Nail disorders associated with cast immobilization of the forearm and wrist: report of two cases and review of the literature

Abstract Cast immobilization is used in the management of various injuries of joints and/or limbs. A variety of nail disorders have been reported in association with cast immobilization of the forearm and wrist among a limited number of patients so far. The mechanism was not clearly identified in some of these cases. Here, the authors report two patients with nail disorders appeared after the removal of immobilization cast of forearm and wrist and review the literature.

Evaluation of non-endemic pemphigus foliaceus in a large series of patients: a single-center retrospective study from Turkey focuses on the relapses

Abstract Background: Pemphigus foliaceus is exceedingly rare around the world, except within the few regions where it occurs as an endemic variant. Various factors can trigger immune mechanisms that induce pemphigus foliaceus or worsen its course. Objective: To determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients with pemphigus foliaceus in a large series from a non-endemic country, investigate the triggering factors, and seasonal patterns. Methods: The data of the patients diagnosed with pemphigus foliaceus in the study's center between 1989-2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Sixty-eight patients (mean age, 45.7 ± 14.5 years) were included in the study. The number of onsets reached its peak in spring-summer (p = 0.008). A total of 117 relapses occurred in 42 patients and were most common in spring-summer (not significant). Specific trigger factors were detected in 45 relapses. In the other 72 relapses, the peak was observed in spring-summer (p = 0.005). There were no significant differences in the demographic and clinical variables investigated between relapsed and non-relapsed patients. Study limitations: Retrospective design. Conclusions: Triggering factors could not be identified in more than half of the relapses in the study's series. The subgroup of relapses (without identified causes), as well as the onsets of the disease, showed a significant seasonal variation with a peak in spring-summer; however, the seasonal variable did not justify the total group of relapses. Although the seasonal variation may be caused by a combination of factors, UV radiation should be considered a trigger factor for the peaks in spring-summer, particularly in Turkey.

[ comparison of family functionality in addicted and non-addicted married men]

Today drug-addiction count as a social and psychological issue, which threats the whole community. Drug addiction can affect the entire life of an individual and often lead to abnormal behavior. In addition, additiondisrupts natural performance of an individual in the family, work place and society. This study aims to reveal the differences between addicted and non-addicted married men in family functionality. The data was collected using questionnaire among 384 married men [192 in each group] in city of Tehran. The sampling method of the addicted individuals were from an available set sample, and the non-addicted individuals were selected by random cluster sampling from the general population who were comparable with the addicted people in terms of demographical characteristics. The utilized measurement tools employed in the assessment of family functionality were based on the McMaster family assessment model. Student T and chi-square tests were used for the statistical analysis purposes. The results showed that there is a significant meaningful difference between addicted male and non-addicted in terms of family functionality, problem solving, ability to communicate, role playing, emotional responses, affective involvement and behavioral control. Addicted male exhibited lower scores in all aforementioned variables. There are significant meaningful differences between addicted male and non-addicted in terms of: problem solving, ability to communicate, role playing, emotional responses, affective involvement and behavioral control. Therefore, these factors should also be considered in the treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicted individuals. In addition, it is essential in behavioral therapy implementation and cognitive therapy sessions for individuals in order to help the person obtaining the skills and training before he could return back to the normal conditions after treatment, hence, experiencing a successful and healthy life style