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Azelaic acid in the treatment of papulopustular rosacea

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of topical 20% azelaic acid cream and 15% azelaic acid gel compared with their respective vehicles and metronidazole gel in the treatment of papulopustular rosacea . DATA SOURCES: Electronic searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS, and SciSearch through July or August 2004 and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through 2004 (issue 3). We performed hand searches of reference lists, conference proceedings, and clinical trial databases. Experts in rosacea and azelaic acid were contacted. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled trials involving topical azelaic acid (cream or gel) for the treatment of rosacea compared with placebo or other topical treatments. Two authors independently examined the studies identified by the searches. Ten studies were identified, of which 5 were included (873 patients). DATA EXTRACTION: Two authors independently extracted data from the included studies, then jointly assessed methodological quality using a quality a...

Iron status with particular consideration of soluble transferrin receptors in children

Role of Helicobacter pylori infection in chronic gastritis and gastric and/or duodenal ulcers is well known. Simultaneously there are some articles in literature considering H. pylori as a cause of extra-gastrointestinal illnesses such as atopic dermatitis, chronic urticaria or acne rosacea , hypotrophy, Schoenlein-Henoch disease, atherosclerosis or hypochromic anaemia. The aim of the study. was to asses iron status in aspect of plasmatic transferrin receptors concentration among children and youth with chronic gastritis with or without Helicobacter pylori infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty one patients were included as a study group. Range of age was 9-18 years. All patients were diagnosed due to chronic abdominal pains. There were 13 males and 28 females. Blood was collected from every patient for blood cell count, iron, transferrin and transferrin receptors concentration (sTfR) assessment before endoscopy of upper gastrointestinal tract. RESULTS: Concentration of sTfR was highe...

Rosacea: A Review.

P T. 2009 Jan; 34(1): 38-45Culp B, Scheinfeld NRosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition of the facial skin affecting the blood vessels and pilosebaceous units. Rosacea is more common in persons of northern and western European descent with a fair complexion, but it can affect skin of any color. Although symptoms may wax and wane during the short term, rosacea can progress with time. Patients usually present with complaints of flushing and blushing and sensitive skin, and their skin may be especially irritated by topical preparations. Rosacea has a variety of triggers; however, they may be unnoticed by the patient.Standard treatments approved by the FDA include azelaic acid, topical metronidazole, and oral tetracyclines, in particular minocycline and doxycycline. Other topical treatments include topical clindamycin, subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline, and sulfur products. Azithromycin and controlled-release minocycline are possible options for treating rosacea, but the FDA has not ap...

Tinea incognito in Italy

Tinea incognito or steroid modified tinea is a dermatophytic infection in which topical or systemic steroids, administered as a result of dermatological misdiagnosis or preexisting pathologies, have modified the clinical appearance of the fungal infection, transforming the typical ringworm and mimicking other skin diseases . This is a retrospective study of the agents, clinical aspects, sources of infection of 200 cases (98 males, 102 females, mean age 42 years) of tinea incognito, observed in Siena and Milan, Italy, in the period 1987-2002. In order of decreasing frequency, Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton violaceum and Trichophyton erinacei were isolated. The clinical appearance of the infection was lupus erythematosus discoid-like, eczema-like, rosacea-like, especially on the face, impetigo-like and eczema-like on trunk and limbs. Less often the dermatophytosis resembled psoriasis, purpur...

Skin tolerance, efficacy, and quality of life of patients with red facial skin

Patients with rosacea and red facial skin often show sensitivity to skin care products which can exacerbate inflammation and subjective irritation. Besides pharmacologic management, special skin care is prudent to avoid cosmetically induced irritation and address cosmetic concerns. Appropriate skin care should provide gentle cleansing, UVA/UVB protection, effective moisturization, and concealing pigments to neutralize the appearance of redness. AIMS: To evaluate skin compatibility and efficacy of a skin care regimen containing licochalcone A (Lic A), an anti-irritant from the licorice plant Glycyrrhiza inflata, for subjects with mild to moderate facial redness. PATIENTS/METHODS: Sixty-two patients with mild to moderate red facial skin used a four-product skin care regimen for 8 weeks. Clinical assessments of erythema and subjective irritation, cross-polarized photography, and self-assessment questionnaires were completed at baseline, and after 4 and 8 weeks of use. A quality of life q...

