Post-acute phase and sequelae management of epidermal necrolysis: an international, multidisciplinary DELPHI-based consensus

BACKGROUND

Long-term sequelae are frequent and often disabling after epidermal necrolysis (Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)). However, consensus on the modalities of management of these sequelae is lacking.

OBJECTIVES

We conducted an international multicentric DELPHI exercise to establish a multidisciplinary expert consensus to standardize recommendations regarding management of SJS/TEN sequelae.

METHODS

Participants were sent a survey via the online tool "Survey Monkey" consisting of 54 statements organized into 8 topics: general recommendations, professionals involved, skin, oral mucosa and teeth, eyes, genital area, mental health, and allergy workup. Participants evaluated the level of appropriateness of each statement on a scale of 1 (extremely inappropriate) to 9 (extremely appropriate). Results were analyzed according to the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method.

RESULTS

Fifty-two healthcare professionals participated. After the first round, a consensus was obtained for 100% of 54 initially proposed statements (disagreement index < 1). Among them, 50 statements were agreed upon as 'appropriate'; four statements were considered 'uncertain', and ultimately finally discarded.

CONCLUSIONS

Our DELPHI-based expert consensus should help guide physicians in conducting a prolonged multidisciplinary follow-up of sequelae in SJS-TEN.

Supportive care in the acute phase of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: an international, multidisciplinary Delphi-based consensus

BACKGROUND

Supportive care is the cornerstone of management of adult and paediatric Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). However, consensus on the modalities of supportive care is lacking.

OBJECTIVES

Our aim in this international multicentric Delphi exercise was to establish a multidisciplinary expert consensus to standardize recommendations regarding supportive care in the acute phase of SJS/TEN.

METHODS

Participants were sent a survey via the online tool SurveyMonkey, consisting of 103 statements organized into 11 topics: multidisciplinary team composition, suspect drug management, infection prevention, fluid resuscitation and prevention of hypothermia, nutritional support, pain and psychological distress management, management of acute respiratory failure, local skincare, ophthalmological management, management of other mucosa, and additional measures. Participants evaluated the level of appropriateness of each statement on a scale of 1 (extremely inappropriate) to 9 (extremely appropriate). The results were analysed according to the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method.

RESULTS

Forty-five participants from 13 countries (on three continents) participated. After the first round, a consensus was obtained for 82.5% of the 103 initially proposed statements. After the second round, a final consensus was obtained for 102 statements.

CONCLUSIONS

We have reached an international Delphi-based consensus on best supportive care practice for SJS/TEN. Our expert consensus should help guide physicians in treating patients with SJS/TEN and thereby improve short-term prognosis and the risk of sequelae.

The efficacy and safety of pulse vs. continuous therapy for dermatophyte toenail onychomycosis

BACKGROUND

Onychomycosis is a chronic, fungal infection of the nails. Complete cure remains challenging, but oral antifungal medications have been successful in managing the fungus for a significant proportion of patients. Treatment with these drugs can be continuous or intermittent, albeit the evidence on their relative efficacies remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relative effectiveness and safety of pulse versus continuous administration, of three common oral therapies for dermatophyte onychomycosis, by conducting multiple-treatment meta-analysis.

METHODS

This systematic review and network meta-analysis compared the efficacy (as per mycological cure) and adverse event rates of three oral antifungal medications in the treatment of dermatophyte toenail onychomycosis, namely terbinafine, itraconazole and fluconazole. A total of 30 studies were included in the systematic review, while 22 were included in the network meta-analysis.

RESULTS

The likelihood of mycological cure was not significantly different between continuous and pulse regimens for each of terbinafine and itraconazole. Use of continuous terbinafine for 24 weeks - but not 12 weeks - was significantly more likely to result in mycological cure than continuous itraconazole for 12 weeks or weekly fluconazole for 9-12 months. Rank probabilities demonstrated that 24-week continuous treatment of terbinafine was the most effective. There were no significant differences in the likelihood of adverse events between any continuous and pulse regimens of terbinafine, itraconazole and fluconazole. Drug treatments were similar to placebo in terms of their likelihood of producing adverse events.

CONCLUSION

More knowledge about the fungal life cycle and drugs' pharmacokinetics in nail and plasma could further explain the relative efficacy and safety of the pulse and continuous treatment regimens. Our results indicate that in the treatment of dermatophyte toenail onychomycosis, the continuous and pulse regimens for terbinafine and itraconazole have similar efficacies and rates of adverse events.

Lymphomatoid papulosis: an update and review

Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a benign chronic often relapsing skin condition that belongs to the CD30-positive cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders. LyP typically presents as crops of lesions with a tendency to self-resolve, and morphology can range from solitary to agminated or diffuse papules and plaques to nodules or tumours. The clinical-histological spectrum can range from borderline cases to overlap with primary cutaneous anaplastic cell lymphoma (pcALCL). Histology and immunophenotype commonly show overlap with other CD30-positive disorders and sometimes may be identical to pcALCL, making its diagnosis more difficult. Patients with LyP have an increased risk of developing a second neoplasm such as mycosis fungoides, pcALCL and/or Hodgkin lymphoma. Clinical correlation allows its proper classification and diagnosis, which is fundamental for treatment and prognosis. This review focuses on the clinical appearance, histopathological features, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and management of LyP.

