Search

3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), known as ecstasy, is a hallucinogen and stimulant illicit drug. Besides the systemic effects of this drug are well documented, it can also present with a range of oral side effects such as ulcerations, and to our knowledge, there are only a few cases involving oral mucosal ulcerations related to MDMA abuse in the literature. We encountered a 38-year-old man with widespread and multiple oral ulcerations attributed to MDMA abuse. We would like to raise awareness about that this kind of ulcers may be associated with ecstasy use, and it should be included in the differential diagnosis.

Background and Design: Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology that most commonly affects the skin and oral mucosa. Vitamin D is a steroid hormone with immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate serum vitamin D levels in patients with LP and to compare these with those of healthy control subjects. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight patients with a diagnosis of LP and 46 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. The serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D, calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone were studied from blood samples collected from all subjects. Results: The serum levels of vitamin D were lower in the LP patients compared to the controls and in the oral erosive LP patients compared to the other LP patients, although the difference was not statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences in other laboratory parameters between the patient and the control groups. Conclusion: Our study revealed no clear relation between LP and vitamin D levels. The results of our study suggest that other factors except vitamin D, particularly probable triggers, play a more dominant role in the immunopathogenesis of LP. Further studies with larger patient populations assessing serum vitamin D levels in different types of LP and vitamin D-related gene polymorphisms are now needed in order to reveal the relation between LP and Vitamin D more clearly.

Background: Pemphigus encompasses a group of life-threatening autoimmune bullous diseases characterized by blisters and erosions of the mucous membranes and skin. Before the era of immunosuppressive treatment, the prognosis of pemphigus was almost always fatal. Due to its rarity, only few randomized controlled therapeutic trials are available. Recently, rituximab has been approved as first-line treatment for moderate and severe pemphigus vulgaris in Europe and the USA.Objectives: The Autoimmune blistering diseases Task Force of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) has initiated a throughout update of the guideline for the management of patients with pemphigus. Results: The guidelines for the management of pemphigus were updated and the degree of consent among all task force members was included. The final version of the guideline was consented by the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) and several patient organisations.

Background: Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease. Recent studies have suggested that it is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular comorbidities. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess and compare arterial stiffness and cardiovascular hemodynamics in patients with lichen planus and a healthy control group. Methods: Fifty-five patients with lichen planus and 42 healthy controls were enrolled. All patients underwent echocardiographic examination, and arterial stiffness was measured using applanation tonometry. Results: No statistically significant difference was determined between the patient and control groups in terms of arterial stiffness, but stiffness was markedly higher in patients with erosive lichen planus compared to the control group and other patients (p = 0.006, and p = 0.023, respectively). Moderate positive correlation was determined between duration of disease and arterial stiffness. Impairment of systolic and diastolic functions was also determined in patients with lichen planus compared to the control group (p < 0.001, and p = 0.005, respectively). Study limitations: Relatively low number of patients. Conclusion: The positive correlation observed between duration of disease and arterial stiffness in patients with lichen planus suggests that these patients should be followed-up in terms of cardiovascular risk in the presence of resistant and long-term disease, particularly in case of erosive lichen planus.

Background: The differentiation between the pemphigoid diseases is essential for treatment and prognosis. In Turkey, data on the incidence of these diseases are insufficient. Our aim in this study is to determine the incidence, demographics and clinical characteristics associated with diseases of the pemphigoid group. Methods: We prospectively analysed 295 patients with pemphigoid who visited dermatology clinics of tertiary referral hospitals in 12 different regions of Turkey within a year. The diagnosis was based on clinical, histopathological, direct immunofluorescence (DIF) and serological (multivariant enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], indirect immunofluorescence and mosaic-based BIOCHIP) examinations. Clinical and demographic findings, aetiological factors and concomitant diseases observed in the patients were recorded. Results: A total of 295 (female/male ratio: 1.7/1) patients with pemphigoid were diagnosed in 1-year period. The overall incidence rate of pemphigoid diseases was found to be 3.55 cases per million-years. The ratio of pemphigoid group diseases to pemphigus group diseases was 1.6. The most common pemphigoid type was bullous pemphigoid (BP, 93.2%). The others were epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (3.1%), pemphigoid gestationis (2.4%), linear IgA disease (1%) and mucous membrane pemphigoid (0.3%). The most common (26.8%) possible trigger of the bullous pemphigoid was gliptin derivative drugs. The most common concomitant diseases with pemphigoid were cardiovascular (27.8%) and neurological diseases (23.7%). Conclusions: This study showed that the increased frequency of bullous pemphigoid reversed the pemphigoid/pemphigus ratio in Turkey. Further studies are warranted regarding the reasons for this increase. © 2021 The Australasian College of Dermatologists

Background Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory disease. Data concerning the role of perinatal conditions in the development of the disease are few and inconsistent. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of skin care on the severity of the disease, also to evaluate the relations of perinatal conditions with disease development and severity. Methods Seventy-five patients with atopic dermatitis aged 2-10 years, their parents and 65 healthy age-compatible volunteers and their parents were included in the study. The Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) score was used to assess the severity of the disease. Results Emollient use (regular/irregular) was higher in patients with severe disease compared to those with mild and moderate disease, but no significant difference was determined in regular use rates (p=0.029, and p=0.504, respectively). Topical corticosteroid use and sleep disturbance rates in the previous three months in the subjects regularly using emollients were low (p=0.032, and p=0.005, respectively). The incidence of severe disease was higher in the patients born in the winter (p=0.033). Severe disease rates were significantly high in the subjects in the patient group with advanced maternal age, a history of cesarean delivery and incubator use (p=0.017, p=0.046, and p=0.025, respectively). Conclusions Low topical corticosteroid requirement and sleep disturbance rates in the subjects regularly using moisturizers emphasize the importance of emollient use in treatment. The association of cesarean delivery, history of incubator, and birth in winter with severe disease suggests that disease severity is related to less exposure to environmental allergens in the hygiene hypothesis.

