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Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 was declared a pandemic by WHO in March 2020. The Indonesian Ministry of Health has recommended many prevention strategies including the use of hand sanitizers (HSs) and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), especially for healthcare workers. Previous research reported that the increase in the use of HS and PPE is directly proportional to the increase in the incidence of occupational skin diseases. Aims: To find out the prevalence of work-related contact dermatitis patients related to the use of PPE in healthcare workers at Prof. DR. Chairuddin Panusunan Lubis Universitas Sumatera Utara and H. Adam Malik Hospital, Medan, with a history of atopy dermatitis. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive study including 104 healthcare workers. The results of the study were analysed using prevalence and frequency data distribution. Results: In this study, we found that the majority of occupational skin diseases in healthcare workers are female (n = 64; 62.5%), and the most common age group was 31-33 years old (44.2%). The incidence of contact dermatitis due to the use of PPE in healthcare workers at Prof. DR. Chairuddin Panusunan Lubis Universitas Sumatera Utara and H. Adam Malik Hospital, Medan, was found only in 15 subjects (14.4%), and only 5 (33.3%) of them had a history of suffering from atopy dermatitis. Conclusion: There is high prevalence of contact dermatitis due to PPE at Prof. DR. Chairuddin Panusunan Lubis Universitas Sumatera Utara and H. Adam Malik Hospital, Medan; in 104 research subjects, only 15 people (14.4%) suffered from work-related contact dermatitis with a history of atopy in 5 people (33.3%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition common in early childhood. Acute exacerbation is frequently associated with Staphylococcus aureus colonization. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to explore the relationship between S. aureus skin and nasal colonization with pediatric atopic dermatitis. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by comparing atopic dermatitis patients aged ≤18 years and nondiseased controls. A random-effects model was used to obtain the pooled prevalence and odds ratio of S. aureus colonization at eczematous skin, nonlesional skin, and nasal cavity. Subgroup analyses for colonization with methicillin-resistant S. aureus were also evaluated. Results: A total of 2,670 cases and 1,224 controls from 26 studies were included in the meta-analysis. S. aureus colonization at eczematous skin and nasal cavity is significantly higher in atopic dermatitis compared to control with odds ratios of 10.55 (95% confidence interval [CI]; 4.85-22.92, P < .001) and 2.38 (nasal cavity; 95% CI; 1.46-3.90, P < .001), respectively. The pooled prevalence of skin and nasal colonization were 55.0% (eczematous skin; 95% CI; 38.3-71.7), 23.3% (nonlesional skin; 95% CI; 12.6-33.9), and 56.3% (95% CI; 43.2-69.4), respectively. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus strain was obtained from the nares and eczematous skin with rates of 11.6% (95% CI; 6.5-16.7) and 8.5% (95% CI; 4.3-12.8), respectively. Conclusion: Children with atopic dermatitis are more prone to skin and nasal colonization by S. aureus compared to nondiseased individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Data from the Levant regarding pediatric dermatoses are limited. The objective was to estimate the prevalence of pediatric dermatoses in a health-care system that allows every patient to directly reach a specialist. Patients and Methods: It is a single-center, chart review, epidemiological study of patients who consulted, between 2010 and 2022, at the general dermatology department of a tertiary care university hospital. A random draw of 10% of the files was screened. Patients aged between 0 and 18 years at the time of consultation were included and their files were analyzed. Results: The study population consisted of 151,050 files, of which 10% were manually screened. Finally, 2313 "pediatric" files were analyzed, corresponding to 15.3% of the sample, with a female-to-male ratio of 1281/1032 (1.24). Of these analyzed files, 2912 diagnoses were distributed in the age categories as follows: 464 (16%) at preschool age, 1134 (39%) at school age, and 1314 (45%) at adolescence. The most prevalent diagnoses in males were acne (19.6%), atopic dermatitis (9.7%), and molluscum contagiosum (8.1%); in females, acne (27.4%), atopic dermatitis (9.4%), and warts (5.8%). Acne was the most frequent diagnosis overall (24%) and in the adolescents' subgroup, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.77. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis decreased from 21.1% at preschool age to 10.9% at school age to 4.3% in adolescence. The most prevalent diagnoses at school age were molluscum contagiosum and warts. Conclusion: These updated percentages help configure suitable public health strategies for children in countries of approximate genetic background and similar life habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D plays a vital role in skin diseases, and vitamin D supplementation seems to warrant protection against occurrence and exacerbation of several dermatological conditions. This review covers the immunopathological and therapeutic role of vitamin D, with a comprehensive illustration in some diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 37-year-old woman with persistent head and neck atopic dermatitis (AD) unresponsive to dupilumab, who showed significant improvement after switching to upadacitinib. It highlights the challenges and potential adverse effects associated with dupilumab, such as conjunctivitis and erythema, and demonstrates upadacitinib's efficacy as an alternative treatment.

