Search Results (313)

Hydroxyurea (HU), a cornerstone treatment for myeloproliferative disorders, is associated with a wide range of cutaneous side effects, from xerosis and hyperpigmentation to more severe conditions like dermatomyositis-like eruptions (DM-LE) and nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC), particularly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). In this review, we present a unique case of HU-induced DM-LE with histological evidence of keratinocyte dysplasia and p53 overexpression, followed by a systematic analysis of similar cases. Our findings reveal that the clinical presentation of DM-LE, while typically considered benign, shares clinical and histological features with hydroxyurea-associated squamous dysplasia (HUSD), a precancerous condition that may progress to SCC in chronically exposed patients. Key insights include the characteristic histopathological findings of DM-LE, the role of chronic HU therapy and UV-induced damage in promoting p53 overexpression, and the overlap between DM-LE and HUSD. Regular dermatologic monitoring, patient education on photoprotection, and the careful assessment of skin lesions in long-term HU users are essential for the early detection and prevention of malignancies. This review underscores the importance of distinguishing between DM-LE, HUSD, and SCC to optimize management and minimize risks associated with HU therapy. Full article

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder marked by persistent gastrointestinal inflammation and a spectrum of systemic effects, including extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) that impact the joints, skin, liver, and eyes. Conventional therapies primarily target intestinal inflammation, yet they frequently fail to ameliorate these systemic complications. Recent investigations have highlighted the complex interplay among the immune system, gut, and nervous system in IBD pathogenesis, thereby underscoring the need for innovative therapeutic approaches. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Keywords including “cannabinoids”, “endocannabinoid system”, “endocannabinoidome”, “inflammatory bowel disease”, and “extraintestinal manifestations” were used to identify peer-reviewed original research and review articles that explore the role of the endocannabinoidome (eCBome) in IBD. Results: Emerging evidence suggests that eCBome—a network comprising lipid mediators, receptors (e.g., CB1, CB2, GPR55, GPR35, PPARα, TRPV1), and metabolic enzymes—plays a critical role in modulating immune responses, maintaining gut barrier integrity, and regulating systemic inflammation. Targeting eCBome not only improves intestinal inflammation but also appears to mitigate metabolic, neurological, and extraintestinal complications such as arthritis, liver dysfunction, and dermatological disorders. Conclusions: Modulation of eCBome represents a promising strategy for comprehensive IBD management by addressing both local and systemic disease components. These findings advocate for further mechanistic studies to develop targeted interventions that leverage eCBome as a novel therapeutic avenue in IBD. Full article

The study of the effects of climate change and air pollution on human health is an interesting topic for wellbeing projects in urban areas. We present a method for highlighting how adverse weather and environmental conditions affect human health and influence emergency room admissions during the summer in an urban area. Daily apparent temperature, a biometeorological index, was used to characterize thermal discomfort while atmospheric concentrations of PM10 and NOX were used as indicators of unfavorable environmental conditions. We analyzed how the above parameters influence the emergency room access, considering all the different pathologies. Over the four years analyzed, we identified the periods during which environmental conditions (both thermal discomfort and pollutant concentrations) were unfavorable, the persistence of these conditions, and verified that during these days, the average daily number of emergency room visits increased. Visits for ENT and dermatological disorders also showed significant increases. Our analysis showed that emergency room access is useful in evaluating the impact of unfavorable climatic and environmental conditions on human health during the summer period; vice versa, our results could be used to optimize resource management in emergency rooms during this specific period of the year. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin (5,7D-4MC) on melanogenesis in B16F10 murine melanoma cells and to evaluate its safety as a potential ingredient for functional cosmetics and therapeutic agents targeting pigmentation-related disorders. Method: The cytotoxicity of 5,7D-4MC was assessed using an MTT assay, and melanin content and tyrosinase activity were measured at different concentrations (25, 50, 100 µM). Western blot analyses were conducted to evaluate the expression of key melanogenesis-related proteins (TYR, TRP-1, TRP-2, and MITF) and to investigate the regulation of major signaling pathways, including PKA/cAMP, GSK3β, and PI3K/AKT. Additionally, a human primary skin irritation test was performed on 32 participants to assess the dermatological safety of 5,7D-4MC. Results: 5,7D-4MC did not affect cell viability at concentrations below 100 µM and significantly promoted melanin production in a dose-dependent manner. Tyrosinase activity and the expression levels of melanogenic proteins increased significantly following 5,7D-4MC treatment. PKA and GSK3β pathways were activated, while the PI3K/AKT pathway was downregulated. The skin irritation test showed that 5,7D-4MC exhibited low irritation potential at concentrations of 50 µM and 100 µM. Conclusions: 5,7D-4MC enhances melanogenesis and demonstrates low skin irritation, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic applications in treating hypopigmentation disorders, such as vitiligo, as well as a functional cosmetic ingredient. However, further studies involving human melanocytes and clinical trials are required to validate their efficacy. Full article

Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is well-recognized throughout dermatology for its cosmetic indications and growing therapeutic value. Recent studies have trialed BoNT in the treatment of hair and scalp disorders, many of which lack long-term effective treatments and significantly impact quality of life. In this review, we summarize the current clinical literature on this topic to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy, safety, and clinical value of BoNT in treating hair and scalp conditions. A literature search on PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus identified 40 articles reporting the use of 25–200 units of BoNT-A or B in 689 patients with hair loss (79.5%), scalp seborrheic dermatitis/hyperseborrhea (10%), craniofacial hyperhidrosis (9%), folliculitis decalvans/dissecting folliculitis (0.86%), scalp pain (0.43%), or linear scleroderma (0.29%). Most studies on BoNT therapy for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) reported mild or non-significant hair growth; however, considerable variability in outcome measures complicates the ability to draw definitive conclusions or justify the use of BoNT over established AGA therapies. BoNT-A and B showed consistent efficacy in treating craniofacial hyperhidrosis with minimal side effects. Additional scalp conditions may benefit from BoNT therapy, but the evidence is limited, and larger, controlled studies are needed to better understand BoNT’s clinical value in these conditions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Potato (Solanum tuberosum)-derived exosomes (SDEs) are extracellular vesicles (66 nm in diameter) with therapeutic potential. SDEs suppress matrix metallopeptidases (MMPs) 1, 2, and 9, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interleukin 6 (IL6), while exhibiting radical-scavenging activity against the free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) in vitro and mitigating hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress in HaCaT cells. SDEs upregulate the antioxidant gene glutathione S-transferase alpha 4 (GSTA4), prevent UVB damage, and regenerate photodamaged HaCaT cells. This study evaluates SDEs’ safety and skin-enhancing properties to improve their beauty-related and medical applications. Methods: The SDEs purified via ultracentrifugation were tested for their cytotoxic effects on HaCaT cell viability in scratch wound healing assays and for skin barrier gene modulation in HaCaT keratinocytes and Detroit 551 fibroblasts. A reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to analyze the changes in skin barrier gene expression following the SDE treatment. Cosmetic prototypes containing SDEs were assessed for skin irritation, cooling effects, periorbital wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and whitening properties. Results: The cytotoxicity and human topical tests confirmed the safety of SDE application. The SDEs accelerated wound closure, elevated the skin barrier gene expression level, and improved the clinical parameters, including wrinkle reduction, elasticity enhancement, and whitening. No irritation or side effects were observed. Conclusions: This study identified natural, edible potato-derived exosomes (SDEs) as highly safe agents that significantly enhance wound healing and promote skin barrier-related gene expression. Their multifunctional anti-aging efficacy—reducing wrinkles, enhancing elasticity, and promoting whitening without irritation—positions them as promising candidates for cosmetic and dermatological innovations. These findings warrant further exploration of SDEs for therapeutic applications, including inflammatory skin disorders and drug delivery systems. Full article

