FGD1-related Aarskog-Scott syndrome: Identification of four novel variations and a literature review of clinical and molecular aspects

Patients with Aarskog-Scott syndrome (AAS) have short stature, facial anomalies, skeletal deformities, and genitourinary malformations. FYVE, RhoGEF, and PH domain-containing 1 (FGD1) is the only known causative gene of AAS. However, the diagnosis of AAS remains difficult, and specific treatments are still absent. Patients suspected with AAS were recruited, and clinical information was collected. Genetic testing and functional analysis were carried out for the diagnosis. By literature review, we summarized the clinical and genetic characteristics of FGD1-related AAS and analyzed the genotype-phenotype correlation. Five patients were recruited, and four novel FGD1 variants were identified. The diagnosis of AAS was confirmed by genetic analysis and functional study. Three patients treated with growth hormone showed improved heights during the follow-up period. By literature review, clinical features of AAS patients with FGD1 variants were summarized. Regarding FGD1 variations, substitutions were the most common form, and among them, missense variants were the most frequent. Moreover, we found patients with drastic variants showed higher incidences of foot and genitourinary malformations. Missense variants in DH domain were related to a lower incidence of cryptorchidism.   Conclusion: We reported four novel pathogenic FGD1 variations in AAS patients and confirmed the efficacy and safety of growth hormone treatment in FGD1-related AAS patients with growth hormone deficiency. Additionally, our literature review suggested the crucial role of DH domain in FGD1 function. What is Known: • Aarskog-Scott syndrome is a rare genetic disease, and the only known cause is the variant in FGD1 gene. The typical clinical manifestations of AAS include facial, skeletal, and urogenital deformities and short stature. What is New: • We reported four novel FGD1 variants and reported the treatment of growth hormone in FGD1-related AAS patients. Our genotype-phenotype correlation analysis suggested the crucial role of DH domain in FGD1 function.

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp secondary to Erlotinib: A rare occurrence with trichoscopic perspective

Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors are anti-tumour agents that are frequently used for the treatment of neoplastic disorders. In addition to their cutaneous adverse effects, these drugs can rarely lead to erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp. We report a case of a 67-year-old female who developed erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp after being started on erlotinib from a trichoscopic perspective, which has been described in literature only once till now.

Clinical efficacy of a gentle anti-dandruff itch-relieving shampoo formulation

Dandruff is a common scalp condition affecting almost half of the world's population. Despite its high prevalence, the exact pathophysiology is not well established and is understood to be multifactorial, with factors such as fungal colonization, sebaceous gland activity and individual factors being implicated. There is a need for an effective and safe shampoo that can target the above factors. Hence, we have developed a shampoo formulation with properties of oil control, moisturizing, non-irritative, anti-fungal, anti-microbial and itch-relieving. In this interventional, open-label study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of this shampoo in reducing the clinical signs of dandruff and pruritus in patients with pre-existing mild-to-moderate dandruff over a course of 21-day treatment duration through self-assessment and objective clinical evaluations. After continued use of the shampoo, there was a significant decrease in the adherent and loose scalp flaking scores. Mean pruritus scores also decreased significantly across the 21-day time points. There were also no adverse events or skin intolerances reported. This study showed that our shampoo formulation has led to a significant reduction in both adherent and loose scalp flaking and pruritus when used in individuals suffering from mild to moderate dandruff. As such, it is an ideal shampoo, which can be used to effectively control dandruff.

Efficacy and safety of supramolecular active zinc in the treatment of scalp psoriasis: a multicentre, randomized, observed-blind, parallel-group, placebo- and active-controlled noninferiority trial

BACKGROUND

Controlling the relapses of scalp psoriasis is a clinical issue.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a supramolecular active zinc antidandruff hair conditioner in managing scalp psoriasis (SP).

