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Okeke N, Snell LB, Rathish B, Hussein A, Newsholme W, Mack D, Breathnach A, Otter JA. Evaluating the dynamics of hospital COVID-19 contacts and subsequent conversion to SARS-CoV-2 infection: a multi-centre retrospective cohort study. Infect Prev Pract 2024; 6:100325. [PMID: 38590514 PMCID: PMC10999996 DOI: 10.1016/j.infpip.2023.100325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the dynamics of COVID-19 contacts subsequent conversion to SARS-CoV-2 infection in an inpatient setting across three National Health Service (NHS) Trusts. 9.2% (476/5,156) COVID-19 contacts met inclusion criteria, were typable and tested positive for COVID-19. There was no significant difference between Omicron and non-Omicron contacts overall conversion proportions. Omicron contacts converted faster than non-Omicron contacts (median 3 days vs 4 days, P=0.03), and had significantly greater proportions of early conversions at day 3, 5, and 7 timepoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nneoma Okeke
- Directorate of Infection, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Luke B. Snell
- Directorate of Infection, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Balram Rathish
- Directorate of Infection, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Amal Hussein
- Directorate of Infection, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - William Newsholme
- Directorate of Infection, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH, UK
| | - Damien Mack
- Department of Microbiology, Royal Free Hospital, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, Pond Street NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Aodhan Breathnach
- Department of Infection, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Tooting, London SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Jonathan A. Otter
- Directorate of Infection, Guy's and St. Thomas NHS Foundation Trust, St. Thomas' Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH, UK
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in HCAI and AMR, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 0HS, UK
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2
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Evans TJ, Jawad S, Kalyal N, Nadarajah A, Amarouche M, Stapleton S, Ward C, Breathnach A. Retrospective review of the epidemiology, microbiology, management and outcomes of intra-cranial abscesses at a neurosurgical tertiary referral centre, 2018-2020. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2022; 21:58. [PMID: 36575518 PMCID: PMC9795649 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-022-00550-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracranial abscesses are rare but serious, and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Due to both the rarity and severity of these infections, well-controlled trials have not been reported in the literature, and optimal management is a matter for expert opinion. Advances in surgical management have improved outcomes and increased rates of microbiological diagnosis. However, the approach to antimicrobial chemotherapy varies considerably, including the choice of antibiotic, the duration of treatment, and the timing of oral switch. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of 43 cases of intracranial abscesses from a large, tertiary neurosurgical centre in London, UK, between 2018 and 2020, including 29 primary intra-parenchymal abscesses, 11 subdural abscesses and 3 extradural abscesses. RESULTS The majority of cases had surgical intervention; 6/43 (14%) required repeat intervention (all intra-parenchymal abscesses). A microbiological diagnosis was made in 83% of cases. Intravenous antibiotics were given for a median of 33 days (IQR 23-44 days), with a variable duration of oral follow-on antibiotics. Total duration of antibiotic treatment ranged from 0 to 467 days. Only three patients from our cohort are known to have died. CONCLUSION Shorter courses of intravenous antibiotics for brain abscesses were not associated with increased mortality. In the absence of well-controlled trials, a national registry of intracranial abscesses would provide invaluable data to inform optimal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry John Evans
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sarah Jawad
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nida Kalyal
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Angelina Nadarajah
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Meriem Amarouche
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Simon Stapleton
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Christopher Ward
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Aodhan Breathnach
- grid.451349.eSt George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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3
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Hanumunthadu B, Breathnach A. Antibiotic adverse events on an outpatient parenteral antibiotic service: a retrospective cohort study. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2021. [DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2019-002045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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4
