Presence of Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA and large-T antigen in keratinocyte carcinomas and its correlation with immunohistochemical markers p16, p53 and ki67.

BACKGROUND: Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), a human polyomavirus that is unequivocally linked to merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), has been found in association with keratinocytes carcinomas (KC), especially basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Nevertheless, there is scarce information about the possible involvement of MCPyV in the development of KC. OBJECTIVES: To assess the presence of MCPyV DNA and Large-T Antigen (LT-Ag) via Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) in cases of KC, and to correlate its presence with immunohistochemical markers p16, p53, and ki67, tumor type and subtype, sun-exposed location, and epidemiological data. METHODS: The prevalence of MCPyV DNA, LT-Ag, and immunohistochemical markers p16, p53, and ki67 was assessed by PCR and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 127 cases of KC, these results were correlated with tumor type and subtype, sun-exposed location, and epidemiological data. RESULTS: The MCPyV DNA was detected in 42.57% (43 of 101) cases by PCR, the LT-Ag was detected in 16.4% (20 of 122) of cases, p16 in 81.5% (97 of 119), p53 in 66.4% (83 of 125), ki67 in 89% (73 of 82). No correlation between MCPyV LT-Ag and DNA confronted with tumor type, subtype, location site, and immunohistochemical markers was found. A single correlation between the MCPyV LT-Ag and cSCC tumors and peri-tumoral lymphocyte cells was noted. STUDY LIMITATIONS: Further steps need to be taken to better evaluate the MCPyV influence and its possible role in KC carcinogenesis, as the evaluation of the virus genome state, the gene sequence that encodes LT-Ag in the KC tumor cells, and in situ hybridization for viral DNA or RNA in these cells. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the frequent detection of MCPyV in KC, the data available so far does not support the hypothesis of a causal relationship between them.

Imaging features for the evaluation of skin and nail infections.

Clinical manifestations of dermatological and musculoskeletal conditions can sometimes overlap, leading to confusion in diagnosis. Patients with nail and skin infections may undergo imaging examinations with suspicions of muscle, tendon, or joint injuries. Dermatological infections often involve soft tissues and musculoskeletal structures, and their etiology can range from fungi, bacteria, viruses, to protozoa. Relying solely on physical examination may not be sufficient for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, necessitating the use of complementary imaging exams. The objective of this paper is to present and discuss imaging findings of the main infectious conditions affecting the nail apparatus and skin. The paper also highlights the importance of imaging in clarifying diagnostic uncertainties and guiding appropriate treatment for dermatological conditions.

Merkel cell polyomavirus and its etiological relationship with skin tumors.

Viruses have been frequently identified in several human neoplasms, but the etiological role of these viruses in some tumors is still a matter of controversy. Polyomaviruses stand out among the main viruses with oncogenic capacity, specifically the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Recent revisions in the taxonomy of polyomaviruses have divided the Polyomaviridae family into six genera, including 117 species, with a total of 14 currently known human-infecting species. Although the oncogenicity of polyomaviruses has been widely reported in the literature since 1950, the first description of a polyomavirus as an etiological agent of a neoplasm in humans was made only in 2008 with the description of MCPyV, present in approximately 80% of cases of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), with the integration of its genome to that of the tumor cells and tumor-specific mutations, and it is considered the etiological agent of this neoplasm since then. MCPyV has also been detected in keratinocyte carcinomas, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin in individuals with and without immunosuppression. Data on the occurrence of oncogenic viruses potentially involved in oncogenesis, which cause persistence and tissue injury, related to the Merkel cell polyomavirus are still scarce, and the hypothesis that the Merkel cell polyomavirus may play a relevant role in the genesis of other cutaneous carcinomas in addition to MCC remains debatable. Therefore, the present study proposes to explore the current knowledge about the presence of MCPyV in keratinocyte carcinomas.

Quantification of human polyomaviruses MCPyV and HPyV6 in malignant and non-malignant skin lesions

Abstract Background: Human Polyomaviruses such as MCPyV and HPyV6 are frequently found as part of healthy skin microbiota and have been associated with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), pruritic and dyskeratotic dermatoses, respectively. Their presence in other types of skin conditions varies greatly depending on lesion type and population. Objectives: To analyse comparatively the presence of MCPyV and HPyV6 in nonmelanoma skin cancers and healthy skin. Methods: The authors utilized qPCR techniques to quantify these pathogens in NMSC, premalignant diseases, and healthy skin of 87 patients. Results: MCPyV was detected in over 40% of samples, while HPyV6 was in 9.6%. MCPyV load was higher in squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) compared to basal cell carcinomas (BCC) (p = 0.016) and HPyV6 showed a higher percentage of infected cells in areas of low solar exposure as well as normal skin (p = 0.012). A fair agreement (kappa = 0.301) was found between MCPyV detection in lesions and their respective perilesional skin, indicating a random process of local dissemination of the virus. Study limitations: The lack of a larger sampling of different lesion types and protein expression analyses limits the correlation findings. Conclusions: This is the first report of HPyV6 detection in the healthy skin of a Brazilian population, but the role of both polyomaviruses in NMSC has yet to be demonstrated.