Local corticosteroid therapy in dermatology

The introduction of dermocorticosteroids (corticosteroids for topical application) has revolutionized management of many skin diseases. Depending on their antiinflammatory action, these products can be classed into four levels of action. Dermocorticosteroids have antiinflammatory, vasoconstrictor, antiproliferative, antisynthetic and immunosuppressive actions. SKIN PENETRATION: Penetration depends on the intrinsic characteristics of the drug, but also on many other factors including the nature of the excipient, additives, occlusion, localization, nature of the treated skin disease, and patient age. There is a reservoir effect, explaining why a single application is effective for dermatoses with a normal keratin layer. INDICATIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS: Dermocorticosteroids can be indicated in numerous inflammatory skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema ...). They are formally contraindicated in case of skin infections, diaper rash, acne and rosacea . Contact allergies have been reported. IN ...

Double-blind comparison of azelaic acid 20% cream and its vehicle in treatment of papulo-pustular rosacea

Previous investigations have indicated that topical azelaic acid has beneficial effects in rosacea . This 3-month randomized, double-blind, multicentre study compared the efficacy and safety of azelaic acid 20% cream with its vehicle, in the treatment of papulo-pustular rosacea . A total of 116 patients were enrolled in the study and medication was applied twice daily. Azelaic acid cream produced significantly greater mean reductions in total inflammatory lesions than did vehicle (azelaic acid: 73.4%; vehicle: 50.6%; (p = 0.011), and erythema severity score (azelaic acid: 47.9%; vehicle: 37.9%; (p = 0.031). Azelaic acid cream treatment also resulted in significantly more favourable overall improvements than vehicle in both physician (p = 0.020) and patient ratings (p = 0.042). Neither azelaic acid cream nor vehicle produced any clinically relevant improvement in telangiectasia. Local adverse events were transient and mainly mild or moderate, and rates were similar for azelaic acid crea...

Perioral dermatitis in children

Perioral dermatitis is a unique skin disorder of childhood. Its exact origin is unknown; it is probably an idiosyncratic response to exogenous factors such as the use of a topical fluorinated corticosteroid or other substances on the face. It is uncommon but not rare. The age of affected children has ranged from 7 months to 13 years, with the median being in the prepubertal period. Boys and girls, blacks and whites are equally affected. Clinical features include the following: (1) absence of systemic symptoms; (2) periorificial distribution (perioral, perinasal, periorbital); (3) skin lesions that consist of flesh colored or erythematous inflammed papules, micronodules, and rare pustules; and (4) variable pruritus. Laboratory tests are negative. Histologically, it is indistinguishable from rosacea ; there is a superficial perifollicular granuloma consisting of epitheliod cells, and lymphohistiocytic infiltrate, with occasional giant cells. The disease waxes and wanes for weeks and mont...

Tear lactoferrin levels in chronic meibomitis associated with acne rosacea

To determine tear lactoferrin levels in patients with chronic diffuse meibomitis associated with acne rosacea and to investigate their role in the development and perpetuation of some inflammatory ocular surface complications. METHODS: In this non-randomized, controlled trial performed in a tertiary care center, eight patients with biopsy-proven acne rosacea and blepharitis , and ten patients with seborrheic blepharitis not associated with acne rosacea formed the study groups and ten normal patients were used as controls. Schirmer I test results, tear break-up time and radial immunodiffusion (Lactoplate) tests on tear samples of the three groups were compared. RESULTS: Compared to controls, tear lactoferrin concentrations were lower in both the acne rosacea and seborrheic blepharitis groups. However, this decrease was significant in only the seborrheic blepharitis group (p = 0.026). One patient in the acne rosacea group, with the lowest measurement, developed bacterial keratitis. CONC...