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Akhtar Z, Gallagher MM, Yap YG, Leung LWM, Elbatran AI, Madden B, Ewasiuk V, Gregory L, Breathnach A, Chen Z, Fluck DS, Sharma S. Prolonged QT predicts prognosis in COVID-19. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2021; 44:875-882. [PMID: 33792080 PMCID: PMC8251438 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) causes severe illness and multi‐organ dysfunction. An abnormal electrocardiogram is associated with poor outcome, and QT prolongation during the illness has been linked to pharmacological effects. This study sought to investigate the effects of the COVID‐19 illness on the corrected QT interval (QTc). Method For 293 consecutive patients admitted to our hospital via the emergency department for COVID‐19 between 01/03/20 ‐18/05/20, demographic data, laboratory findings, admission electrocardiograph and clinical observations were compared in those who survived and those who died within 6 weeks. Hospital records were reviewed for prior electrocardiograms for comparison with those recorded on presentation with COVID‐19. Results Patients who died were older than survivors (82 vs 69.8 years, p < 0.001), more likely to have cancer (22.3% vs 13.1%, p = 0.034), dementia (25.6% vs 10.7%, p = 0.034) and ischemic heart disease (27.8% vs 10.7%, p < 0.001). Deceased patients exhibited higher levels of C‐reactive protein (244.6 mg/L vs 146.5 mg/L, p < 0.01), troponin (1982.4 ng/L vs 413.4 ng/L, p = 0.017), with a significantly longer QTc interval (461.1 ms vs 449.3 ms, p = 0.007). Pre‐COVID electrocardiograms were located for 172 patients; the QTc recorded on presentation with COVID‐19 was longer than the prior measurement in both groups, but was more prolonged in the deceased group (448.4 ms vs 472.9 ms, pre‐COVID vs COVID, p < 0.01). Multivariate Cox‐regression analysis revealed age, C‐reactive protein and prolonged QTc of >455 ms (males) and >465 ms (females) (p = 0.028, HR 1.49 [1.04‐2.13]), as predictors of mortality. QTc prolongation beyond these dichotomy limits was associated with increased mortality risk (p = 0.0027, HR 1.78 [1.2‐2.6]). Conclusion QTc prolongation occurs in COVID‐19 illness and is associated with poor outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaki Akhtar
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK.,Department of Cardiology, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Mark M Gallagher
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK.,Department of Cardiology, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Yee Guan Yap
- Department of Cardiology, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Lisa W M Leung
- Department of Cardiology, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ahmed I Elbatran
- Department of Cardiology, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Brendan Madden
- Department of Cardiology, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Victoria Ewasiuk
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK
| | - Louise Gregory
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK
| | - Aodhan Breathnach
- Department of Cardiology, St George's University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK
| | - David S Fluck
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK
| | - Sumeet Sharma
- Department of Cardiology, Ashford and St Peter's NHS trust, Chertsey, Surrey, UK.,Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
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San Francisco A, Bowman C, Gunny R, Amedu V, Cosgrove C, Breathnach A, O'Connor C, Houston A. Successful treatment of multiple Nocardia farcinica cerebral abscesses using an outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) service. Clinical Infection in Practice 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinpr.2020.100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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6
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Bowman C, Nakhla N, Amedu V, Patel P, O'Connor C, Houston A, Breathnach A. A rare complication of otitis media: Gradenigo's syndrome successfully managed on outpatient antimicrobial therapy. Clinical Infection in Practice 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinpr.2019.100012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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7
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Hooper
- St George's, University of London, London, UK.
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Pérerz Lopéz A, Ladhani SN, Breathnach A, Planche T, Heath PT, Sharland M. Trends in paediatric nosocomial bacteraemia in a London tertiary hospital. Acta Paediatr 2013; 102:1005-9. [PMID: 23837813 DOI: 10.1111/apa.12347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2013] [Revised: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 07/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe the incidence and microbiological characteristics of nosocomial bloodstream infections in childhood over a 9-year period at a South London tertiary hospital. METHODS Analysis of prospective data collected for clinically significant nosocomial bloodstream infections in children aged <16 years during 2001-2009. RESULTS During the study period, although the absolute number of nosocomial bloodstream infections were similar for the neonatal unit (n = 254) and paediatric wards (n = 224), rates were 11.6-fold (95% CI, 9.8-13.9) higher for the former (5.8 vs. 0.50/100 discharges, respectively). Analysis of trends revealed a significant reduction in rates for both the neonatal unit (7.8-2.5 episodes/100 discharges; p < 0.001) and paediatric wards (1.2-0.4 episodes/100 discharges; p < 0.001), mainly due a decline in catheter-associated staphylococcal bacteraemia, which accounted for 115 (45%) and 164 (73%) episodes in the paediatric wards and neonatal units, respectively. Gram-positive cocci were the most frequent pathogens recovered, accounting for 200 (79%) and 185 (83%) cases in the neonatal unit and paediatric wards, respectively. Overall, antimicrobial resistance rates were low compared with other industrialized countries. CONCLUSION Nosocomial bloodstream infections rates declined significantly in our hospital over the past decade, likely driven by local introduction of national infection-control bundles particularly focussing on insertion and maintenance of intravascular catheters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Pérerz Lopéz
