European expert consensus statement on the systemic treatment of alopecia areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune form of non-scarring hair loss. It is usually characterized by limited areas of hair loss. However, the disease may progress to complete scalp and body hair loss (alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis). In patients with alopecia areata hair loss significantly impacts the quality of life. Children and adolescents with alopecia areata often experience bullying, including physical aggression. The disease severity evaluation tools used in clinical practice are: the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score and the Alopecia Areata Scale (AAS). A SALT score equal to or greater than 20 constitutes a commonly accepted indication for systemic therapy in alopecia areata. When using the AAS, moderate to severe alopecia areata should be considered a medical indication for systemic treatment. Currently, the only two EMA-approved medications for alopecia areata are baricitinib (JAK 1/2 inhibitor) for adults and ritlecitinib (JAK 3/TEC inhibitor) for individuals aged 12 and older. Both are EMA-approved for patients with severe alopecia areata. Other systemic medications used off-label in alopecia areata include glucocorticosteroids, cyclosporine, methotrexate and azathioprine. Oral minoxidil is considered an adjuvant therapy with limited data confirming its possible efficacy. This consensus statement is to outline a systemic treatment algorithm for alopecia areata, indications for systemic treatment, available therapeutic options, their efficacy and safety, as well as the duration of the therapy.

Inappropriate prescribing in geriatric rural primary care: impact on adverse outcomes and relevant risk factors in a prospective observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

Several tools have revealed an association between potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) and adverse outcomes, but the one most fitted for the rural population has not been determined.

AIMS

We investigated the performance of the Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions (STOPP) and Screening Tool to Alert doctors to the Right Treatment (START) in identifying inappropriate prescribing and its association with adverse outcomes among older rural primary health care users.

METHODS

A cohort of consenting outpatients aged ≥ 65 years in a rural Greek primary care center was assessed for PIM and potential prescribing omissions (PPO) using the START/STOPP version 2 criteria. Medications, comorbidities, functional status, and laboratory data were recorded along with 6-month incidence of emergency department visits, hospitalization, and death prospectively.

RESULTS

Among 104 participants (median age 78 years, 49.1% women, receiving a median of 6 drugs), PPO was found in 78% and PIMs in 61%. PIM was multivariately correlated with multimorbidity (p = 0.029) and polypharmacy (p < 0,001), while drug-PPO was only associated with multimorbidity (p = 0.039). The number of PIM predicted emergency department visits and hospitalizations at 6-month follow-up (p value 0.011), independent of age, sex, frailty, comorbidities, and total medication number.

DISCUSSION

The START/STOPP tool is useful in identifying inappropriate prescribing patterns leading to increased utilization of acute care services in older adults followed at a rural primary care setting.

CONCLUSION

Inappropriate prescribing as identified by the START/STOPP criteria is prevalent among older adults with multimorbidity in rural primary care, and independently associated with future acute care visits.

A real-world, non-interventional, prospective study of the effectiveness and safety of apremilast in bio-naïve adults with moderate plaque psoriasis treated in the routine care in Greece - The 'APRAISAL' study

BACKGROUND

Real-world data in patients with moderate psoriasis treated with apremilast is limited.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of apremilast in bio-naïve patients with moderate psoriasis in real-world clinical settings.

METHODS

This was a 52-week multicenter, observational, prospective study of adult outpatients with moderate psoriasis {[10%<body surface area<20% or 10<psoriasis area severity index (PASI)<20] and 10<dermatology quality of life index (DLQI)<20} initiated on apremilast ≤7 days before enrollment. Missing data were imputed using the last observation carried forward method.

RESULTS

A total of 287 eligible patients (median age: 54.2 years; median psoriasis duration: 9.8 years) were consecutively enrolled. At baseline, the median DLQI and PASI scores were 12.0 and 11.8, respectively. The 52-week DLQI ≤5 and PASI75 response rates were 68.3% and 61.0%. At 52 weeks, 70.8% and 72.7% of the patients shifted from moderate/severe/very severe to clear/minimal scalp and palmoplantar psoriasis involvement, respectively; the pruritus severity state improved in 67.2%. The 52-week Kaplan-Meier estimated drug continuation rate was 85.3%. The adverse drug reaction rate was 19.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Apremilast is a safe and effective treatment for bio-naïve patients with moderate psoriasis and specific psoriasis manifestations.

