A Novel Macrophage-Activating Gel Improves Healing and Skin Quality After CO2 Laser Resurfacing of the Chest.

BACKGROUND: After laser resurfacing, it is imperative that an appropriate postoperative regimen is followed for optimal wound healing. There is currently no consensus about which agents should be used. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel macrophage-activating gel in a Phase 2B trial to be used after fractionated ablative laser resurfacing of the chest. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-two adults who received fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing of the chest were randomized (active or placebo) for 5 consecutive days after procedure. Skin quality at baseline and follow-up was assessed by a blinded evaluator using the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle Scale. Subject satisfaction with skin healing and quality was also assessed. RESULTS: At 28 days according to the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle Scale, 85% of subjects achieved an improvement of at least 33% for the active group versus 50% in the placebo group (absolute difference 35%; p = .04). Similarly, 75% of subjects achieved an improvement score of at least 33% in elastosis in the active group versus 35% in the placebo group at 28 days (40% absolute difference; p = .011). CONCLUSION: This study confirms the potent effects of the novel macrophage-activating gel for optimization of skin healing and quality after laser resurfacing of the chest.

A Randomized, Evaluator-Blind, Split-Face Study Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of Calcium Hydroxylapatite for Jawline Augmentation.

INTRODUCTION: Jawline augmentation with calcium hydroxylapatite has not yet been evaluated in a prospective study with a split-face design. This study aims to perform the first randomized controlled, split-face study on the efficacy and safety of calcium hydroxylapatite for jawline augmentation using the needle and cannula technique. OBJECTIVE: To perform the first randomized controlled, split-face study on the efficacy and safety of calcium hydroxylapatite for jawline augmentation using the needle and cannula technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a single-site, randomized, evaluator-blind trial enrolling a total of 10 healthy subjects with at least Grade 1 (mild) on a 4-point Jawline Scale. One side of the face was randomized to receive 1 to 2 syringes of calcium hydroxylapatite with lidocaine (total of 3 mL) for correction of wrinkles and folds along the jawline using both the cannula and needle method, and a balancing treatment will be performed 1 month later. Blinded investigator and subject evaluations will be performed immediately after treatment and at the 30-, 60-, and 90-day visits. RESULTS: Ten subjects were enrolled and completed the trial. There was a improvement in the degree of wrinkling and skin sagging in the 4-point Jawline Scale, with an average of a 1.3-point improvement in the scale on the day of treatment and at the Day 30 visit, which remained improved greater than baseline after 3 months as graded by blinded investigators. The Clinician Global Aesthetic Improvement Score for the treated side versus control, as assessed by blinded investigators, demonstrated a improvement with a 2.3-point improvement on the 5-point scale, and by the final visit on Day 90, most patients had a much improved appearance from baseline. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that calcium hydroxylapatite is effective and safe for restoration and augmentation of the jawline using the unique needle and cannula technique.

Serious Adverse Events With Injectable Fillers: Retrospective Analysis of 7,659 Patient Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: In total, 2.7 million injectable filler treatments were performed in 2019 in the United States. Although generally considered to be a safe treatment modality, adverse events may occur in rare situations. OBJECTIVE: Analyze serious adverse events from injectable filler treatments, including infections, cutaneous necrosis, blindness, or delayed-onset nodule formation, spanning 11 years for 3 board-certified dermatologists and review their incidence, management, and outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed of injectable filler treatments spanning 11 years at a multipractitioner outpatient clinic. Serious adverse events were identified, and treatment measures were documented. A literature search was performed to determine recent trends and outcomes for comparison. RESULTS: Between January 2009 and August 2020, 18,013 mL of injectable filler was administered to 7,659 patients. Of the 18,013 mL administered, 74.1% comprised hyaluronic acid derivatives, 19.19% poly-l-lactic acid, and 6.71% calcium hydroxylapatite. Four serious adverse events were identified. Three events were delayed-onset skin nodule formation. One adverse event was related to vascular compromise and subsequent cutaneous necrosis. After appropriate treatment, all adverse events resolved without significant long-term sequelae. CONCLUSION: Serious adverse events associated with injectable fillers, when performed by board-certified dermatologists, are extremely rare and can be successfully managed with appropriate treatment.

Prospective Clinical Trial of the Latest Generation of Noninvasive Monopolar Radiofrequency for the Treatment of Facial and Upper Neck Skin Laxity.

