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Heydarirad G, Mirzaei HR, Gharehgozlou R, Buentzel J, Namazi MR, Pasalar M. Exploring the Effectiveness of Ajwain Cream in Treating Taxane-induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Cancer Patients: A Pilot, Randomised and Double-blind Clinical Trial. Indian J Palliat Care 2024; 30:71-76. [PMID: 38633679 PMCID: PMC11021054 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_32_2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common disorder among cancer patients receiving various chemotherapeutic protocols. The present study aimed to explore the feasibility of ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi [L.] Sprague) cream in treating peripheral neuropathy symptoms triggered by taxane chemotherapeutic agents. Materials and Methods This was a pilot, double-blind, and randomised clinical trial on patients with peripheral neuropathy attributable to chemotherapy with taxane drugs during 2021-2022 in Tehran. Patients received ajwain or placebo cream for four weeks and filled out the chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy assessment tool (CIPNAT) at the start and end finale of the trial. Side effects were also noted. Results Thirty patients suffering from breast, lung, gastro-intestinal, or prostate cancer were allocated to each of the drug and placebo groups. The mean difference in CIPNAT score between the groups was 0.83, demonstrating the statistical ineffectiveness of the drug compared with the placebo (P = 0.372). The safety profile showed promising outcomes at the end of the trial. Conclusion Although the effectiveness of ajwain cream was unacceptable in treating chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy symptoms, multicentre controlled trials with ample sample size are mandatory for an all-inclusive inference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazaleh Heydarirad
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Mirzaei
- Cancer Research Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reyhaneh Gharehgozlou
- Cancer Research Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Judith Buentzel
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Mohammad Reza Namazi
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Pasalar
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Dreno B, Khosrotehrani K, De Barros Silva G, Wolf JR, Kerob D, Trombetta M, Atenguena E, Dielenseger P, Pan M, Scotte F, Krakowski I, Lacouture M. The role of dermocosmetics in the management of cancer-related skin toxicities: international expert consensus. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:672. [PMID: 37925388 PMCID: PMC10625513 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-08116-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Skin toxicities are very common in patients undergoing cancer treatment and have been found to occur with all types of cancer therapeutic interventions (cytotoxic chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy). Further, skin toxicities can lead to interruption or even discontinuation of anticancer treatment in some patients, translating to suboptimal outcomes. Dermocosmetics (or cosmeceuticals)-defined as skincare solutions incorporating dermatologically active ingredients (beyond vehicle effects) that directly improve symptoms of various skin conditions-are increasingly being used in cancer care to prevent and manage skin toxicities. The active ingredients in these products have a measurable biological action in skin; they typically improve skin integrity (barrier function/hydration and other factors) while relieving skin symptoms. The Association Francophone des Soins Oncologiques de Support (AFSOS) and Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) partnered to select a multidisciplinary group of healthcare professionals involved in the management of patients with cancer and skin toxicities. The group reviewed existing literature and created a summary of recommendations for managing these toxicities through online meetings and communication. In this publication, the group (1) reviews new skin toxicities seen with oncology drugs and (2) evaluates the role of dermocosmetics in improving patient outcomes and minimizing cancer treatment interruptions. We provide general recommendations for initiation and selection of skin care in all oncology patients as well as recommendations for what factors should be considered when using dermocosmetics in specific types of skin toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Dreno
- Nantes Université, INSERM, CNRS, Immunology and New Concepts in Immunotherapy, INCIT, UMR 1302/EMR6001. F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Kiarash Khosrotehrani
- Experimental Dermatology Group, University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Julie Ryan Wolf
- Departments of Dermatology and Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - Mark Trombetta
- Department of the Radiologic Sciences, Allegheny Health Network, Drexel University College of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Etienne Atenguena
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé Hospital General, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Pascale Dielenseger
- Research and Education for Paramedic Professionals Nursing Coordinator, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- École Des Sciences du Cancer, Université Paris Sud (XI), Paris, France
- Association Française Des Infirmières de Cancerologie (AFIC), Paris, France
| | - Meng Pan
- Department of Dermatology, Rui Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Florian Scotte
- Interdisciplinary Patient Pathway Division, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC), Aurora, Canada
| | - Ivan Krakowski
- Medical Oncologist, Bordeaux, France
- Association Francophone Des Soins Oncologiques de Support (AFSOS), Bègles, France
| | - Mario Lacouture
- Dermatology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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Abstract