European recommendations for management of immune checkpoint inhibitors-derived dermatologic adverse events. The EADV task force 'Dermatology for cancer patients' position statement

The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) opened a new era in oncologic therapy. The favourable profile of ICIs in terms of efficacy and safety can be overshadowed by the development of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Dermatologic irAEs (dirAEs) appear in about 40% of patients undergoing immunotherapy and mainly include maculopapular, psoriasiform, lichenoid and eczematous rashes, auto-immune bullous disorders, pigmentary disorders, pruritus, oral mucosal lesions, hair and nail changes, as well as a few rare and potentially life-threatening toxicities. The EADV task force Dermatology for Cancer Patients merged the clinical experience of the so-far published data, incorporated the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of each specific dirAEs, and released dermatology-derived, phenotype-specific treatment recommendations for cutaneous toxicities (including levels of evidence and grades of recommendation). The basic principle of management is that the interventions should be tailored to serve the equilibrium between patients' relief from the symptoms and signs of skin toxicity and the preservation of an unimpeded oncologic treatment.

Clinical and dermatoscopic predictors of squamous cell carcinoma of the lips: a case-control, multicentric study

BACKGROUND

Squamous cell carcinoma of the lip accounts for 20% of all oral carcinomas. Its diagnosis may be challenging because it clinically resembles actinic cheilitis and inflammatory lesions of the lips.

OBJECTIVES

To determine clinical and dermatoscopic predictors of squamous cell carcinoma of the lip vs. other lip lesions.

METHODS

Multicentre retrospective morphological study, including histologically confirmed cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the lip and controls consisting of actinic cheilitis and inflammatory lesions of the lips. Clinical and dermatoscopic images were evaluated for the presence of predefined criteria. Crude and adjusted odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 177 lip lesions were evaluated, 107 (60.5%) were squamous cell carcinomas and 70 (39.5%) were controls. The most frequent dermatoscopic criteria of lip squamous cell carcinoma were scales (100%), white halos (87.3%) and ulceration (79.4%). The majority of squamous cell carcinomas displayed polymorphic vessels (60.8%), with linear (68.6%) and hairpin (67.6%) being the most frequent types. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that clinical predictors of lip squamous cell carcinoma were exophytic appearance and clinical hyperkeratosis, with 43-fold and 6-fold higher probability respectively. White clods and ulceration in dermoscopy presented a 6-fold and 4-fold increased risk for squamous cell carcinoma respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A scaly lesion with exophytic growth, dermatoscopically displaying white clods, ulceration and linear and hairpin vessels is very likely a squamous cell carcinoma of the lip.

Effectiveness and safety of apremilast in biologic-naïve patients with moderate psoriasis treated in routine clinical practice in Greece: the APRAISAL study

BACKGROUND

Apremilast is an oral phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor indicated for patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effectiveness of apremilast on Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and nail, scalp and palmoplantar involvement, when administered prior to biologics.

METHODS

This 52-week real-world study included biologic-naive adults with moderate psoriasis (psoriasis-involved body surface area 10% to <20%, or PASI 10 to <20 and DLQI 10 to <20). Apremilast was initiated ≤7 days before enrolment. Data from the first 100 eligible patients who completed 24 weeks (W24) of observation (or were prematurely withdrawn) are presented in this interim analysis using the last-observation-carried-forward imputation method.