Tear fluid gelatinase B activity correlates with IL-1alpha concentration and fluorescein clearance in ocular rosacea

To correlate tear fluorescein clearance with interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) concentration and gelatinase B (matrix metalloproteinase [MMP]-9) activity in the tear fluid of patients with ocular rosacea and normal control subjects. METHODS: Gelatinase activity was evaluated by gelatin zymography in tear fluid obtained from 13 patients with ocular rosacea (including 1 patient with recurrent epithelial erosion, 2 with recurrent peripheral corneal infiltrates and vascularization, and 2 patients with epithelial basement membrane dystrophy) and 13 normal subjects with normal aqueous tear production and no irritation symptoms. Tear fluorescein clearance was evaluated by measuring fluorescence in tear fluid collected from the inferior meniscus 15 minutes after instillation of 5 microl of 2% Na-fluorescein with a CytoFluor II fluorometer. Pro-MMP-9 and IL-1alpha concentrations in the tear fluid were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Compared with normal control sub...

Helicobacter pylori infection and skin diseases

There is increasing evidence for systemic effects of gastric H. pylori infection which may result in extragastrointestinal disorders. This review summarizes the available medical literature up to September 1999, identified through a MEDLINE research including own studies, regarding H. pylori and skin diseases. Due to current knowledge best evidence for a potential link of H. pylori infection exists for chronic urticaria although the data are still conflicting. Thus, the search for H. pylori should be included in the diagnostic management of chronic urticaria. With regard to other skin diseases such as rosacea , hereditary or acquired angioedema due to C1-esterase inhibitor deficiency, systemic sclerosis, Schönlein-Henoch purpura, Sjögren's syndrome, sweet's syndrome, and atopic dermatitis only single of few cases have been reported so far. Thus, we clearly need further randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled studies including adequate diagnostic schedules, sufficient er...

Helicobacter pylori and its eradication in rosacea

Rosacea is a common condition of unknown etiology usually accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms and favorably responding to the treatment with antibiotics. This study was designed to examine the prevalence of gastric Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection verified by 13C-UTB-test, CLO, Hp culture and serology (IgG) in patients with rosacea. Gastroduodenoscopy was combined with pentagastrin secretory test and antral and fundic biopsy samples were taken for histological evaluation (the Sydney system). Blood samples were also taken for the determination of plasma gastrin using RIA and plasma interleukin (IL)-8 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) using ELISA. This study was performed in 60 patients, 31-72 year old, with visible papules and pustules associated with erythema and flushing on the face and on 60 age- and gender-matched patients without any skin diseases but with similar as in rosacea gastrointestinal symptoms but without endoscopic changes in gastroduodenal mucosa (non-...

Use of atp6 in fungal phylogenetics

Complete nucleotide sequences have been determined for atp6 from Suillus luteus and cox3 from Suillus sinuspaulianus (Boletales, Hymenomycetes, Basidiomycota), which code for ATPase subunit 6 and cytochrome oxidase subunit 3, respectively. These sequences were used to design PCR primers for the amplification of partial atp6 and cox3 sequences from other members of the Boletales and outgroup taxa. In atp6 and cox3 from Russula rosacea, one of the outgroup taxa, we observed a number of in-frame TGA(trp) codons, which imply a Neurospora crassa-type mitochondrial code in R. rosacea and possibly in basidiomycetes in general. Interestingly, however, most basidiomycetes other than R. rosacea appear to strongly prefer the TGG(trp) codon, which is unusual, given the strong A + T bias in fungal mitochondrial genomes. Pairwise comparisons were performed between atp6 sequences from increasingly divergent fungal lineages, and results show that all three codon positions become saturated in substitu...

Efficacy of topical cyclosporine for the treatment of ocular rosacea.

Adv Ther. 2009 Jun 23; Schechter BA, Katz RS, Friedman LSINTRODUCTION: This study was designed to compare the efficacy of cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% with an artificial tear solution for the treatment of rosacea-associated eyelid and corneal pathology. METHODS: Double-masked, randomized, 3-month clinical trial of 37 patients with rosacea-associated eyelid and corneal changes (defined as lid margin telangiectasia, meibomian gland inspissation, and/or fullness of the lid margin). All findings were standardized and compared to photographs for grading. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant increase in Schirmer (with anesthesia) scores of 2.7+/-2.2 mm after 3 months of treatment in the topical cyclosporine group (P

Rhinophymous leishmaniasis: A new variant.