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group; St. George's Hospital NHS Trust; London; UK
| | - Shamez N Ladhani
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group; St. George's Hospital NHS Trust; London; UK
| | - Aodhan Breathnach
- Department of Clinical Microbiology; St. George's Hospital NHS Trust; London; UK
| | - Timothy Planche
- Department of Clinical Microbiology; St. George's Hospital NHS Trust; London; UK
| | - Paul T Heath
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group; St. George's Hospital NHS Trust; London; UK
| | - Mike Sharland
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group; St. George's Hospital NHS Trust; London; UK
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9
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Breathnach A. Assisted dying debate: Let's get the words right too. BMJ 2011; 342:d461. [PMID: 21266430 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.d461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the incidence, mortality and risk factors for neonatal late onset gram-negative sepsis and meningitis (LOGNS). DESIGN Retrospective case-control study. SETTING Tertiary neonatal unit in London. PATIENTS Consecutive inborn infants with late onset (>48 h of life) invasive gram-negative infections diagnosed between 1999 and 2005. Controls were healthy infants matched for gestation and time of admission to the neonatal unit. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical and risk factor data. RESULTS 73 cases of LOGNS were identified of which 48 were inborn and included in the study (incidence 1.85/1000 live births). Enterobacter spp. (28%), Escherichia coli (27%) and Klebsiella spp. (21%) were the most common pathogens. The majority of infants were of very low birthweight (VLBW; 79%), and cases and controls were well matched (median gestation 26 weeks). Overall case death was 27% in cases versus 13.5% in controls (p=0.08). There was no significant difference between cases and controls regarding maternal risk factors. Mechanical ventilation, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and its duration, presence of a central venous line and its duration, use of specific antibiotics and the occurrence of necrotising enterocolitis at or before the first positive culture were all significantly associated with case status in univariate analysis. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, only duration of TPN at or before first positive blood culture remained independently associated with LOGNS (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS LOGNS occurs predominantly in VLBW infants. When the influence of gestational age is accounted for, the only independent risk factor found for late onset gram-negative neonatal infections is the duration of TPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srabani Samanta
- Division of Child Health, St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, Tooting, London, UK
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11
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Roche A, Heath PT, Sharland M, Strachan D, Breathnach A, Haigh J, Young Y. Prevalence of nasopharyngeal carriage of pneumococcus in preschool children attending day care in London. Arch Dis Child 2007; 92:1073-6. [PMID: 17768150 PMCID: PMC2066083 DOI: 10.1136/adc.2007.126359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of nasopharyngeal (NP) carriage of pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and describe the antibiotic resistance patterns and serotypes in young children attending group day care in London. DESIGN AND SUBJECTS Cross-sectional survey of attendees at a sample of registered child day care centres (CDCCs) in a London borough. SETTING Urban setting with a socially and culturally diverse population. METHODS AND OUTCOMES 19 CDCCs (13% of total) participated between March and November 2003. A single NP swab was required from each child, and parents completed a questionnaire about their child's health and attendance at day care. WHO methodology for pneumococcal carriage studies was followed. RESULTS 30% of parents consented. 234 swabs were collected from children aged 6 months to 5 years. 53% were boys and 81% were white. 120 children (51%, 95% CI 45% to 58%) carried pneumococci in their nasopharynx. None of the isolates were resistant to penicillin (upper CL 3%). 21 isolates were resistant to erythromycin (17.5%, 95% CI 11% to 25.5%). 68 isolates (57%) were serotypes included in the 7-valent conjugate vaccine. Non-white children had a lower prevalence of carriage (27% vs 58%). CONCLUSION The prevalence of pneumococcal NP carriage was high. The penicillin resistance rate is lower than in many other countries and may reflect a decrease in community antibiotic prescribing in the UK. Monitoring circulating serotypes is important in the context of recent changes to the vaccination policy. Further study is required to explore the association with ethnicity and risk factors for antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Roche
- South West London Health Protection Unit, Springfield University Hospital, 61 Glenburnie Road, London SW17 7DB, UK.
