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A bioassay for the evaluation of certain adverse effects of various corticosteroids was performed. Twenty-eight daily topical applications of corticosteroids to young rats produced reduction in body-weight gain, atrophy of the skin as determined by double skin-fold thickness micrometer measurement, and mild to severe telangiectasia. This animal model demonstrates corticosteroid-induced skin atrophy and telangiectasia and the correlation of the degree of atrophy and telangiectasia to body-weight change. Nine corticosteroids were evaluated by this method and are listed in terms of increasing severity of side-effects as follows: 1.0% hydrocortisone cream, 0.1% betamethasone valerate cream, 0.025% betamethasone benzoate cream, 0.05% flurandrenolide cream, 0.05% fluocinonide cream, 0.1% dexamethasone cream, and 0.03% flumethasone pivalate cream. Triamcinolone acetonide cream, 0.5%, and 0.2% fluocinolone acetonide cream resulted in death of the animals prior to completion of 28 days of topical application.

This article describes the development of a microcomputer database within the Mental Health Division of a regional hospital. The multiple uses of this database are illustrated and include management information, program evaluation, assistance with case management and quality assurance, and applied clinical research. Guidance is given on choosing appropriate software and hardware and on negotiating with information providers and funding agencies.

The symptoms of xerosis (dry skin) can be ameliorated by increasing the hydration state of the stratum corneum through a humectant or occlusive effect, smoothing the rough surface with an emollient, replenishing natural moisturizing factors, and normalizing the stratum corneum. We present the primary and secondary functions of various "active" and vehicle ingredients and include precautions regarding certain classes of materials. Recommendations on selecting moisturizing systems are made based on ingredient functionality and the severity of the dry skin condition.

Lactate 12% lotion was significantly more effective than both its vehicle and a petrolatum-based cream in the treatment of ichthyosis. The treatment regimen was twice-daily application for 4 weeks with evaluations weekly during the treatment period and for 2 weeks after treatment was stopped. Vulgaris, lamellar, sex-linked, Netherton's, and epidermolytic hyperkeratotic forms of ichthyosis were significantly improved by treatment with lactate 12% lotion. This new therapeutic modality expands the scope and extent of ichthyotic conditions that may now be successfully treated.

The use of Alpha Keri bath oil in a postshower therapeutic regimen was effective in reducing the severity of moderate to severe xerosis.

This double-blind study was designed to evaluate treatment results and time effects of 12% ammonium lactate and 5% lactic acid lotion for moderate to severe xerosis. Results showed 12% ammonium lactate lotion was significantly more effective than 5% lactic acid lotion in reducing the severity of xerosis in both the 3-week, twice-a-day treatment period and the following 3-week, no-treatment (regression) period.

Lactic acid, one of the most widely distributed acids in nature, is present in biological fluids and tissues of humans as an intermediary in carbohydrate metabolism. Alpha-hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, and their salts have been recommended for the treatment of keratinization disorders. This controlled double-blind study compares the efficacy of lactate 12 percent lotion and a petrolatum-based therapeutic creme (creme B) in patients with moderate to severe xerosis. Lactate 12 percent lotion was significantly more effective than a petrolatum-based creme in reducing the severity of xerosis during treatment and post-treatment phases.