RESULTS

Eligible patients (mean age: 49.9 years; 71.0% males; median disease duration: 8.0 years) were consecutively enrolled between April and October 2017, by 18 dermatology specialists practising in hospital outpatient settings in Greece. Baseline DLQI (median: 12.0) and PASI (median: 11.7) scores improved (P < 0.001) at all postbaseline timepoints (Weeks 6, 16 and 24; W24 median decreases: 9.0 and 9.4 points respectively). At W24, DLQI ≤5, DLQI 0 or 1, and PASI-75 response rates were 63.0%, 25.0% and 48.0% respectively. The Nail Psoriasis Severity Index score in patients with baseline nail involvement (n = 57) decreased at all postbaseline timepoints (P < 0.001; W24 median decrease: 20.0 points). At W24, 50.0% and 51.7% of patients with baseline scalp (n = 76) and palmoplantar (n = 29) involvement respectively achieved postbaseline Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) score of 0 or 1 if baseline score was ≥3, or 0 if baseline score was 1 or 2. The adverse drug reaction rate was 21.0% (serious: 2.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

These interim results indicate that through 24 weeks, apremilast improved quality of life and reduced disease severity in biologic-naive patients with moderate plaque psoriasis, while demonstrating safety consistent with the known safety profile.

Standardization of dermoscopic terminology and basic dermoscopic parameters to evaluate in general dermatology (non-neoplastic dermatoses): an expert consensus on behalf of the International Dermoscopy Society

BACKGROUND

Over the last few years, several articles on dermoscopy of non-neoplastic dermatoses have been published, yet there is poor consistency in the terminology among different studies.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to standardize the dermoscopic terminology and identify basic parameters to evaluate in non-neoplastic dermatoses through an expert consensus.

METHODS

The modified Delphi method was followed, with two phases: (i) identification of a list of possible items based on a systematic literature review and (ii) selection of parameters by a panel of experts through a three-step iterative procedure (blinded e-mail interaction in rounds 1 and 3 and a face-to-face meeting in round 2). Initial panellists were recruited via e-mail from all over the world based on their expertise on dermoscopy of non-neoplastic dermatoses.

RESULTS

Twenty-four international experts took part in all rounds of the consensus and 13 further international participants were also involved in round 2. Five standardized basic parameters were identified: (i) vessels (including morphology and distribution); (ii) scales (including colour and distribution); (iii) follicular findings; (iv) 'other structures' (including colour and morphology); and (v) 'specific clues'. For each of them, possible variables were selected, with a total of 31 different subitems reaching agreement at the end of the consensus (all of the 29 proposed initially plus two more added in the course of the consensus procedure).

CONCLUSIONS

This expert consensus provides a set of standardized basic dermoscopic parameters to follow when evaluating inflammatory, infiltrative and infectious dermatoses. This tool, if adopted by clinicians and researchers in this field, is likely to enhance the reproducibility and comparability of existing and future research findings and uniformly expand the universal knowledge on dermoscopy in general dermatology. What's already known about this topic? Over the last few years, several papers have been published attempting to describe the dermoscopic features of non-neoplastic dermatoses, yet there is poor consistency in the terminology among different studies. What does this study add? The present expert consensus provides a set of standardized basic dermoscopic parameters to follow when evaluating inflammatory, infiltrative and infectious dermatoses. This consensus should enhance the reproducibility and comparability of existing and future research findings and uniformly expand the universal knowledge on dermoscopy in general dermatology.

Accuracy of dermoscopic criteria for the differentiation between superficial basal cell carcinoma and Bowen's disease

BACKGROUND

The dermoscopic features of superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) and Bowen's disease (BD) have been extensively investigated, and dermoscopy was shown to significantly improve their recognition. However, incorrectly diagnosed cases still exist, with a considerable number of sBCCs dermoscopically interpreted as BD. Our aim was to investigate the dermoscopic variability in sBCC and BD on different anatomic sites, to identify potent dermoscopic predictors for each diagnosis and to investigate the potential source of the inaccurate clinico-dermoscopic diagnosis of some sBCCs.