Background The prevalence of skin cancers, including melanoma, has increased significantly in the past five decades. The main environmental factor implicated in their development is excessive sun exposure. Data on sun-protective behaviours in the Turkish population are very limited. Objectives We aim to assess sun protection behaviours and the prevalence of exposure through broad participation among a young adult population in a national university in Turkey. Methods A multiple-choice questionnaire including 27 questions to evaluate sun protection behaviours was sent to e-mail addresses of all undergraduates. From 40 000 undergraduates, 17 769 of them were included in the study, with a response rate of 44.4%. Results Sunscreen usage was the most preferred sun protection method, used by 64% of the study population, followed by the use of sunglasses (60%), tending to remain in the shade (49%), the use of a hat (34%) and wearing long-sleeved clothing (23%). Forty-four percentage of the students used at least two methods, whereas 7% did not use any sun protection method. The prevalence rates of the use of sunscreen, sunglasses, wearing long-sleeved clothing and preferring to remain in the shade in the summer were all significantly higher among women. In addition, the prevalence rates of the use of sunscreen and preferring to remain in the shade were higher among students in the faculty of medicine. Conclusion We found that when compared to the countries with the highest incidences of skin cancer, such as Australia and the United States, young adults in Turkey are protecting themselves more from the sun. This rate was even higher among women and faculty of medicine undergrads.

Background: Psoriasis is a common chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin disorder. Omega-3 fatty acids exhibit low inflammatory effects, while n-6 fatty acids display high inflammatory effects. The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine erythrocyte membrane n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio values and their relationship with plasma inflammatory mediators in patients with psoriasis. Methods: The study groups consisted of thirty patients with psoriasis and 36 healthy controls. Analyses of fatty acids in the erythrocyte membrane were performed using gas chromatography and a flame ionization detector. Serum sample inflammation parameters (C-reactive protein [CRP]), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were also analyzed. Results: The erythrocyte membrane n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio was significantly higher in the psoriatic group compared to the healthy control group (P = 0.004). CRP, ESR, and IL-6 levels were also higher (P < 0.05) in the psoriatic group. The n-6/n-3 ratio was positively correlated with CRP and IL-6 levels in the psoriatic group (rho = 0.687, P= 0.0001 and rho = 0.542, P= 0.002, respectively). ROC curve analyses of CRP, ESR, IL6, and n6/n3 ratio values in patients with psoriasis performed similarly. Conclusion: This preliminary study indicates that erythrocyte membrane n6/n3 fatty acid ratio was increased and showed correlations with plasma CRP and IL-6 in patients with psoriasis. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicates that the n6/n3 ratio (area underthe curve = 0.699) may be a suitable inflammatory marker for further exploration in psoriasis. Erythrocyte membrane n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio may be used as one of the pro-inflammatory markers in psoriasis.

Introduction Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a chronic, pruritic, gluten-induced skin disorder characterized by subepidermal granular IgA deposition and a variable degree of enteropathy identical to that seen in coeliac disease. So far, there has been no European consensus about the management of DH. Methods The guidelines were created by small subgroups of a guideline committee consisting of 26 specialists from various medical fields and one patients' representative. The members of the committee then discussed the guidelines and voted for the final version at two consensus meetings. The guidelines were developed under the support of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) and in collaboration with the European Dermatology Forum (EDF). Results The guidelines summarize evidence-based and expert-based recommendations (S2 level) for the management of DH (see Appendix). Conclusion These guidelines will improve the quality of management of DH and support dermatologists in their diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease deriving from a polygenic predisposition. Treatment paradigm of the moderate to severe psoriasis has changed in the last two decades as biologics have been developed. Real-world data concerning biologics in the treatment vary from country to country. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and drug survival of biologic agents in patients treated in our clinic in Turkey. Data for 211 biologic protocols were examined for 125 patients treated with a biologic at least once for a minimum duration of 16 weeks at our department. The drug survival rate for 3 years was highest among ustekinumab (UST) users. The primary failure rate in the present study was higher among tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors compared to UST (P < .0001). The higher primary failure rate was found in etanercept users and the highest secondary failure rate was observed in infliximab, while the lowest primary and secondary failure rates were determined in UST users. UST use and articular involvement emerged as significant positive predictors of drug survival in naive patients. Our study is the first study presenting real-life data and biologic survival in the treatment of psoriasis in Turkey, and UST exhibited significantly higher drug survival scores, particularly in naive patients.

