhaled GCs with ABH but also suggests a possible role for NSAIDs in the pathogenesis of ABH.

A novel optical approach to intraoperative detection of parathyroid glands

BACKGROUND

Inadvertent removal of parathyroid glands is a challenge in endocrine operations. There is a critical need for a diagnostic tool that provides sensitive, real-time parathyroid detection during procedures. We have developed an intraoperative technique using near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence for in vivo, real-time detection of the parathyroid regardless of its pathologic state.

METHODS

NIR fluorescence was measured intraoperatively from 45 patients undergoing parathyroidectomy and thyroidectomy. Spectra were measured from the parathyroid and surrounding neck tissues during the operation with the use of a portable, probe-based fluorescence system at 785-nm excitation. Accuracy was evaluated by comparison with histology or visual recognition by the surgeon.

RESULTS

NIR fluorescence detected the parathyroid in 100% of patients. Parathyroid fluorescence was stronger (1.2-18 times) than that of the thyroid with peak fluorescence at 822 nm. Surrounding tissues showed no auto-fluorescence. Disease state did not affect the ability to discriminate parathyroid glands but may account for signal variability.

CONCLUSION

NIR fluorescence spectroscopy can detect intraoperatively the parathyroid regardless of tissue pathology. The signal may be caused by calcium-sensing receptors present in the parathyroid. The signal strength and consistency indicates the simplicity and effectiveness of this method. Its implementation may limit operative time, decrease costs, and improve operative success rates.