Gender differences in allergic contact dermatitis to common allergens

BACKGROUND

Gender-based differences in skin structure, physiology, and allergen exposure can influence contact dermatitis development.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the differences and trends in contact sensitizers, focusing on the top 10 allergens and personal care product (PCP) contact allergies from a gender perspective.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 5998 patients undergoing patch testing at an occupational and contact dermatitis clinic in a Thai, university-based, tertiary referral hospital from January 2001 to December 2021. Patients' characteristics and patch test results were collected.

RESULTS

Females had a higher positive patch test rate than males (71.8% vs. 65%, p < 0.001). However, males showed a greater prevalence of occupationally related allergic contact dermatitis (15.9%). Multivariate analysis revealed associations between being female and allergies to colophonium (aOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.07-1.99, p = 0.019), formaldehyde (aOR 1.97, 95% CI 1.17-13.31, p = 0.010), fragrance mix I (aOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.34-2.07, p < 0.001), MCI/MI (aOR 2.55, 95% CI 1.90-3.44, p < 0.001), neomycin (aOR 4.15, 95% CI 2.54-6.80, p < 0.001), and nickel (aOR 2.62, 95% CI 2.17-3.15, p < 0.001). Conversely, being male correlated with allergies to carba mix (aOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.41-0.64, p < 0.001), epoxy resin (aOR 0.26, 95% CI 0.14-0.47, p < 0.001), n-isopropyl-n-phenyl-4-phenylenediamine (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.20-0.83, p = 0.014), paraben mix (aOR 0.42, 95% CI 0.32-0.56, p < 0.001), and potassium dichromate (aOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58-0.84, p < 0.001). Positive reactions to PCPs stood at 13% overall (males 17.1%, females 12.2%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Gender plays a pivotal role in contact dermatitis. This work emphasises the importance of considering gender-specific factors when diagnosing and managing contact allergies.

Long-term efficacy and safety of nonablative monopolar radiofrequency in the treatment of moderate to severe acne vulgaris

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a prevalent skin condition known for its potential to cause scarring and psychological distress, often leading to diminished self-esteem. While topical and oral treatments are commonly prescribed, some patients experience treatment failure, adverse effects, or contraindications to conventional therapies. In response to these challenges, laser and energy-based device therapies have emerged as promising alternatives for individuals who fall into these categories, showing considerable potential in the treatment of AV.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of a nonablative monopolar radiofrequency (NMRF) in treatment of moderate to severe AV.

METHODS

Twenty-four patients with moderate to severe AV underwent a series of two NMRF treatment sessions, spaced 4 weeks apart. To evaluate treatment outcomes, live in-person lesion counts and measurements of pore size and volume, and sebum production were quantified using Antera® 3D imaging system, and Sebumeter®, respectively. Patients' self-assessment data regarding degree of improvement and facial oiliness were gathered. Dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire was utilized to assess the impact of AV on their quality of life. All objective and subjective evaluations were conducted at the baseline, 1 month after the first treatment, and during follow-up visits 1, 3, and 6 months after the last treatment sessions. Adverse effects were also recorded during each visit.

RESULTS

Twenty out of the 24 subjects completed the study protocol. The mean inflammatory lesion counts significantly reduced by 42.86% and 45.71% from the baseline at 3 (p = 0.027) and 6 months (p = 0.032) after the second treatment. Sebum excretion likewise significantly decreased from baseline by 11.62% (p = 0.012), 13.37% (p < 0.001), and 21.51% (p = 0.004), 1 month after the first treatment, 1 and 6 months after the second treatment, respectively. The pore volume continued to decrease by 35% (p = 0.003) and 41.5% (p < 0.001) at 1 and 6 months following the final treatment, respectively. The DLQI significantly decreased from 10.00 (interquartile range [IQR]: 6.50-15.00) to 2.00 (IQR: 1.00-4.75), corresponding to 80% improvement of the index, 1 month after the last treatment and was sustained up to the last follow-up visit. Patients' self-assessments on degree of improvement and facial oiliness also significantly improved following NMRF treatments. The treatments were well-tolerated without significant adverse effects.

CONCLUSION

NMRF appears to be an effective and safe treatment for inflammatory AV, with therapeutic outcomes persisting up to 6 months after two treatment sessions.

Nonablative monopolar radiofrequency for the reduction of facial pores and sebum excretion in Thai patients: A novel approach

BACKGROUND

Enlarged facial pores are visible topographic features of the skin that have been associated with cutaneous photoaging and increased sebum production. It has remained a common dermatologic concern, gaining a significant number of in-clinic consults. Available treatment modalities often operate on a single mode of action, consequently offering limited and short-term outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of a nonablative monopolar radiofrequency (NMRF) for pore tightening and sebum output reduction in Thai patients.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with enlarged pores underwent two sessions of NMRF treatments at 4-week intervals. The measurements of pore volume, skin texture, average pore size, sebum production, and skin elasticity were quantified using Antera® 3D imaging system, dermoscopic image analysis with ImageJ software, Sebumeter® and Cutometer®. Clinical evaluation by two dermatologists was done using blinded clinical photographs. All objective and subjective assessments were done at the baseline, a month after the first treatment, and during follow-up visits 1, 3, and 6 months after the last treatment. Adverse effects were also recorded during each visit.

RESULTS

Seventeen out of the 19 subjects completed the study protocol. The mean pore volume significantly reduced by 24% from the baseline at 1 month after the first treatment (p < 0.016). The pore volume continued to decrease by 34% and 38% a month (p < 0.001) and 6 months (p < 0.001) following the final treatment, respectively. Sebum excretion likewise significantly decreased from baseline by 39% (p = 0.002) and 36% (p < 0.001), 3 and 6 months after the second treatment, respectively. Skin texture and elasticity also significantly improved following two NMRF sessions. The objective assessments of the pore appearance corresponded to subjective clinical evaluations. The treatment was well-tolerated without significant side effects, such as dyspigmentation, textural alteration, and scarring.

CONCLUSION

NMRF appears to be effective and safe for the reduction of pore size and sebum production, with therapeutic outcomes persisting up to 6 months after two treatment sessions.