A practical application of onychomycosis cure - combining patient, physician and regulatory body perspectives

Due to the high relapse rates and the rise of predisposing factors, the need for curing onychomycosis is paramount. To effectively address onychomycosis, the definition of cure used in a clinical setting should be agreed upon and applied homogeneously across therapies (e.g. oral, topical and laser treatments). In order to determine what is or what should be used to define cure in a clinical setting, a literature search was conducted to identify methods used to evaluate treatment success. The limitations, strengths, prevalence and utility of each outcome measure were investigated. Seven ways to measure treatment success were identified; mycological cure, patient/investigator assessments, complete cure, quality of life instruments, severity indexes, clinical cure and temporary clearance. Despite its shortcomings, mycological cure is the most objective and consistent outcome measure used across onychomycosis studies. It is suggested that diagnostic goals of onychomycosis should be used to define cure in a clinical setting. Modifications to outcome measures such as incorporating molecular-based techniques could be a future avenue to explore.

Efficacy of non-surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Androgenetic alopecia, or male/female pattern baldness, is the most common type of progressive hair loss disorder. The aim of this study was to review recent advances in non-surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia and identify the most effective treatments. A network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted of the available literature of the six most common non-surgical treatment options for treating androgenetic alopecia in both men and women; dutasteride 0.5 mg, finasteride 1 mg, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), minoxidil 2%, minoxidil 5% and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Seventy-eight studies met the inclusion criteria, and 22 studies had the data necessary for a network meta-analysis. Relative effects show LLLT as the superior treatment. Relative effects show PRP, finasteride 1 mg (male), finasteride 1 mg (female), minoxidil 5%, minoxidil 2% and dutasteride (male) are approximately equivalent in mean change hair count following treatment. Minoxidil 5% and minoxidil 2% reported the most drug-related adverse events (n = 45 and n = 23, respectively). The quality of evidence of minoxidil 2% vs. minoxidil 5% was high; minoxidil 5% vs. placebo was moderate; dutasteride (male) vs. placebo, finasteride (female) vs. placebo, minoxidil 2% vs. placebo and minoxidil 5% vs. LLLT was low; and finasteride (male) vs. placebo, LLLT vs. sham, PRP vs. placebo and finasteride vs. minoxidil 2% was very low. Results of this NMA indicate the emergence of novel, non-hormonal therapies as effective treatments for hair loss; however, the quality of evidence is generally low. High-quality randomized controlled trials and head-to-head trials are required to support these findings and aid in the development of more standardized protocols, particularly for PRP. Regardless, this analysis may aid physicians in clinical decision-making and highlight the variety of non-surgical hair restoration options for patients.

The Evolution of Topical Formulations in Psoriasis

Most people with mild-to-moderate psoriasis manage their disease with topical therapies. However, adherence to topical treatment remains a challenge, as the daily application creates a significant treatment burden. New topical therapeutic options need to offer higher efficacy and better patient acceptability, including easier application, to reduce treatment burden and enhance patient adherence. Topical foam vehicles are innovative alternatives to creams and ointments, addressing many patient challenges with traditional vehicles. Well-designed foam vehicles are easily spread over large areas of the skin, while importantly not leaving a greasy or oily film on the skin after application. Calcipotriol/betamethasone diproprionate aerosol foam is a new psoriasis treatment option that is rapidly effective, offers greater efficacy versus ointment and gel formulations, and has been shown to increase patient treatment satisfaction. Hence, by addressing the several crucial unmet clinical needs in patients with mild-to-moderate psoriasis, this optimized foam formulation is poised to improve treatment follow-through.

Clinical and immunological outcomes of high- and low-dose rituximab treatments in patients with pemphigus: a randomized, comparative, observer-blinded study

BACKGROUND

Rituximab is a promising therapy in pemphigus. However, there is no consensus on optimum dose.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy, in terms of clinical and immunological outcomes in patients with pemphigus, of a high (2 × 1000 mg) vs. a low dose (2 × 500 mg) of rituximab.

METHODS

This was a randomized, observer-blinded trial wherein 22 patients with pemphigus were randomized into two treatment groups. Patients received either two doses (day 0 and day 15) of 1000 mg rituximab or 500 mg rituximab, and were followed up for 48 weeks. Clinical activity was assessed by a blinded investigator. Indices of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for desmoglein (Dsg)1 and Dsg3, and CD19 cell count were examined at regular intervals.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in early and late clinical end points, and total cumulative dose of corticosteroids between the two groups. At week 40, the fall in Ikeda severity score was significantly more in the 2 × 1000 mg group than in 2 × 500 mg group (P = 0·049). Patients in the 2 × 500 mg group received a significantly higher cumulative dose of azathioprine (P = 0·018). The ELISA indices of Dsg1 and Dsg3 showed a statistically significant decline in the 2 × 1000 mg group only. B cell repopulation occurred earlier in the 2 × 500 mg group by 8 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

A few clinical and immunological study parameters have suggested improved outcomes in patients receiving high-dose (2 × 1000 mg) rituximab.

Loss of Work Productivity and Quality of Life in Patients With Autoimmune Bullous Dermatoses

Background:

Little is known about quality of life and work productivity in autoimmune bullous dermatoses (AIBDs).

Objective:

To determine the impact of AIBDs on quality of life and work productivity.

Methods:

An observational cross-sectional study took place between February and May 2013 at an AIBD tertiary referral centre. Ninety-four patients were included. All participants completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment–Specific Health Problem questionnaires.