METHODS

This multicentre randomized, observed-blind, parallel-group, placebo- and active-controlled noninferiority trial enrolled 211 patients with SP between October 2018 and June 2019. The participants were randomized 1 : 1 : 1 to the experimental (supramolecular active zinc antidandruff hair conditioner), placebo (supramolecular hydrogel) or positive control (calcipotriol ointment) group. The primary efficacy endpoint was the disease control rate at the end of the fourth week of treatment, measured using the Investigator's Global Assessment score.

RESULTS

This study included 70, 70 and 71 participants in the experiment, control and placebo groups, respectively. The disease control rates of SP at the end of week 4 of treatment in the full-analysis set (FAS) were 39%, 25% and 37% in the experimental, placebo and control groups. The margin of superiority between the experimental and placebo groups was > 0 [96% confidence interval (CI) 13.22% (0.43% to ∞)] in the FAS. The experimental group was superior to the placebo group. The noninferiority margin between the experiment and control groups was > -15% [96% CI -1.43% (-14.91% to ∞)] in the FAS. The experimental group was not inferior to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Supramolecular active zinc antidandruff hair conditioner was helpful for the treatment of SP, and it has good clinical efficacy in maintaining therapeutic effect and assisting in preventing the recurrence of psoriasis.

Aminolevulinic Acid-Photodynamic Therapy for Erosive Pustular Dermatosis of the Scalp: Comparison of Two Treatment Protocols and Participant Satisfaction

Treatment of erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is challenging. Topical and systemic medications have achieved limited success, and destructive modalities have been associated with EPDS recurrence because of the tendency of the condition to recur after any treatment that induces trauma to the skin. Our group has have recently reported two series of EPDS treated with aminolevulinic acid-photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT). Here, we aimed at comparing the protocols utilized in those series regarding efficacy, cost, and patient satisfaction. The first protocol included one visit for curettage of the hyperkeratosis and a second one for ALA-PDT. The revised (second) protocol included all procedures (curettage and ALA-PDT) in one visit. A novel silicone gel was applied immediately after completion of PDT, and patients were instructed to apply it twice daily over the treated areas until their follow-up visit. Both protocols were efficacious and provided similar length of remission. The second protocol was less costly. Patients treated using the second protocol were more satisfied due to the ease of treatment completion in one visit and better postoperative healing. (SKINmed. 2022;20:107-112).

Lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia: review and update of diagnostic and therapeutic features

Lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia are primary scarring alopecias where diagnosis can be suggested by clinical and trichoscopy features, especially in the early stages, but scalp biopsy is the standard exam for definitive diagnosis. Frontal fibrosing alopecia is considered a variant of lichen planopilaris, as the histopathological findings are similar, with a perifollicular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate, sometimes with a lichenoid pattern. A thorough clinical examination, trichoscopy and photographic documentation are essential to assess the evolution and therapeutic response. To date, there are no validated treatments or guidelines for these diseases, but there are recommendations that vary with the individual characteristics of each patient. This article presents a comprehensive review of the literature, including an update on topics related to the diagnosis, follow-up, histopathological aspects and available treatments for lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia, highlighting their similarities, differences and peculiarities.

Refractory Dissecting Cellulitis of the Scalp Treated With Risankizumab

Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens or dissecting cellulitis (DC) is a rare and chronic disease with a predilection for the occipital, vertex, and parietal scalp. DC is characterized by multinodular lesions with purulent drainage and sinus tract formation. It is classically seen in middle-aged males of African descent. The etiology of the disease is unknown; however, leading theories suggest that stasis associated with follicular occlusion begets bacterial infection and follicular destruction with a subsequent granulomatous and neutrophilic response.1 This is supported by the suppurative nature of the disease and its association with acne conglobota, pilonidal cysts, and hidradenitis suppurativa. These conditions are thought to have a shared etiology and are also widely accepted as being due to follicular occlusion.1 The approach to treatment of DC is varied as there is no current consensus on management. We present the case of risankizumab, an IL-23 inhibitor, used to successfully treat DC. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(3): doi:10.36849/JDD.6699.