Background: Hydroxyurea (HU) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent for myeloproliferative disorders, yet its long-term use can rarely trigger a dermatomyositis-like (DM-like) eruption characterized solely by cutaneous manifestations without muscle involvement or serologic markers. This study presents a case of HU-induced DM-like eruption and reviews the literature regarding this rare occurrence. Methods: A 77-year-old woman with polycythemia vera on long-term HU therapy developed a progressively worsening, erythematous, scaly, and crusted eruption on the face, neck, and anterior thorax. Comprehensive clinical evaluations, laboratory tests (including normal muscle enzymes and negative autoimmune panels), and skin biopsies were performed. In parallel, a systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, incorporating case reports and series published prior to January 2025 that provided detailed individual clinical data. Results: The patient exhibited hallmark DM-like cutaneous features—interface dermatitis with basal vacuolar degeneration and prominent dermal mucin deposition—without evidence of muscle weakness or positive myositis-specific antibodies. The literature review of 23 cases revealed a median latency of 5 years from HU initiation to skin eruption, with the dorsal hands most frequently affected. HU discontinuation, often combined with systemic and topical corticosteroids (and, in some cases, steroid-sparing agents), resulted in lesion resolution in over 90% of cases, with a median healing time of approximately 3 months. Conclusions: HU-induced DM-like eruption, though infrequent, is a distinct clinical entity requiring prompt recognition and management. The main treatment is the discontinuation of HU, which, when supplemented by appropriate corticosteroid therapy, leads to significant clinical improvement. Ongoing dermatologic surveillance is recommended for patients on long-term HU therapy due to the potential risk of premalignant skin changes. Full article

Background: Pregnancy induces hormonal, immunologic, and vascular changes that profoundly affect dermatologic health. This systematic review aimed to assess the impact of pregnancy on dermatological disorders in terms of disease incidence, severity, maternal-fetal outcomes, and optimal management strategies. Methods: A systematic search was performed in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases, following PRISMA guidelines. Studies evaluating pregnant women with dermatological disorders, pregnancy-related dermatoses, and pre-existing morbidities, were included. The collaboratively extracted data included patient demographics, disease severity, treatment approaches, and pregnancy outcomes. Results: A total of 8490 pregnant cases with dermatologic changes and conditions caused by pregnancy were studied. The dermatological conditions were divided into physiological changes, pregnancy-related exacerbation of pre-existing skin conditions, and pregnancy-specific dermatoses. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and pemphigoid gestationis were associated with increased rates of adverse fetal outcomes in patients with specific dermatoses, including increased preterm birth and fetal distress rates. The atopic eruption of pregnancy and polymorphic eruption of pregnancy were highly relevant, but their effect on fetal health was minimal. The efficacy and safety of treatment modalities, including corticosteroids, antihistamines, and ursodeoxycholic acid, were variable. Conclusions: Pregnancy drastically affects dermatological health, but the nature of the impact depends on the condition. Optimal maternal and fetal outcomes rely on early diagnosis and individualized management strategies. More randomized controlled trials are required to develop standardized diagnostic and treatment guidelines to enhance the quality of dermatologic care during pregnancy. Full article

Acute and recurrent pustulosis (ARP), previously known as actinic folliculitis, superficial actinic folliculitis, or even acne aestivalis, is a rare, underdiagnosed dermatological condition characterized by the sudden onset of monomorphic pustular eruptions on an erythematous background localized predominantly on the upper body. While typically associated with sun exposure, ARP can also be triggered by other factors, such as heat or sweating, underscoring its multifactorial etiology. We report the case of a 40-year-old woman with ARP, presenting diagnostic challenges due to overlapping clinical features and the coexistence of atopic dermatitis (AD), an association not previously documented in the literature. The patient exhibited recurrent pustular episodes localized on sun-exposed and non-exposed areas, unresponsive to conventional therapies. Comprehensive microbiological, histopathological, and clinical assessments excluded infectious, drug-induced, and other inflammatory pustular dermatoses, confirming the diagnosis of ARP. Importantly, treatment with Baricitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor primarily prescribed for AD, resulted in marked improvement in both conditions, suggesting shared inflammatory pathways. This therapeutic response highlights the potential role of JAK inhibitors in ARP management, particularly in cases resistant to standard interventions. This report also proposes the inclusion of heat- and sweat-induced ARP as a distinct subtype, expanding the understanding of its diverse triggers beyond UV radiation. Furthermore, it underscores the need for standardized diagnostic criteria and a structured approach to differential diagnosis, given the condition’s underdiagnosed and often misinterpreted nature. By shedding light on the clinical and therapeutic aspects of ARP, this case contributes to a more nuanced understanding of this rare entity and its potential interplay with inflammatory skin disorders such as AD. Full article