Results:

Responders to treatment had less impairment ( P < .001) than nonresponders. Patients with severe AIBD had significantly more impairment that those with mild ( P < .001) and moderate ( P = .002) AIBD. Greater impairment was associated with higher percentage of work missed. Those with a higher Dermatology Life Quality Index score had greater work impairment and overall activity impairment ( P = .041, P = .024). Nonresponders had increased impairment while working ( P < .001), overall work impairment ( P < .001), and activity impairment ( P < .001). Severely affected patients had worse impairment in all Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire domains.

Conclusions:

AIBD has the potential to be a large burden on ability to work and quality of life. Larger studies are needed to clarify how these domains change over time and whether or not they improve with treatment.

Pemphigus and associated comorbidities: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Pemphigus is a rare autoimmune blistering disease, reported to be associated with other coexisting and autoimmune diseases, including thyroid diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, alopecia areata, vitiligo, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma and rare entities such as myasthenia gravis.

AIM

To identify and describe patients with pemphigus with a diagnosed comorbidity, and to quantify the risk of additional comorbidities.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of patients with pemphigus treated at a tertiary referral centre. Prevalence rates of 15 comorbid diseases were calculated. Age-standardized prevalence ratio (SPR) and 95% CI were calculated in comparison with prevalence rates in the general Canadian population using data from the Canadian Community Health Survey. Data were analysed using SAS software.

RESULTS

In total, 295 patients were identified. An increased risk of hypothyroidism (n = 38, SPR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.08-2.10) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (SPR = 1.48, 95% CI 0.40-3.80), and a two-fold increased risk of diabetes (SPR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.64-2.87) were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with pemphigus have a higher incidence of hypothyroidism, IBD and diabetes compared with the general population. As part of pemphigus investigations and surveillance, investigating for these conditions may be considered.

Long-term efficacy and safety of infliximab maintenance therapy in patients with plaque-type psoriasis in real-world practice

BACKGROUND

Tumour necrosis factor-α inhibitors, including infliximab (IFX), can improve disease control of plaque-type psoriasis.

OBJECTIVES

The Real-World Assessment of Long-Term Infliximab Therapy for Psoriasis (REALITY) study evaluated the efficacy and safety of maintenance IFX therapy in typical clinical settings.

METHODS

In this prospective, observational, open-label, multicentre study in patients with plaque-type psoriasis, IFX 5 mg kg was infused at weeks 0, 2 and 6, and every 8 weeks thereafter during a 50-week treatment phase. The primary outcome was ≥ 75% Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) improvement from baseline to week 50. Patients with ≥ 25% PASI improvement from baseline to the end of the treatment phase were potentially eligible to enter a 48-week extended treatment phase. Response maintenance and other efficacy measures were evaluated. Adverse events (AEs) were collected.

RESULTS

In total 660 patients enrolled. Of 521 efficacy-evaluable treatment phase patients (66% male, mean age 46·5 years, mean PASI 18·1), 56·8% achieved PASI 75 at the end of the treatment phase. Response was maintained at week 50 by 64·7% (205/317) of patients who achieved PASI 75 at week 14. During extended treatment, 66·3% (112/169) of patients attained PASI 75 at week 98; response was maintained at week 98 by 71·6% (101/141) of those who achieved PASI 75 at week 50. IFX was generally well tolerated. During treatment, 7·6% (50/659) of patients had serious AEs. During extended treatment, 4·1% (eight of 193) of patients had serious AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

PASI 75 response was achieved by 56·8% and 66·3% of patients at weeks 50 and 98, respectively. The AE pattern was consistent with previous reports.

Ballistic impact of single particles into gelatin: experiments and modeling with application to transdermal pharmaceutical delivery

The impact and penetration of high speed particles with the human skin is of interest for targeted drug delivery by transdermal powder injection. However, it is often difficult to perform penetration experiments on dermal tissue using micron scale particles. To address this, a finite element model of the impact and penetration of a 2 μm gold particle into the human dermis was developed and calibrated using experiments found in the literature. Using dimensional analysis, the model was linked to a larger scale steel ball-gelatin system in order to extract key material parameters for both systems and perform impact studies. In this manner, an elastic modulus of 2.25 MPa was found for skin, in good agreement with reported values from the literature. Further gelatin experiments were performed with steel, polymethyl methacrylate, titanium, and tungsten carbide balls in order to determine the effects of particle size and density on penetration depth. Both the finite element model and the steel-gelatin experiments were able to predict the penetration behavior that was found by other investigators in the study of the impact of typical particles used for vaccine delivery into the human dermis. It can therefore be concluded that scaled up systems utilizing ballistic gelatins can be used to investigate the performance of transdermal powder injection technology.

A study of the safety and efficacy of calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate scalp formulation in the long-term management of scalp psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Effective and safe products are needed for long-term management of scalp psoriasis. This study investigated the long-term safety and efficacy of a two-compound formulation (calcipotriol 50 microg/g plus betamethasone dipropionate 0.5 mg/g) for scalp psoriasis.

METHODS

In this 52-week, international, double-blind study, 869 patients with moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis were randomized to either a two-compound scalp formulation (n = 429) or calcipotriol (n = 440).

RESULTS

Adverse drug reactions were less frequent in the two-compound group compared with the calcipotriol group (17.2 vs. 29.5%; p < 0.001). Incidences of adverse events possibly associated with long-term corticosteroid use were low in both the two-compound (2.6%) and the calcipotriol (3.0%) groups. Disease was satisfactorily controlled in 92.3% of visits in the two-compound group versus 80.0% in the calcipotriol group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The two-compound scalp formulation demonstrated a high level of safety and efficacy in long-term management of scalp psoriasis.