Introduction Vitiligo is a common chronic depigmentation disease. Patients are generally advised to protect themselves from the sun. Methods One hundred fifty-three patients diagnosed with vitiligo and 106 healthy volunteers with no additional dermatological disease were included in the study. We evaluated the sun-protection habits of patients with vitiligo and controls, and also assessed their knowledge and attitudes toward sun exposure. Results Rates of sunscreen use, high-factor sunscreen use, and remaining in the shade were significantly higher among patients (p = 0.004, p = 0.028, p = 0.040). We found significantly higher rates of modifying vacation habits, high sun-protection factors (SPF) sunscreen use, and preferring to remain in the shade among patients using phototherapy (p = 0.016, p = 0.019, p = 0.028). We showed higher rates of modification of vacation habits, wearing sunglasses, and remaining in the shade among patients with longer disease durations (p = 0.026, p = 0.001, and p = 0.017). Conclusions We determined higher rates of sunscreen use, high-SPF sunscreen use, and tendencies to remain in the shade in vitiligo patients compared to the general population. We also determined that disease duration and treatment with phototherapy alters sun-protection habits, but the presence of generalized disease and lesions in visible areas such as the face does not alter patients' habits.

International audience; Background-Several European countries recently developed international diagnostic and management guidelines for pemphigus, which have been instrumental in the standardization of pemphigus management. Objective-We now present results from a subsequent Delphi consensus to broaden the generalizability of the recommendations. Methods-A preliminary survey, based on the European Dermatology Forum and the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology guidelines, was sent to a panel of international experts to determine the level of consensus. The results were discussed at the International Bullous Diseases Consensus Group in March 2016 during the annual American Academy of Dermatology conference. Following the meeting, a second survey was sent to more experts to achieve greater international consensus. Results-The 39 experts participated in the first round of the Delphi survey, and 54 experts from 21 countries completed the second round. The number of statements in the survey was reduced from 175 topics in Delphi I to 24 topics in Delphi II on the basis of Delphi results and meeting discussion. Limitations-Each recommendation represents the majority opinion and therefore may not reflect all possible treatment options available. Conclusions-We present here the recommendations resulting from this Delphi process. This international consensus includes intravenous CD20 inhibitors as a first-line therapy option for moderate-to-severe pemphigus. Keywords CD20 inhibitor; consensus; guidelines; pemphigus foliaceus; pemphigus vulgaris; treatment Pemphigus encompasses a spectrum of rare mucocutaneous bullous diseases that are autoimmune in origin. Because of the rarity of these diseases, it can take patients months before their pemphigus is diagnosed, during which time many are treated for other blistering diseases. 1,2 Even once the diagnosis has been made, treatment regimens can vary greatly, as

Scabies outbreaks were reported in many countries especially from Africa, but had not been reported in Turkey before.1 This is a multicentre study with compiling the data of patients with scabies in 12 tertiary level dermatology clinics located in distinct geographical regions of Turkey. The medical ethical committee of Ondokuz Mayis University Medical Faculty approved the study.

Background:Timely diagnosis is essential for the optimal management of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Several instruments have been developed for screening PsA among patients with psoriasis. However, a delay in diagnosis is still frequently reported, possibly due to the lack of a wide use of these instruments.Objectives:We aimed to identify and compare the reported performance of these instruments with special emphasis on the PsA phenotypes.Methods:We conducted a systematic literature search on PubMed until 15 August 2020 using the keyword ‘psoriatic arthritis’. Two independent reviewers identified all studies published in English, that report on the validation, psychometric evaluation or use of an instrument for screening PsA. Any disagreements were resolved by the third investigator. Data on sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values were extracted or calculated for each instrument. Additionally, instruments were assessed for their performance in patients with different disease phenotypes.Results:A total of 10754 references were screened, and 42 were identified that reported on 15 different screening instruments. Psoriatic Arthritis Screening and Evaluation (PASE), Psoriasis Epidemiology Screening Tool (PEST), Early Arthritis for Psoriatic Patients questionnaire (EARP) were the most commonly used instruments. There was important variability across studies regarding the sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of these instruments based on the cut-offs for positivity, setting, patient population and disease phenotypes (Table 1). Specificity was higher when patients with a previous diagnosis of other rheumatic diseases were excluded. Lower sensitivity was reported among patients with shorter disease duration and when patients with a prior diagnosis of PsA were excluded from the study, whereas higher sensitivity was reported among patients with prior NSAID use. Screening tools showed differences in sensitivity in different domains (Figure 1).Figure 1.Performance Among Patients with Each DomainConclusion:This systematic literature review revealed wide variability in the diagnostic estimates of currently available questionnaire-based screening instruments for identifying PsA among psoriasis patients, depending on study populations and disease phenotypes. There is an unmet need for a screening instrument with a better performance in all disease domains.Table 1.Diagnostic estimates of screening tools in different studiesInstrumentNumber of studiesSensitivity%Specificity%PPV%NPV%PASE1824-9138-9518-8813-96PEST1140 – 8537.2-98.623-9647.1-99.3EARP941-97.234-97.214-93.357.5-100TOPAS641-89.129.7-9025.7-91.868-81.6TOPAS-II444-95.880.5-9863.4-95.891-98PsA-Disk questionnaire187.246.458.678.5CONTEST270-76.556.5-9116-8968-95STRIPP191.593.379.697.5SiPAS179877390PASQ267-92.764-81.84383GEPARD277706680Swedish- Psoriasis Assessment Questionnaire163724585PAQ160622687.5SiPAT169699169A novel, short, and simple screening questionnaire186.971.35393.6PASE: Psoriatic Arthritis Screening and Evaluation, PEST: Psoriasis Epidemiology Screening Tool, EARP: Early Arthritis for Psoriatic Patients questionnaire, TOPAS: Toronto Psoriatic Arthritis Screening Questionnaire, STRIPP: Screening Tool for Rheumatologic Investigation,SIPAS: Simple Psoriatic Arthritis Screening questionnaire, PASQ: Psoriasis and Arthritis Screening Questionnaire, GEPARD: German Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnostic Questionnaire, PAQ: Psoriatic and Arthritic Questionnaire, SiPAT: Siriraj Psoriatic Arthritis Screening ToolDisclosure of Interests:None declared.