BACKGROUND: Aging of the face and upper neck is a complex process characterized by loss of collagen and elastic fibers, resulting in clinical skin laxity. Noninvasive interventions such as monopolar capacitively coupled radiofrequency (MRF) have gained popularity, offering a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional surgical face lift. The latest MRF device features larger tips, vibration, cooling, and impedance matching. OBJECTIVE: We performed the first open-label clinical trial, measuring the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of this device for noninvasive lifting and tightening of the face and upper neck. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty subjects 30 to 60 years of age with mild/moderate skin laxity of the face and upper neck were enrolled. After pretreatment with ketorolac 60 mg intramuscular injection, subjects underwent treatment with MRF. Follow-up evaluations were performed on Days 30, 60, and 180. RESULTS: Our study demonstrated that the newest generation MRF produced statistically significant improvement in skin laxity 6 months post-treatment, especially in the jowls and melolabial folds. According to the Investigator Global Aesthetic Improvement Score, 73% of subjects had improvement at 6 months post-treatment. Subject satisfaction and improvement questionnaires supported these findings. CONCLUSION: Our data coupled with the excellent adverse effect profile validates MRF as an attractive treatment modality for facial and upper neck skin laxity.

Comparative Evaluation of 15 Laser and Perfluorodecalin Combinations for Tattoo Removal.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We present a case of laser tattoo removal treated with 15 different combinations using picosecond 1064 nm, picosecond 755 nm, nanosecond 755 nm, and a fractionated CO2 laser, both with and without a perfluorodecalin (PFD) patch to ascertain the most effective approach. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single lower extremity black tattoo was divided into 15 treatment sections allowing for testing of various laser and PFD combinations. Sectioned treatment was conducted until a treatment superiority was noted. RESULTS: After two sessions using sectioned combination treatments with a 4-week interval clinically significant results were produced. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of picosecond 1064 nm, picosecond 755 nm, and a fractionated CO2 laser without the PFD patch showed superior clinical improvement over the other combinations. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Comparison of the Safety and Efficacy of Foam Sclerotherapy With 1: 2 Polidocanol to Air Ratio Versus 1: 4 Ratio for the Treatment of Reticular Veins of the Lower Extremities.

BACKGROUND: Foam sclerotherapy is a common treatment of lower extremity reticular veins. The effect of different liquid-gas ratios on foam stability and efficacy has been controversial. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of 2 different polidocanol (POL) to air ratios for the treatment of reticular veins of the lower extremities. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Patients with lower extremity reticular veins were randomized to foam sclerotherapy with POL mixed with 4 mL of room air for one lower extremity or 2 mL for the other lower extremity. All telangiectasias were treated with glycerin immediately after treatment of the reticular veins. Adverse events (AEs) and efficacy were evaluated by both subject and blinded investigator. RESULTS: Thirty subjects completed the study. No statistically significant difference was seen in AEs between the 2 different POL to air ratios by subject questionnaire and blinded investigator scores at all time points. Subjects and blinded investigator reported a mean improvement between 0% and 50% at Day 21 and 26% to 75% at Day 90, which was not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSION: Two different POL to air ratios, 1:2 versus 1:4, were similarly safe and efficacious for the treatment reticular veins of the lower extremities.

A Randomized, Split-Body, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Poly-L-lactic Acid for the Treatment of Upper Knee Skin Laxity.

BACKGROUND: Skin laxity of the upper knee and lower thigh is a common complaint among patients. OBJECTIVE: This is a randomized, double-blinded, split-body, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) for treatment of upper knee skin laxity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty female subjects between the ages of 30 and 65 years with upper knee laxity were enrolled. The patients were randomized to receive 3 treatments of PLLA in 1 knee, whereas the other knee received 3 treatments of bacteriostatic water. RESULTS: Statistically significant improvement as rated on the physician global aesthetic improvement scale was seen at Day 56 after final treatment in the active knee when compared with the placebo knee. This improvement was sustained at Day 84 and Day 168 after final treatment visits. No statistically significant difference was seen between the active and placebo knees on the subject global aesthetic score or the subject satisfaction scale. CONCLUSION: Based on our study, PLLA may be a safe and effective modality in addressing upper knee skin laxity. Larger studies with longer follow-up times and a validated knee laxity scale are needed to further determine if and how much improvement can be achieved.

Suture Lifting: A Review of the Literature and Our Experiences.