Efficacy of ISA247 in plaque psoriasis: a randomised, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III study

BACKGROUND

The use of systemic calcineurin inhibitors for the treatment of patients with psoriasis is limited by toxicity, particularly nephrotoxicity. ISA247, a novel inhibitor, was effective and well tolerated in a phase II study of patients with plaque psoriasis. Therefore its efficacy was assessed in this phase III study.

METHODS

451 patients aged 18-65 years with plaque psoriasis involving at least 10% of the body surface area were randomly assigned in equal proportions to receive placebo or ISA247 at 0.2 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, or 0.4 mg/kg orally twice a day in dermatology clinics. The primary endpoint was a 75% reduction in the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI 75) score at week 12. Treatment allocation was concealed from patient and physicians doing the assessments by use of sealed envelopes. The method of analysis was by modified intention to treat. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00244842.

FINDINGS

107, 113, and 116 patients were assigned to the ISA247 0.2 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, and 0.4 mg/kg groups, respectively, and 115 to the placebo group. At week 12, PASI 75 scores were achieved in the ISA247 0.2 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, and 0.4 mg/kg groups by 14 (16%; 95% CI 9-24) of 105, 26 (25%; 17-24) of 111, and 44 (47%; 27-57) of 113 patients, respectively, and in the placebo group by 4 (4%; 0-8) of 113 patients. Efficacy was maintained during 24 weeks. Mild to moderate glomerular filtration rate reductions were noted in seven patients in the ISA247 0.4 mg/kg group and in one in the ISA247 0.3 mg/kg group. ISA247 blood concentrations showed a strong correlation with mean percentage reduction in PASI.

INTERPRETATION

ISA247 was safe and effective in the treatment of patients with moderate to severe psoriasis during 24 weeks, with the highest dose providing the best efficacy. The strong correlation between ISA247 concentrations and efficacy might allow for accurate dosing of patients compared with existing calcineurin inhibitors.

Association of human herpesvirus 6 reactivation with the flaring and severity of drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome

BACKGROUND

Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS) is an adverse reaction with clinical signs of fever, rash and internal organ involvement. In the vast majority of patients in Japan, the causative drugs for DIHS are limited to the following eight: carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, zonisamide, mexiletine, dapsone, salazosulfapyridine and allopurinol. The association of human herpesvirus (HHV)-6 reactivation with DIHS has been reported by various groups.

OBJECTIVES

To confirm the relationship between the flaring and severity of DIHS and HHV-6 reactivation.

METHODS

We evaluated 100 patients with drug rash and systemic symptom(s) caused by the drugs associated with DIHS. HHV-6 reactivation was examined by serological antibody assay and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay of serial serum samples.

RESULTS

Anti-HHV-6 IgG titres increased in 62 of 100 patients, 14-28 days after the onset of symptoms. These patients suffered from severe organ involvement and a prolonged course compared with 38 patients showing no reactivation of HHV-6. Significant amounts of HHV-6 DNA were detected in serum samples from 18 of the 62 patients. Flaring of symptoms such as fever and hepatitis was closely related to HHV-6 reactivation in these 18 patients. It should be emphasized that all five patients with fatal outcome and 10 patients with renal failure were in the HHV-6 reactivation group.

CONCLUSIONS

A combination of immunological reaction to a drug and HHV-6 reactivation results in the severe course of DIHS. The demonstration of HHV-6 reactivation is a useful marker of diagnosis as well as prognosis in DIHS.

IVIG for the treatment of toxic epidermal necrolysis

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been proposed as a treatment for toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). A number of retrospective and prospective studies have been conducted, with varying levels of evidence for the efficacy of IVIG. Recent publications provide opposing conclusions. A multi-center, comparative, long-term analysis needs to be conducted to determine the role of IVIG in the management of patients with SJS/TEN.

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.

Intravenous immunoglobulin: use in dermatology

A manufactured blood product derived from fractionated human plasma, intravenous immunoglobulin (i.v.Ig) contains supra-physiologic levels of IgG. i.v.Ig is currently used in the treatment of immunodeficiency syndromes, inflammatory disorders and infections diseases. Uncontrolled clinical studies and anecdotal case reports recommend its use in dermatology, but randomized clinical trials are lacking. In selecting the most appropriate i.v.Ig for the patient, convenience, efficacy, safety and tolerability of the different products should be considered. With several measures in place to ensure its safety, i.v.Ig offers new hope for the treatment of many severe dermatologic conditions.

Cutaneous cleansers

Skin cleansers may be an important adjunct to the regimen of those who use cosmetics, have sensitive or compromised skin, or utilize topical therapies. Cleansers emulsify dirt, oil and microorganisms on the skin surface so that they can be easily removed. During cleansing, there is a complex interaction between the cleanser, the moisture skin barrier, and skin pH. Cleansing, with water soap or a liquid cleanser, will affect the moisture skin barrier. Soap will bring about the greatest changes to the barrier and increase skin pH. Liquid facial cleansers are gentler, effecting less disruption of the barrier, with minimal change to skin pH, and can provide people with a cleanser that is a combination of surfactant classes, moisturizers and acidic pH in order to minimize disruption to the skin barrier.