Objective:Personal care products and cosmetics are substances that have various chemical contents whose reliability is not exactly known. There is not enough study to demonstrate the safety of their use in pregnancy. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the usage frequency of personal care products and cosmetics. Methods:In this cross-sectional study, a pre-prepared questionnaire was filled out by 179 pregnant women. In this questionnaire, the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants and the usage frequency of cosmetics/personal care products were evaluated in 26 different categories. Results:In our study, the most frequently used products in pregnancy were general hygiene products such as toothpaste, shampoo, and soap. Hand cream, wet wipes, shower gel, hair conditioner, and moisturizer use were following these products, respectively. When evaluated according to the education levels, it was found that the usage of hair dye, powder and foundation in primary school graduates were significantly higher than university graduates. The use of sun protection products in fair skin types was found significantly higher than in dark ones. Conclusion:Our study reveals which personal care products and cosmetics are used more often during pregnancy. Our data will provide the exposure studies associated with cosmetic use in pregnancy to be planned more accurately.

Background and Design: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting nearly 2% of the population. In Turkey, the only data about the prevalence of psoriasis from a population-based study is the data of the prevalence of 0.5% in a small district in a rural area. We aimed to provide the first large-scale data in Turkey by determining the prevalence of psoriasis in a large area, in the central and outlying districts of the province of Trabzon. Materials and Methods: A random sample of 7885 (4057 male and 3828 female) adults was collected by using the stratified sampling technique. The study was performed with face-to-face questionnaire administration with participants selected according to the place of residence, gender and age groups. Psoriasis was diagnosed based on the questionnaires filled by patients during these interviews. Crude psoriasis prevalence ratios and age-adjusted psoriasis prevalence ratios according to the Segi population were calculated and presented with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Of 7885 people, 87 were diagnosed with psoriasis, of which 45 were female and 42 were male. The prevalence of psoriasis was found to be 1.1% (95% CI: 0.9-1.3) in the general population. The prevalence of psoriasis in females (1.2%) was higher than that in men (1.0%). Age-adjusted prevalence was 3.9% (95% CI: 3.5-4.3) and 1.0% (95% CI: 0.8-1.2) for females and males, respectively. The presence of a family history of psoriasis increased the psoriasis risk by eight-fold (p

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the pilosebaceous unit in the skin. Isotretinoin is a synthetic vitamin A derivative regarded as the most effective agent in the treatment of acne. There have recently been increasing reports of adverse effects of isotretinoin on the skeletal system. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the rheumatic side-effects triggered by this drug, and particularly the prevalence of sacroiliitis.A total of 73 patients receiving isotretinoin due to moderate or severe acne vulgaris were included. All patients were questioned about inflammatory low back pain and musculoskeletal pains during the treatment process. Inflammatory low back pain was evaluated using Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) criteria. Patients meeting ASAS criteria were evaluated with radiography and when necessary with sacroiliac magnetic resonance.The dose range for isotretinoin was between 0.4 and 0.8 mg/kg/day (mean 0.53 mg/kg/day). Treatment lasted for 6-8 months (mean 6.8 months). Lethargy was determined in 37 (50.7%) patients, myalgia in 31 (42.5%) and low back pain in 36 (49.3%). Mechanical low back pain symptoms were present in 20 of the patients describing low back pain and inflammatory low back pain in 16. Acute sacroiliitis was determined in six patients (8.2%) following a sacroiliac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Five (83.3%) of the patients with sacroiliitis were female and one (16.7%) was male. No statistically significant difference was determined between male and female patients in terms of prevalence of sacroiliitis (p = 0.392).The incidence of sacroiliitis in patients using isotretinoin is quite high. Patients using isotretinoin must be questioned about sacroiliitis findings and must be subjected to advanced assessment when necessary. Further studies regarding the development of sacroiliitis under isotretinoin therapy are now needed.

Mycosis fungoides is the most common primary cutaneous T cell lymphoma, characterized by erythematous patches and plaque lesions with slow progression to cutaneous tumors or extracutaneous involvements in some patients. We aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics, treatment responses, disease courses, and mortality rates of our MF cases. The data of 100 patients with MF were retrospectively examined from medical records in our clinic between January 2005 and January 2015. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients, disease stage, treatment protocols, response to treatment, recurrence, progression, and mortality rates were recorded. The male to female ratio in patients was 1.2. Mean age at onset of disease was 46, and duration of disease ranged from one to 42 years. At time of diagnosis 31 patients were at stage 1A, 31 at stage 1B, 30 at stage 2A, 2 at stage 2B, 1 at stage 3, and 5 at stage 4. Stable disease was observed in 35% of patients, progression in 10%, relapse in 27%, and complete response in 28%. Large cell transformation was found in 3 patients and additional malignity in 11. Thirty-seven patients (37%) were still surviving disease-free. 10 patients had died, three of them due to disease-related conditions. The most common first-line therapy in our study was phototherapy. It was applied to 87% of patients from stage 1A. Our results are generally consistent with current literature, but disease progression and disease-specific mortality rates were significantly lower than the literature, probably due to early phototherapy.