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13
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Elviss NC, Owen RJ, Breathnach A, Palmer C, Shetty N. Helicobacter pylori antibiotic-resistance patterns and risk factors in adult dyspeptic patients from ethnically diverse populations in central and south London during 2000. J Med Microbiol 2005; 54:567-574. [PMID: 15888466 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.45896-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Surveillance of Helicobacter pylori antibiotic susceptibility from patients in London, the largest metropolitan area in the UK, is limited, despite resistance being a key factor in treatment failure. A two-centre survey was performed over 12 months (1999-2000) to determine antibiotic-resistance rates of isolates from dyspeptic patients attending endoscopy clinics serving two ethnically diverse central and south London communities. The in vitro antibiotic susceptibilities were determined from disc diffusion and epsilometer (E) tests on 101 H. pylori isolates. Overall resistance rates were 59% for metronidazole and 11% for clarithromycin, with 8 % resistance to both antibiotics. Corresponding primary resistance rates were 50% and 7%, respectively. High-level-resistance was a feature of 82% of the metronidazole (MIC > or = 256 mg l(-1)) -resistant and 55% of the clarithromycin (MIC > or = 32 mg l(-1)) -resistant strains. All isolates were susceptible to amoxycillin and tetracycline. No associations between resistance and either the gender or the age of the patients were detected. The main risk for resistance to metronidazole was non-UK birth as comparative rates were 68% for non-UK vs. 40% for UK-born individuals. Resistant isolates were genotypically diverse with respect to cagA/vacA type. Four 23S rDNA nucleotide polymorphisms were associated with clarithromycin resistance, mostly (9/11) at A2143G. In conclusion, the high overall metronidazole-resistance rate of 59% for H. pylori from inner London was twice the rate found in other UK-based studies and was attributed to the higher risk of resistant strains infecting individuals born outside the UK. The need for continued resistance surveillance is indicated to monitor the effects of the 'test and treat' strategy for H. pylori eradication, particularly of isolates from at-risk individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola C Elviss
- Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens, Health Protection Agency, Specialist and Reference Microbiology Division, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK 2Food Microbiology Collaborating Unit, Health Protection Agency South West, School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Churchill Building, Langford, North Somerset BS40 5DU, UK 3HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Medical Microbiology, St George's Hospital, London SW17 0QT, UK 4HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Clinical Microbiology, University College London Hospitals, London WC1T 4JF, UK
| | - Robert J Owen
- Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens, Health Protection Agency, Specialist and Reference Microbiology Division, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK 2Food Microbiology Collaborating Unit, Health Protection Agency South West, School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Churchill Building, Langford, North Somerset BS40 5DU, UK 3HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Medical Microbiology, St George's Hospital, London SW17 0QT, UK 4HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Clinical Microbiology, University College London Hospitals, London WC1T 4JF, UK
| | - Aodhan Breathnach
- Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens, Health Protection Agency, Specialist and Reference Microbiology Division, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK 2Food Microbiology Collaborating Unit, Health Protection Agency South West, School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Churchill Building, Langford, North Somerset BS40 5DU, UK 3HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Medical Microbiology, St George's Hospital, London SW17 0QT, UK 4HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Clinical Microbiology, University College London Hospitals, London WC1T 4JF, UK
| | - Catherine Palmer
- Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens, Health Protection Agency, Specialist and Reference Microbiology Division, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK 2Food Microbiology Collaborating Unit, Health Protection Agency South West, School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Churchill Building, Langford, North Somerset BS40 5DU, UK 3HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Medical Microbiology, St George's Hospital, London SW17 0QT, UK 4HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Clinical Microbiology, University College London Hospitals, London WC1T 4JF, UK
| | - Nandini Shetty
- Laboratory of Enteric Pathogens, Health Protection Agency, Specialist and Reference Microbiology Division, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5HT, UK 2Food Microbiology Collaborating Unit, Health Protection Agency South West, School of Clinical Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Churchill Building, Langford, North Somerset BS40 5DU, UK 3HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Medical Microbiology, St George's Hospital, London SW17 0QT, UK 4HPA Collaborating Centre, Department of Clinical Microbiology, University College London Hospitals, London WC1T 4JF, UK
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Hazen KC, Stei J, Darracott C, Breathnach A, May J, Howell SA. Isolation of cholesterol-dependent Candida glabrata from clinical specimens. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2005; 52:35-7. [PMID: 15878440 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2004.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2004] [Accepted: 12/10/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In the past few years, we have detected in the United Kingdom and in the United States several isolates of Candida glabrata that grew poorly unless bile was available. Cholesterol, a component of bile, stimulated equivalent growth of the bile-dependent isolates. The bile-dependent C. glabrata isolates appeared resistant to amphotericin B, but their resistance to fluconazole was unclear. These results demonstrate that occasional isolates of C. glabrata require cholesterol to grow, they may not be detected in specimens set up on standard primary plating media, and they may be difficult to eradicate in patients with antifungal agents directed against ergosterol and its synthetic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Hazen
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0904, USA.