Quantification of human polyomaviruses MCPyV and HPyV6 in malignant and non-malignant skin lesions.

BACKGROUND: Human Polyomaviruses such as MCPyV and HPyV6 are frequently found as part of healthy skin microbiota and have been associated with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), pruritic and dyskeratotic dermatoses, respectively. Their presence in other types of skin conditions varies greatly depending on lesion type and population. OBJECTIVE: To analyse comparatively the presence of MCPyV and HPyV6 in nonmelanoma skin cancers and healthy skin. METHODS: The authors utilized qPCR techniques to quantify these pathogens in NMSC, premalignant diseases, and healthy skin of 87 patients. RESULTS: MCPyV was detected in over 40% of samples, while HPyV6 was in 9.6%. MCPyV load was higher in squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) compared to basal cell carcinomas (BCC) (p=0.016) and HPyV6 showed a higher percentage of infected cells in areas of low solar exposure as well as normal skin (p=0.012). A fair agreement (kappa=0.301) was found between MCPyV detection in lesions and their respective perilesional skin, indicating a random process of local dissemination of the virus. STUDY LIMITATIONS: The lack of a larger sampling of different lesion types and protein expression analyses limits the correlation findings. CONCLUSION: This is the first report of HPyV6 detection in the healthy skin of a Brazilian population, but the role of both polyomaviruses in NMSC has yet to be demonstrated.

Merkel cell polyomavirus and its etiological relationship with skin tumors

Abstract Viruses have been frequently identified in several human neoplasms, but the etiological role of these viruses in some tumors is still a matter of controversy. Polyomaviruses stand out among the main viruses with oncogenic capacity, specifically the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Recent revisions in the taxonomy of polyomaviruses have divided the Polyomaviridae family into six genera, including 117 species, with a total of 14 currently known human-infecting species. Although the oncogenicity of polyomaviruses has been widely reported in the literature since 1950, the first description of a polyomavirus as an etiological agent of a neoplasm in humans was made only in 2008 with the description of MCPyV, present in approximately 80% of cases of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), with the integration of its genome to that of the tumor cells and tumor-specific mutations, and it is considered the etiological agent of this neoplasm since then. MCPyV has also been detected in keratinocyte carcinomas, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin in individuals with and without immunosuppression. Data on the occurrence of oncogenic viruses potentially involved in oncogenesis, which cause persistence and tissue injury, related to the Merkel cell polyomavirus are still scarce, and the hypothesis that the Merkel cell polyomavirus may play a relevant role in the genesis of other cutaneous carcinomas in addition to MCC remains debatable. Therefore, the present study proposes to explore the current knowledge about the presence of MCPyV in keratinocyte carcinomas.

Cicatrização de feridas diabéticas com fator de crescimento epidérmico: revisão integrativa / Healing of diabetic wounds with epidemic growth factor: integrative review / Curación de heridas diabéticas con factor de crecimiento epidérmico: revisión integrativa

Objetivo: Analisar as produções científicas sobre a efetividade do Fator de crescimento epitelial recombinante humano na cicatrização de feridas diabéticas. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, a busca foi realizada nas bases de dados: Pubmed; Scopus e Lilacs. Resultados: Foram selecionados 21 artigos, sendo a maioria estudos experimentais (48%). A cicatrização completa de lesões tratadas com Fator de crescimento epitelial recombinante humano foi relatada por 17 artigos (81%). O aumento do tecido de granulação foi relatado em nove publicações (43%). Da mesma maneira, a diminuição da área da lesão foi descrita em dois artigos incluídos (10%). Duas publicações descrevem a diminuição do número de amputações e do estresse oxidativo e 62% dos artigos abordaram eventos adversos associados ao uso do produto (13/21), dos quais foram prioritários a ocorrência de tremores, dor local, calafrios, náuseas, infecção superficial, sensação de queimação e hematomas, considerados eventos adversos leves. Apenas um estudo apresentou a ocorrência de dor no peito como evento adverso grave. Conclusão: O fator de crescimento epitelial recombinante humano é indicado para uso tópico no tratamento de feridas diabéticas, evidenciando boa eficácia, porém mais estudos clínicos devem ser desenvolvidos. (AU)