METHODS

Dermoscopic images of histopathologically diagnosed sBCC and BD were evaluated by three independent investigators for the presence of predefined criteria. Subsequently, three independent investigators with expertise in dermoscopy classified the tumours as sBCC or BD based on the dermoscopic image. Diagnostic accuracy scores were calculated and crude and adjusted odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated by univariate and conditional multivariate logistic regression, respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 283 lesions were included in the study (194 sBCCs and 89 BD). The main dermoscopic predictors of BD were dotted vessels (7.5-fold) and glomerular vessels (12.7-fold). The presence of leaf-like areas/spoke-wheel areas/concentric structures (OR = 0.027) and arborizing vessels (OR = 0.065) has predicted sBCC. Multivariate risk factors for sBCC misclassification were the location on lower extremities (OR = 5.5), the presence of dotted vessels (OR = 59.5) and the presence of large ulceration (OR = 6.4). In contrast, the presence of brown-coloured pigmentation was a protective predictor for misdiagnosis (OR = 0.007). Finally, a subgroup analysis of lesions located on lower extremities revealed two additional potent predictors of sBCC: superficial fine telangiectasia (SFT) and whity shiny blotches/strands.

CONCLUSIONS

Dotted and glomerular vessels are strong predictors of BD. When located on the lower extremities, sBCC may also display dotted vessels, rendering its recognition problematic. On the latter anatomic site, clinicians should consider SFT and whity shiny blotches/strands as additional sBCC predictors.

Dermoscopic features of melanocytic skin lesions in Greek children and adolescents and their association with environmental factors and skin types

BACKGROUND

Acquired naevi often present in childhood and increase in number and size during early and middle life. As naevi represent potential mimickers of melanoma, the knowledge of their epidemiologic and morphologic characteristics is essential.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we intend to determine the prevalence of dermoscopic patterns of naevi, as well their association with environmental and constitutional factors.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data derived from a population-based cohort of children and adolescents aged 6-18 years, from 12 different schools in Thessaloniki, Greece. For each participant, a consent form and a questionnaire were completed, which included data on age, sex, phototype, sun sensitivity, sun exposure, sunscreen use and previous sunburn history. All naevi, their body distribution, and their dermoscopic patterns were recorded.

RESULTS

Two thousand and five hundred and five (2505) subjects were enrolled into the study (47.8% males and 52.2% females). The mean number of MN counted in a single person was 29.11 (SD = ±23.863). TNC increased continuously with higher age. Males were found to have a significantly increased number on the trunk (11.7 ± 11.2 and 10.0 ± 8.7, respectively, P < 0.001) and face and neck (6.2 ± 5.3 and 5.1 ± 4.3, respectively, P < 0.001) while females on the upper (10.3 ± 10.1 and 9.3 ± 9.4, respectively, P = 0.008) and lower extremities (2.8 ± 3.4 and 2.5 ± 3.2, respectively, P = 0.008). Globular pattern was the most frequent dominant pattern in lower age groups, and its percentage fell as age increased. On the contrary, the reticular pattern was more often documented in individuals in adolescence.

CONCLUSION

This first study of MN in our young population aims to be the basis of further investigation for the MM preventive policy of our state.