Tirbanibulin Ointment 1% as a Novel Treatment for Actinic Keratosis: Phase 1 and 2 Results

BACKGROUND

Current field-directed treatments of actinic keratosis (AK), a pre-malignant condition, are often limited by severe local reactions and/or complex treatment. Tirbanibulin, a novel potent anti-proliferative synthetic agent that inhibits tubulin polymerization and Src kinase signalling, is being developed as a convenient, safe, and effective field treatment of actinic keratosis.

HYPOTHESIS

A short course of tirbanibulin ointment 1% safely reduces AK lesions.

METHODS

In the Phase 1 study, 4 treatment cohorts with forearm lesions received tirbanibulin ointment 1% over 25 or 100 cm2 once daily for 3 or 5 days and were evaluated through day 45. In the Phase 2 study, 2 treatment cohorts with face or scalp lesions received tirbanibulin ointment 1% once daily for 3 or 5 days over 25 cm2 and were evaluated through day 57. Lesion reductions, clearance rates, safety, and pharmacokinetics were assessed.

RESULTS

Forearm AK lesions were reduced by day 45 in all Phase 1 cohorts (N=30). Complete AK clearance at day 57 for face/scalp AK lesions in Phase 2 cohorts (N=168) was demonstrated in 43% and 32% of participants of the 5-day and 3-day cohorts, respectively. Adverse reactions were mainly transient mild local erythema and flaking/scaling, pruritus, and pain. Tirbanibulin plasma concentrations were low or undetectable.

CONCLUSION

Tirbanibulin ointment 1% was well tolerated and active in AK reduction. Based on activity, the 5-day regimen was selected for Phase 3 development. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02337205; NCT02838628 J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(11):1093-1100. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5576THIS ARTICLE HAD BEEN MADE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE. PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO ACCESS THE FULL TEXT OF THIS ARTICLE WITHOUT LOGGING IN. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PLEASE CONTACT THE PUBLISHER WITH ANY QUESTIONS.

Erosive Pustular Dermatosis of the Scalp: Clinicopathological Correlation Leading to a Definition of Diagnostic Criteria

INTRODUCTION

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is frequently misdiagnosed as epithelial tumor or trauma. To the authors’ knowledge, no international guidelines or consistent recommendations for treatment of EPDS exist, and histological findings often are labeled as nonspecific.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify clinical and histological characteristics unique to EPDS to aid diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The biopsies of 21 patients (age range, 73–90 years) with EPDS and who were diagnosed and treated at the Department of Dermatology at University of Leipzig Medical Center and the Asklepios Medical Center, Weißenfels, Germany, were reevaluated by dermatopathologists. Results were correlated with the clinical findings and course.

RESULTS

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp was observed in elderly patients with androgenetic alopecia and field cancerization of the capillitium; most patients had multiple comorbidities. Therapy used to treat actinic keratosis lesions (eg, imiquimod, ingenol mebutate), photodynamic therapy, cryotherapy, trauma, and surgery all were found to have predisposed for or led to EPDS. Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp presented clinically as exophytic crusts and pus overlying shiny granulation tissue. Histopathological findings demonstrated an ulcerated epidermis and dermal infiltrates dominated by lymphocytes together with a multitude of plasma cells. Plasma cells were found in all 21 biopsies and represented a common criterion for the correct diagnosis. The erosive lesions healed well within weeks after therapy with topical steroids.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic, poorly healing lesions with crusts and pus over shiny granulation tissue on the scalp are suggestive of EPDS, which should be confirmed by biopsy. Histological clues to a diagnosis of EPDS include dermal infiltrates of plasma cells and lymphocytes. The topical application of high-potency steroids showed great effectiveness in the present study.

Lichen planopilaris with significant post-inflammatory pigmentary alteration

Lichen planopilaris is an uncommon dermatological manifestation of lichen planus of the scalp and results in cicatricial alopecia. We present a patient with lichen planopilaris and significant post-inflammatory pigmentary alteration, confirmed by histopathology. The patient's case represents a clinically important variation from an expected typical pattern of dyschromia at periphery of alopecic zones in lichen planopilaris.

