Lymphocytes, cytokines and adhesion molecules in chronic graft versus host disease

Aims-To determine which inflammatory and immune pathways are implicated in the development of chronic graft versus host disease (GvHD) and whether differences between these pathways are responsible for the different presentations of chronic GvHD.Methods-Biopsy specimens of diseased and normal skin were obtained from patients presenting with lichen planus-like and sclerodermatous type chronic GvHD. Expression of epidermal cytokines, adhesion molecules and lymphoid surface markers was analysed by means of immunohistochemistry. Apoptosis was detected using the in situ nick endlabelling method.Results-In both GvHD lesion types, CD8+ cells predominated in the epidermis, whereas CD4+ cells were the most prevalentin the dermis. Apoptotickeratinocytes were found in diseased skin only and Fas antibodies labelled a considerable number of keratinocytes. The epidermis in both types of lesions expressed interleukin (IL) 1alpha, tumour necrosis factor (TNF) alpha and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, but dermal vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 expression was restricted to specimens of lichen planus-like GvHD. IL1alpha and E-selectin were expressed in normal looking skin of 55% and 80%, respectively, of patients with lichen planus-like GvHD.Conclusion-The similarity between expression of epidermal cytokines and adhesion molecules (with the exception of VCAM-1) and lymphocyte phenotype in lichen planus-like and sclerodermatous GvHD strongly suggests that the latter occurs as a consequence of the healing process. VCAM-1 distinguishes between lichen planus-like and sclerodermatous lesions. IL1alpha and E-selectin are potential early markers of chronic GvHD.

[Bilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy and erythema nodosum: an uncommon presentation of cat scratch disease]

Cat scratch disease is usually revealed by a proximal lymphadenopathy related to the inoculation site. We report a 22-year-old female who presented with erythema nodosum and bilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy. Serologic test and lymph node PCR detection for Bartonella henselae were negative. Nevertheless, the patient received doxycycline and clinical manifestations rapidly resolved. A follow-up detection of IgM and IgG against Bartonella henselae performed 1 month later was positive. This case report illustrates an original presentation of cat scratch disease and reminds us the lack of sensitivity of laboratory investigations.

Efficacy of tacrolimus 0.03% ointment as second-line treatment for children with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: evidence from a randomized, double-blind non-inferiority trial vs. fluticasone 0.005% ointment

Tacrolimus 0.03% ointment is licensed for second-line treatment of children with atopic dermatitis (AD). Although data are available from clinical trials, no study has enrolled only second-line patients. This double-blind, non-inferiority study compared tacrolimus 0.03% and fluticasone 0.005% ointments in children with moderate-to-severe AD, who had responded insufficiently to conventional therapies. Children (aged 2-15 yr) were randomized to tacrolimus ointment (n = 240) or fluticasone ointment (n = 239), twice daily until clearance or for a maximum of 3 wk and, if lesions remained, once daily for up to 3 wk further. Primary end-point was week 3 response rate (improvement of >or=60% in modified Eczema Area and Severity Index and not withdrawn for lack of efficacy). Secondary end-points included pruritus and sleep quality, global assessment of clinical response, incidence of new flares and safety. Response rates were 86.3% with tacrolimus ointment and 91.5% with fluticasone. Lower limit of the 95% confidence interval was -11.8%, exceeding the non-inferiority limit of -15% and meeting the primary end-point. Moderate or better improvement on the physicians' global assessment occurred in 93.6% and 92.4% of patients in the tacrolimus ointment and fluticasone arms, respectively, while median pruritus scores improved by 84.0% and 91.5%. Sleep quality improved by approximately 92% in both treatment arms. After day 21, new flare-up occurred in 5.5% and 11.3% of patients receiving tacrolimus ointment and fluticasone, respectively; mean times to new flares were 6.5 +/- 5.0 and 8.6 +/- 5.2 days. Adverse events were similar between the two arms, with the exception of application-site skin burning sensation in the tacrolimus ointment group. In conclusion, efficacy of tacrolimus 0.03% ointment as second-line treatment was not inferior to that of fluticasone 0.005% ointment, with similar benefits on global disease improvement and quality of sleep.