Background and Design: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) systems, and the variety of indications involved. Materials and Methods: First-year treatments in our clinic were evaluated retrospectively. Results were classified according to improvement rates: 75% as excellent improvement. Results: One hundred thirty-three patients aged 3-79 years (mean: 35.91) with 14 different indications were treated. Pigmented lesions were treated with IPL, and vascular lesions with IPL and/or Nd: YAG. Combined therapy with IPL and Nd: YAG at two-week intervals resulted in excellent improvement in 70.21% of vascular lesions (34 rosacea, 8 nevus flammeus, and 5 hemangioma), and moderate improvement in the rest. Telangiectasia and angiomatous lesions exhibited excellent improvement in 93.65% of patients with Nd: YAG, and moderate improvement in the rest. IPL resulted in excellent improvement in 78.49% of cases of solar lentigo, and moderate improvement in the rest. Moderate improvement was observed in 66.67% of patients with melasma using IPL, and mild improvement in the rest. Pain scores were significantly lower with Nd: YAG than IPL (p

Background and Design: Postadolescent acne is a disease with relapses frequently seen in women. Treatment is difficult. In our study, we aimed to investigate the clinical and biochemical characteristics of hyperandrogenism and the prevalence of metabolic disorders, such as metabolic syndrome (MS) and dyslipidemia in women with postadolescent acne. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 50 women who attended our department with the complaint of postadolescent acne between July 2014 and December 2014. The presence of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), hirsutism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), MS, dyslipidemia, and obesity was evaluated. Results: Seborrhea was present in 56%, hirsutism in 40%, AGA in 26%, and PCOS in 24% of women with postadolescent acne. The prevalence of MS and dyslipidemia was 24% and 44%, respectively. The prevalence of MS was significantly higher in patients with AGA and hirsutism. There was no association of MS with menstrual irregularity and PCOS. There was no significant association of dyslipidemia with AGA, hirsutism, PCOS, and menstrual irregularity. Conclusion: Clinical symptoms of hyperandrogenism, such as hirsutism, AGA, and PCOS were more common in women with postadolescent acne but androgenic hormone profile abnormalities were minimal. As a result, postadolescent acne resistant to treatment may be considered as an early marker in the early diagnosis of PCOS in women to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, MS and hypercholesterolemia.

Background and Design: Micrographic surgery is an intraoperative microscope-controlled surgery which aims at the excision of the entire tumor by achieving 100% control of the surgical margins with horizontal sectioning. In micrographic surgery, the healthy skin is preserved maximally due to the stepwise excision of the tumor using narrow margins. Due to its highest cure rates and maximal tissue preserving properties, it is the treatment of choice for high-risk non-melanoma skin cancers. Micrographic surgery is not routinely included in the dermatologic surgical procedures in Turkey. The aim of this study was to provide the availability of micrographic surgery for selected patients. Materials and Methods: During 2010-2015, 116 non-melanoma skin cancers that belong to 102 patients (53 male, 49 female) were treated with micrographic surgery. All tumors were located on the head or neck, and exhibiting at least one high-risk factor for recurrence. Micrographic surgery was performed with the Munich method between 2010 and 2013, and with Mohs surgery between 2013 and 2015. Results: The mean age of patients was 65.86±12.33 years (range: 33-90 years). The localization of the tumors was the head (n=112) and the neck (n=4). The number of micrographic surgery sessions to eliminate the tumor was 1 session for 55 (47.41%), 2 sessions for 55, and more han 2 sessions for 8 (6.89%) of the tumors. Six of the defects were left for secondary intention healing, 31 were repaired primarily and 13 defects were repaired with full thickness skin grafts whereas 66 were repaired with flaps. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that microscopic eradication of non-melanoma skin cancer necessitates more than one session for more than half of the cases, illuminating that microscopic extension of non-melanoma skin cancer beyond clinically apparent tumor is very likely. The results support that for tumors located on the head and neck where healthy skin should be preserved maximally for functional and cosmetic reasons, the use of micrographic surgery is a necessity.

Background: Behçet's disease is a multisystemic vasculitis, associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction. Currently, the prognosis is unpredictable, because there is still no valid laboratory marker indicating the disease activity in Behçet's disease. Endothelial progenitor cells and circulating endothelial cells are newly introduced hematological markers which are presumed to take part in the pathogenesis of vasculitis. Objectives: To evaluate the levels of endothelial progenitor cells and subtypes and circulating endothelial cells in patients with Behçet's disease and to describe their relationship with the disease activity. Methods: A total of 45 patients with Behçet's disease and 28 healthy controls were included in the study. Endothelial progenitor cells (CD34+CD133+KDR+ as early endothelial progenitor cells and CD34+KDR+ as late endothelial progenitor cells), and circulating endothelial cells (CD34+CD133+) were measured by flow cytometry. Results: The mean plasma level of endothelial progenitor cells and circulating endothelial cells, vascular endothelial growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-9, C-reactive protein, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were significantly higher in patients with Behçet's disease. All of these parameters except circulating endothelial cells were also found to be higher in patients with active disease than in patients with inactive disease. Early endothelial progenitor cells showed significant correlations with C-reactive protein and circulating endothelial cells. Study Limitations: The cross-sectional nature of the study and patient characteristics such as being under treatment, which can affect endothelial progenitor cells numbers. Conclusion: The increase in endothelial progenitor cells may play an essential role in the repair of endothelial injury in Behçet's disease, especially in the active period of the disease. Thus, endothelial progenitor cells can indicate the disease activity. In addition, endothelial progenitor cells and circulating endothelial cells can be used as endothelial repair and injury markers for Behçet's disease, respectively.