Analyzing the Efficacy of Isotretinoin in Treating Dissecting Cellulitis: A Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp is a primary scarring alopecia. Isotretinoin is commonly referenced in the literature as a treatment for dissecting cellulitis. The objective of this article was to conduct a review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of isotretinoin for treating dissecting cellulitis of the scalp.

METHODS

The following databases were searched for articles prior to 23 June, 2019: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Multi-patient studies (more than three) that reported on the administration of isotretinoin for dissecting cellulitis were included. A pooled meta-analysis for improvement of disease burden after isotretinoin administration in patients with dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was performed. A fixed-effects model was used.

RESULTS

Five articles were ultimately used for the quantitative meta-analysis. The overall efficacy rate of isotretinoin in treating dissecting cellulitis of the scalp was estimated to be 0.9 with a 95% confidence interval (0.81-0.97). The sensitivity analysis suggested that the overall efficacy is still very high, with a range of 0.83-0.94. Recurrence was seen in 24% (6/25) of patients. Common associated diseases amongst patients with dissecting cellulitis of the scalp were acne conglobata 20% (30/151) and hidradenitis suppurativa 19% (11/72).

CONCLUSIONS

Isotretinoin is an effective treatment for improving symptoms of dissecting cellulitis of the scalp. Disease recurrence is a common finding for those who undergo successful treatment.

Itchy scalp with scale

The patient had a history of treatment for head lice, but a dermatoscopic exam revealed that lice weren't to blame for his itchy scalp.

Sequential Treatment of Actinic Keratosis and Photoaging by Daylight PDT and Injectable NASHA Gel as Skin Booster

INTRODUCTION

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common intraepithelial atypical proliferation of keratinocytes that might progress into invasive squamous cell carcinoma.

METHOD

We have tested the treatment using sequential sessions of photodynamic therapy in daylight and injectable non-animal hyaluronic acid gel skin boosters (NSBs) on 4 patients with AK on head and neck. Two further sessions of NSBs were scheduled, 30 and 60 days after the first injection, to improve the overall skin quality.

RESULTS

All patients showed a clinically significant improvement of the overall face skin quality, photoaging signs, and fine wrinkles; all patients were satisfied of the treatment outcome. None of the patients reported any side effect related to the treatment.

DISCUSSION

The combination of two minimally invasive treatments showed to be effective giving the almost complete resolution of AK and a clear improvement of skin texture, with noticeable reduction of the clinical signs of skin photoaging, meeting patient’s expectations. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(11): doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.2229.

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is a rare inflammatory condition commonly associated with antecedent iatrogenic insult. EPDS may be diagnostically challenging owing to a lack of pathognomonic histologic findings and cutaneous manifestations that overlap with alternative dermatologic conditions. Therefore, EPDS may be more common than previously recognized. We present a 60-year-old woman with a four-year history of non-healing scalp erosions, progressive skin atrophy, and scarring alopecia despite intravenous antibiotics and intraoperative debridement who improved with systemic glucocorticoids. Our report emphasizes the importance of early recognition of EPDS when delayed wound healing and erosive disease occur in the setting of iatrogenic injury to the scalp. Timely treatment with systemic anti-inflammatory agents is paramount to prevent cicatricial alopecia and mitigate further scalp insult in EPDS.