European S3-guidelines on the systemic treatment of psoriasis vulgaris

Of the 131 studies on monotherapy or combination therapy assessed, 56 studies on the different forms of phototherapy fulfilled the criteria for inclusion in the guidelines. Approximately three-quarters of all patients treated with phototherapy attained at least a PASI 75 response after 4 to 6 weeks, and clearance was frequently achieved (levels of evidence 2 and 3). Phototherapy represents a safe and very effective treatment option for moderate to severe forms of psoriasis vulgaris. The onset of clinical effects occurs within 2 weeks. Of the unwanted side effects, UV erythema from overexposure is by far the most common and is observed frequently. With repeated or long-term use, the consequences of high, cumulative UV doses (such as premature aging of the skin) must be taken into consideration. In addition, carcinogenic risk is associated with oral PUVA and is probable for local PUVA and UVB. The practicability of the therapy is limited by spatial, financial, human, and time constraints on the part of the physician, as well as by the amount of time required by the patient. From the perspective of the cost-bearing institution, phototherapy has a good cost-benefit ratio. However, the potentially significant costs for, and time required of, the patient must be considered.

Superiority of tacrolimus 0.1% ointment compared with fluticasone 0.005% in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis of the face: results from a randomized, double-blind trial

BACKGROUND

No specific data are available on tacrolimus ointment as a second-line treatment in adults with facial eczema.

OBJECTIVES

To compare tacrolimus 0.1% and fluticasone 0.005% ointments in adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) of the face in whom conventional treatment was ineffective or poorly tolerated.

METHODS

Patients were randomized to double-blind treatment of facial AD with twice-daily tacrolimus ointment (n = 288) or fluticasone ointment (n = 280) for 3 weeks or until clearance. After day 21, patients could continue without the study treatment, apply the same ointment once daily, or switch to the other medication twice daily, depending on lesion clearance and patient/physician satisfaction. The primary endpoint was the day-21 response [> or = 60% reduction in the modified Local Eczema and Severity Index (mLEASI) score]. Secondary endpoints included facial erythema and pruritus, global clinical response, treatment switching at day 21 and safety. RESULTS Response with tacrolimus ointment (93%) was superior to that with fluticasone (88%; P = 0.026). Improvements in mLEASI components were also greater with tacrolimus ointment. Facial erythema and pruritus improved in both groups. Global clinical response was rated 'marked improvement' or better in 88% and 79% of patients in the tacrolimus ointment and fluticasone groups, respectively. At day 21, 9% of patients switched from fluticasone to tacrolimus ointment, while 4.5% switched from tacrolimus ointment to fluticasone. Adverse events were more frequent with tacrolimus ointment as a result of the higher incidence of application-site skin burning sensation. Safety of both drugs was in line with their respective summary of product characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Tacrolimus 0.1% ointment has superior efficacy to fluticasone 0.005% ointment for twice-daily treatment of adults with moderate to severe facial AD in whom conventional therapy was inadequately effective or not tolerated. Tacrolimus 0.1% ointment is a safe and effective second-line treatment for the control of moderate to severe AD of the face.

[Systematic screening for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the nasal cavities of patients hospitalized in the dermatology departments of the Saint-Louis Hospital]

OBJECTIVES

In a bid to combat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) more efficiently in our department, we performed a study to 1) clarify the MRSA carriage rate in patients hospitalized in the department; 2) evaluate the rate of MRSA acquisition during hospitalization; 3) describe the MRSA carrier profile; 4) study the morbidity and mortality associated with MRSA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a three-month prospective study in all patients hospitalized for more than 24hours in the dermatology department of the Saint-Louis Hospital. Nasal swab cultures were performed on the day of admission, once a week thereafter and on the day of discharge. Clinical and epidemiological data were individually reviewed by means of a standardized questionnaire.

RESULTS

In 310 patients, the prevalence of nasal MRSA carriage at admission was 6.5%. During hospitalization, 1.9% of our patients became colonized with MRSA. MRSA carriers were significantly older than non-carriers and had been hospitalized more frequently over the previous 12 months, principally in intensive care or in intermediate or long-term care facilities, and erosive and/or ulcerated dermatitis was more common in this population. Of the 27 patients colonized with MRSA, only three had MRSA infections, and these were successfully treated with antibiotics.