Kinetics of serum cytokines reflect changes in the severity of chronic hepatitis C presenting minimal fibrosis

Our aims were to measure the kinetics of serum tumour necrosis alpha (TNF-alpha) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) levels as markers of progression of disease in nontreated chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients with minimal or no fibrosis and minimal histology activity index (HAI) scores. Our study group consisted of 56 patients diagnosed with minimal (1) or no fibrosis (0) and minimal HAI (0-1) on their first biopsy as defined by Knodell and METAVIR scores. We compared their initial (entry of study) cytokine levels with a group of 103 HCV controls with minimal (0-1) to mild fibrosis (0-3) and mild HAI (5.5). Serum TNF-alpha and TGF-beta levels were measured by enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay. A significant difference was seen in TNF-alpha levels at baseline in the study group vs. controls. Regardless of their HAI, there was a correlation between TGF-beta and degree of fibrosis. As shown by their biopsies, during the 3 years (from entry to follow up), many of the patients that initially had minimal fibrosis progressed to higher degree of fibrosis. This progression is paralleled by an increase in TGF-beta levels when comparing initial and follow-up levels. In conclusion, serum TNF-alpha reflects the progression of inflammation as seen in liver biopsies and TGF-beta reflects the degree of fibrosis in HCV patients.

Kinetics of serum cytokines reflect changes in the severity of chronic hepatitis C presenting minimal fibrosis

Our aims were to measure the kinetics of serum tumour necrosis alpha (TNF-alpha) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) levels as markers of progression of disease in nontreated chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients with minimal or no fibrosis and minimal histology activity index (HAI) scores. Our study group consisted of 56 patients diagnosed with minimal (1) or no fibrosis (0) and minimal HAI (0-1) on their first biopsy as defined by Knodell and METAVIR scores. We compared their initial (entry of study) cytokine levels with a group of 103 HCV controls with minimal (0-1) to mild fibrosis (0-3) and mild HAI (5.5). Serum TNF-alpha and TGF-beta levels were measured by enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay. A significant difference was seen in TNF-alpha levels at baseline in the study group vs. controls. Regardless of their HAI, there was a correlation between TGF-beta and degree of fibrosis. As shown by their biopsies, during the 3 years (from entry to follow up), many of the patients that initially had minimal fibrosis progressed to higher degree of fibrosis. This progression is paralleled by an increase in TGF-beta levels when comparing initial and follow-up levels. In conclusion, serum TNF-alpha reflects the progression of inflammation as seen in liver biopsies and TGF-beta reflects the degree of fibrosis in HCV patients.

The science of health technology assessment: the safety perspective

Efforts to enhance the reporting and analysis of drug reactions have increased over recent years. Research into the pathogenesis, diagnosis and epidemiology has yielded important insights, yet major gaps in our management of drug safety still exist. Drug-induced diseases are an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Current ad hoc reporting systems fail to collect more than 10% of even the most serious of reactions. Drug reaction syndromes lack universally accepted definitions and names. Effective therapies for drug-induced diseases are few and poorly studied. Information about how to diagnose and treat drug-induced diseases is not reaching practitioners. Stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, funding agencies, the pharmaceutical industry, physicians, pharmacists and patient advocacy groups, need to work together to improve the systematic approach to drug safety and to make all stakeholders aware of advances in the technology surrounding drug-induced disease. The technology is available to make major strides in improving the overall management of drug-induced disease. The major barrier to progress is the lack of leadership from any of the powerful sectors involved in drug use.

The treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis with a new anti-CD11a monoclonal antibody

BACKGROUND

Anti-CD11a (hu1124) is a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the CD11a subunit of LFA-1. This study investigated whether treatment with anti-CD11a antibody provides clinical benefit to patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II, multicenter study. In total, 145 patients with minimum Psoriasis Area and Severity Index scores of 12 and affected body surface area of 10% or more were sequentially enrolled into low-dose (0.1 mg/kg, n = 22) or high-dose (0.3 mg/kg, n = 75) groups. Within groups, patients were randomized to treatment or placebo (n = 48) in a 2:1 ratio. Drug was administered intravenously at weekly intervals for 8 weeks.

RESULTS

The percentage of subjects achieving more than 50% improvement in physician's global assessment at day 56 (1 week after final dose) was 15% and 48% for placebo and 0.3 mg/kg of drug, respectively (P =.002). A physician's global assessment of excellent (>75% improvement) was greater in the 0.3 mg/kg group versus placebo (25% vs 2%, P =.0003). Average Psoriasis Area and Severity Index scores at day 56 were 13.9 +/- 7.5 (placebo) and 10.9 +/- 8.4 (0.3 mg/kg) (P <.0001). Epidermal thickness was reduced in the 0.3 mg/kg group compared with the placebo group (37% vs 19%, P =.004). Treatment was well tolerated; mild to moderate flu-like complaints were the most common adverse events. White blood cell counts and lymphocyte counts transiently increased. Depletion of circulating lymphocytes did not occur.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-CD11a antibody administered intravenously in 8 weekly doses of 0.3 mg/kg was well tolerated and induced clinical and histologic improvements in psoriasis.