Treating Scalp Psoriasis with Calcipotriene/Betamethasone Dipropionate Fixed-dose Combination Cutaneous Foam: Review of Phase 2 Data

Two Phase 2 studies investigated the effect of a fixed-dose combination foam containing calcipotriene monohydrate (Cal) and betamethasone dipropionate (BD) on scalp psoriasis in adult and adolescent patients. Patients had psoriasis classified as at least 'mild' per PGA. NCT01536938 enrolled adult patients (≥18 years) randomized 1:1:1 to once-daily (QD) Cal/BD foam (Cal 0.005%, BD 0.064%), Cal foam (0.005%) or BD foam (0.064%). NCT02387853 enrolled adolescent patients (12- <17 years) to Cal/BD foam QD (dose as previously). Treatment success was based on improvement in PGA classification at week 4. Additional efficacy endpoints included mPASI in adults and effect on extent of scalp surface area (SSA) in adolescents. Safety was also assessed. Overall, 302 adults (n=100 Cal/BD foam; n=101 Cal foam; n=101 BD foam) and 106 adolescents received treatment. Treatment success in adults was significantly higher with Cal/BD vs Cal foam (53.0% vs 35.6%, P=0.021) and numerically higher than with BD foam (47.5%, P=0.45). Mean percentage changes in mPASI were -80.0%, -57.8% and -71.2%, for Cal/BD, Cal and BD foam, respectively. In adolescents, 73.6% of patients treated with Cal/BD foam achieved treatment success and mean SSA fell from 50.6% at baseline to 12.5% at week 4. All treatment-related AEs were considered mild-to-moderate across both studies, except one severe AE (hypersensitivity reaction with urticaria) in the adult Cal/BD foam group, which led to withdrawal from the study. In these studies, treatment of scalp psoriasis with Cal/BD foam provided good efficacy for adults and adolescents and was generally well tolerated. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(8): doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5168.

Seborrhea herpeticum: cutaneous herpes simplex virus infection within infantile seborrheic dermatitis

Eczema herpeticum has been well described in the setting of atopic dermatitis (AD) and other dermatoses. We present the case of a 2-month-old infant boy with cutaneous herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection within existing diffuse infantile seborrheic dermatitis. Providers should be aware that cutaneous HSV can be confined to a seborrheic distribution and may represent underlying epidermal dysfunction secondary to seborrheic dermatitis.

Low-dose naltrexone: a novel adjunctive treatment in symptomatic alopecias?

Naltrexone is a competitive antagonist of μ, κ and γ opioid receptors, used for treatment of alcoholism and opioid addiction. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is defined as daily doses ranging from 1mg to 5mg. This is purported to have a paradoxical effect that leads to an increase in endogenous opioids, including beta-endorphins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Theses mechanisms may also justify their possible role in the treatment of inflammatory conditions. The aim of this article is to discuss the use of LDN as an adjuvant therapeutic option in symptomatic alopecias presenting with trichodynia. Trichodynia is defined as scalp discomfort of variable intensity presenting as diffuse or localized dysesthesia and may be described by patients as pain, pruritus, or burning. These are common symptoms in patients with hair loss that negatively impacts quality of life. Scalp discomfort may be refractory to conventional therapies and does not yet have a specific therapeutic guideline. For these cases, LDN would be a possible alternative to be added to the therapeutic arsenal owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, analgesic potential, low cost, and few adverse effects described. Further studies are needed to standardize dosing, better understand its mechanism of action, and evaluate its potential therapeutic indications.

Treatment of actinic keratoses and cancerization field of the face and scalp with 0.015% ingenol mebutate gel in Brazilian individuals: safety, tolerability and patients' perspectives

BACKGROUND

Actinic keratosis (AK) represents a risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma. Ingenol mebutate gel is a novel therapeutic option for field-directed treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety, tolerability and patients' perspectives, related to the therapeutic success of managing AKs on the face and scalp with ingenol mebutate gel in Brazilian individuals.

METHODS

This was an observational, retrospective and descriptive study of 68 areas of actinic keratosis on the face and scalp treated with Ingenol mebutate gel involving a total of 37 patients. The drug was applied for three consecutive days on an area of of 25 cm2 and documentation was performed on baseline and days 4, 8, 15, 60 and 180. On day 4, the composite local skin reaction score was calculated. At the end, a questionnaire was applied to evaluate patients' perspectives about the treatment.