DISCUSSION

The observed rate of MRSA carriage was close to that seen in intensive care units (7%). While systematic screening for MRSA in patients with erosive and/or ulcerated dermatitis would allow detection of twice as many cases of MRSA than the usual screening recommendations, this would be associated with little tangible benefit and high costs, and we therefore decided not to change the usual MRSA screening politic in our dermatology department.

Efficacy and safety results from the randomized controlled comparative study of adalimumab vs. methotrexate vs. placebo in patients with psoriasis (CHAMPION)

BACKGROUND

Biologic therapies such as adalimumab, a tumour necrosis factor antagonist, are safe and effective in the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

OBJECTIVES

To compare a biologic agent with methotrexate, a traditional systemic agent, to define clearly the role of biologics in psoriasis.

METHODS

Patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis were randomized to adalimumab (80 mg subcutaneously at week 0, then 40 mg every other week, n=108), methotrexate (7.5 mg orally, increased as needed and as tolerated to 25 mg weekly; n=110) or placebo (n=53) for 16 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving at least a 75% improvement in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) after 16 weeks. Safety was assessed at all visits through week 16.

RESULTS

After 16 weeks, 79.6% of adalimumab-treated patients achieved PASI 75, compared with 35.5% for methotrexate (P<0.001 vs. adalimumab) and 18.9% for placebo (P<0.001 vs. adalimumab). Statistically significantly more adalimumab-treated patients (16.7%) than methotrexate-treated patients (7.3%) or placebo-treated patients (1.9%) achieved complete clearance of disease. The response to adalimumab was rapid, with a 57% improvement in mean PASI observed at week 4. Adverse events were similar across treatment groups. Adverse events leading to study discontinuation were greatest in the methotrexate group, primarily because of hepatic-related adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

After 16 weeks, adalimumab demonstrated significantly superior efficacy and more rapid improvements in psoriasis compared with either methotrexate or placebo.

[Erysipelas-like dermatitis of the legs revealing aspergilloma of the maxillary sinus]

BACKGROUND

Skin signs is associated with Aspergillus are rare and are seen principally in immunodepressed patients. Distinction is generally made between primary skin aspergillosis, caused by direct cutaneous inoculation with the offending organism, and secondary skin aspergillosis, associated with peripheral emboli from an area of chronic pulmonary or sinus mycetoma. There have been rare reports of indirect satellite skin signs resulting from Aspergillus infection, and below we present such a case.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A 40 year-old immunocompetent man consulted for erysipeloid plaques on the lower limbs recurring over a period of seven months. X-rays and CAT scans of the sinus demonstrated asymptomatic axillary sinusitis probably caused by Aspergillus. The diagnosis was confirmed by surgery, which resulted in cure without additional antifungal treatment. The inflammatory syndrome subsided and after 15 months, there was no recurrence of lesions.

DISCUSSION

The absence of relapse following treatment of the focus of aspergillosis forms a major argument in favour of a causal relationship between the erysipeloid dermatitis and the sinus mycotic infection. The hypothesis of a septic embologenic mechanism within the sinus was abandoned in favour of a mechanism similar to streptococcal nodular erythema, seen in diseases involving immune complexes, possibly caused by allergy to Aspergillus proteins. This case history demonstrates the existence of satellite skin signs of Aspergillus infection indicative of neither primary nor secondary aspergillosis.

A follow-up study in 28 patients treated with infliximab for severe recalcitrant psoriasis: evidence for efficacy and high incidence of biological autoimmunity

BACKGROUND

Infliximab, an antitumour necrosis factor-alpha chimeric monoclonal antibody, is effective for the treatment of severe psoriasis. While the induction of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and antidouble-stranded-DNA antibodies (anti-dsDNA-ab) is frequently observed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn disease receiving infliximab, the incidence of induced biological and clinical autoimmunity remains unknown in the context of psoriasis.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate biological and clinical signs of autoimmunity in 28 patients receiving infliximab for severe, recalcitrant forms of psoriasis, and the clinical response to treatment.

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients, 15 men and 13 women (median age 39.4 years) with psoriasis refractory to three or more systemic treatments were included. Twenty presented with plaque-type psoriasis [median Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score 25.9; range 7.2-48], five with psoriatic erythroderma (median PASI score 54; range 48-72) and three with generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP). Psoriatic arthritis was present in 13 patients (46.4%). Infliximab 5 mg kg(-1) was given at week (W) 0, W2, W6 and every 8 weeks thereafter. Clinical data were assessed at baseline and before each infusion. Detection of ANA and of IgM and IgG anti-dsDNA-ab were performed at baseline and at W22 by immunofluorescence and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively.