Should celecoxib be contraindicated in patients who are allergic to sulfonamides? Revisiting the meaning of 'sulfa' allergy

Celecoxib, a selective cyclo-oxygenase-2 inhibitor, is a diaryl-substituted pyrazole derivative containing a sulfonamide substituent. Because of this structural component, celecoxib is contraindicated for use in patients who have demonstrated allergic reactions to sulfonamides. However, there is a lack of data demonstrating cross-reactivity among sulfonamide medications. A sulfonamide is any compound with an SO2NH2 moiety. The major difference between sulfonamide antimicrobials and other sulfonamide-containing medications such as furosemide, thiazide diuretics and celecoxib, is that sulfonamide antimicrobials contain an aromatic amine group at the N4 position. This allows for division of the sulfonamides into 2 groups: aromatic amines (i.e., sulfonamide antimicrobials) and nonaromatic amines. In addition, sulfonamide antimicrobials contain a substituted ring at the N1-position; this group is not found with nonaromatic amine-containing sulfonamides. Adverse reactions to sulfonamide antimicrobials include type I, or immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated reactions, hypersensitivity syndrome reactions, and severe skin reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis. The aromatic amine portion of the sulfonamide antimicrobial is considered to be critical in the development of latter 2 reactions. In susceptible individuals, the hydroxylamine metabolite is unable to be detoxified leading to a cascade of cytotoxic and immunological events that eventually results in the adverse reaction. Since celecoxib does not contain the aromatic amine, adverse reactions such as hypersensitivity syndrome reactions and toxic epidermal necrolysis would not be expected to occur at the same frequency as they do with sulfonamide antimicrobials. Similarly, for IgE-mediated reactions, the N1-substituent and not the sulphonamide moiety is important in determining specificity to antibodies. Celecoxib and other nonaromatic amine-containing sulfonamide medications do not contain the N1-substituent. Cross-reactivity among the various sulfonamide-containing medications has also not been substantiated by published case reports. In fact, conflicting information exists in the literature. Reports showing lack of cross-reactivity balance the few case reports suggesting cross-reactivity. Cross-reactivity between sulfonamide medications should be based on scientific data, including chemistry, metabolism, immune responses and clinical data. Based on the current information, there is no documentation for cross-reactivity between sulfonamide antimicrobials and other sulfonamide medications, such as celecoxib.

What will be the role of pharmacogenetics in evaluating drug safety and minimising adverse effects?

In the US, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) rank between the fourth to sixth leading cause of death, ahead of pneumonia and diabetes mellitus. An important reason for the high incidence of serious and fatal ADRs is that the existing drug development paradigms do not generate adequate information on the mechanistic sources of marked variability in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of new therapeutic candidates, precluding treatments from being tailored for individual patients. Pharmacogenetics is the study of the hereditary basis of person-to-person variations in drug response. The focus of pharmacogenetic investigations has traditionally been unusual and extreme drug responses resulting from a single gene effect. The Human Genome Project and recent advancements in molecular genetics now present an unprecedented opportunity to study all genes in the human genome, including genes for drug metabolism, drug targets and postreceptor second messenger machinery, in relation to variability in drug safety and efficacy. In addition to sequence variations in the genome, high throughput and genome-wide transcript profiling for differentially regulated mRNA species before and during drug treatment will serve as important tools to uncover novel mechanisms of drug action. Pharmacogenetic-guided drug discovery and development represent a departure from the conventional approach which markets drugs for broad patient populations, rather than smaller groups of patients in whom drugs may work more optimally. Pharmacogenetics provides a rational framework to minimise the uncertainty in outcome of drug therapy and clinical trials and thereby should significantly reduce the risk of drug toxicity.

The health status of obese individuals in Canada

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether there is a clinically relevant difference in the health state utilities of obese and non-obese individuals as measured by the Health Utility Index Mark III.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of the population-based, cross-sectional, interviewer-administered National Population Health Survey (NPHS), 1996-1997. A probability sample of house-dwelling Canadians, excluding populations on First Nations Reserves, Canadian Armed Forces Bases, the Yukon and Northwest Territories, and long-term residents of hospitals or residential care facilities. The sub-sample used in this analysis consisted of 38 151 respondents (52.4% male) between the ages of 20 and 64 y, excluding pregnant women. Health Utilities Index-Mark III (HUI3) scores were used to define normal weight (body mass index (BMI) 19-24.9 kg/m(2)), overweight (BMI 25-29.9 kg/m(2)), obese (BMI 30-34.9 kg/m(2)), and morbidly obese (BMI> or =35 kg/m(2)) individuals. HUI3 scores were age- and gender-standardized.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of obesity (BMI> or =30 kg/m(2)) in this Canadian population was 13.3%. The average difference in HUI3 scores between normal weight and morbidly obese respondents was 0.04 (P<0.001). Statistically significant (P<0.05) differences across BMI categories were found in each of the eight component attributes of the HUI3. The attributes with the most substantial difference between normal and obese patients were cognition, mobility and pain. All demonstrated a > or =2-fold increase in the proportion of individuals in poorer classifications of health when normal weight respondents were compared with the morbidly obese. The magnitude of the decrement in utility ratings associated with obesity was comparable with other chronic non-cardiovascular conditions such as migraine or colitis.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that changes in self-rated health status appear to be due to significant changes across several relevant domain attributes. Obesity has a significant impact on both quality of life and health.

Signaling for ethanol-induced apoptosis and repair in vitro

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether caspases are involved in ethanol (EtOH)-induced apoptosis and if polyenylphosphatidylcholine (PPC) affects apoptosis, in vitro in Hep G2 cells.

METHODS

Cells were treated with 100 mmol/L EtOH for 24 h and with 2 doses of 100 mmol/L EtOH (1/24 h) in the presence of absence of 20 mmol/L of PPC or 50 micromol/L caspase 3 inhibitor (IDN). Cells were analyzed for apoptosis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) 6000 cells/treatment, DNA fragmentation by ELISA and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate (T dt-mediated d-UTP) nick-end-labeling, TUNEL.