BACKGROUND: In the past 5 years, several absorbable sutures for use in minimally invasive suture lifts have appeared on the market. These newer sutures were preceded by several iterations of nonabsorbable counterparts, all of which were eventually removed from the market because of complications. OBJECTIVE: This review will provide a history of suture lift experience, review the published evidence on the safety and efficacy of currently available absorbable suture lift materials, and detail the clinical experience of the authors using these products. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A review of relevant clinical terms was performed on PUBMED and MEDLINE databases. All articles were reviewed, and further studies examined from citations of selected articles. Articles that focused on suture lifting using extensive dissection were excluded. RESULTS: Twelve studies detailed the results of absorbable suture lifting largely through patient satisfaction surveys or retrospective chart review of cases. No randomized controlled studies were available. CONCLUSION: Data on suture lifting are limited, with largely descriptive and retrospective case reports available in the literature entailed Oxford Centre evidence-based medicine Levels 2a to 5. Based on the available data, suture lifting appears to be safe and well tolerated, with patient satisfaction similar to or above that reported for other noninvasive lifting and tightening procedures. However, due to the lack of randomized controlled trials, the authors give the suture lifting Strength of Recommendation Level C. Further controlled studies are necessary to determine efficacy, longevity, and safety of this technology.

Red Deer Umbilical Cord-Derived Stem Cell Conditioned Media Combined With Ablative Resurfacing of the Face.

BACKGROUND: Laser resurfacing is the gold standard procedure for photodamage, but is not without downtime and risk. Use of periprocedural products containing stem cell conditioned media may improve results and optimize healing. STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective, randomized controlled, double-blind study, evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of red deer umbilical cord-derived stem cell conditioned media (USCCM) cream and serum pre- and post- ablative facial resurfacing. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty patients with moderate to severe photodamage were randomized to receive vehicle or USCCM cream and serum pre- and post- ablative resurfacing of the face. Blinded investigators rated healing, tolerability, and efficacy, while subjects rated post-procedure symptoms, tolerability, and satisfaction. RESULTS: Both the active and vehicle pre-procedure cream were soothing, calming and easy to use by all patients. There was a trend towards decreased facial erythema and crusting in the active versus vehicle group. A greater improvement in wrinkling occurred in the active group. The majority of subjects were very satisfied with the active products. There were no serious adverse events. CONCLUSION: Red deer umbilical cord-derived stem cell conditioned media (USCCM) is well tolerated, safe and efficacious for use pre- and post- facial laser resurfacing.J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(11): 1044-1048 doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5246.

Case Report of Onychomycosis and Tinea Corporis Due to Microsporum gypseum.

BACKGROUND: Microsporum gypseum is a geophilic dermatophyte that colonises keratinous substances in the soil. Fur-bearing animals carry this dermatophyte but are rarely infected. Human infection can be acquired from the soil, carrier or infected animals, and rarely other humans. M gypseum is an uncommon cause of cutaneous infection in humans and typically manifests as tinea corporis, tinea barbae, and tinea capitis. Onychomycosis is rarely caused by M gypseum. CASE SUMMARY: We present a case of a 32-year-old white man who presented with a red scaly rash and nail dystrophy after adopting a pet rat 10 years prior to presentation. A fungal culture of a nail clipping grew out M gypseum, and the patient was treated with terbinafine daily for 6 weeks for dystrophic onychomycosis and tinea corporis. After the 6 weeks of treatment, the erythema at the proximal nail fold and distal finger had improved but still persisted. An additional 6 weeks of terbinafine daily completely resolved the clinical manifestations of onychomycosis. CONCLUSION: The increase in incidence of M gypseum onychomycosis over the past 2 decades is thought to be due to phylogenetic evolution of the dermatophyte from soil saprophyte to a human parasite. Increasing domestication of mammals is also thought to contribute to increasing incidence. Treatment consists of an extended course of terbinafine or itraconazole.

Acute Cutaneous Necrosis: A Guide to Early Diagnosis and Treatment.

Acute cutaneous necrosis is characterised by a wide range of aetiologies and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, warranting complex considerations in management. Early recognition is imperative in diagnosis and management of sudden gangrenous changes in the skin. This review discusses major causes of cutaneous necrosis, examines the need for early assessment, and integrates techniques related to diagnosis and management. The literature, available via PubMed, on acute cutaneous necrotic syndromes was reviewed to summarise causes and synthesise appropriate treatment strategies to create a clinician's guide in the early diagnosis and management of acute cutaneous necrosis. Highlighted in this article are key features associated with common causes of acute cutaneous necrosis: warfarin-induced skin necrosis, heparin-induced skin necrosis, calciphylaxis, pyoderma gangrenosum, embolic phenomena, purpura fulminans, brown recluse spider bite, necrotising fasciitis, ecthyma gangrenosum, antiphospholipid syndrome, hypergammaglobulinemia, and cryoglobulinemia. This review serves to increase recognition of these serious pathologies and complications, allowing for prompt diagnosis and swift limb- or life-saving management.