Dermatol Online J. 2009; 15(3): 10Ul Bari A, Ejaz ACutaneous leishmaniasis is known for its wide clinical spectrum. The nose is one of the usual sites where the disease can present in many forms, such as psoriasiform plaques, furunculoid nodules, lupoid plaques, and erysipeloid or mucocutaneous types. We present a new morphology, i.e. rhinophyma-like plaque in an elderly male patient who presented with a large infiltrated plaque involving his nose and the adjoining area of his upper lip. It appeared to be rhinophyma of the nose but was diagnosed as cutaneous leishmaniasis after the demonstration of leishmania parasites in a skin smear preparation; he was treated satisfactorily with antimonials.

Low-fat and fat-free pleomorphic lipomas: a diagnostic challenge.

Am J Dermatopathol. 2009 Jul; 31(5): 423-6Sachdeva MP, Goldblum JR, Rubin BP, Billings SDPleomorphic lipomas are benign tumors that most commonly present as subcutaneous masses in the head and neck, shoulder, or back region of middle-aged to elderly men. They are related to spindle cell lipomas based on shared cytogenetic aberrations and histologic features. When little or no fat is present, the diagnosis can be challenging. A review of 38 pleomorphic lipomas seen in consultation revealed 7 cases in which fat was present in reduced (

Topical PRK 124 (0.125%) lotion for improving the signs and symptoms of rosacea.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2009 May; 8(5): 459-62Ortiz A, Elkeeb L, Truitt A, Hindiyeh R, Aquino L, Tran M, Weinstein GBACKGROUND: Current treatments for acne rosacea are often associated with unsatisfactory outcomes and adverse effects. OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy and tolerability of a new moisturizing lotion for improving the clinical signs and symptoms of mild-to-moderate acne rosacea. METHODS: In a 12-week, open-label study, a moisturizing lotion containing furfuryl tetrahydropyranyladenine as PRK124 (0.125%, Pyratine-XR, Senetek PLC, Napa, CA) was applied twice daily to subjects with mild-to-moderate rosacea. Improvement in the appearances of erythema and papules were assessed by the treating physician. Skin barrier function was measured by transepidmal water loss after treatment. Tolerability and cosmetic outcome were evaluated by patients. RESULTS: Twenty-one participants completed the study. Overall clinical improvement was observed in 80% of subjects, with most showing mild-t...

Skin tolerance, efficacy, and quality of life

Patients with rosacea and red facial skin often show sensitivity to skin care products which can exacerbate inflammation and subjective irritation. Besides pharmacologic management, special skin care is prudent to avoid cosmetically induced irritation and address cosmetic concerns. Appropriate skin care should provide gentle cleansing, UVA/UVB protection, effective moisturization, and concealing pigments to neutralize the appearance of redness. AIMS: To evaluate skin compatibility and efficacy of a skin care regimen containing licochalcone A (Lic A), an anti-irritant from the licorice plant Glycyrrhiza inflata, for subjects with mild to moderate facial redness. PATIENTS/METHODS: Sixty-two patients with mild to moderate red facial skin used a four-product skin care regimen for 8 weeks. Clinical assessments of erythema and subjective irritation, cross-polarized photography, and self-assessment questionnaires were completed at baseline, and after 4 and 8 weeks of use. A quality of life ...

Rosacea fulminans, pyostomatitis and pyovulvitis in Crohn's disease

Rosacea fulminans (also known as pyoderma faciale) has been reported to occur in association with Crohn's disease. It is still unclear whether the papulopustules and confluent nodules of rosacea fulminans represent a manifestation of mucocutaneous Crohn's disease or whether this association is a mere coincidence. A 46-year-old woman presented with the spontaneous outbreak of rosacea fulminans and pyostomatitis/pyovulvitis. Complete remission of the mucocutaneous symptoms was achieved with 2 months combination therapy with methylprednisolone, isotretinoin and dapsone. The patient's Crohn's disease, already diagnosed for 3 years, did not flare during this period. "Rosacea fulminans, pyostomatitis and pyovulvitis in Crohn's disease: dapsone as key factor in combination therapy" Gatzka M, Simon M, Schuler G, Lüftl M Hautarzt. 2006 Oct ; 57(10): 898-902 (Hubmed.org) Highlight : Treatment Of Rosacea | Acne Rosacea Antibiotic | Acne Rosacea | Rosacea Cre...