RESULTS

Adherence was 100%, no serious adverse events were recorded and the mean composite local skin reaction score (standard deviation) was 8.61±4.22. The treatment was considered optimum by 75.68% of the patients.

STUDY LIMITATIONS

Calculation of composite local skin reaction score performed only on the fourth day.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with ingenol mebutate gel was considered safe and tolerable in Brazilian subjects. Patients had a maximum adherence rate and a great improvement in self-esteem. The results of this research reproduce the findings of the literature.

Scalp eschar and neck lymphadenopathy after tick bite in Argentina

Scalp eschar and neck lymphadenopathy after a tick bite (SENLAT) is an emerging non-pathogen-specific syndrome characterized by scalp eschar and occipital and/or cervical lymph node enlargement following a tick bite. We report a case of SENLAT syndrome in an Argentinian patient after exposure to ticks during outdoor work in the Paraná River Delta region.

Randomized Trial of Four Treatment Approaches for Actinic Keratosis

BACKGROUND

Actinic keratosis is the most frequent premalignant skin disease in the white population. In current guidelines, no clear recommendations are made about which treatment is preferred.

METHODS

We investigated the effectiveness of four frequently used field-directed treatments (for multiple lesions in a continuous area). Patients with a clinical diagnosis of five or more actinic keratosis lesions on the head, involving one continuous area of 25 to 100 cm², were enrolled at four Dutch hospitals. Patients were randomly assigned to treatment with 5% fluorouracil cream, 5% imiquimod cream, methyl aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT), or 0.015% ingenol mebutate gel. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a reduction of 75% or more in the number of actinic keratosis lesions from baseline to 12 months after the end of treatment. Both a modified intention-to-treat analysis and a per-protocol analysis were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 624 patients were included from November 2014 through March 2017. At 12 months after the end of treatment, the cumulative probability of remaining free from treatment failure was significantly higher among patients who received fluorouracil (74.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 66.8 to 81.0) than among those who received imiquimod (53.9%; 95% CI, 45.4 to 61.6), MAL-PDT (37.7%; 95% CI, 30.0 to 45.3), or ingenol mebutate (28.9%; 95% CI, 21.8 to 36.3). As compared with fluorouracil, the hazard ratio for treatment failure was 2.03 (95% CI, 1.36 to 3.04) with imiquimod, 2.73 (95% CI, 1.87 to 3.99) with MAL-PDT, and 3.33 (95% CI, 2.29 to 4.85) with ingenol mebutate (P≤0.001 for all comparisons). No unexpected toxic effects were documented.

CONCLUSIONS

At 12 months after the end of treatment in patients with multiple actinic keratosis lesions on the head, 5% fluorouracil cream was the most effective of four field-directed treatments. (Funded by the Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02281682.).

Perifolliculitis Capitis Abscedens et Suffodiens Treated with Anti-tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha - Possible New Treatment Option

The case of a 26-year-old male patient with perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens (PCAS) who later developed hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and exacerbation of acne is presented. The patient did not respond well to conventional treatment including isotretinoin and oral antibiotics. Quality of life was significantly impaired. After introduction of anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) treatment, the patient's clinical picture improved dramatically and quality of life increased. The treatment has been well tolerated by the patient for 15 months at time of writing this report.

Phthirus pubis Infestation of the Scalp: A Case Report and Review of The Literature

Phthirus pubis usually infests the pubis, groin, buttocks and perianal region. It can sometimes infest the thighs, abdomen, chest, axillae and beard. Eyelashes and eyebrows may be involved in children. The involvement of the scalp is very rare. We describe a case of P. pubis infestation located exclusively on the scalp in an adult woman. Neither lice/nits nor skin lesions were observed elsewhere, including eyebrows, eyelashes, axillae, pubis, buttocks and perianal region (the patient was hairless in the axillae and pubis). A review of the literature is enclosed.