Background: The therapeutic use of cyclosporine is gradually extending to various dermatoses including both in adults and children. There are meager studies from India supporting its safe use in pediatric dermatoses. Aims and Objectives: The aim is to study the safety and efficacy profile of children treated with cyclosporine for recalcitrant dermatoses. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the case files of children below 18 years of age where cyclosporine A (CsA) was used within the past 5 years was done. Results: A total of thirty cases were studied. The CsA dose used in our patients ranged from 3 to 4 mg/kg/day for a time period varying from 4 to 24 weeks. A good to excellent response was seen in 23 (76.66%) cases. Few children developed side effects mostly reversible with dose modification. Conclusion: Cyclosporine within the therapeutic range can be used safely in recalcitrant pediatric dermatoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease characterized by intense pruritus. Hanifin and Rajka's criteria is the most common diagnostic criteria used in the hospital setup, which consists of 4 major and 23 minor criteria. The frequency of minor criteria may vary population wise. Aims: The aim of the study is to estimate the frequency of minor diagnostic criteria of Hanifin and Rajka in children with AD. Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study of 174 children (≤16 years) with AD, was conducted based on history, clinical, and ophthalmological examination. Blood test to assess serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) level was conducted. Results: The most common minor criteria observed were Dennie–Morgan infraorbital fold (71.8%), early age of onset (67.8%), palmar hyperlinearity (67.8%), xerosis (67.2%), pityriasis alba (57.5%), and perifollicular accentuation (47.7%). Out of 143 cases whose serum was tested for IgE level, elevation was seen in 92. History of winter exacerbation was seen in 8% of the cases, while summer exacerbation was seen in none. On the ophthalmological examination of 111 cases, "high reading with no obvious keratoconus" was present in two cases while three cases were labeled as "keratoconus suspect." Conclusion: Clinical features of AD vary with geographical location. The prevalence and severity of AD are influenced by several factors such as ethnic/racial, environmental, and dietary factors. Therefore, it is relevant for dermatologists to have a knowledge regarding common clinical features of AD in a given population for the diagnosis and thereby provide treatment to reduce the morbidity along with appropriate counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the skin and the psyche is undeniable. Hence, it becomes mandatory for the dermatologists to be alert for psychological conditions affecting the skin. Since cutaneous diseases are well known to cause a significant impact on a patient's quality of life, the relationship works the other way as well. Stress has been found to contribute to the severity of various dermatoses such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and acne. Awareness of psychodermatological disorders among dermatologists will lead to a more holistic treatment approach and better prognosis in this unique group of patients. This article summarizes various aspects of psychodermatology and focuses on psychodermatological disorders as well as highlights the interaction between psyche and skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tofacitinib, an oral Janus kinase inhibitor (Jakinib), is an emerging treatment modality whose well-established efficacy in systemic inflammatory diseases is now being actively explored for cutaneous disorders (arising due to the patient's dysimmune responses) that are not responding to and/or sustaining intolerable adverse effects with the classical immunosuppressives and other targeted therapies such as the biologics. The most common dermatoses for which oral as well as topical Jakinibs such as tofacitinib have been evaluated and are being used albeit as an off-label indication include psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, alopecia areata, vitiligo, and atopic dermatitis. This article provides a succinct review on the current status of oral tofacitinib in dermatology through literature search of PubMed database and stresses on the need for further evidence generation to define the drug's place in the therapeutic arsenal of dysimmune cutaneous disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nowadays noninvasive techniques are performed to evaluate the biophysical properties of skin in vivo. Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the biophysical and ultrasonographic properties of skin in chronic contact or atopic dermatitis to provide better insight into pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment response. Materials and Methods: The stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), pH, erythema, melanin, sebum, friction, temperature, elasticity parameters (R0, R2, and R5), the thickness and echo-density of epidermis, dermis, and subepidermal low-echogenic band (SLEB) were measured on lesional, perilesional, and symmetrical skin of 22 chronic dermatitis patients. The average of perilesional and symmetrical skin values (control) was compared with lesional values. Results: Stratum corneum hydration (P<0.001), friction (P=0.02), sebum (P=0.01), and R0 (P<0.001) were significantly lower in lesion, TEWL (P=0.03), pH (P=0.001), erythema (P=0.004), and temperature (P=0.04) were significantly higher in lesion. The thickness of epidermis (P=0.002), dermis (P=0.034), and SLEB (P<0.001) were significantly higher in lesion; and the echo-density of dermis (P<0.001) and SLEB (P<0.001) was significantly lower in lesion. Conclusion: Chronic contact and atopic dermatitis are characterized by certain changes in biophysical and biomechanical properties of the skin. The evaluation of these parameters might be useful in the early diagnosis and assessment of treatment response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of pediatric skin diseases varies worldwide. Pediatric dermatoses require a separate view from adult dermatoses as there are important differences in clinical presentation, treatment, and prognosis. Aims and Objectives: To study the clinical and etiological presentation of dermatoses in the pediatric population in Northeast India. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out at a tertiary care center in Northeast region for 18 months (from December 2012 to May 2014). Cases under the age of 12 years were selected based on purposive sampling method. Results: Infections (36.25%) were the most common cause of skin diseases in the study group comprising 400 patients. Eczematous diseases (14.5%), pigmentary disorders (14.25%), and infestations (13.25%) were the other common causes. Varicella (6%), impetigo contagiosum (5%), and candidiasis (4.5%) were the most common viral, bacterial, and fungal diseases, respectively. Scabies (12.25%) was the most common individual disease in the present study. The prevalence of hand, foot, and mouth disease was high constituting 4% of the study group. Dyshidrotic eczema (6.5%), pityriasis alba (7.5%), and vitiligo (3.5%) were also common. Miliarial dermatitis and polymorphic light eruption also contributed significantly (5.25%) reflecting the typical pattern of the tropical skin diseases. Atopic dermatitis, genetic disorders, and nutritional deficiency disorders had a very low prevalence. Conclusion: The study finding that the majority of the diseases could be grouped into fewer than 8 disease categories may help in more accurate diagnosis. Significant proportions of the dermatoses are infections followed by eczematous and pigmentary diseases. Age, sex, locality, the income of the parents, family history, and season of presentation have an influential role in the pattern of distribution of the pediatric skin diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been advances in our understanding of the complex pathogenesis of atopic eczema over the past few decades. This article examines the multiple factors which are implicated in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on Pityriasis alba being one of the minor factor of Hanifin and Rajka's criteria of atopic dermatitis. Topics include selecting one-hundred-and-twenty-two consecutive patients with pityriasis alba confirmed by two faculty members with postgraduate qualification in dermatology; and equal number of age group and sex-matched patients with common hypopigmented disorders other than pityriasis alba.

Background: Chronic allergic skin disorders are the inflammatory and proliferative conditions in which both genetic and environmental factors play important roles. Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) and atopic dermatitis (AD) are among the most common chronic allergic skin disorders. These can be provoked by various food and aeroallergens. Skin prick tests (SPTs) represent the cheapest and most effective method to diagnose type I hypersensitivity. Positive skin tests with a history suggestive of clinical sensitivity strongly incriminate the allergen as a contributor to the disease process. Aim s and Objectives: To determine the incidence of positive SPT in patients with chronic allergic skin disorders and to identify the various allergens implicated in positive SPT. Methods: Fifty patients of chronic allergic disorders were recruited in this study. They were evaluated by SPT with both food and aeroallergens. Results: In our study, SPT positivity in patients of CIU was 63.41% and in AD was 77.78%. Out of the 41 patients of CIU, the most common allergen groups showing SPT positivity were dust and pollen, each comprising 26.83% patients. SPT reaction was positive with food items (21.6%), insects (17.07%), fungus (12.20%), and Dermatophagoides farinae, that is, house dust mite (HDM) (7.32%). The allergen which showed maximum positivity was grain dust wheat (19.51%). Among nine patients of AD, maximum SPT positivity was seen with Dermatophagoides farinae, pollen Amaranthus spinosus, grain dust wheat, and cotton mill dust; each comprising 22.22% of patients. Conclusion: Our study showed that a significant number of patients of CIU and AD showed sensitivity to dust, pollen, insects, Dermatophagoides farinae, and fungi on SPT. Thus, it is an important tool in the diagnosis of CIU and AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Frictional lichenoid dermatitis. Background: Frictional lichenoid dermatitis (FLE) is an entity that is probably under diagnosed and has been variably associated with either friction and/or atopy with a distinctive seasonal variation. Aims and Objectives: To study correlation of FLE with UV index and to assess its association with atopic dermatitis. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional analysis of children with FLE was done, over a period of 6 years in two tertiary hospitals. A detailed history and examination was done to assess the features of atopic dermatitis. The number of cases seen per month was compared with the mean monthly UV index. Two‑tailed significance tests using Pearson's coefficient of correlation and T‑test were used to interpret the data. (P < 0.05). Results: One hundred seventy‑four patients were studied using the UKC criterion 17.2% of the patients had AD while xerosis (40.3%) was the predominant cutaneous finding. The number of patients seen in summer was more than in winter (P < 0.05) but there was no statistical difference between the cases in winter and spring. There was a significant correlation of the number of cases per month with UV index (P = 0.019). Almost 42% of patients gave a history of recurrence. Conclusions: FLE is probably not associated with atopic dermatitis and is likely to be related to the ambient UV index though a larger cohort with meticulous follow up may be needed to draw a final conclusion. Statistical Analysis Used: The Pearson's coefficient of correlation was used for comparing the cases per month with the UV index. The tests of hypothesis used included the paired T‑tests. F‑test of variance, Welch test, Wilcoxon rank sum test and the Kolmogorov‑Smirnov Test. P < 0.05 was considered significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide prevalence of socio‑religious and cultural practices in the Asian subcontinent often leads to multitude of skin diseases which may be missed by the dermatologists because of a lack of awareness. ‘Henna’ use causes IgE‑mediated hypersensitivity reactions and contact dermatitis. ‘Kumkum' application can result in pigmented contact dermatitis and lichen planus pigmentosus. Sticker ‘bindis' and ‘alta’ induce contact leukoderma. Irritant and allergic contact dermatitis occurs after playing with ‘Holi' colors. Threading and drawstring dermatitis lead to koebnerization of pre‑existing dermatoses, infections and even squamous cell carcinoma of skin. Mild irritant reactions and contact sensitization occur secondary to balm and hair oil use. ‘Mudichood' represents the comedogenic effect of hair oils combined with occlusion and humidity. Aromatherapy oils can cause contact dermatitis and photosensitive reactions. Heavy metal and steroid toxicity along with severe cutaneous adverse effects like erythroderma can occur as a consequent to the use of alternative medicines. Squamous cell carcinoma due to chronic heat exposure from the heating device “kangri” is seen in Kashmiris. Prayer nodules in Muslims and traction alopecia in Sikhs illustrate how religious practices can negatively affect the skin. With increasing globalization and migration, the practice of indigenous customs and traditions is no longer limited to regional territories, making it imperative for the dermatologists to be acquainted with the cutaneous side effects they can cause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: With increasing knowledge about limitations of systemic steroids, the use of steroid sparing agents is now being accepted by practicing dermatologists. Methotrexate (MTX) is a well accepted steroid sparing drug in adults with dermatological conditions. However, its use in pediatric dermatoses has not been the subject of m any investigations. Materials and Methods: We decided to do a computerized search for the use of MTX in pediatric dermatoses using terms like "pediatric,'' "MTX," "psoriasis,'' "pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP)," "atopic dermatitis," "pityriasis lichenoides," "lichen planus," "juvenile dermatomyositis (JDMS)," "localized morphea," "systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)," "vesiculo-bullous diseases," "alopecia areata," "vasculitis," "eosinophilic fasciitis," "urticaria," "sarcoidosis," "pompholyx" and "vitiligo vulgaris." All the articles were retrieved and classified into review articles, studies, double-blinded trials and case reports. The final data were then analyzed. Results: It has been found that MTX has been increasingly used in psoriasis, PRP, pityriasis lichenoides, JDMS, SLE and sarcoidosis. However, its use in several other dermatoses is restricted to isolated case reports. Conclusion: Children tolerate MTX better than adults. However, proper clinical and laboratory surveillance has to be maintained in patients on long term MTX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis is an enigmatic chronically relapsing dermatosis which is difficult to quantify. Present scoring systems have their inherent limitations. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate and compare the scoring systems SCORAD and SASSAD for atopic dermatitis and to correlate values with clinical and hematological parameters. Materials and Methods: Fifty patients of atopic dermatitis were selected and assessed at presentation and at four weeks using SCORAD and SASSAD. Appropriate haematological investigations were done at the time of assessments. The data obtained was assessed statistically. Results: The changes in both the SCORAD and SASSAD correlated with the changes in clinical and hematological profile. Conclusion: SCORAD seems to be a better scoring system as it addresses both the subjective and objective parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topical therapy is first line of treatment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) which is the commonest form of the disease in India. Avoidance of overbathing, use of a synthetic detergent preferably with a slight acidic pH is recommended. Regular use of a moisturiser preferably containing an occlusive and a humectant which perfume free is