Unusual histopathological features of cutaneous leishmaniasis identified by polymerase chain reaction specific for Leishmania on paraffin-embedded ski

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is rare in Northern Europe and may be overlooked because colleagues have little experience with it. OBJECTIVES: To identify manifestations of CL that may escape diagnosis. METHODS: Correlation of clinical diagnosis and histopathological findings in 28 biopsy specimens taken from 19 patients with CL confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) specific for Leishmania. RESULTS: In only one patient was the clinical diagnosis CL; other diagnoses included: malignant epithelial neoplasms (5), follicular cyst (2), atypical mycobacteriosis (1), sarcoidosis (2) and lymphoma (1). Lesions were single (15) or few (4) nodules predominantly situated on the extremities or face (16). Histopathological findings were diagnostic of CL in only 10 cases. In nine cases Leishmania was not identified microscopically; histopathological diagnoses were: granulomatous dermatitis (6), lupoid rosacea (1), foreign body granuloma (1) and granuloma annulare (1). Unaltered epidermis (9), n...

Efficacy and safety of once-daily metronidazole 1% gel compared with twice-daily azelaic acid 15% gel in the treatment of rosacea

Rosacea is an inflammatory dermatologic disorder characterized by the presence of facial erythema, visible blood vessels, papules, and pustules. The National Rosacea Society has established a classification system that identifies 4 distinct rosacea subtypes based on clinical presentation: erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous, and ocular. The goal of topical therapy for rosacea is to reduce inflammatory lesion counts; decrease intensity of erythema; and reduce symptoms such as stinging, burning, and pruritus. Metronidazole and azelaic acid are thought to reduce the inflammation associated with rosacea by inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species produced by neutrophils. Both metronidazole 1% gel and azelaic acid 15% gel recently have been approved for the treatment of rosacea . The current study was conducted to compare the once-daily application of metronidazole 1% gel with twice-daily applications of azelaic acid 15% gel for the treatment of patients with ...

A look at the safety of metronidazole 1% gel

Rosacea is a common, recurrent, inflammatory dermatologic disorder characterized by the presence of facial erythema, visible blood vessels, papules, and pustules. The condition may cause serious psychologic morbidity and may significantly affect quality of life. The first topical rosacea therapy approved by the US Food and Drug Administration was metronidazole for the treatment of inflammatory lesions and erythema . Previously, metronidazole was available as a 0.75% gel. Improved solubility was achieved in a new, stable, aqueous gel that permitted the formulation of metronidazole 1.0%. This new formulation is highly spreadable, easy to use, cosmetically friendly, mild to the skin, nondrying, and moisturizing. The safety of metronidazole 1% gel was determined by the evaluation of its cumulative irritation, contact sensitization, phototoxicity, and photoallergy potential in healthy male and female patients. In this formulation, metronidazole was not irritating under occlusive applicati...

A novel aqueous metronidazole 1% gel with hydrosolubilizing agents

Rosacea is a common chronic dermatosis that often is characterized by the presence of facial erythema, visible blood vessels, papules, and pustules. Because the face is the predominant site of involvement, rosacea may cause serious psychologic trauma and can significantly affect the quality of life of individuals with the condition. The first topical therapy approved for rosacea by the US Food and Drug Administration was metronidazole for the treatment of inflammatory lesions and erythema. A stable aqueous gel formulation of 1% metronidazole has been developed with the novel combination of hydrosolubilizing agents. Metronidazole 1% gel is a clear gel that exhibits advantageous qualities. Some features of the new product include being highly spreadable, easy to use, cosmetically friendly, ultramild, nondrying, and moisturizing. Data are presented from a 21-day cumulative irritation study, an assessment of skin barrier function, an in vitro skin penetration study, an absorption followi...

The effect of Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser on the skin barrier of patients with rosacea

A good skin care regimen is a critical part of rosacea treatment ; however, care must be taken to choose nonirritating products because individuals with rosacea tend to have sensitive skin, and irritants can trigger a worsening of symptoms. This study examines the use of Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (a nonalkaline nonirritating cleanser) in patients with rosacea. To eliminate the confounding effects of various treatments, the cleanser was studied for a 2-week period in the absence of rosacea therapy following a 2-week washout period in patients with mild to moderate rosacea. During the washout period, patients were asked to cleanse twice daily with Dove Sensitive Skin Bar. During the 2-week study period, patients were monitored for skin barrier function through transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and corneometry; patients also were monitored for rosacea severity. Thirty patients were enrolled. No significant increase in TEWL was demonstrated at any point during the study, indicating t...