Previous reports have demonstrated an association between chronic inflammation with metabolic syndrome (MS) and cardiovascular risk factors.As lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disease, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of MS, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and obesity in LP patients.A total of 79 patients with LP and 79 controls were examined in this case-control study. Both groups were evaluated for the presence of MS, dyslipidemia, obesity and insulin resistance, and other cardiovascular risk factors. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, fibrinogen and C-reactive protein were measured as inflammation markers.The prevalence of MS was significantly higher in the patients with LP than in controls (26.6 vs. 12.7%; P = 0.045). It was also significantly higher in LP patients with mucosal involvement than without (34.5 vs. 8.3%; P = 0.032). Among the MS criteria, mean fasting blood glucose and diastolic blood pressure were also significantly higher in LP patients than in controls (P = 0.012 and P = 0.021, respectively). No significant differences between LP patients and controls were observed with respect to prevalence of dyslipidemia and insulin resistance (P = 0.866 and P = 1.000, respectively). However, duration of disease was significantly longer in patients with insulin resistance than in those without (P = 0.034).The patients with LP, particularly those with mucosal involvement, have a higher prevalence of MS, which is associated with a risk for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus.

Bullous pemphigoid is the most common autoimmune subepidermal blistering disease of the skin and mucous membranes. This disease typically affects the elderly and presents with itch and localized or generalized bullous lesions. In up to 20% of affected patients, bullae may be completely absent, and only excoriations, prurigo-like lesions, eczematous lesions, urticated lesions and/or infiltrated plaques are observed. The disease is significantly associated with neurological disorders. The morbidity of bullous pemphigoid and its impact on quality of life are significant. So far, a limited number of national treatment guidelines have been proposed, but no common European consensus has emerged. Our consensus for the treatment of bullous pemphigoid has been developed under the guidance of the European Dermatology Forum in collaboration with the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. It summarizes evidence-based and expert-based recommendations.

Cetuximab is an epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor. It is frequently used in the treatment of solid tumors. However, it has a high potential to cause acne-like rash. Demodex mites, which are known to increase in number in immunosuppressive circumstances, are closely related to the acneiform lesions.The aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of demodex mites in acne-like rash that appears under the treatment of Cetuximab.We reviewed the medical records of patients who applied to our clinic with cetuximab induced papulopustular rashes between November 2014 and March 2016. Demodex sampling was performed by standardized skin surface biopsy (SSSB) in a total of 11 patients (eight males and three females). Infestation was defined as at least 5 living parasites/cmUpon the SSSB examination in 10 out of the 11 patients, no demodex mites were detected. Demodex mites were found in only one of the patients. This patient, in whom two dead Demodex folliculorums were found through facial sampling, was also regarded as negative since his demodex density was under the threshold limit value.In this study, it has been concluded that acne-like rash that develops under the treatment of cetuximab is not related to the presence of demodex mites. Papulopustular eruptions that develop under cetuximab treatment should not be directly correlated with the presence of demodex; first SSSB and demodex presence should be evaluated.

no abstract needed

Background Behcet’s disease (BD) is a chronic multisystem inflammatory disorder characterized by vasculitis. Vasculitis is thought to underlie many of the clinical manifestations of Behcet’s disease. Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is a highly specific biomarker for vascular inflammation, and has low biological variability. Those features make it more attractive than other inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), which may reflect systemic inflammation non-specifically. Objectives It was aimed to investigate circulating Lp-PLA2 levels and its relationship with CRP and ESR in patients with BD by considering disease activity. Methods Study group included 72 patients with BD (34 men and 38 women with a mean age of 35.3 years) and 30 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects (15 men and 15 women with a mean age 32.6 years). Patients group included 40 patients with active and 32 patients with inactive BD. Results Lp-PLA2, CRP and ESR levels were found to be significantly higher in patient group than controls. In addition, those levels were also significantly higher in patients with active BD than in patients with inactive disease. Lp-PLA2 showed positive correlations with CRP and ESR (r = 0.63, P