to used liberally. Topical corticosteroids are the most important pillars of topical treatment of AD. Understanding the proper and judicious use of topical corticosteroids is of prime importance. The choice of the molecule, frequency and amount and method of application and whether or not to use combination and the proper monitoring will decide the optimum outcome to the treatment. Concomittant long term use with gradual tapering of corticosteriod is recommended. Mild recurrences can be controlled by monotherapy. Proper and judicious use of all the elements of topical therapy is needed for successful treatment outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the past few decades there has been a progressive understanding that epicutaneous sensitization with protein antigen is an important sensitization route in patients with atopic dermatitis. A murine protein-patch model has been established, and an abundance of data has been obtained from experiments using this model. This review discusses the characteristics of epicutaneous sensitization with protein antigen, the induced immune responses, the underlying mechanisms, and the therapeutic potential. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cytokines are produced transiently by cutaneous cells in response to immune stimuli. They are non-immunoglobulin proteins and glycoproteins. Cytokines, which are signaling molecules, act by sending downstream signals to various cells through a number of signal transduction pathways and by binding to cytokine receptors on the surface of cells. Cytokines regulate immunity and inflammation and thus play an important role in the pathogenesis of various cutaneous disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The art of cleansing has progressed immensely over several thousand years from simply scraping the skin to an exercise in relaxation and improvement in the skin's health and appearance in the present day. Soaps - the basic cleansing agent has also undergone a sea change in its evolution with many variants and newer constituents being incorporated into it. In dermatological disorders like acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, photoaging, 'sensitive skin', occupational dermatosis cleansers may have a beneficial role along with other therapeutic measures. With the advent of aesthetic dermatology, the act of cleansing and the use of various cleansing agents prior to aesthetic procedures has also assumed significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Neurogenic components, as neurotrophic factors and neuropeptides, are probably involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD) with the neuroimmunocutaneous system as they modify the functions of immunoactive cells in the skin. Nerve growth factor (NGF) is the best-characterized member of the neurotrophin family. Both NGF and neuropeptides (NPs) may be associated with the disease pathogenesis. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the plasma level of NGF and NPs in AD patients and correlate them with the disease activity and nerve changes in the skin by electron microscopy. Materials and Methods: Plasma levels of NGF and vasoactive intestinal peptide (+VIP) were measured by an immunoenzymatic assay while plasma levels of calcitonine gene related peptide (CGRP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) were measured by radioimmunoassay in 30 AD patients in comparison to 10 normal non-atopic controls. Electron microscopic study was done in 10 AD patients. Results: It has been found that there is significant increase of plasma levels of NGF and NPs in AD patients compared with controls. There is a positive correlation between the plasma levels of NGF and disease activity (correlation coefficient = 0.750, P<0.005). There is a significant correlation between the number of Schwann axon complex, evidenced by electron microscopic examination and plasma level of NGF in AD patients. Conclusion: It has been concluded that these neurogenic factors; NGF and NPs modulate the allergic response in AD, probably through interactions with cells of the immune-inflammatory component. NGF might be considered as a marker of the disease activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and one of the most sensitive indicators of a child's general health. Skin disorders, especially among children, may cause an additional emotional and psychological stress to the patients and their family. Aim: We aim to compare the extent to which various skin diseases affect the quality of life among the pediatric age group (5–12 years) based on Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) scores. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of 453 patients who attended skin clinic at a regional hospital in Northern India between November 2015 and May 2017. The study consists of questions regarding dermatoses. Patients were evaluated using a standardized pro forma and a CDLQI questionnaire. The diseases with abnormal high proportions were evaluated by the control chart technique. Results: Out of a total of 453 pediatric patients identified for dermatoses, the average quality of life based on the CDLQI score did not show significant variation across different seasons (P < 0.522). Although the type of skin disorders (P < 0.001) had a significant effect on the quality of life of the children. Based on the CDLQI scores, following diseases have a significant adverse effect on quality of life of the patients – miliaria, atopic dermatitis, scabies, impetigo, and pediculosis capitis. Conclusion: Our study has shown that skin diseases, irrespective of the