Optical coherence tomography.

During the past decade, noninvasive imaging has emerged as a valuable tool in clinical dermatology and dermatologic research. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is one such type of noninvasive imaging. OCT uses the principle of interferometry to produce real-time images. A low-power diode laser shines infrared light onto tissues, which reflects back to an optical fiber interferometer. Using time delay and the backscattered light intensity, a two-dimensional image akin to an ultrasound is rendered. We review the history, types, and modalities of OCT, plus the many applications of frequency domain, high definition, and dynamic OCT in practice, including its utility in diagnosis, monitoring, and grading disease severity in a variety of cutaneous conditions.

Anti-TIF-1α/γ Antibody-Positive Dermatomyositis Associated With Metastatic Prostatic Adenocarcinoma.

ABSTRACT: Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune myopathy characterized by proximal muscle weakness and distinct skin findings. DM is associated with an increased risk of malignancy in adults. We describe a case of dermatomyositis with unusually severe oropharyngeal dysphagia and respiratory muscle weakness on presentation, who was found to have underlying metastatic prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is uncommonly associated with DM. The patient tested positive for antitranscription intermediate family-1 (anti-TIF-1, also known as anti-p155/410) antibodies, which are linked to malignancy-associated DM in adults and are associated with dysphagia and more severe cutaneous findings.

New and Emerging Topical Therapies for Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis.

Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis represent two of the most common skin conditions seen by both primary care and specialist dermatology. The prevalence of psoriasis in North America is 2 to 4 percent, and it is estimated to cost more than $3 billion per year to treat this condition. Atopic dermatitis has an estimated 15 to 30 percent lifetime prevalence in children and an 8 to 10 percent lifetime prevalence in adults. Both diseases have a significant impact on patient quality of life, as well as associated psychological, social, and economic consequences. While systemic therapies are available for both, the majority of patients with each condition are treated with topical therapies alone, with varying degrees of efficacy and patient satisfaction. As such, there is both need and an incentive to develop new treatments for these two conditions. In this paper, we review new and emerging topical therapies for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.