Summary Background Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune subepidermal blistering disease of the skin associated with IgG autoantibodies to BP180 and BP230, while mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) comprises a heterogeneous group of autoimmune blistering diseases characterized by a predominant mucous membrane involvement and scarring tendency associated with an autoantibody response to various autoantigens, including BP180. While the pathogenicity of IgG autoantibodies to BP180 has been demonstrated in BP, the role of IgE autoantibodies in mediating tissue damage in BP and MMP is unclear. Objectives To assess the presence of tissue-bound IgE in patients with BP and MMP, and their correlation with distinct clinical features. Methods In this retrospective study, we assessed the presence of IgE deposits as detected by direct immunofluorescence microscopy of skin biopsy specimens obtained from 44 and 13 patients with a new diagnosis of BP and MMP, respectively. Distinct clinical features at time of diagnosis, such as itch, urticarial papules and plaques and eczematous lesions, were noted. Results In 18 of 44 (41%) patients with BP linear deposits of IgE of variable intensity were detectable along the dermoepidermal junction. In 14 (32%) of the cases, IgE deposits were found concomitantly with IgG and C3. In two (5%) patients, diagnosis of BP was based on the isolated detection of IgE together with consistent clinicopathological features. Nine of 13 (69%) patients with MMP also exhibited linear IgE deposits, including one case with isolated linear IgE deposits. Patients with BP with tissue-bound IgE deposits had clinically significant urticarial papules and plaques when compared with patients with BP without IgE deposits. Conclusions Our findings indicate that demonstration of tissue-bound IgE deposits provides an additional useful criterion for diagnosis of BP and MMP in some patients. Prospective studies are needed to better correlate the presence of tissue-bound and circulating IgE autoantibodies and their specificity with distinct clinical features and course of BP and MMP.

Bullae occuring on the top of morphea is rarely reported. While most of these cases are named as bullous morphea, a rare clinical type of morphea, a few cases are described as bullous lichen sclerosus et atrophicus. In this report, the interesting coexistence of these two diseases is underlined by describing a bullous lesion with compatible histology with lichen sclerosus et atrophicus on top of flexural morphea en plaque in a young female patient.

Background Vitiligo is the most common pigmentation-related disorder worldwide. An autoimmune etiology is widely considered, and genetic factors may play an important role in its pathogenesis. The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of thyroid dysfunctions and autoimmune thyroiditis in children with vitiligo and to identify related factors. Methods Fifty children with vitiligo and 50 control children were enrolled. Data on age, onset, duration, disease activity, presence of thyroid disorder, other autoimmune diseases, halo nevi, poliosis, and mucosal vitiligo were determined. Serum free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, total T3, total T4, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and antibodies to thyroperoxidase and thyroglobulin were measured. Thyroid gland efficiency was evaluated. Results The mean age at onset of vitiligo was 7.26 ± 4.43 years. The duration of vitiligo was 2.26 ± 2.95 years. Vulgaris-type vitiligo was the most common form in our patients (56%), and 42% reported at least one family member with thyroid disorder, autoimmune disease, or both. Overt hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism were not detected. We found a significant association between autoimmune thyroiditis and both sex and disease duration (P = 0.046 and P = 0.07, respectively), but no association between autoimmune thyroiditis and age, age at onset of vitiligo, halo nevi, poliosis, mucosal involvement, disease activity, or family history of vitiligo, autoimmunity, or thyroid disorders. Conclusions Children with vitiligo show an increased incidence of autoimmune thyroiditis. Children with vitiligo, especially girls and subjects with generalized/vulgaris-type vitiligo, should be screened annually for thyroid function and antithyroid antibodies to assist in the early diagnosis and therapy of autoimmune thyroiditis.

Darker skin or skin of colour means higher Fitzpatrick skin types in a wide range of racial and ethnic groups referring to persons from African, Asian, Native American, Middle Eastern and Hispanic backgrounds. Darker skin types are characterized by higher content of melanin, higher eumelanin to pheomelanin ratio. This is an advantage for protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, however it also makes darker skin more vulnerable to postinflammatory dyspigmentation [1,2].

Deniz Aksu Ar›ca, Serdar Ozkasap*, ‹brahim Etem Ar›ca**, Savafl Yayl›***, fiafak Ersoz****, Selim Dereci*, Yunus Saral Rize E¤itim ve Araflt›rma Hastanesi, Deri ve Zuhrevi Hastal›klar Klini¤i, Rize, Turkiye *Rize E¤itim ve Araflt›rma Hastanesi, Cocuk Sa¤l›¤› ve Hastal›klar› Klini¤i, Rize, Turkiye **Rize 82. Y›l Devlet Hastanesi, Deri ve Zuhrevi Hastal›klar Klini¤i, Rize, Turkiye ***Karadeniz Teknik Universitesi T›p Fakultesi, Deri ve Zuhrevi Hastal›klar Anabilim Dal›, Trabzon, Turkiye ****Karadeniz Teknik Universitesi T›p Fakultesi, Patoloji Anabilim Dal›, Trabzon, Turkiye 46

BACKGROUND: Pemphigus encompasses a group of life-threatening autoimmune bullous diseases characterized by blisters and erosions of the mucous membranes and skin. Before the era of immunosuppressive treatment, the prognosis of pemphigus was almost fatal. Due to its rarity, only few prospective controlled therapeutic trials are available.OBJECTIVES: For this reason, a group of European dermatologists with a long-standing interest and expertise in basic and clinical pemphigus research has sought to define diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines for the management of patients with pemphigus.RESULTS: This group identified the statements of major agreement or disagreement regarding the diagnostic and therapeutic management of pemphigus. The revised final version of the pemphigus guideline was finally passed on to the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) for a final consensus with the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) and the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS).