Eczematous drug eruptions are a heterogenous group of skin reactions that resemble eczema both clinically and histologically. We reviewed the literature and cataloged the systemically administered medications that cause these eruptions, along with their characteristic clinical presentations. We identified three primary pathophysiologic etiologies: (1) cutaneous immunomodulation, (2) skin dehydration, and (3) delayed hypersensitivity. Notably, eczematous eruptions caused by altered immunity in the skin may be increasing in incidence as some responsible drugs, in particular biologic therapies (such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-17 inhibitors) and targeted cancer treatments (including immune checkpoint inhibitors and epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors), become more commonly employed in clinical practice. Other notable causes of eczematous eruptions include antiviral agents for hepatitis C virus and cardiovascular medications in elderly individuals, and notable subtypes of eczematous reactions include systemic contact dermatitis and photoallergic reactions, which are also discussed. The diagnostic gold standard is drug rechallenge and most reactions may be treated effectively with emollients, topical corticosteroids, and oral antihistamines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan Burgin
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 221 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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Toledo PRAB, Toci AT, Pezza HR, Pezza L. Green Determination of Urea in Moisturizers by Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy. ANAL LETT 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/00032719.2016.1255223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aline Theodoro Toci
- Latin American Institute of Science of Life and Nature, Federal University of Latin American Integration – UNILA, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Leonardo Pezza
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
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6
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Quantitative changes in skin composition parameters due to chemotherapy in breast cancer patients: a cohort study. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10549-015-3502-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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7
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Skin hydration in postmenopausal women: argan oil benefit with oral and/or topical use. MENOPAUSE REVIEW 2014; 13:280-8. [PMID: 26327867 PMCID: PMC4520377 DOI: 10.5114/pm.2014.46470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 07/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of daily consumption and/or application of argan oil on skin hydration in postmenopausal women. Material and methods Sixty postmenopausal women consumed butter during the stabilization period and were randomly divided into two groups for the intervention period: the treatment group absorbed alimentary argan oil (n = 30) and the control group olive oil (n = 30). Both groups applied cosmetic argan oil in the left volar forearm during a sixty days’ period. Evaluation of skin hydration, i.e. transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and water content of the epidermis (WCE) on both volar forearms of the two groups, were performed during three visits at D0, D30 and after sixty days (D60) of oils treatment. Results The consumption of argan oil has led to a significant decrease in TEWL (p = 0.023) and a significant increase in WCE (p = 0.001). The application of argan oil has led to a significant decrease in TEWL (p = 0.01) and a significant increase in WCE (p < 0.001). Conclusions Our findings suggest that the daily consumption and application of argan oil have improved the skin hydration by restoring the barrier function and maintaining the water-holding capacity.
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Dreno B, Araviiskaia E, Berardesca E, Bieber T, Hawk J, Sanchez-Viera M, Wolkenstein P. The science of dermocosmetics and its role in dermatology. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2014; 28:1409-17. [PMID: 24684296 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Our increased knowledge of normal skin physiology has ushered in a subtle revolution in cosmetic science. Originally designed as preparations to enhance personal appearance by direct application on to the skin, cosmetics have now taken on a new role in dermatology, through the support of the management of many skin disorders. This evolving role of cosmetics in skin care is primarily due to scientific and technological advancements that have changed our understanding of normal skin physiology and how cosmetics modify its appearance both physically and biologically. The vast array of techniques currently available to investigate skin responsivity to multiple stimuli has brought about a new era in cosmetic and dermocosmetic development based on a robust understanding of skin physiology and its varied responses to commonly encountered environmental insults. Most cosmetic research is undertaken on reconstructed skin models crucial in dermatological research, given the strict ban imposed by the European Union on animal testing. In addition, the design and conduct of trials evaluating cosmetics now follow rules comparable to those used in the development and evaluation of pharmaceutical products. Cosmetic research should now aim to ensure all trials adhere to strictly reproducible and scientifically sound methodologies. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the multidisciplinary scientific approach used in formulating dermocosmetics, and to examine the major advances in dermocosmetic development and assessment, the safety and regulatory guidelines governing their production and the exciting future outlook for these dermocosmetic processes following good practice rules.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Dreno
- Department of Dermato Cancerology, Nantes University, Nantes, France
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9