Emerging infectious diseases with cutaneous manifestations: Viral and bacterial infections.

Given increased international travel, immigration, and climate change, bacterial and viral infections that were once unrecognized or uncommon are being seen more frequently in the Western Hemisphere. A delay in diagnosis and treatment of these diseases can lead to significant patient morbidity and mortality. However, the diagnosis and management of these infections is fraught with a lack of consistency because there is a dearth of dermatology literature on the cutaneous manifestations of these infections. We review the epidemiology, cutaneous manifestations, diagnosis, and management of these emerging bacterial and viral diseases.

Emerging infectious diseases with cutaneous manifestations: Fungal, helminthic, protozoan and ectoparasitic infections.

Given increased international travel, immigration, changing climate conditions, and the increased incidence of iatrogenic immunosuppression, fungal, protozoan, helminthic, and ectoparasitic infections that were once uncommon are being seeing more frequently in the Western hemisphere. However, the diagnosis and management of these infections is fraught with a lack of consistency because there is a dearth of dermatology literature on the cutaneous manifestations of these infections. In addition, delays in the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases can lead to significant patient morbidity and mortality. We review the epidemiology, cutaneous manifestations, diagnostic modalities, and treatment options for emerging fungal, protozoan, helminthic, and ectoparasitic infections. It should be noted, however, that throughout this review we cite statistics documenting their increased incidence to back-up these infections as emerging, and although some of the diagnoses are clinical, others rely on newer laboratory tests, and the possibility exists that the increased incidence could be caused by better detection methods.

Disseminated Mycobacterium avium Complex With Cutaneous Lesions.

BACKGROUND: Although most commonly encountered in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection, disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is becoming more common in patients receiving immunosuppressive medications. Disseminated MAC with skin lesions may occur, and several presentations have been reported, including panniculitis, cutaneous granulomas, pustules, ulcerations, and erythematous skin lesions. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this report is to describe an unusual presentation of MAC that is unlikely to be encountered frequently in the outpatient dermatology setting, especially in a patient without human immunodeficiency virus infection. METHODS: The authors present a case of disseminated MAC infection with cutaneous manifestations in an iatrogenically immunocompromised patient. CONCLUSIONS: Diagnosis of MAC infection is challenging given the varied clinical presentations and the difficulty in culturing MAC. In addition, the acid-fast stain is nonspecific. Clinicians should remember to consider MAC infection in patients with acid-fast-positive skin lesions, as the selection of appropriate antibiotic therapy is species specific.

Interleukin-23 in the pathogenesis and treatment of psoriasis.

In the past three decades, major advances have been made in understanding the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The currently accepted theory is that T-cell mediated immune dysregulation triggers keratinocyte hyperproliferation in psoriasis. Recent research indicates that the Th17/interleukin (IL)-23 pathway plays a prominent role in the amplification phase of psoriasis. The discovery of the Th17/ IL-23 pathway provides targets for new drug development. This review focuses on the role of IL-23 in psoriasis pathogenesis and the current therapies targeting IL-23 that are in clinical trials.

A case report of primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma treated with intralesional steroids.

IMPORTANCE: Primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma (PCMZL) is a low-grade malignant B-cell lymphoma that appears in the skin without any extracutaneous manifestations. Therapeutic mainstays for PCMZL have primarily included radiotherapy and surgery. Intralesional steroids have been found to resolve the lesions caused by PCMZL, but there is a dearth of literature regarding this therapy indicating that this is not a commonly favored treatment option. OBSERVATIONS: We present a case of 60-year-old woman who presented with PCMZL on her right eyebrow. Three years later, after two courses of radiation and one relapse, the patient presented with new lesions on both arms, consistent once again with PCMZL. At this time, therapy with nine rounds of intralesional triamcinolone was attempted. After each round of triamcinolone, gradual improvement of the lesions was noted until complete resolution occurred. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This case reminds practitioners that intralesional corticosteroids can be effectively and safely used to treat localized PCMZL. Intralesional steroids are less invasive, cheaper, and easier to administer than the majority of other recommended therapies for PCMZL. Thus, although they are often overlooked, intralesional corticosteroids should be more often considered when developing a treatment plan for localized PCMZL.