RESULTS

The mean number of infliximab infusions was 5.5 (range 2-15). Among patients with plaque-type and erythrodermic psoriasis, 17 of 25 (68%) and three of five reached a PASI improvement of 75% or more, respectively, while rapid improvement of clinical and biological signs was observed in all three patients with GPP. The prevalence of positive detection of ANA raised from 12% at baseline to 72% at W22 (P = 0.0001), an increase which was also observed for IgM anti-dsDNA-ab (68% vs. 0%, P < 0.0001), while no significant change was observed for the IgG isotype (16% vs. 0%, P = 0.125). Three patients developed nonerosive polyarthritis, without any other criteria for systemic lupus.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of biological autoimmunity is high in patients with refractory psoriasis receiving infliximab. The concomitant onset of polyarthritis in three cases raises the need to investigate the incidence of autoimmune manifestations in psoriatic patients receiving infliximab in further large-scale studies.

[Confluent and reticulate papillomatosis of Gougerot and Carteaud: a retrospective study of 9 cases]

BACKGROUND

Confluent and reticulate papillomatosis of Gougerot and Carteaud is a rare entity and a subject of controversy in terms of nosology. It has occasionally been regarded as a peculiar variant of acanthosis nigricans, pityriasis versicolor or amyloidosis.

OBJECTIVES

To discuss confluent and reticulate papillomatosis and its diagnostic criteria as a distinct entity.

METHODS

Retrospective study from 1994 to 2005 based on photographic files from 2 dermatology wards at the Saint Louis Hospital, Paris. Files containing a precise clinical description of the rash and at least one mycological element were included.

RESULTS

Nine cases were included (6 females, 3 males). These patients showed clinical features comprising elementary lesion, distribution and topography corresponding to the classical description; histology was also consistent with confluent and reticulate papillomatosis, with no signs of amylosis and negative fungal samples or failure of antifungal treatment. One patient was presenting associated acanthosis nigricans. Doxycycline was efficacious in 4 cases in which it was evaluated.

CONCLUSION

Confluent and reticulate papillomatosis is a definite entity and is not a superficial fungal disease. It must be distinguished from pityriasis versicolor as well as acanthosis nigricans and cutaneous amyloidosis. The therapeutic efficacy of oral cyclines (doxycycline or minocycline) appears to be an important distinguishing feature that can serve as a diagnostic criterion.

Inactivation of the CDKN2A and the p53 tumour suppressor genes in external genital carcinomas and their precursors

BACKGROUND

p53 has been extensively studied in external genital carcinoma (EGC), and is frequently inactivated, but little is known about the role of the CDKN2A tumour suppressor gene in the oncogenesis of EGC.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the role of CDKN2A and p53 in the pathogenesis of EGCs and their precursor lesions vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN3), penile intraepithelial neoplasia and lichen sclerosus (LS).

METHODS

By means of CDKN2A and p53 mutation screening (single-strand conformational polymorphism analysis and sequencing), methylation analysis of alternative CDKN2A promoters (methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction) and p53 immununochemistry, we analysed eight invasive EGCs (five from vulva and three from penis) and 25 precancerous lesions (two undifferentiated VIN3 and 23 vulval/penile lesions of LS) from 33 patients.

RESULTS

p53 mutations (mainly transversions) and CDKN2A mutations (including one hot spot) were present in 75% and 50% of invasive tumours, respectively, but were absent in all precancerous lesions. Remarkably, all CDKN2A-mutated tumours also harboured a p53 mutation. CDKN2A or p53 mutations were observed more frequently in LS-derived EGCs than in human papillomavirus-derived EGCs (P = 0.053). A positive anti-p53 staining, but without p53 mutations, was also detected in 30% of LS lesions, suggesting a p53 stabilization in response to inflammation and carcinogenic insult. Methylation of p16(INK4a) and p14(ARF) promoters was not a frequent mechanism of CDKN2A inactivation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows a high prevalence of co-inactivating mutations of p53 and/or CDKN2A genes in EGC, that seem to occur preferentially in LS-derived tumours and late in oncogenesis.