ATPgammaS enhances the production of inflammatory mediators

Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) affects multiple intra- and extracellular processes, including vascular tone and immune responses. Microvascular endothelial cells (EC) play a central role in inflammation by recruitment of inflammatory cells from blood to tissues. We hypothesized that ATP (secreted by neurons and/or released after perturbation of cutaneous cells) may influence secretion of inflammatory messengers by dermal microvascular EC through actions on purinergic P2 receptors. Addition of the hydrolysis-resistant ATP analogue, adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (ATPgammaS), to subconfluent cultures of the human microvascular endothelial cell-1 (HMEC-1) cell line led to a dose- and time-dependent increase in release of IL-6, IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and growth-regulated oncogene alpha. Both ATPgammaS-induced release and basal production of these proteins were significantly inhibited by the purinergic antagonists pyridoxal-5'-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2...

Characterization of Erwinia amylovora strains

The three main aims of the study were the assessment of the genetic relationship between a deviating Erwinia amylovora strain isolated from Amelanchier sp. (Maloideae) grown in Canada and other strains from Maloideae and Rosoideae, the investigation of the variability of the PstI fragment of the pEA29 plasmid using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis and the determination of the number of short-sequence DNA repeats (SSR) by DNA sequence analysis in representative strains. METHODS AND RESULTS: Ninety-three strains obtained from 12 plant genera and different geographical locations were examined by repetitive-sequences PCR using Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus, BOX and Repetitive Extragenic Palindromic primer sets. Upon the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean analysis, a deviating strain from Amelanchier sp. was analysed using amplified ribosomal DNA restriction analysis (ARDRA) analysis and the sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene. This strai...

Pathogenesis, clinical features and management of recurrent corneal erosions

Recurrent corneal erosions (RCE) are common. They are characterised by repeated episodes of pain, difficulty in opening the eyes, watering, and photophobia resulting from poor epithelial adhesion. In the majority of patients with RCE, trauma is the initiating factor. Epithelial, stromal, and endothelial corneal dystrophies have all been described in association with RCE. Other causes that may lead to RCE include chemical and thermal injuries, previous herpetic keratitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, ocular rosacea , diabetes mellitus, Salzmann's nodular degeneration, band keratopathy, previous bacterial ulceration, kerato-conjunctivitis sicca, and epidermolysis bullosa. The conditions that are associated with RCE can be either primary or secondary depending on whether the basement membrane complex abnormality is intrinsic or acquired. Primary types tend to be bilateral, symmetrical and develop in multiple corneal locations. The pathogenetic mechanism of this disorder is related to ...

Effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy in rosacea patients

The causal relation between rosacea and Helicobacter pylori infection is discussed. We evaluated the clinical evolution of rosacea after infection eradication. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We have prospectively studied 44 patients diagnosed with rosacea. Helicobacter pylori infection was determined, and infected patients were treated with eradication therapy. The evolution of dermatological symptoms in a subgroup of 29 infected patients in whom eradication had been achieved was followed during 16.8 (+/- 17.8) months. Median age was 50.6 (+/- 14.1) years for 22 women (75.9%) and 7 men (24.1%). Clinical response according to gender and clinical subtype of rosacea was evaluated. RESULTS: Complete improvement was observed in 10 patients (34.5%; 95% CI: 18.6-54.3%), relevant improvement in 9 (31.1%; 95% CI: 16-51%), poor improvement in 5 (17.2%; 95% CI: 6.5-36.4%), and absence of improvement in 5 cases (17.2%; 95% CI: 6.5-36.4%). No significant differences in dermatological evolution according ...

Oral zinc sulfate in the treatment of rosacea

Rosacea is a skin problem not uncommonly encountered world-wide. There is a need for an effective and well-tolerated treatment for this disease. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and side-effects of zinc sulfate in rosacea in a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with rosacea who attended the outpatient Clinic of Dermatology and Venereology in Baghdad Teaching Hospital were recruited into this study between October 2002 and August 2004. A disease severity score was calculated for each patient. The patients were randomly allocated to receive either zinc sulfate 100 mg or identical placebo capsules three times per day. Zinc sulfate and placebo capsules were given in a double-blind manner. Following 3 months of starting the treatment, the patients crossed over, i.e. patients on placebo crossed over to zinc sulfate and those on zinc sulfate crossed over to placebo. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients with rosacea were included in this study: 16 (64%) fema...