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Bensadoun RJ, Humbert P, Krutman J, Luger T, Triller R, Rougier A, Seite S, Dreno B. Daily baseline skin care in the prevention, treatment, and supportive care of skin toxicity in oncology patients: recommendations from a multinational expert panel. Cancer Manag Res 2013; 5:401-8. [PMID: 24353440 PMCID: PMC3862511 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s52256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Skin reactions due to radiotherapy and chemotherapy are a significant problem for an important number of cancer patients. While effective for treating cancer, they disturb cutaneous barrier function, causing a reaction soon after initiation of treatment that impacts patient quality of life. Managing these symptoms with cosmetics and nonpharmaceutical skin care products for camouflage or personal hygiene may be important for increasing patient self-esteem. However, inappropriate product choice or use could worsen side effects. Although recommendations exist for the pharmaceutical treatment of skin reactions, there are no recommendations for the choice or use of dermatologic skin care products for oncology patients. The present guidelines were developed by a board of European experts in dermatology and oncology to provide cancer care professionals with guidance for the appropriate use of non-pharmaceutical, dermocosmetic skin care management of cutaneous toxicities associated with radiotherapy and systemic chemotherapy, including epidermal growth factor inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies. The experts hope that these recommendations will improve the management of cutaneous side effects and hence quality of life for oncology patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phillipe Humbert
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Jean Krutman
- IUF-Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Heinrich-Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Luger
- Department of Dermatology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Raoul Triller
- Centre of Dermatology, Hertford British Hospital, Levallois-Perret, France
| | - André Rougier
- La Roche-Posay Laboratoire Pharmaceutique, Asnières, France
| | - Sophie Seite
- La Roche-Posay Laboratoire Pharmaceutique, Asnières, France
| | - Brigitte Dreno
- Department of Cancero-Dermatology, Hôtel Dieu, CHU Nantes, France
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Saier MH. Microcompartments and protein machines in prokaryotes. J Mol Microbiol Biotechnol 2013; 23:243-69. [PMID: 23920489 DOI: 10.1159/000351625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The prokaryotic cell was once thought of as a 'bag of enzymes' with little or no intracellular compartmentalization. In this view, most reactions essential for life occurred as a consequence of random molecular collisions involving substrates, cofactors and cytoplasmic enzymes. Our current conception of a prokaryote is far from this view. We now consider a bacterium or an archaeon as a highly structured, nonrandom collection of functional membrane-embedded and proteinaceous molecular machines, each of which serves a specialized function. In this article we shall present an overview of such microcompartments including (1) the bacterial cytoskeleton and the apparati allowing DNA segregation during cell division; (2) energy transduction apparati involving light-driven proton pumping and ion gradient-driven ATP synthesis; (3) prokaryotic motility and taxis machines that mediate cell movements in response to gradients of chemicals and physical forces; (4) machines of protein folding, secretion and degradation; (5) metabolosomes carrying out specific chemical reactions; (6) 24-hour clocks allowing bacteria to coordinate their metabolic activities with the daily solar cycle, and (7) proteinaceous membrane compartmentalized structures such as sulfur granules and gas vacuoles. Membrane-bound prokaryotic organelles were considered in a recent Journal of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology written symposium concerned with membranous compartmentalization in bacteria [J Mol Microbiol Biotechnol 2013;23:1-192]. By contrast, in this symposium, we focus on proteinaceous microcompartments. These two symposia, taken together, provide the interested reader with an objective view of the remarkable complexity of what was once thought of as a simple noncompartmentalized cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milton H Saier
- Division of Biological Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, Calif. 92093-0116, USA.
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11
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Dreno B, Bensadoun RJ, Humbert P, Krutmann J, Luger T, Triller R, Rougier A, Seité S. Algorithm for dermocosmetic use in the management of cutaneous side-effects associated with targeted therapy in oncology. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2013; 27:1071-80. [PMID: 23368717 PMCID: PMC3883088 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Currently, numerous patients who receive targeted chemotherapy for cancer suffer from disabling skin reactions due to cutaneous toxicity, which is a significant problem for an increasing number of patients and their treating physicians. In addition, using inappropriate personal hygiene products often worsens these otherwise manageable side-effects. Cosmetic products for personal hygiene and lesion camouflage are part of a patients’ well-being and an increasing number of physicians feel that they do not have adequate information to provide effective advice on concomitant cosmetic therapy. Although ample information is available in the literature on pharmaceutical treatment for cutaneous side-effects of chemotherapy, little is available for the concomitant use of dermatological skin-care products with medical treatments. The objective of this consensus study is to provide an algorithm for the appropriate use of dermatological cosmetics in the management of cutaneous toxicities associated with targeted chemotherapy such as epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors and other monoclonal antibodies. These guidelines were developed by a French and German expert group of dermatologists and an oncologist for oncologists and primary care physicians who manage oncology patients. The information in this report is based on published data and the expert group’s opinion. Due to the current lack of clinical evidence, only a review of published recommendations including suggestions for concomitant cosmetic use was conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Dreno
- Department of Cancero-Dermatology, Hôtel Dieu, CHU Nantes, France
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12