Recommendations for the use of etanercept in psoriasis: a European dermatology expert group consensus

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder that has a significant impact on quality of life and, particularly in moderate to severe cases, adversely affects the patient's overall health and well-being. Biological treatments, such as etanercept, are being widely adopted across Europe for treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis due to favourable safety and efficacy profiles. The increase in usage, combined with a growing body of clinical evidence, has identified a need to clarify the best use of etanercept within its current treatment label.

OBJECTIVE

To prepare a series of recommendations agreed by an expert group of dermatologists, relating to the most effective use of etanercept for psoriasis in Europe, within the product license.

METHODS

An expert panel of dermatologists from across Europe completed a Delphi survey to address the current use of etanercept in psoriasis in Europe. In June 2005 the results were presented to the expert panel at their nominal group meeting, and a consensus was agreed.

RESULTS

It was recommended that, where possible, patients are initiated on the 50 mg twice-weekly (BIW) dose. Etanercept should be given until remission is achieved (maximum 24 weeks) and retreatment should be initiated according to the physician's judgement. Before commencing treatment, contraindications, such as infection or previous malignancy (within 5 years), should be ruled out.

CONCLUSIONS

The consensus presented herein provides valuable clarification of use of etanercept according to the label, which may have wider implications relating to the use of all biological therapies in psoriasis.

[Extensive cutaneous candidiasis revealing cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: 2 cases]

BACKGROUND

During the course of immunodeficiency diseases, severe candidiasis can occur with extensive cutaneous and mucous membrane lesions. However, blood dyscrasias are very rarely revealed by diffuse candidiasis. We report two case of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma revealed by extensive and atypical cutaneous candidiasis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Case No. 1:A 72-year-old woman presented a pruritic rash of circinate, serpiginous patches on glabrous skin and skinfolds with multiple intertrigo and rapidly worsening palmoplantar keratoderma. All mycological skin specimens tested positive for Candida albicans. Histological examination of a biopsy sample from a serpiginous patch revealed the presence of fungal elements while palmoplantar keratoderma biopsy showed an epidermotropic lymphocytic infiltrate in the superficial dermis evocative of mycosis fungoides. Blood tests showed a white cell count of 28 600/mm3 with 14% circulating Sezary cells and a T-cell clone. The T-cell lymphoma was treated with methotrexate, but the disease worsened a few months later, progressing to CD30- large T-cell pleomorphic lymphoma. The patient died of severe sepsis. Case No 2:A 60-year-old man presented a macular rash over the face, trunk and skinfolds as well as erythematous scaly annular plaques of the glabrous skin with lymphadenopathy. Cultures of skin scrapings were all positive for Candida albicans. Blood tests showed a white cell count of 15 000/mm3 with 30% circulating Sezary cells. A trunk patch biopsy revealed the histological appearance of mycosis fungoides. There was a T-cell clone in the peripheral blood and skin.

DISCUSSION

In both cases, the patients presented with widespread annular and erythematous scaly lesions of the glabrous skin and skinfolds with evidence of Candida albicans on fungal tests of all skin scrapings. The discovery of circulating Sezary cells on a systematic smear for hyperleukocytosis led us to suspect underlying cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, which was confirmed by biopsy of the skin lesions accompanying the mycoses. Widespread cutaneous candidiasis can occur in patients with cell-mediated immunodepression. Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma can enhance such candidiasis through interference with skin integrity and impairment of cell-mediated immunity, with large amounts of IL10 and TGF-B, increased secretion of soluble interleukin-2 receptors (CD25) and impaired CD8 suppressor cell function.

Evidence of a marked 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency in patients with congenital ichthyosis

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D is essential for bone mineralization, and its deficiency may be the cause of skeletal fractures and osteomalacia. Geographical or ethnic factors may modulate the cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D. We hypothesized that major changes in keratinization may similarly alter the cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D.

OBJECTIVES

To explore calciotrophic hormones, parameters of bone remodelling and bone mineral density (BMD) in nine patients with non-bullous congenital ichthyosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Six patients were European, three were North African. Four had received acitretin over a long period of time. A complete biological investigation, including serum and urinary calcium and phosphorus, calciotrophic hormones [intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-(OH)2D)], bone formation and resorption markers, was performed on all patients during the winter season and repeated among four patients after summer. BMD was measured in all patients.