Chronic disfiguring skin conditions profoundly affect patients’ quality of life (QoL) due to their physical, psychological, and emotional consequences. Although the presence of depression and anxiety symptomatology in dermatological patients is well established, the specific roles of emotional dysregulation, dysmorphophobic concerns, and hopelessness in this population require further investigation. This study aimed for the following: (1) to assess symptoms of emotional dysregulation, dysmorphophobic concerns, and hopelessness in hospitalized patients with severe dermatological diseases; (2) analyze whether emotional dysregulation mediates the relationship between dysmorphophobic concerns and hopelessness. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 120 hospitalized dermatology patients. Patients completed standardized measures, including the Emotional Dysregulation Scale (EDs), Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), and the Questionario sul Dismorfismo Corporeo “Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire” (QDC). Disease severity and pain perception were assessed using the Physician Global Assessment (PGA) and the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Significant associations were observed between emotional dysregulation, dysmorphophobic concerns, and hopelessness. Emotional dysregulation partially mediated the relationship between dysmorphophobic concerns and hopelessness (indirect effect: b = 0.013, CI [0.004, 0.026]). Higher dysmorphophobic concerns were associated with emotional dysregulation, which, in turn, predicted greater hopelessness. Emotional dysregulation seems to play a critical role in the relationship between dysmorphophobic concerns and hopelessness in dermatological patients. Full article

(1) Background: Darier disease (DD) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutations in ATP2A2, a gene that encodes the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium-ATPase 2 enzyme, which disrupts calcium homeostasis in keratinocytes. Pruritus, a frequently overlooked symptom in DD, can lead to physical and emotional complications, especially in patients with DD who are genetically predisposed to psychiatric comorbidities. (2) Methods: This study aimed to analyze pruritus and other related symptoms in patients with DD and explore their correlation with neuropsychiatric conditions, psychological challenges, disease severity, and body surface area (BSA) involvement through a retrospective review of a tertiary center. (3) Results: Data from 76 patients (equal gender distribution, mean age 44 years) revealed a prevalence of pruritus of 90.8%, surpassing symptoms such as pain (34.3%) and malodor (43.4%). Burning sensations due to DD lesions were significantly correlated with the diagnosis of comorbid neuropsychiatric conditions (p = 0.047) and psychiatric medication use (p = 0.019). While pruritus correlated with disease severity and %BSA involvement, the findings were not statistically significant. Patients reporting pruritus had a significantly higher Dermatology Life Quality Index symptom score (2.4 ± 1.0), which is defined as the presence of itch, soreness, pain, or stinging, than those who did not (1.5 ± 0.6), indicating accurate symptom reporting. (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, a striking majority of patients with DD experience pruritus, with higher prevalence among those with neuropsychiatric challenges, severe Darier disease, and greater %BSA skin involvement. Clinicians should recognize pruritus as a key therapeutic target and adopt comprehensive treatment approaches that both address the neuropsychiatric comorbidities and the added psychological burden of pruritus in patients with DD. Full article

Hypertrophic lichen planus (HLP) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition defined by verrucous, pruritic, papules and plaques usually affecting the lower limbs. The diagnosis of HLP is primarily clinical. However, due to its feasible generalized presentation and similarities with other hypertrophic cutaneous disorders, histological evaluation is often necessary. Many dermatological conditions that present with a hypertrophic clinical appearance can arise from a histological lichenoid infiltrate (HCLI). Hence, we provide an overview of the clinical, histopathological, and prognostic features of selected HCLI, including HLP, hypertrophic lichenoid dermatitis, hypertrophic lichen sclerosus (HLS), lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), keratoacanthoma (KA), pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia (PEH), viral warts, and lupus erythematosus/lichen planus (LE/LP) overlap. Choosing the appropriate procedure and the anatomical site for an incisional biopsy requires thoughtful consideration to ensure sufficient depth and improve diagnostic accuracy by identifying the histological features specific to each hypertrophic condition. Full article