The limitations of dermoscopy: false-positive and false-negative tumours

Dermoscopy has been documented to increase the diagnostic accuracy of clinicians evaluating skin tumours, improving their ability to detect skin cancer and better recognize benign moles. However, dermoscopically 'false-positive' and 'false-negative' tumours do exist. False-positive diagnosis usually leads to unnecessary excisions. False-negative diagnosis is much more dangerous, as it might result in overlooking a cancer, with severe undesirable consequences for the patient and the physician. Therefore, management strategies should mainly focus on addressing the risk of dermoscopically false-negative tumours. The most frequent benign tumours that might acquire dermatoscopic characteristics suggestive of malignancy are seborrhoeic keratosis (SK), including solar lentigo, melanoacanthoma, irritated, clonal and regressive SK, angioma (mainly thrombosed angioma and angiokeratoma), dermatofibroma, benign adnexal tumours and naevi (Clark, Spitz, recurrent, combined, sclerosing). The most useful clues to recognize these tumours are the following: solar lentigo - broad network; melanoacanthoma - sharp border; irritated SK - regularly distributed white perivascular halos; clonal SK - classic SK criteria; regressive SK - remnants of SK; targetoid haemosiderotic haemangioma - dark centre and reddish periphery; thrombosed angioma - sharp demarcation; angiokeratoma - dark lacunae; atypical dermatofibromas - palpation; follicular tumours - white colour; sebaceous tumours - yellow colour; Clark naevi - clinical context; Spitz/Reed naevi - age; combined naevi - blue central area; recurrent naevi - pigmentation within the scar; sclerosing naevi - age and location on the upper back; blue naevi - history. Malignant tumours that might mimic benign ones and escape detection are melanoma (in situ, nevoid, spitzoid, verrucous, regressive, amelanotic), squamous cell carcinoma (mainly well-differentiated variants) and rarely basal cell carcinoma (non-pigmented variants). The most useful clues to recognize the peculiar melanoma subtypes are as follows: melanoma in situ - irregular hyperpigmented areas; nevoid melanoma - history of growth; spitzoid melanoma - age; verrucous melanoma - blue-black sign; regressive melanoma - peppering or scar-like depigmentation; amelanotic melanoma - pink colour, linear irregular vessels, dotted vessels. In this article, we summarized the most frequent dermoscopic variations of common skin tumours that are often misinterpreted, aiming to assist clinicians to reduce the number of false diagnoses.

Update on dermoscopy of Spitz/Reed naevi and management guidelines by the International Dermoscopy Society

Spitzoid lesions represent a challenging and controversial group of tumours, in terms of clinical recognition, biological behaviour and management strategies. Although Spitz naevi are considered benign tumours, their clinical and dermoscopic morphological overlap with spitzoid melanoma renders the management of spitzoid lesions particularly difficult. The controversy deepens because of the existence of tumours that cannot be safely histopathologically diagnosed as naevi or melanomas (atypical Spitz tumours). The dual objective of the present study was to provide an updated classification on dermoscopy of Spitz naevi, and management recommendations of spitzoid-looking lesions based on a consensus among experts in the field. After a detailed search of the literature for eligible studies, a data synthesis was performed from 15 studies on dermoscopy of Spitz naevi. Dermoscopically, Spitz naevi are typified by three main patterns: starburst pattern (51%), a pattern of regularly distributed dotted vessels (19%) and globular pattern with reticular depigmentation (17%). A consensus-based algorithm for the management of spitzoid lesions is proposed. According to it, dermoscopically asymmetric lesions with spitzoid features (both flat/raised and nodular) should be excised to rule out melanoma. Dermoscopically symmetric spitzoid nodules should also be excised or closely monitored, irrespective of age, to rule out atypical Spitz tumours. Dermoscopically symmetric, flat spitzoid lesions should be managed according to the age of the patient. Finally, the histopathological diagnosis of atypical Spitz tumour should warrant wide excision but not a sentinel lymph-node biopsy.

The BRAAFF checklist: a new dermoscopic algorithm for diagnosing acral melanoma

BACKGROUND

The parallel ridge pattern (PRP) is considered the dermoscopic hallmark of acral melanoma (AM). However, it was recently shown that approximately one-third of AMs do not display a PRP dermoscopically, rendering their detection more troublesome.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of dermoscopic criteria for the diagnosis of AM.

METHODS

Dermoscopic images of consecutive cases of histopathologically diagnosed AMs and acral naevi with histopathological diagnosis or with at least 1 year of follow-up were evaluated by three independent investigators for the presence of predefined criteria. Crude and adjusted odds ratios and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to choose among competing classification schemes.

RESULTS

In total 603 lesions (472 naevi and 131 AMs) were included in the study. A scoring system (named BRAAFF) composed of six variables was associated with optimal area under the curve and sensitivity for the diagnosis of AM. This method includes four positive (irregular blotches, ridge pattern, asymmetry of structures and asymmetry of colours) and two negative predictors (furrow pattern and fibrillar pattern).