RESULTS

All patients had a marked 25-(OH)D deficiency, clearly below the deficiency threshold of 25 nmol/L. Patients from North Africa had a greater deficiency than European patients, perhaps because of the difference in skin pigmentation. iPTH remained normal in European patients but was elevated among the North Africans. After sun exposure, an improvement in vitamin status was visible in only one patient. Bone formation and resorption markers remained normal. Femoral neck osteodensitometry indicated values near the osteopaenic threshold in two young North African females. No deleterious effect of retinoids on vitamin D metabolism was observed.

CONCLUSION

Patients, and in particular pigmented patients, with congenital ichthyosis present a severe deficiency in vitamin D. Care provided to protect the skeletal future of these patients involves measuring BMD and prescribing supplementation.

European patient perspectives on the impact of psoriasis: the EUROPSO patient membership survey

BACKGROUND

EUROPSO (European Federation of Psoriasis Patient Associations) undertook a Europe-wide survey examining quality of life and patients' perspectives on treatment and their disease.

OBJECTIVES

To explore patients' perspectives of psoriasis on their lifestyle and well-being and to gain insight into the effectiveness of and satisfaction with currently available therapies for psoriasis.

METHODS

Self-administered questionnaires (n = 50,500) were mailed to members of psoriasis patient associations in Belgium, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands.

RESULTS

Responses were received from 18,386 patients (36%), of whom 17,990 had psoriasis. Mean age at onset of psoriasis was 30.5 years, 59% of respondents had self-reported moderate to severe psoriasis (3% or greater body surface area involvement) and 30% had been diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. The mean Psoriasis Disability Index score was 12.2 (25% of the maximum score), increasing to 21 (44%) in patients with more than 10% body surface area involvement. The greatest impact was on activities of daily living, especially affecting clothing choice, bathing routine and sporting activities. Overall, 77% replied that psoriasis was a problem or a significant problem. While patients were satisfied with the information and care from their dermatologist (40% highly satisfied), available treatment options were less satisfactory, with over 70% reporting only low to moderate satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest survey of people with psoriasis in Europe and shows that psoriasis has a profound impact on quality of life.

CLinical experience acquired with the efalizumab (Raptiva® ) (CLEAR) trial in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: results from a phase III international randomized, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Efalizumab (anti-CD11a), a humanized monoclonal antibody, blocks multiple T-cell-dependent functions implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, including T-cell activation, migration to the skin, reactivation in psoriatic skin and interactions with keratinocytes.

OBJECTIVES

This multinational, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of subcutaneous efalizumab 1.0 mg kg-1 once weekly for 12 weeks compared with placebo in a population that included high-need patients, defined as those for whom at least two systemic therapies were unsuitable because of lack of efficacy, intolerance or contraindication.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis [involvement of >or=10% of total body surface area and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI)>or=12.0 at screening] were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive efalizumab or placebo. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving >or=75% PASI improvement (PASI-75 response) at week 12 in the intention-to-treat population; secondary endpoints included changes in PASI, static Physician's Global Assessment, Physician's Global Assessment of change from baseline and percentage of body surface area affected. Results We enrolled 793 patients (529 received efalizumab and 264 placebo), including 526 high-need patients (342 received efalizumab and 184 placebo). Week 12 PASI-75 rates were 29.5% for efalizumab compared with 2.7% for placebo among high-need patients (P<0.0001) and 31.4% for efalizumab compared with 4.2% for placebo in the full study population (P<0.0001).

RESULTS

for all secondary efficacy endpoints showed superiority of efalizumab over placebo in both the high-need and the full populations. Efalizumab demonstrated a favourable safety profile, without evidence of systemic toxicity, in both the high-need group and the overall study population.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy and safety of efalizumab therapy were comparable between high-need patients and the more general moderate-to-severe psoriasis patient population. In view of its demonstrated efficacy and safety profile, efalizumab represents a valuable option for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, including high-need patients.