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15
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Gillespie SH, Billington OJ, Breathnach A, McHugh TD. Multiple drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis: evidence for changing fitness following passage through human hosts. Microb Drug Resist 2003; 8:273-9. [PMID: 12523624 DOI: 10.1089/10766290260469534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown a difference in the genotype of resistant bacteria following passage in animals compared to those passaged in vitro. This suggests that organisms rapidly adapt to their environment of growth. We sought to investigate whether this phenomenon occurred in human infection and whether changes could be detected in the fitness (growth velocity) of isolates transmitted between human hosts. Isogenic strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis were obtained from a well-documented hospital outbreak. The subjects included those who were HIV seropositive and immunocompromised. The relative fitness of each sample was measured using growth competition in vitro. The results confirmed that our method of measuring fitness was not influenced by the storage conditions of the isolates, and demonstrated that the fitness of genetically similar isolates obtained from different patients in the outbreak differed significantly, as reflected in the growth velocity of the strains. This study provides the first evidence that multiple drug resistant M. tuberculosis strains adapt to the environment of their human host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen H Gillespie
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Royal Free and University College Medical School, London NW3 2PF, UK.
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17
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Holdsworth GM, Breathnach A, Asboe D, Free D, Cranston R, Peters BS, de Ruiter A. Controlled management of public relations following a public health incident. J Public Health Med 1999; 21:251-4. [PMID: 10528951 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/21.3.251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
This paper describes the management of public relations following an outbreak of multidrug resistant TB at a London hospital. Eight patients were involved, all of the secondary cases occurred in HIV seropositive patients, and three cases died. The paper describes how the the Incident Committee undertook to recall contacts of the cases for screening, inform the general practitioners of all of the contacts about their patients' exposure, warn other organizations and professionals interested or involved in the management of HIV in the London area as to the nature of the incident, and establish a helpline, before informing a wider audience through the EPINET, Communicable Disease Report and national press.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Holdsworth
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham Health Authority, London
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18
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De Luca C, Picardo M, Breathnach A, Passi S. Lipoperoxidase activity of Pityrosporum: characterisation of by-products and possible rôle in pityriasis versicolor. Exp Dermatol 1996; 5:49-56. [PMID: 8624612 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.1996.tb00093.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Modification of pigmentation and damage of melanocytes are characteristic features of skin colonisation of Pityrosporum orbiculare hyphae in pityriasis versicolor (PV). The yeast is lipophylic and lipid-dependent, capable of oxidising unsaturated lipid components of skin surface, i.e., unsaturated fatty acids, cholesterol and squalene (SQ). The oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids gives rise to dicarboxylic acids (DA) which behave, in vitro, as competitive inhibitors of tyrosinase. In this work, we further investigate the oxidase activity of Pityrosporum in vitro, by evaluating (a) the generation of lipoperoxides in cultures supplemented with fatty acids at various degrees of unsaturation; (b) the mechanism of SQ oxidation; (c) the chemical characteristics of some by-products of lipoperoxidation; (d) the formation of peroxisomes in fungal cells. In cultures supplemented with the saturated palmitic acid (C16:0) and monounsaturated oleic acid (C18:1 n-9), low amounts of lipoperoxides were detected by a spectrophotometric test, whereas in cultures supplemented with di-unsaturated linoleic acid (C18:2 n-6), significant concentrations were found. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses showed the generation of linoleic acid hydroperoxides both in Pityrosporum cultures and following incubation of acetone powder of the fungus with the unsaturated fatty acid, indicating the presence of a lipoxygenase activity in the fungus. In cultures supplemented with linoleic acid plus SQ, and increase of lipoperoxide generation was observed and trans-trans farnesal and squalene epoxides have been identified. Electron microscopic examinations have evidenced peroxisomes in cells grown in the presence of linoleic acid, whereas they were not detected in cultures supplemented with oleic acid and palmitic acid. The metabolic activities of peroxisomes, through the formation of hydrogen peroxide and the subsequent generation of hydroxyl radicals, may account for the peroxidation of SQ, which is not a substrate of lipoxygenase. Following these results, we propose a mechanism for DA generation by Pityrosporum metabolism and hypothesize that the lipoperoxidation process induced by lipoxygenase activity of the fungus may be the key to understanding the clinical appearance of skin manifestation of PV.
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Affiliation(s)
- C De Luca
- San Gallicano Dermatological Institute, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
Little is known about the behaviour of filamentous fungi in most blood culture systems, despite their increasingly recognised role in infections of immunocompromised hosts. The ability of the BacT/Alert system (Organon Teknika, Durham, North Carolina, USA) to detect the growth of 19 such fungi was examined. Eleven species grew and were detected rapidly; two species did not grow. Six species grew slowly, and were generally only recovered with terminal subculture after prolonged incubation. The CO2 production graph for some of these fungi showed a slow but steady rise, insufficient to cause the apparatus to signal positive. These results show that the BacT/Alert system may miss some fungi, either because of no growth in the medium or undetected slow growth. The latter problem could be overcome by prolonged incubation and terminal subculture when fungal infection is considered likely. Alteration of the signalling mechanism might permit earlier detection of some slow growing fungi.