The ocular manifestations of atopic dermatitis and rosacea

Atopic dermatitis and rosacea are chronic diseases that have both dermatologic and ocular manifestations. The occurrence of ocular disease is often proportionately higher than that of dermatologic disease. Even if the skin abnormalities appear well controlled, these patients require ophthalmic evaluation as well. Optimal management usually requires a team approach that includes internists, dermatologists, and ophthalmologists. Both disorders are characterized by acute exacerbations and require maintenance therapy for control. Exacerbations need aggressive treatment to limit ocular signs and symptoms and to reduce ocular inflammation that can lead to permanent visual loss. Topical corticosteroid use, although at times needed, should be minimized for both disorders. Future research will continue to emphasize the use of steroid-sparing and immune-modulating agents that have the potential to provide long-lasting anti-inflammatory control with a more favorable side-effect profile. "The...

Photodynamic Therapy In Series of Rosacea Patients

Rosacea is a common disease that often has a chronic intermittent course despite current treatment; therefore, additional treatment options are desirable. The pathogenesis of the disease is unknown. OBJECTIVES: We have previously suggested that photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT) may be of benefit as rosacea therapy . The purpose of this study was to further assess the possible benefit of this treatment of rosacea . METHODS: An exploratory review of case notes from rosacea patients treated with PDT was performed. Patients referred to our department with rosacea were offered PDT if requesting an alternative to previously tried conventional therapy. Routine MAL-PDT with methylaminolevulate and red light was given one to four times; results were evaluated 1-2 months after PTD was initiated and subsequently followed up. RESULTS: Good results were seen in 10 out of 17 patients, and fair results in another 4 patients. The majority of patients treated could stop or significantly reduce other ...

Lymphangiogenesis And Angiogenesis in Non-phymatous Rosacea

Our study evaluated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), CD31 and D2-40 in involved and uninvolved skin of 18 patients with rosacea . METHODS: Immunostaining of facial skin specimens with VEGF, CD31 and D2-40 was compared between the lesional and the non-lesional skin of patients with erythemotelangiectatic and papulopustular rosacea . RESULTS: Significantly increased dermal expression of VEGF in lesional vs. non-lesional skin (88.9% and 55.6%) was observed. Dermal expression of CD31 and D2-40 was also increased in lesional vs. non-lesional skin. There was no statistically significant difference in cutaneous expression of VEGF, CD31 and D2-40 between patients with papulopustular and erythemotelangiectatic rosacea , and no correlation was found between disease duration and immunoreactivity of VEGF, CD31or D2-40. CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed marked immunostaining of lesional skin with VEGF, CD31 and D2-40 compared with non-lesional skin. Increased immunoreactivit...

Granulomatous Rosacea-Like Demodicidosis

Demodicidosis may present as pityriasis folliculitis, papulopustular lesions, rosacea -like eruptions , and granulomatous rosacea -like eruptions. We report a case of demodex granuloma presenting with recurrent granulomatous rosacea -like papules on the face in a middle-aged woman. The diagnosis of demodicidosis was made by finding extrafollicular mites in the perifollicular inflammatory infiltrate. The papules resolved after 3 weeks of systemic and topical metronidazole, and low-dose oral prednisolone therapy. In summary, demodex granuloma may be mistaken for granulomatous rosacea -like papules. Correct diagnosis can be facilitated by finding extrafollicular demodex mites in skin biopsy specimens. "Granulomatous rosacea -like demodicidosis" Lee JY, Hsu CK Dermatol Online J. 2007; 13(4): 9 (Hubmed.org) Highlight : Treatment Of Rosacea | Acne Rosacea Antibiotic | Acne Rosacea | Rosacea Creams

Enhanced Skin Blood Flow And Sensitivity to Noxious Heat Stimuliin papulopustular rosacea