RESULTS

100 mmol/L dose of EtOH resulted in 22 +/- 2.5% (p < 0.001) apoptosis (vs. control). Two consecutive doses of 100 mmol/L EtOH for 24 h each caused 36 +/- 3.0% (p < 0.001 vs. control and p < 0.05 vs. one dose). PPC significantly reduced apoptosis (vs. non exposed to PPC): 100 mmol/L -12 +/- 1.5% (p < 0.05) and 2 x 10(-)(0) mmol/L -20 +/- 2.0% (p < 0.001). Pretreatment with 50 micromol caspase inhibitor reduced EtOH-induced apoptosis in a similar proportion.

CONCLUSIONS

PPC downregulates EtOH-apoptosis by a mechanism similar to caspase inhibition.

The toxicity of Callilepis laureola, a South African traditional herbal medicine

OBJECTIVES

To review the literature on the toxicity of Callilepis laureola, and to assess the cytotoxicity of C. laureola in human hepatoblastoma Hep G2 cells in vitro.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Cells were incubated for up to 48 h in the presence of increasing concentrations of an aqueous extract of C. laureola (0.3-13.3 mg/mL). Cytotoxicity was quantitated spectrophotometrically by the metabolism of the tetrazolium dye MTT. Cytoviability of the control cells was considered to be 100%.

RESULTS

C. laureola produced cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner. Cytotoxicity was significant at all concentrations tested (0.3-2.5 mg/mL, p < 0.05 vs. controls and 3.3-13.3 mg/mL, p < 0.0001 vs. controls). After 6 h, 100% toxicity was observed at a concentration of 6.7 mg/mL.

CONCLUSION

C. laureola causes significant cytotoxicity in Hep G2 cells in vitro. These findings are in accordance with the observed hepatotoxicity in clinical cases of C. laureola poisoning.

Cytokine network in nonresponding chronic hepatitis C patients with genotype 1: role of triple therapy with interferon alpha, ribavirin, and ursodeoxycholate

OBJECTIVE

(i) to characterize the profile of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL 10, Fas-ligand and transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta), chronic hepatitis C (HCV) patients with genotype 1; (ii) to determine the influence of triple therapy (TT) with interferon alpha (IFN alpha) + ribavirin + ursodeoxycholic acid on these cytokines and (iii) to establish the relationship between the pro-inflammatory cytokines and the outcome of treatment.

DESIGN AND METHODS

22 patients infected with HCV-genotype 1 a/b and non responsive to IFN-alpha monotherapy were enrolled in the TT. The controls were 49 HCV naïve patients with genotype 1 a/b. Cytokine levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The baseline TNF alpha values (pg/mL) in the sustained responders (SRs) (63+/-3) were significantly lower than non-responders (NRs) (140+/-16) (p < 0.001). Baseline Fas (ng/mL) levels were also lower in SRs (4.3+/-0.2) than NRs (5.4+/-0.4) (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Fas and TNF alpha may be used as serological markers of inflammation and effectiveness of therapy.

Cytokines as predictors for sustained response and as markers for immunomodulation in patients with chronic hepatitis C

OBJECTIVES

(i) To characterize serum cytokine levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), interleukin 6 (IL 6), IL 8 and IL 12 in non-cirrhotic patients with chronic hepatitis C, (ii) to correlate the levels of these cytokines with the degree of the disease at the basal level, (iii) to correlate these levels with the response to therapy, (iv) to compare profiles of cytokines in monotherapy (MT) versus combination therapy (CT), and (v) to compare the immunomodulatory effects of MT versus CT.

DESIGN AND METHODS

47 patients were enrolled in the study. The controls were 120 volunteers (recruited from students and staff) that did not present HCV RNA positive and were not known to suffer any other metabolic disease. Thirty patients formed the other group of controls, with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Serum cytokine levels were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

The sustained responders (SRs) have basal values much lower than relapsed responders (RRs) and non-responders (NRs) regardless of the therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytokines can be used as non-invasive markers for sustained response and as monitors for the outcome of therapy.

CYP2E1-mediated modulation of valproic acid-induced hepatocytotoxicity

OBJECTIVES

To determine the cytotoxicity of valproic acid (VPA) and its metabolite, 4-ene-valproic acid (4-ene-VPA) in human hepatoblastoma cells (Hep G2), and to study the modulatory effect of cytochrome P450 2E1 induction in this model.

METHODS

Cells were exposed to VPA or 4-ene-VPA in the presence of either ethanol (EtOH), or EtOH combined with disulphiram (DS). Some cells were exposed to alpha-fluoro-VPA or to alpha-fluoro-4-ene-VPA in the absence of CYP2E1 inducers. Apoptosis and necrosis were measured by analyzing 6000 cells per sample using transmission electron microscopy, while cytokine release and apoptosis were quantitated by ELISA.

RESULTS

VPA + EtOH increased VPA cytotoxicity. 4-ene-VPA + EtOH significantly increased toxicity, while DS + EtOH significantly reduced this toxicity. Alpha-fluorinated analogues reduced cytotoxicity compared to the corresponding VPA compounds. Neither VPA nor alpha-fluorinated VPA increased the release of IL-6 or TNF-alpha in media. A significant increase in the release of TNF-alpha was observed in cells exposed to 4-ene-VPA that further increased with EtOH exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Cells exposed to 4-ene-VPA experience greater cytotoxicity than those treated with VPA. Cytochrome P450 2E1 inducers enhance toxicity in VPA-exposed cells, while alpha-fluorination of VPA diminishes cytotoxicity by directly interfering with the beta-oxidation of the 4-ene-VPA metabolite.

