The role of toll-like receptors in host defenses and their relevance to dermatologic diseases.

The family of toll-like receptors (TLRs) plays a central role in the cutaneous immune defense system. To date, different TLRs have been found on several major cell populations of the skin, such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts, antigen-presenting cells, and melanocytes. Activation of TLRs leads, via different intracellular signaling pathways, to the production of pro-inflammatory stimuli, and is considered a danger signal that should transform the skin in to the functional state of defense. However, TLRs have also been implicated in tissue homeostasis and renewal. Within the group of TLRs, two types have been identified: surface-expressed TLRs, which are predominantly active against bacterial cell wall compounds; and intracellular receptors, which preferentially recognize virus-associated pattern molecules. In addition, surface-expressed receptors trigger phagocytotic and maturation signals, while the intracellular TLRs lead to the induction of antiviral genes. Our review aims to outline the importance of TLRs in the pathogenesis of numerous skin diseases and the potential of TLR agonists as a treatment option for various skin diseases.

A oxitetraciclina na acne vulgar / The oxytetracycline in the acne vulgaris

Foram tratados 30 pacientes com acne vulgar exclusivamente com a oxitetraciclina oral por um periodo de 90 dias avaliados a intervalos regulares. Deu-se preferencia a pacientes virgens de tratamento.Observaram-se resultados muito bons em 16 pacientes com redução acima de 80 por cento do quadro inicial, bons em 6 e regulares em 8 pacientes. Não se observou melhora inferior a 40 por cento ou piora do quadro inicial.Nauseas, vomitos e diarreia leve foram sintomas apresentados na primeira semana de tratamento em 20 por cento dos pacientes. Nenhum cado de fotossemsibilidade do observado.