Background: Medical diagnosis for skin diseases, including leukemia, early skin cancer, benign neoplasms, and alternative disorders, becomes difficult because of external variations among groups of patients. A research goal is to create a fusion-level deep learning model that improves stability and skin disease classification performance. Methods: The model design merges three convolutional neural networks (CNNs): EfficientNet-B0, EfficientNet-B2, and ResNet50, which operate independently under distinct branches. The neural network model uses its capability to extract detailed features from multiple strong architectures to reach accurate results along with tight classification precision. A fusion mechanism completes its operation by transmitting extracted features to dense and dropout layers for generalization and reduced dimensionality. Analyses for this research utilized the 27,153-image Kaggle Skin Diseases Image Dataset, which distributed testing materials into training (80%), validation (10%), and testing (10%) portions for ten skin disorder classes. Results: Evaluation of the proposed model revealed 99.14% accuracy together with excellent precision, recall, and F1-score metrics. Conclusions: The proposed deep learning approach demonstrates strong potential as a starting point for dermatological diagnosis automation since it shows promise for clinical use in skin disease classification. Full article

Background/Objectives: Psoriasis, a prevalent dermatological disorder, poses therapeutic challenges due to limited effective treatments or adverse side-effects. Traditional medicinal plants like Alstonia scholaris and Wrightia tinctoria, historically used in Ayurvedic and Siddha practices, show potential in treating inflammatory skin diseases. This study aims to explore their in vitro and in vivo anti-psoriatic properties to develop safer and more effective therapies. Methods: Chloroform:methanol fractions from ethanol extracts of Alstonia scholaris and Wrightia tinctoria were evaluated for anti-psoriatic activity. In vitro assays using HaCaT cells assessed cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammatory markers. In vivo studies utilized an IMQ-induced psoriasis mouse model, evaluating skin lesions, histopathology, and cytokine profiles. Results: Chloroform fractions significantly reduced HaCaT cell viability and induced apoptosis. They also dose-dependently downregulated IL-8 and RANTES levels. In vivo, these fractions reduced skin inflammation, edema, and psoriasis scores. Histopathological analysis showed decreased epidermal thickness and dermal inflammation. Key psoriasis biomarkers IL-17 and IL-23 were significantly reduced. Conclusions: Chloroform:methanol fractions from Alstonia scholaris and Wrightia tinctoria demonstrated potent anti-psoriatic effects in vitro and in vivo. These findings support their potential as novel phytotherapeutic agents for managing psoriasis, offering promise for further development and clinical application. Full article

For some years, blue light at a wavelength of 400–500 nm has emerged as a non-invasive and innovative treatment in dermatology. This narrative review provides a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms by which blue light exerts therapeutic effects on various skin disorders including treatment of acne vulgaris, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, androgenetic alopecia, ulcers and photoaging. We delve into the antimicrobial properties of blue light, highlighting its ability to generate reactive oxygen species that target and destroy pathogenic microorganisms such as Cutibacterium acnes. Additionally, we examine its anti-inflammatory effects, which involve the modulation of cytokine production and reduction in inflammatory cell infiltration, contributing to symptom relief in chronic inflammatory conditions. Blue light, through interaction with some photoreceptors, belonging to the Opsin family, is able to stimulate and prolong the anagen phase in the hair’s life cycle and stimulate repigmentation in vitiligoid patches. The photobiomodulation properties of blue light are also discussed, emphasizing how it influences cellular activities like proliferation and differentiation, thereby aiding in skin rejuvenation and healing processes. By assessing the clinical efficacy, safety profiles, and potential adverse effects reported in the current literature, we aim to present a balanced perspective on the utility of blue light therapy. The review also discusses advancements in light-emitting diode (LED) technology that have enhanced treatment delivery and patient outcomes. Furthermore, we outline future directions for research and clinical applications, emphasizing the need for standardized treatment protocols and long-term safety studies to fully integrate blue light therapy into dermatological practice. Full article