CONCLUSIONS

The BRAAFF checklist significantly improves the diagnostic accuracy of dermoscopy for the diagnosis of AM.

Association of chronic plaque psoriasis and severe periodontitis: a hospital based case-control study

BACKGROUND

Both chronic plaque psoriasis and periodontitis have an increasing prevalence worldwide and have been associated with the metabolic syndrome; however limited information is available on their association.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the possible association of severe periodontitis and chronic plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

This was a hospital based case-control study. Chronic plaque psoriasis patients and age- and gender-matched controls have been recruited. Baseline demographic data have been recorded. To explore correlations between different dichotomous variables the Sperman Rho correlation coefficient was used. Correlations were further explored non-parametrically and univariate and multivariate logistic regression was utilized after adjustment for the effect of confounders.

RESULTS

During the study enrollment period 100 patients with CPP and 100 age- and gender-matched controls were included in this study. Mean age for both groups was 57.2 ± 5.3 years. 43% of patients and controls were males. Significant correlations where noted between psoriasis and 1) periodontitis (rho = 0.219, P = 0.02) and 2) metabolic syndrome (rho = 0.191, P = 0.07) using Spearman's Rho correlation co-efficient. Univariate logistic regression reported significant relations between psoriasis and periodontitis (OR = 3.329, 95%CI: 1.513-7.324, P = 0.003) and psoriasis and metabolic syndrome (OR = 2.293, 95%CI: 1.250-4.207, P = 0.007). On the contrary, a non-significant relation between psoriasis and active smoking status was detected (OR = 1.041, 95%CI: 0.597-1.817, P = 0.887). In a multivariate analysis model we found a significant correlation of psoriasis and periodontitis when controlled for the presence of metabolic syndrome (OR: 2.486, 95%CI: 1.002-5.842, P = 0.049).

CONCLUSION

Periodontitis may be associated with psoriasis but further studies are required to elucidate their relationship in the context of the biologic plausibility.

Dermoscopy of early stage mycosis fungoides

BACKGROUND

Early stage mycosis fungoides (MF) is difficult to be clinically differentiated from chronic dermatitis (CD) in a high proportion of patients. Dermoscopy is a rapid, cheep, non-invasive and widely used method for the evaluation of skin tumours and, recently, of inflammatory skin diseases, as well.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the dermoscopic pattern of early stage MF and compare it with the dermoscopic features observed in CD.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study. Dermoscopic images of lesions that were clinically equivocal between MF and CD were evaluated for the presence of predefined morphologic criteria. Diagnosis had been histopathologically and immunohistochemically confirmed in all cases. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for predefined dermoscopic criteria in relation to the diagnosis of mycosis fungoides.

RESULTS

A total of 67 dermoscopic images were selected for dermoscopic evaluation. Mycosis fungoides lesions exhibited a characteristic dermoscopic pattern consisting of fine short linear vessels (sensitivity 93.7%, specificity 97.1%) and orange-yellowish patchy areas (sensitivity 90.6%, specificity 99.7%). A characteristic vascular structure resembling spermatozoa was also found to be highly specific for the diagnosis of mycosis fungoides. CD was typified by a different dermoscopic pattern, usually consisting of dotted vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

These observations provide a first indication that early stage MF exhibits a characteristic dermoscopic pattern which is different from CD. Prospective studies with long term follow-up are needed to determine the value of these dermoscopic criteria in the differentiation between the two entities in the daily routine.

Dermoscopic features in the diagnosis of different types of basal cell carcinoma: a prospective analysis

BACKGROUND

There is limited data on dermoscopic features of basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). We evaluated the presence of dermoscopic features in superficial (sBCCs), nodular (nBCCs), pigmented and non-pigmented BCCs in order to evaluate the role of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of different subtypes of BCCs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the presence of dermoscopic features in superficial, nodular, pigmented and non - pigmented BCCs. One hundred thirty eight lesions (42 superficial, 96 nodular, 102 pigmented and 36 non-pigmented) were assessed by dermoscopy.