Two Cases of Severe Erosive Pustular Dermatosis Mimicking Infection

INTRODUCTION

Erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp (EPDS) is a noninfectious inflammatory disorder characterized by pustules, erosions, ulcerations, and crusted erythematous plaques that is often associated with mechanical or chemical trauma. While its appearance may mimic infection, its etiology is thought to have an autoimmune component based on responsiveness to immunomodulators.

CASE REPORT

Herein, the authors present 2 cases of EPDS that were initially treated as primary infections. In both cases, the wounds did not respond to antimicrobial treatment and led to severe ulceration, exposing cranial bone. Both wounds improved with topical corticosteroid therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

These cases represent the importance of considering topical steroid treatment and a diagnosis of EPDS after debridement for purulent scalp ulcers.

Scalp psoriasis with increased hair density

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that commonly affects the scalp. Psoriatic lesions on the scalp typically result in alopecia, possibly due to a higher proportion of hairs in the catagen and telogen stages. Involvement of the scalp in psoriasis can be problematic for the patient's quality of life as well as the clinician treating the condition. Here, we present an unusual case of scalp psoriasis presenting with increased hair density in the involved area that was resistant to topical steroids.

Novel Treatment Using Low-Dose Naltrexone for Lichen Planopilaris

<p>Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a variant of lichen planus that affects the scalp causing scarring hair loss. Patients also frequently experience symptoms of scalp itch, pain, and burning. To date, there are no long-term remittive nor curative therapies available. Low-dose naltrexone has anti-inflammatory properties and has recently been described in the context of treating autoimmune conditions. This retrospective medical record review describes four LPP patients treated with low-dose (3 milligrams per day) naltrexone. This medication provided benefit in these four patients including reduction in symptoms of pruritus, clinical evidence of inflammation of the scalp, and disease progression. All patients tolerated naltrexone without adverse effects. This is the first case series demonstrating the beneficial effects of low-dose naltrexone for patients with LPP. This medication was well-tolerated by the patients and is cost-effective.</p> <p><em>J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(11):1140-1142.</em></p>.

Atypical fibroxanthoma arising within erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp

We describe a painful atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) arising in a setting of erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp. Complete excision was curative and also was associated with resolution of pain and clearance of the erosive pustular dermatosis of the scalp. We review the diagnosis and management of AFX and discuss the role of actinic damage in this process.

Erythema multiforme as a reaction to imiquimod 5% cream

We describe a patient with erythema multiformefollowing a local site reaction after the use of topicalimiquimod 5% cream and review the literature forprevious reports of this cutaneous adverse effect.

Update on new drugs in dermatology

Medications in dermatology are used in a variety of different methods and dosages and for numerous different diseases entities that are not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA); however, there are medications that have only recently hit the market that require our attention, as they are either FDA approved for the intended dermatologic use or could be effective in treating conditions that previously have been poorly managed.

Clinical applications of topical ivermectin in dermatology

Ivermectin (IVM) is a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drug with significant anti-inflammatory properties. The emergence of treatment resistance to lindane, permethrin, and possibly malathion complicates the global strategy for management of common parasitic skin diseases such as scabies and head lice. In this regard. IVM has been safely and effectively used in the treatment of these common human infestations. In addition, IVM may be useful in inflammatory cutaneous disorders such as papulopustular rosacea where demodex may play a role in pathogenesis. Herein, we review the current applications of topical IVM in dermatology.

An unusual case of folliculitis spinulosa decalvans

We report the case of a 24-year-old man who presented with pustules, atrophic scars, and alopecia on the scalp, along with follicular keratotic papules on the cheeks, chest, abdomen, back, lateral upper arms, thighs, and axillae, of 6 years' duration. A diagnosis of folliculitis spinulosa decalvans (FSD) was made based on the clinical manifestation and histopathological findings. Dental examination also revealed dental anomalies and a fissured tongue, which are not known to be related to FSD. We provide an overview of the characteristic findings of FSD as well as a review of previously reported cases.