type, adversely impair the quality of life of the child and in turn the family, therefore, calls for an enhanced level of compassion and care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Atopic dermatitis is a common disease that is diagnosed by use of Hanifin, Lobitz and Rajka's criteria based on patient history and clinical features. However these criteria are not suitable for population-based studies. Aims: The purpose of this study is to develop a minimum list of diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis that is sensitive, specific, reproducible, noninvasive, applicable to adult Thai population and easy to perform in population-based studies. Settings and Design: This study was conducted at Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. Materials and Methods: The new cases of typical mild to moderate atopic dermatitis and exactly age-matched and sex-matched controls presenting with an inflammatory skin disease other than atopic dermatitis were selected from Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital. Each subject was examined with reference to 31 clinically diagnostic features of atopic dermatitis proposed by Hanifin and Rajka. One hundred and forty patients (70 cases and 70 controls) were studied. Statistical Analysis Used: Sensitivity and specificity of each criterion was calculated using the dermatologist's diagnosis as the standard. Regression techniques were then used to derive a minimum set of diagnostic criteria. Results: Using multiple logistic regression techniques, a minimum set of diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis was derived: visible flexural dermatitis, history of flexural dermatitis, duration of rash >6 months and visible dry skin. Conclusions: A minimum list of diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis was derived that should be of use in Thai population-based studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The knowledge of the prevalence of common dermatoses will be useful for optimum use of valuable resources of the country. Aim: The aim of the study is to determine the pattern and prevalence of psoriasis, vitiligo and atopic dermatitis (AD) in India. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based study conducted on a single day in one medical college each in four zones of India. Results: The point prevalence of dermato logical cases was 9.25%. The point prevalence of psoriasis, vitiligo and AD were 8%, 9.98% and 6.75% respectively. Chronic plaque type psoriasis was the most common (50%) clinical pattern. The most common site of involvement of psoriasis was the palms. Stable type of vitiligo was common which accounted for 65.21%. Lower lip was involved in 75% of mucosal vitiligo. Lower limbs were the most common site of onset of vitiligo. AD was most prevalent in the first decade (40.7%). Personal history of atopy was present in (59.5%) patients. Dry skin was present in 92.5% of patients. Conclusions: Our data correlates with previous hospital-based prevalence studies of psoriasis, vitiligo and AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) represent a family of Type I transmembrane proteins characterized by an extracellular leucine-rich repeat domain and a cytoplasmic domain. TLRs represent a conserved group of receptors which help the immune system to function properly. Different TLRs are associated with an array of skin diseases. TLR agonists and antagonists have great potential for the treatment of allergic and inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The severity of atopic dermatitis (AD) has been reported to be reduced by dietary eliminations in a subset of patients with AD. Aims: To assess the reduction of the severity of atopic dermatitis in infants and children after eliminations of certain dietary items. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised of 100 children with atopic dermatitis. Their severity of itching, surface area of involvement, and SCORAD index were measured. Patients who did not have any systemic disease or were not on systemic corticosteroids were included in the study. Selected patients were advised to strictly adhere to a diet excluding milk and milk products, all kinds of nuts and nut-containing foods, egg and egg-containing foods, seafish and prawns, brinjal and soyabean for a period of 3 weeks. Instead of these avoided items, the food items to be included freely to maintain proper nutrition were dal and dal products, rohu fish, chicken, and fruits. All the preintervention parameters were measured again after 3 weeks. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in severity scores after dietary elimination alone. Conclusion: Dietary elimination helped to alleviate symptoms and signs in a subset of infants and children with AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic recurrent genetically determined skin disease affecting all age groups. Purposes: To study epidemiological and environmental factors, clinical patterns and the relationship of atopic dermatitis with ABO blood group system. Methods: In 30 atopic dermatitis patients blood group distribution was compared with the distribution in 1500 relative donors of the blood bank of the same institute. Findings: There were 18 males (60%) and 12 females (40%). Family and personal history of atopy were observed in 21 (70%) and 19 cases (63.3%) respectively. Conclusions: Blood group O subjects were significantly less in the study population in comparison to control. Limitation: Hospital based study with small sample size; hence the result cannot be generalized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]