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Vergou T, Schanzer S, Richter H, Pels R, Thiede G, Patzelt A, Meinke MC, Sterry W, Fluhr JW, Lademann J. Comparison between TEWL and laser scanning microscopy measurements for the in vivo characterization of the human epidermal barrier. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2012; 5:152-158. [PMID: 22045692 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201100067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Revised: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of the skin barrier properties is important in various fields of medical treatment and cosmetology. The development and improvement of topically applied substances require an objective analysis of the skin barrier characteristics. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurement is the standard method to characterize epidermal barrier function. The most important disadvantage of this method though, is that it can be affected by different exogenous and endogenous factors, e.g. water content of the applied formulation and room temperature. In the present study, TEWL measurements are compared to laser scanning microscopic (LSM) measurements, concerning the use of these two methods for the non-invasive in vivo characterization of the epidermal barrier function. The investigations were performed prior and subsequent to treatment of dry skin with a gel mixture, developed for skin treatment after radiotherapy for cancer. The present results indicate that in vivo laser scanning microscopy is an appropriate method for the characterization of the skin barrier structure without interference by external factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theognosia Vergou
- Hospital A. Sygros, Department of Dermatology, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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13
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Darvin ME, Fluhr JW, Schanzer S, Richter H, Patzelt A, Meinke MC, Zastrow L, Golz K, Doucet O, Sterry W, Lademann J. Dermal carotenoid level and kinetics after topical and systemic administration of antioxidants: Enrichment strategies in a controlled in vivo study. J Dermatol Sci 2011; 64:53-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2011.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2011] [Revised: 04/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
The interaction of free radicals with antioxidants is a topic of increasing interest in the development of prevention strategies against skin ageing. Carotenoids can serve as marker substances for the complete antioxidative network of human skin. Recently, it has become possible to measure the carotenoids non-invasively and online using resonance Raman spectroscopy. This method has been used in various studies to investigate the interaction of carotenoid antioxidants and free radicals in human skin. In this review, the results of the selected studies are summarized and compared. It could be demonstrated that the carotenoid concentration of the skin reflects the lifestyle of individuals. A high level of carotenoids can be achieved with a healthy diet rich, for instance, in fruit and vegetables. Stress factors such as illness, UV and IR radiation of the sun, and smoking and alcohol consumption reduce the concentration of the carotenoids in the skin. It could be demonstrated that premature skin ageing was less in people with a high level of antioxidants in their tissue. Consequently, the furrows and wrinkles were not so deep and dense as in the skin of individuals with a low antioxidant level. The measurements are highly suited for the development of anti-ageing strategies and can be efficiently used in the medical diagnostics and therapy control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juergen Lademann
- Center of Experimental and Cutaneous Physiology (CCP), Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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15
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Borelli C, Bielfeldt S, Borelli S, Schaller M, Korting HC. Cream or foam in pedal skin care: towards the ideal vehicle for urea used against dry skin. Int J Cosmet Sci 2011; 33:37-43. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00576.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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16
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Kim E, Kim S, Nam GW, Lee H, Moon S, Chang I. The alkaline pH-adapted skin barrier is disrupted severely by SLS-induced irritation. Int J Cosmet Sci 2009; 31:263-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00491.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Song SP, Elias PM, Lv CZ, Shi YJ, Guang P, Zhang XJ, Feingold KR, Man MQ. Decreased cutaneous resonance running time in cured leprosy subjects. Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2009; 22:218-24. [PMID: 19648783 DOI: 10.1159/000231527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2009] [Accepted: 05/22/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Leprosy prominently involves both the skin and peripheral neural tissues and some symptoms persist after microbial cure. Because alterations in the dermis also occur in leprosy, we assessed here whether there were changes in cutaneous resonance running time (CRRT), a parameter that is influenced by collagen properties, in cured leprosy subjects. METHODS A reviscometer was used to measure the CRRT at various directions on the dorsal hand and the flexural forearms of 76 cured leprosy subjects aged 50-85 years and 68 age-matched normal subjects. RESULTS In comparison to normal subjects, CRRTs on the hands and the forearms were significantly reduced in all directions in cured leprosy, except at the 1-7, 2-8 and 3-9 o'clock directions on the forearms. CRRTs were reduced significantly at both the 4-10 and 5-11 o'clock directions on the forearm in lepromatous (73.33 +/- 4.19 at 4-10 o'clock and 67.44 +/- 2.71 at 5-11 o'clock direction) and borderline lepromatous types (77.58 +/- 5.84 at 4-10 o'clock and 79.85 +/- 6.81 at 5-11 o'clock direction) as compared with normal (143.10 +/- 7.75 at 4-10 o'clock and 125.18 +/- 8.14 at 5-11 o'clock direction). On the hand, CRRTs at all directions, except that at 4-10 o'clock direction, were also significantly reduced in lepromatous and borderline lepromatous types in comparison with normal. Significant differences in CRRT at some directions were found among the various subtypes of leprosy. CONCLUSION CRRTs were abnormal in the cured leprosy subjects as a whole, but varied with leprosy subtypes, which suggested that the extent of reduction of CRRTs correlates with the severity of immune alteration. These results suggest that CRRT measurements could be a useful approach to quantify the extent of some residual abnormalities in cured leprosy and perhaps could also be used to evaluate the efficacy of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P Song
- Dalian Skin Disease Hospital, Liaoning, China
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