Mechanisms of alcoholic liver disease: cytokines

This article represents the proceedings of a workshop at the 2000 ISBRA Meeting in Yokohama, Japan. The chair was Manuela G. Neuman. The presentations were (1) New aspects of hepatic fibrosis, by D. A. Brenner; (2) Cellular immune response in hepatitis C models, by B. Rehermann; (3) The role of interleukin-10 in acute alcoholic hepatitis, by J. Taieb, S. Chollet-Martin, M. Cohard, J. J. Garaud, and T. Poynard; (4) Cytokine-mediated apoptosis in vitro, by M. G. Neuman; (5) Signaling for apoptosis and repair in vitro, by G. G. Katz, R. G. Cameron, N. H. Shear, and M. G. Neuman; (6) Interferons activate the P42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase and Janus Kinase signal transducers and activation of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathways in hepatocytes: Differential regulation by acute ethanol via a protein kinase C-dependent mechanism, by B. Gao; (7) Genetic polymorphisms of interleukin-1 in association with the development of Japanese alcoholic liver disease, by M. Takamatsu, M. Yamauchi, M. Ohata, S. Saito, S. Maeyama, T. Uchikoshi, and G. Toda; and (8) Increased levels of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in sera from patients with alcoholic liver diseases, by T. Kumagi, S. M. F. Akbar, M. Abe, K. Michitaka, N. Horiike, and M. Onji.

Reporting of fatal adverse drug reactions

OBJECTIVES

To review the reports of fatal adverse drug reactions (ADRs) submitted to the Ontario Medical Association Adverse Drug Reactions Monitoring Program between 1990 and 1994; to identify drugs associated with fatal outcomes; and to assess the causative role of the drug in these events and the completeness of the data in these reports.

METHODS

Drug(s) identified on each ADR report as being responsible for the reaction were considered. Agents were classified by the Anatomical Therapeutic and Chemical classification system. The causality of each ADR report was evaluated by using an algorithmic rating scale.

RESULTS

From the Ontario Medical Association database, 97 cases of ADRs that resulted in death were reviewed. One hundred fourteen medications were implicated as "suspect" drugs in the 97 deaths. The most commonly implicated drug classes were musculoskeletal agents, blood and blood-forming organ agents, and nervous system agents. Patients over 65 years of age comprised 60% of this series. After independent assessment as to causality, 13% of the cases were rated as probable, 86% were rated as possible and 1% were rated as doubtful. Seventy per cent of reports did not include information regarding medical history. Forty-two per cent of cases failed to provide adequate information to evaluate the feasibility of the time to onset of the ADR. The use of concomitant drugs was not reported in 12% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The drugs most frequently implicated in fatal ADRs were consistent with those reported in other studies. Algorithmic causality assessments were of limited value in these reports. The completeness of the reports and adequacy of the information were poor. The type of reporting forms and information provided were not homogenous. There is a need to improve quality of reporting and harmonize reporting forms between monitoring bodies. The feasibility of unique data collection forms and obligatory reporting for fatal ADRs should be considered.

Idiosyncratic drug reactions: the reactive metabolite syndromes

Idiosyncratic drug reactions are unpredictable reactions that can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Severe reactions are often characterised by fever and internal organ involvement. Despite progress in the identification of reactive metabolites believed to be the cause of idiosyncratic reactions, the basic mechanisms remain elusive. Furthermore, because of the lack of consensus regarding definition of these syndromes, reporting, and therefore epidemiological data, are often unreliable. Research is needed to explore further the pathophysiology of these reactions, so that better diagnostic tests and treatment methods can be developed.

A novel lymphocyte toxicity assay to assess drug hypersensitivity syndromes

OBJECTIVES

To validate the novel lymphocyte toxicity assay (LTA) based on the mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity vs. the LTA by using trypan blue exclusion and to determine the utility of the assay to confirm drug hypersensitivity syndrome (DHS) to sulphonamides (SMX) and aromatic anticonvulsants.

METHODS

Incubation of patient lymphocytes, with or without murine hepatic microsomes with anticonvulsants or SMX. The viability of lymphocytes was based on SDH activity that can be measured spectrophotometrically. The percentage of cells displaying cytotoxicity compared to controls (cells treated only with drug) was calculated. Seventy-two immunocompetent and 16 immunocompromised (HIV) patients with DHS to SMX were sampled. The results were validated vs. 26 controls that had not experienced DHS to SMX. Sixty-two patients who had DHS to anticonvulsants were compared with 24 controls that did not have any DHS to the same anticonvulsants.

RESULTS

The results showed a very good percentage of sensitivity 98 and specificity 96 with a kappa-score of 0.96. LTA higher than 13.5% was considered positive for the immunocompetent population and LTA higher than 22% was positive for the immunocompromised population. In two of the 26 controls, LTA was positive.

CONCLUSION

The high quantitative kappa-value 0.96 emphasizes that the novel LTA is at least as good as the trypan blue assay. The latter is labor intensive, time consuming, and prone to human error. The new assay is objective, faster, and has been reproducible in assessing cytotoxicity.