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Abstract
A case of cutaneous Mycobacterium kansasii infection is reported, and 28 similar cases are reviewed. Cutaneous infection may resemble sporotrichosis and is often associated with systemic illness, immunosuppression, skin pathology, or contact with contaminated water. Immunosuppressed patients with M. kansasii infection may present with atypical clinical features (such as cellulitis and seroma) and atypical histology (absence of granulomas), which may delay diagnosis and effective treatment. The incidence of disseminated M. kansasii infection, which has a worse prognosis, is higher among immunosuppressed patients. When M. kansasii infection is confined to the skin, the disease is usually indolent. Chemotherapy with a variety of agents, including traditional antituberculous agents as well as erythromycin, minocycline, and doxycycline, has been successful, although in vitro resistance to isoniazid and p-aminosalicylic acid is common. Reducing the dose of corticosteroids may be a beneficial adjunct to therapy for M. kansasii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Breathnach
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
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21
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and albumin concentrations in patients with chronic renal disease receiving different forms of treatment and to determine, if any, the relationship between these variables. DESIGN A prospective cross-sectional, case-controlled study. SETTING A tertiary referral nephrology and dialysis unit. SUBJECTS Forty-four consecutive non-diabetic patients with chronic renal failure treated by renal transplantation (n = 18), haemodialysis (n = 18), continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD; n = 8), and 30 healthy controls from subjects drawn from University personnel were studied. INTERVENTIONS Fasting morning venous blood was analysed for Lp(a), albumin, total cholesterol and glucose concentrations. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Comparison of plasma levels of these variables between the sub-groups. RESULTS Concentrations (median; 95% CI) of Lp(a) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher (38.4 mg dl-1; range 15.4-72.0) and of albumin lower (31.6 g l-1; range 28-35.2) in the CAPD group compared with both control subjects and other groups of chronic renal disease patients. CONCLUSIONS The elevated Lp(a) concentrations seen only in association with reduced albumin concentrations in CAPD patients suggest a regulatory role for albumin with albumin losses stimulating production of Lp(a).
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Affiliation(s)
- D Buggy
- Department of Nephrology, Meath Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Bourke W, O’Connor C, Fitzgerald MX, McConnell TJ, Kent A, Redmond EM, Keenan AK, Smyth EM, Shanahan R, O’Donnell N, O’Connor CM, Kelly V, Barry-Kinsella C, Sharma SC, Cottrell E, Harrison RF, Sheppard BL, Bonnar J, McNally O, Hannigan B, Allen JM, Feely J, Buggy D, Barry M, Keeling PWN, Weir DG, Breathnach A, Keogh B, Cooke T, Murphy J, O’Sullivan C, Walsh M, Tyrrell J, Bergin C, Colgan M, Moore D, Shanik DG, Cooke T, Southey A, Costello E, Jehn B, Marti R, Deane R, Thornton F, Jaggi R, Martin F, Armstrong C, Mannion D, Feely T, Fitzpatrick G, McCormack PME, O’Reilly E, Walsh JB, Coakley D, Stinson JC, Murphy CM, Andrews JF, Tomkin GH, Howe JP, Fogarty DJ, Manahan-Vaughan D, Rowan MJ, Anwyl R, Thornbury KD, Ward SM, Sanders KM, Murnin M, Guthrie DJS, Irvine GB, Doyle E, Regan CM, Bannigan J, Giles J, Adebayo GI, Deasy PB, Omara AAM, Lambert MB, Shields TD, O’Kane S, Leckey D, Gilmore WS, Hannigan BM, McKeogh D, Bradford A, O’Regan RG, Nolan P, McEvoy F, Edgell T, Webbon P, Creighton-Kempsford L, Gaffney PJ, O’Donnell MD, McGeeney KF, Breslin E, Smith K, Docherty JR, Adams N, Ravey J, Bell AJ, Tong KK, Strain JJ, Walsh DM, Baxter GD, Mokhtar B, Victory R, Bergin D, Cooney C, Staunton M, Fitzgerald J, Gardiner J, Blunnie W, Smith J, Magee O, Lowe D, Robinson R, Magner J, Eustace P, Martyn CJ, Cooney CM, Adams H, Lyons JB, Blunnie WP, Moriarty DC. Royal academy of medicine in ireland section of biological sciences. Ir J Med Sci 1992. [DOI: 10.1007/bf02942159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Oliver F, Amon EU, Breathnach A, Francis DM, Sarathchandra P, Black AK, Greaves MW. Contact urticaria due to the common stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)--histological, ultrastructural and pharmacological studies. Clin Exp Dermatol 1991; 16:1-7. [PMID: 2025924 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.1991.tb00282.