Psoriasis is associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between Left Ventricular (LV) asynchrony and psoriasis. Asynchrony was assessed in 31 patients with psoriasis without evidence of CVD and 25 healthy subjects. All the patients and controls were subjected to tissue synchronization imaging (TSI), and conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography. The time to regional peak systolic tissue velocity (Ts) in LV by the six-basal-six-midsegmental model was measured on ejection phase TSI images, and four TSI parameters of systolic asynchrony were computed. C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels in psoriatic patients were measured. All TSI parameters of LV asynchrony increased in psoriatic patients compared to the controls: the standard deviation (SD) of the 12 LV segments Ts (37.3 ± 14.8 vs. 24.6 ± 11.1, P = 0.002); the maximal difference in Ts between any two of the 12 LV segments (112.7 ± 39.8 vs. 83.1 ± 38.1, P = 0.01), the SD of the six basal LV segments (36.2 ± 17.3 vs. 23.2 ± 14.5, P = 0.008); and the maximal difference in Ts between any two of the six basal LV segments (91.3 ± 43.5 vs. 60.5 ± 37.3, P = 0.01). LV asynchrony was observed in 67.7% of psoriatic patients. Higher CRP (1.9 ± 1.3 vs. 0.92 ± 1.4, P = 0.04) and ESR (34.8 ± 17.3 vs. 20 ± 15.3, P = 0.03) levels were determined in patients with LV asynchrony. Regression analysis showed LV systolic asynchrony (P = 0.02), Tei index (P = 0.03), EF (P = 0.04), and E/A ratio (P = 0.04) were independently associated with psoriasis. LV asynchrony firstly described in patients with psoriasis may be an important finding of cardiac involvement in psoriasis.

Tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors may induce various cutaneous side effects including eczematous-like lesions. The management of such side effects can be challenging. Herein, we report a case of a 55-year-old man who had a flare-up and subsequent improvement of atopic dermatitis during treatment of severe psoriasis with adalimumab.

Erythema dyschromicum perstans (EDP) is a rare disorder characterized by asymptomatic, slowly progressive, ash-gray macular pigmentation of the skin, which usually occurs from age 5 years through adult life. Most cases reported to date are of Latin American and Indian patients. Rare cases have been reported from Turkey. No treatment of choice is presently available. Various therapies have been tried, including sun protection, chemical peels, antibiotics, corticosteroids, vitamins, isoniazid, griseofulvin, and chloroquine, without any benefit. Some authors have suggested the therapeutic efficacy of clofazimine and dapsone on EDP. We report a case of EDP that responded remarkably well to treatment with dapsone.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) is the most frequently seen form of neurofibromatosis. The characteristic features of this disorder are cafe au lait macules, neurofibromas, axillary and inguinal freckling, Lisch nodules, bone lesions such as sphenoid dysplasia, and optic glioma. Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a rarely seen disease characterized by complete vaginal agenesis and uterine aplasia/hypoplasia. We report a case of an 18-year-old female patient who presented with complaints of brown marks, freckling, and primary amenorrhea. NF-1 and MRKH syndrome were diagnosed by physical examination and radiologic imaging. To our knowledge, this is the first report of coexistence of these rare genetic diseases in the literature.

A 50-year-old man presented with a complaint of low-back pain and widespread joint pain for the previous 20 years. Conventional radiography revealed wide areas of calcification in the intervertebral discs and degenerative changes in the peripheral joints. A diagnosis of ochronosis was made by the observation of bluish-brown pigmentation in the nose and ears, dark urine colors following alkalization, and high levels of homogentisic acid in the urine. Ochronosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with chronic low-back pain regarding features of widespread calcification in the intervertebral discs at radiography and bluish-brown pigmentation in the nose and ears.

Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis (JHF) is a rare, autosomally-recessive disease characterized by papulonodular skin lesions, soft tissue masses, joint contractures, gingival hypertrophy and osteolytic bone lesions. Its onset is in infancy or early childhood. The most commonly affected sites are the nose, chin, ears, scalp, back and knees. The accumulation of an amorphous, hyaline material is typical in the skin and the other organs. Herein, we report a 14-month-old boy who presented with confluent pink papules on the paranasal folds and the chin, and nodular lesions on the periauricular and perianal regions. He had gingival hypertrophy and contractures of the shoulders, knees and elbows. He also had third-degree consanguineous parents. Histopathological studies confirmed the diagnosis of JHF with the presence of increased numbers of fibroblasts embedded in a hyalinized connective tissue stroma.

Lipoid proteinosis (LP) is an uncommon, recessively inherited disorder. The disease usually has its onset in the newborn period and is manifested by hoarseness. The skin and mucous membrane involvement arises between the first and second year of age. A 14-year-old male presented with the complaint of blistering on various sites of his skin, from the age of 12 months, resulting in scarring. Ophthalmological and psychiatric findings also appeared during the clinical course. The histological findings of skin biopsy included extensive deposits of amorphous eosinophilic material in the papillary dermis. No known therapy exists for LP.

A 17-year-old girl presented with multiple, painful, erythematous blisters and ulcerated lesions on the shins and buttocks. She also had arthralgia. She had suffered from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and received anti-inflammatory agents and oral glucocorticoids for eight years. A biopsy of a lesion showed epidermal ulceration with marked neutrophilic infiltrates in the dermis. The patient was diagnosed with pyoderma gangrenosum (PG). PG is an uncommon cutaneous ulceration within the spectrum of the neutrophilic dermatoses that is reported in association with a number of systemic disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease, hematologic disease, internal malignancies, arthritis, immune abnormalities, and solid tumors. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of PG associated with JRA.