Although patients with rosacea often complain of increased skin sensitivity, there has been no quantitative sensory testing of this phenomenon. Furthermore, cutaneous blood flow in these patients has not been assessed using state-of-the-art laser Doppler imaging (LDI). OBJECTIVES: To assess heat pain thresholds and skin blood flow using quantitative thermal sensory testing and LDI in patients with untreated rosacea . METHODS: Of the total 24 subjects enrolled, 8 had papulopustular rosacea (PPR), 8 had erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) and 8 were control subjects. Subjective burning perception, heat pain threshold, skin blood flow, and skin temperature was assessed in all subjects. In the ETR and PPR groups, two areas were compared: affected and nonaffected. RESULTS: Heat pain thresholds of areas affected by rosacea were lower than those of nonaffected areas. In addition, subjective burning perception was increased in rosacea patients when compared with control subjects. Altho...

Follow-up of Drug Permeation Through Excised Human Skin with Confocal Raman Microspectroscopy

Skin is a multilayered organ which covers and protects the surface of human body by providing a barrier function against exogenous agents. Meanwhile, the efficacy of several topically applicated drugs is directly related to their penetration through the skin barrier. Several techniques are commonly used to evaluate the rate, the speed and the depth of penetration of these drugs, but few of them can provide real-time results. Therefore, the use of nondestructive and structurally informative techniques permits a real breakthrough in the investigations on skin penetration at a microscopic scale. Confocal Raman microspectroscopy is a nondestructive and rapid technique which allows information to be obtained from deep layers under the skin surface, giving the possibility of a real-time tracking of the drug in the skin layers. The specific Raman signature of the drug enables its identification in the skin. In this study, we try to follow the penetration of Metronidazole, a drug produced by G...

Formulation Compatibility of Myristyl Nicotinate With Drugs Used To Treat Dermatological Conditions

A number of dermatology conditions including skin photodamage, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea involve skin barrier impairment and first line therapies for these conditions including retinoids and steroids further impair skin barrier function. We have evaluated the compatibility of myristyl nicotinate, an agent that enhances skin barrier function, with drugs used to treat conditions where skin barrier impairment is present including photodamage (retinoic acid), atopic dermatitis (hydrocortisone, triamcinolone acetonide), rosacea (metronidazole) , and seborrheic dermatitis (ketoconazole). Myristyl nicotinate was found to be compatible with each of the drugs examined when formulated together and also was shown to be photocompatible with retinoic acid. Our results suggest that the combination of myristyl nicotinate with these drugs is a feasible therapeutic development strategy. "Formulation compatibility of myristyl nicotinate with drugs used to treat dermatological conditions invo...

Topical Kinetin 0.1% Lotion For Improving The Signs And Symptoms of Rosacea

Many patients with rosacea are unable to tolerate extended treatment periods with topical agents because of the unusually high skin sensitivity that often accompanies rosacea . Kinetin (N(6)-furfuryladenine) is a plant cytokinin that reportedly helps restore skin barrier function and may be useful to ameliorate the signs and symptoms of rosacea . The purpose of this open-label study was to determine the tolerance and efficacy of twice-daily application of kinetin 0.1% lotion for improving the signs and symptoms of mild to moderate facial rosacea . Subjects applied kinetin 0.1% lotion twice daily to the face, with daily use of a sunscreen of sun protection factor 30. Subjects were evaluated at baseline and at 4-week intervals for 12 weeks to assess efficacy and tolerance. Results of this study suggest that kinetin 0.1% lotion is a well-tolerated moisturizing lotion option for subjects with mild to moderate inflammatory rosacea . "Topical kinetin 0.1% lotion for improving the sign...

Clinical Considerations In The Treatment Of Acne Vulgaris

Propionibacterium acnes is an anaerobic bacterium that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of acne. Certain antibiotics that can inhibit P acnes colonization also have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities in the treatment of acne, rosacea , and other noninfectious diseases. Decreased sensitivity of P acnes to antibiotics, such as erythromycin and tetracycline, has developed and may be associated with therapeutic failure. Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is a nonantibiotic antibacterial agent that is highly effective against P acnes and for which no resistance against it has been detected to date. Retinoids are important components in combination therapy for acne, including use with antibiotics, and can serve as an alternative to these agents in maintenance therapy. By increasing our understanding of the multifaceted actions of antibiotics and the known clinical implications of antibiotic resistance, physicians can improve their decision making in prescribing these agents. "Clin...