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A frequent cause of contact urticaria is skin exposure to the common stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). The urticaria is accompanied by a stinging sensation lasting longer than 12 h. Little is known of the cellular and molecular mechanism of stinging-nettle urticaria. After preliminary pharmacological analysis of pro-inflammatory activity in nettle stings, the cellular response of mononuclear cells, polymorphonuclear cells and mast cells was examined in six people 5 min and 12 h after nettle contact. Only mast cell numbers were significantly increased at 12 h. Ultrastructurally, some mast cells showed evidence of degranulation at 5 min and 12 h. At 12 h mast cells were closely associated with dermal dendritic cells and lymphocytes suggesting a functional unit. The mean histamine and serotonin contents of a nettle hair were found to be 6.1 ng and 33.25 pg, respectively. Nettle-sting extracts did not demonstrate histamine release from dispersed rat mast cells in vitro. These results suggest that part of the immediate reaction to nettle stings is due to histamine introduced by the nettle. However, the persistence of the stinging sensation might suggest the presence of substances in nettle fluid directly toxic to nerves or capable of secondary release of other mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Oliver
- Institute of Dermatology, St Thomas's Hospital, London, UK
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Oliver F, Amon E, Breathnach A, Black A, Francis D, Sarathchandra P, Greaves M. (17) Contact urticaria due to the common stinging nettle (Urtica dioica): histological, ultrastructural and pharmacological studies. Br J Dermatol 1990. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1990.tb04479.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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25
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Picardo M, Passi S, Nazzaro-Porro M, Breathnach A, Zompetta C, Faggioni A, Riley P. Mechanism of antitumoral activity of catechols in culture. Biochem Pharmacol 1987; 36:417-25. [PMID: 3103624 DOI: 10.1016/0006-2952(87)90345-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Cell lines Raji and K 562, lacking tyrosinase, and two melanotic human melanoma cell lines (IRE 1 and IRE 2), were exposed to concentrations from 5 X 10(-3) M to 10(-5) M of different phenols which are substrates of tyrosinase, i.e. l-dopa, dopamine, hydroquinone, terbutylcatechol, and of phenols which are not substrates of the tyrosinase, i.e. resorcinol, butylated hydroxyanisole and hydroquinone dimethyl ether. Cultures were carried out in the presence or in the absence of oxygen radical scavenger enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase. The stability of each substance in culture medium was assayed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results showed that: catechols which are substrates of tyrosinase decompose fully after 24 hr in medium; they are equally toxic for melanoma and non-melanoma cell lines; their toxicity increases when they are preincubated in medium for 24 hr and 48 hr before addition of cells; their toxicity is significantly reduced by addition of scavenger enzymes; on the contrary, phenols not substrates of tyrosinase are stable in medium and their toxicity is not reduced by scavenger enzymes. It is concluded that tyrosinase does not play a major role in catechol toxicity in vitro, which is probably due to some products of catechol decomposition, especially oxygen radicals, acting outside the cells.
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Passi S, Picardo M, Nazzaro-Porro M, Breathnach A, Confaloni AM, Serlupi-Crescenzi G. Antimitochondrial effect of saturated medium chain length (C8-C13) dicarboxylic acids. Biochem Pharmacol 1984; 33:103-8. [PMID: 6704136 DOI: 10.1016/0006-2952(84)90376-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In isolated rat liver mitochondria, respiration was competitively inhibited by medium chain length (C8 to C13) dicarboxylic acids to different extents: the higher the number of carbon atoms up to C12, the greater the inhibition. In particular, experiments on submitochondrial particles showed that the competitive inhibition concerned the following enzymes: NADH dehydrogenase, succinic dehydrogenase and reduced ubiquinone: cytochrome c oxido-reductase. These results tend to confirm the suggestion that the melanocytotoxic effect of dicarboxylic acids, which are also competitive inhibitors of tyrosinase, may be primarily due to an antimitochondrial effect rather than being tyrosinase-dependent.
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27
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Abstract
Patients treated with azelaic acid (15%) cream for chloasma reported simultaneous improvement of acne lesions within the treated areas. This prompted an open study of its effect in cases of acne without chloasma. One hundred patients with acne vulgaris were treated for 3-9 months by twice-daily application of the cream with significant improvement in every case.