RESULTS

The most significant features in all categories, were a scattered vascular pattern, featureless areas, atypical red vessels, arborizing vessels, comma vessels, background of white-red structureless areas and telangiectasias. Haemorrhage-ulceration, hypopigmented areas and blue-grey ovoid nests were all more likely to be observed in sBCCs, than in nBCCs (p < 0.0001). Arborizing and atypical red vessels in addition to featureless areas, were more frequent in nodular than in sBCCs (p < 0.0001). Telangectasias, white-red structureless areas, red dots and red globules were more common in non- pigmented than in pigmented BCCs (p <0.0001). In addition, a significant difference of arborizing vessels was detected in pigmented lesions in comparison to non-pigmented (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

There is limited data on dermoscopic features of basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). We evaluated the presence of dermoscopic features in superficial (sBCCs), nodular (nBCCs), pigmented and non-pigmented BCCs in order to evaluate the role of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of different subtypes of BCCs.

Safety of anti-tumour necrosis factor-α agents in psoriasis patients who were chronic hepatitis B carriers: a retrospective report of seven patients and brief review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Issues concerning the potential risks of reactivating chronic hepatitis B virus arise when the use of anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor-α (TNFα) agents is imperative in patients with concurrent psoriasis and hepatitis B virus infection.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to report the experience regarding safety in the management of patients with coexisting psoriasis and chronic hepatitis B with the anti-TNFα agents: infliximab, etanercept and adalimumab.

METHODS

The psoriasis outpatient database of our dermatological department was searched for psoriasis and hepatitis B diagnoses and the medical records of these patients were reviewed for use of anti-TNFα agents.

RESULTS

Seven cases (four women and three men) were identified, with mean age of 51years (34-65years). Three patients received adalimumab, three patients were given etanercept and one infliximab. All patients received lamivudin, 100mg/day, which started 2weeks before the initiation of anti-TNFα medication and went on during the whole treatment period. Follow-up period extended from 6-24months. All patients were inactive HbsAg (+) carriers. Liver function tests - at baseline and at the end of follow-up period - were within the normal range. There was no considerable rise in the viral load in any case, from baseline until the last available measurement, although a patient receiving infliximab showed an increase that reached 600 IU/mL.

CONCLUSION

Successful treatment of psoriasis with anti-TNFα agents in patients who are inactive HBsAg carriers is possible and could be safe under the conditions of concomitant lamivudin administration and intensive monitoring. Larger randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Investigation of cytokine levels and their association with SCORAD index in adults with acute atopic dermatitis

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with increasing frequency over the last decades, especially in adults. Cytokines orchestrate atopic skin inflammation. Objectives  The aim of this study was to compare serum levels of cytokines in adult patients with acute AD (AD1) with other groups of AD patients and controls and investigate the possible association between such cytokines and disease severity.

METHODS

We measured cytokine levels using flow cytometry in 21 adult patients with acute AD, 12 adults with chronic AD, 10 children with acute AD and 10 healthy adults.

RESULTS

Flow cytometry analysis of cytokines revealed that interleukin 10 (IL-10), IL-6, interferon γ (IFN-γ) and IL-4 levels were significantly decreased in AD1 group compared with controls, whereas IL-2 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) did not differ. Comparison of AD1 group with adults chronic phase group showed that IgE, eosinophil and IL-2 levels remained unaltered, whereas IL-10, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-4 and TNF were significantly decreased. SCORAD and IgE levels were significantly increased, IL-10, IL-6 and IFN-γ were decreased and TNF, IL-2, IL-4 and eosinophil levels remained unchanged in AD1 group compared with children acute phase group. Within AD1 group correlation analysis revealed that IgE and TNF levels were significantly associated with AD severity. Coefficient of determination analysis revealed that TNF and IgE levels could explain 49.14% and 35.28% of the variance of SCORAD.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that serum IgE and TNF levels correlate with AD severity and that serum cytokines are downregulated in AD1 group. Further studies are clearly needed to elucidate cytokines' role in adults with AD.