Hypersensibilité à la dacarbazine chez les malades traités pour mélanome métastatique

BACKGROUND

Dacarbazine (DTIC) is the first-line chemotherapy for metastatic malignant melanoma without cerebral metastasis. Its clinical and hematological safety is usually good. Hypersensitivity in hepatic failure patients is the most serious side effect described.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of the prevalence of hypersensitivity in patients treated with DTIC for metastatic melanoma between 11/01/2002 and 10/31/2003. Hypersensitivity was diagnosed in the event of fever, hypereosinophilia (> 500/mm3) with or without liver dysfunction (> twice pre-therapeutic values). Clinical data, DTIC administration modalities, number of courses and clinical and laboratory safety data were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included, 11 women and 9 men of median age 58.6 years (22-82 years) with multiple metastases in all cases. DTIC was the first-line treatment for 19 patients, being administered for 4 days to 10 patients and for 1 day to the other 10 patients, depending on their overall health status. Five hypersensitivity-like manifestations were observed, all in the 4-day treatment group. In 3 patients, fever and hypereosinophilia were seen without liver dysfunction at D3 of the second course of treatment. In 2 patients, treatment was stopped after the second course because of disease progression. In the third patient, 4 courses were given with recurrence of symptoms, although the latter were controlled during the fifth course with corticosteroids and antihistamines given 15 minutes before the start of treatment. Two patients experienced severe forms of hypersensitivity with fever, hypereosinophilia, liver dysfunction (cytolysis and cholestasis) and delayed medullar aplasia, after the first and second course respectively. In one patient, bone marrow examination showed a block at the promyelocytic stage consistent with a toxic etiology. Treatment with DTIC was stopped, and all signs regressed with symptomatic treatment.

DISCUSSION

Hypersensitivity with DTIC seems to be frequent, being observed in 20% of our patients, with early onset (after the first or second course) and absence of dose-dependence. We describe for the first time two cases of medullar aplasia occurring in association with DTIC hypersensitivity. During phase I studies, the hematologic toxicity of DTIC was moderate, rarely affecting red cells, and was observed with higher doses than those used in metastatic malignant melanoma. We suggest that this aplasia forms part of the signs of hypersensitivity because of the bone marrow morphology, the existence of anemia and concomitant resolution with all the others signs of hypersensitivity.

CONCLUSION

Laboratory monitoring (NFS, liver enzymes) is thus justified, particularly after the first and second courses of DTIC. In case of fever and hypereosinophilia without liver dysfunction, DTIC may be continued together with symptomatic treatment. In the event of hepatic dysfunction, and of course severe hematological disorders, potentially fatal complications can occur and treatment must be stopped.

Symptomatologie dépressive et dermatoses

BACKGROUND

Dermatological diseases modify and impair patients' self-image and can result in considerable psychological suffering. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms in patients consulting for dermatological diseases.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective study was carried out on 5 successive days at the dermatology department of the Saint-Louis Hospital in Paris. A questionnaire designed to assess depressive symptoms, the CES-D, was given to all patients consulting throughout the study period. This self-assessment scale for depression was devised by the National Institute of Mental Health and has been validated over more than 20 years by means of hundreds of large-scale epidemiological studies in both general and selected patient populations.

RESULTS

On completion of the 5-day study, 879 questionnaires had been collected. The sex-ratio was 53.4% women to 46.6% men. The prevalence of depressive symptoms as evaluated by the questionnaire was 23.6% for a total of 774 evaluable dossiers. Patients consulting without an appointment (n = 172) represented 22% of study subjects versus 78% attending a scheduled visit (n = 602). Depressive symptoms were found in 31.4% of patients consulting without an appointment versus 21.4% of patients with an appointment (p<0.01). Male patients consulting without an appointment constituted the most fragile group, with depressive symptoms being seen in 38.8% of this population.

DISCUSSION

The prevalence of depressive symptoms among patients seen at a hospital dermatology department was 23.6% in this study. This figure was significantly higher among patients consulting without an appointment, and among men in particular. It was equal to or higher than that seen among patients considered as having more incapacitating or painful conditions as assessed using the same questionnaire. The incidence of concomitant depression should prompt dermatologists to investigate for its existence and to take appropriate therapeutic measures in order to reduce the mental suffering of their patients.