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28
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Breathnach A, Robins E, Ethridge L, Bhasin Y, Gallagher S, Passi S, Nazzaro-Porro M. Ultrastructural and biochemical observations on the effect of 4-hydroxyanisole plus tyrosinase on normal human melanocytes and keratocytes in tissue culture. Br J Cancer 1983; 47:813-22. [PMID: 6407506 PMCID: PMC2011350 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.1983.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cultures of melanocytes and keratocytes were exposed to 15 micrograms ml-1 tyrosinase and 4-hydroxyanisole (4-OHA) 5 X 10(-4) M to 5 X 10(-2) M for 1 to 24 h. No damage was suffered by either cell below 5 X 10(-3) M 4-OHA for 6 h, but higher concentrations and longer exposures extensively damaged both cells. Exposure of cells washed free of culture medium to tyrosinase and 4-OHA 1 X 10(-3) M for 1 h resulted also in extensive damage. This indicates that an early-formed toxic product of the reaction between tyrosinase and 4-OHA is inactivated by constituents of the medium. This was confirmed by Liquid Chromatography and Scanning Spectrophotometry which showed that a toxic 4-OHA quinone immediately reacted with nucleophilic substances in the medium resulting in products which, on accumulation, are probably responsible for the later (6 h plus) damage to melanocytes and keratocytes. A possible effect of allegedly specific melanocytotoxic drugs on keratocytes should always be borne in mind with tissue culture experiments.
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29
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Abstract
In 23 patients with malignant melanoma, including some with metastases and terminal patients, topical and oral (10--15 g daily) azelaic acid given for 1--12 weeks before surgical excision of the lesions was followed by arrest and subsequent regression of the advancing edge of lesions, reduction in size and flattening of nodular areas, and progressive lightening of pigmentation. Histological and ultrastructural effects included: degeneration and disappearance of malignant epidermal and dermal melanocytes with reduction of junctional activity; epidermal proliferation and return towards normal organisation; reappearance of papillary dermis, pilosebaceous units, and sweat glands; separation of dermal melanoma tumour masses into smaller collections of cells by regenerating connective tissue; and increase in number of dermal mast cells, macrophages, and round cells. These preliminary results indicate a direct cytotoxic effect of azelaic acid on melanocytes of human melanoma.
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30
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Abstract
Dicarboxylic acids from C8 to C14 are competitive inhibitors of tyrosinase in vitro, and here, the effect of a cream containing 15% azelaic acid (C9) on 3 cases of lentigo maligna is described. The lesions were treated for 90 days, with remarkable clinical and histological effect, maintained for up to 2 yr after cessation of treatment. Progress during treatment of one case was additionally monitored by electron microscopy, which revealed progressive elimination of abnormal melanocytes both basally and suprabasally, and their replacement by essentially normal cells engaged in normal melanogenesis. There was also progressive diminution in the general disorganization of the epidermis, and disappearance of lymphocyte response. It is concluded that dicarboxylic acids have a direct inhibitory and cytotoxic effect on abnormally active or structurally disordered melanocytes in lentigo maligna, but further investigations are required to establish their precise mode of action. Similar application of dicarboxylic acids to normal skin affects only a small proportion of melanocytes, suggesting that some phasic factor, or individual states of activity, may be concerned in their susceptibility.
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31
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Clayton R, Breathnach A, Martin B, Feiwel M. Hypopigmented sarcoidosis in the negro. Report of eight cases with ultrastructural observations. Br J Dermatol 1977; 96:119-25. [PMID: 843445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The dermatological aspects of eight negro patients with hypopigmented sarcoid lesions are described. Light microscope histochemical studies in patients did not reveal the mechanism of the hypopigmentation. However, electronmicroscopy of lesions in two patients showed melanocytes undergoing changes resembling those observed in other acquired hypopigmentary conditions. It is suggested that in these disorders, melanocytes react morphologically in a similar non-specific manner, whatever the prime pathological process.
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Stolinski C, Breathnach A. Freeze-fracture replication of organized tissue without cryoprotection. J Anat 1976; 122:271-81. [PMID: 1002603 PMCID: PMC1231900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fresh pieces of rat liver and pancreas were rapidly frozen without prior chemical fixation or cryoprotection, and replicated folloing freeze-fracture. Replicas revealed small peripheral areas free of ice crystals or damage and, within such areas, general ultrastructural morphology was essentially similar to that seen in conventionally processed material. On fracture faces of plasma and nuclear membranes a population of less prominent particles in addition to conventional membrane-associated particles was seen, and smooth areas devoid of particles of any type were seen on some nuclear membranes. These smooth areas did not appear to be similar to smooth areas allegedly arising as artifacts of conventional processing. Tight junctions and gap junctions appeared as they do in cryoprotected specimens. The results provide a base-line for assessing the possible effects of processing steps or agents on the ultrastructure of organized tissues as revealed in freeze-fracture replicas.
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