Review of the potential photo-cocarcinogenicity of topical calcineurin inhibitors. Position statement of the European Dermatology Forum

Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (TCIs) used for the treatment of atopic eczema modify the immune regulatory function of the skin and may have the potential to enhance immunosuppressive ultraviolet (UV) effects. Current recommendations on UV protection in eczema patients treated with PCIs are inconsistent and have given rise to uncertainty and anxiety in patients. Therefore, the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) developed a position statement which reviews critically the available data with regard to the problem, especially analysing and commenting the limitations of rodent models for the human situation. There is no conclusive evidence from rodent trials to indicate that long-term application of TCIs is photococarcinogenic. There is a need for further studies to investigate the validity of mouse models as well as long-term cohort studies in patients using TCIs. Available data suggest that long-term application of TCIs is safe, that there is no evidence of increased skin cancer risk and that it is ethical to treat patients with TCIs when indicated.

[Cicatricial pemphigoid: treatment with mycophenolate mofetil]

BACKGROUND

The severity of cicatricial pemphigoid (CP) varies. First-intent treatment of mild or moderate cases is dapsone. In life or sight-threatening cases, intravenous cyclophosphamide pulses are efficient but may have digestive side effects and imply repeated hospitalizations. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an oral and well tolerated immunosuppressant agent which has proved its efficacy in pemphigus and some bullous pemphigoid. In CP, encouraging case reports have been previously published. We report herein a retrospective study about 14 patients who have received MMF since 2000.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

There were 5 men and 9 women, with a mean age of 69 years. MMF was introduced in 3 different clinical situations: immediately in relay to cyclophosphamide in 7 patients with severe CP (group I); in case of a mild-severe relapse at distance from with dranal of cyclophosphamide in 3 patients (group II); as first-intent immunosuppressant agent in 4 patients whose disease was not under control with high-dose dapsone, but not life - or sight-threatening (group III). In all these patients, the disease was invalidating and not controlled by dapsone +/- sulfasalazine, but did not threaten life or sight. The aim was to achieve satisfying control of the disease with an oral and well tolerated immunosuppressant agent, and to maintain good quality of life. The dose of MMF was 1.5 or 2 g per day. The criteria of MMF efficacy was the healing of previous lesions and the absence of new progressive lesions.

RESULTS

MMF was efficient in obtaining or maintaining a good control of the disease in 10/14 patients, as long as the underlying treatment with dapsone (2 mg/kg/d) was maintained. In 7/10 cases, it was possible to decrease the dapsone dose in order to improve hematological tolerance. In the 3 other cases, a relapse occurred when the dose of dapsone was decreased. MMF was inefficient in controling the disease in 4/14 patients (29 p. 100). Clinical and biological tolerance of MMF was good in 13/14 patients.

DISCUSSION

In this series, MMF was proposed to heterogenous patients, who presented at that time a mild-moderate disease and for whom we wanted in improve the quality of life. MMF seems to be an interesting drug, capable of obtaining or maintaining satisfactory control of the disease and permitting the decrease of dapsone doses in some mild-severe CP. However MMF must not replace cyclophosphamide in severe sight or life-threatening forms of CP.

[Particular histological features of a case of Sweet's syndrome induced by G-CSF]

BACKGROUND

Sweet's syndrome may occur during medullar aplasia, especially after treatment with exogenous growth factors such as G-CSF. In this context, Sweet's syndrome presents particular histological features that we detail in this observation.

CASE REPORT

A 50 year-old man was treated for multiple myeloma with a mobilizating chemotherapy prior to autologous stem cell transplantation. Four days after the onset of G-CSF, he presented with a febrile generalized eruption of erythematous infiltrated lesions. Histological examination of a skin biopsy showed a neutrophilic infiltrate associated with atypical xanthomized histiocytes and vascular hyperplasia with marked endothelial turgescence. Treatment with a short cause of oral corticosteroids was efficient.

DISCUSSION

The classical histological features of Sweet's syndrome consist in a dermal neutrophilic infiltrate with edema. In our patient, we noticed the presence of atypical histiocytes among the dermal neutrophilic infiltrate. These histiocytes are described in maculo-papular eruptions induced by G-CSF, and should not be confused with a malignant infiltrate associated with a hemopathy. Vascular hyperplasia may be related to the angiogenic properties of G-CSF. Knowledge of these histological features would enable clinicians and histologists to recognize the appropriate diagnosis.