Objective: To analyse the scientific studies of Human recombinant epithelial growth factor for the healing of diabetic wounds. Methods: A thorough review of the literature was performed in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus and LILACS. Results: 21 articles were selected, most studies were experimental (48%). Complete healing of Human recombinant epithelial growth factor-treated lesions has been reported by 17 articles (81%). Increased granulation tissue has been reported in nine publications (43%). Similarly, the reduction of the lesion area was described in two included articles (10%). Two publication describes the decrease in the number of amputations and oxidative stress and 62% of the articles addressed adverse events associated with the use of the product (13/21), of which the occurrence of tremors, local pain, chills, nausea, superficial infection, burning sensation and bruising were considered priority, considered adverse events light. Only one study showed chest pain as a serious adverse event. Conclusion: Although Human recombinant epithelial growth factor is indicated for topical use in the treatment of diabetic wounds and demonstrates good efficacy, more clinical studies should be developed. (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar la producción científica sobre la efectividad de Factor de crecimiento epitelial humano recombinante en la curación de heridas diabéticas. Métodos: Esta es una revisión sistemática de la literatura, la búsqueda se realizó en las bases de datos: Pubmed; Scopus y lilas. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 21 artículos. La mayoría de los estudios fueron experimentales (48%). 17 artículos informaron sobre la curación completa de lesiones tratadas con factor de crecimiento epitelial humano recombinante (81%). El aumento en el tejido de granulación se informó en nueve publicaciones (43%). Asimismo, se utilizó una reducción en el área de la lesión en dos artículos incluidos (10%). Dos publicaciones describen una disminución en el número de amputaciones y estrés oxidativo y el 62% de los artículos abordaron eventos adversos asociados con el uso del producto (13/21), que son las prioridades prioritarias en la aparición de temblores, dolor local, escalofríos, náuseas, infección superficial, sensación de ardor y hematomas, reflejos de eventos adversos leves. Solo un estudio muestra la aparición de dolor torácico como un evento adverso grave. Conclusión: Factor de crecimiento epitelial humano recombinante está indicado para uso tópico en el tratamiento de heridas diabéticas, mostrando buena eficacia, pero se deben desarrollar más estudios clínicos. (AU)

Investigation of three oncogenic epitheliotropic viruses shows human papillomavirus in association with non-melanoma skin cancer.

Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) share similar risk factors with other virus-related cancers, despite the lack of proved causal association between viral infection and NMSC development. We investigated the presence of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in 83 NMSC fresh-frozen and 16 non-cancerous skin biopsies and evaluated viral infection according to demographical data, histopathological diagnosis, and ultraviolet exposure. Our results showed that 75% of NMSC biopsies were positive for at least one out of three viruses, whereas only 38% of non-cancerous skin biopsies were positive (p = 0.02). Notably, HPV detection was frequent in NMSC (43%) and nearly absent (one sample, 6.7%) in non-cancerous biopsies (p = 0.007). MCPyV was associated with sites of higher exposure to ultraviolet radiation (p = 0.010), while EBV was associated with a compromised immune system (p = 0.032). Our study showed that HPV was strongly associated with NMSC while EBV and MCPyV with other risk factors. Though further studies are required to elucidate the role of viral infection in NMSC development and management, this study supports the possible role of oncogenic viruses in skin cancers, especially HPV.

Evaluation of vitamin D plasma levels after mild exposure to the sun with photoprotection.

BACKGROUND: Most of the organism's vitamin D (VD) is obtained through the cutaneous synthesis after exposure to the sun's UVB radiation. Sunscreens are indicated for the prevention of actinic damage to the skin, however, there are few clinical trials assessing the synthesis of cutaneous VD in real-life situations of sun exposure with ordinary clothing and usual photoprotection. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the synthesis of VD with suberythemal sun exposure in healthy adults using topical photoprotection (SPF 30). METHODS: Quasi-experimental study, conducted at Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), during winter, with 95 healthy adults who had 25-OH-VD checked twice, 24 hours apart, and were exposed to the sun (UVB=20 mJ/cm2), according to a randomized grouping: SC - use of SPF 30 on the face, neck and chest (n=64), NO - no sunscreens (n=10), CO - confined from sun exposure for 24h (n=21). The groups were matched according to the propensity score related to gender, age, phototype, body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin and baseline levels of VD. The outcome evaluated was the variation (ΔVD) in serum level of 25-OH-VD (ng/ml) between the groups. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was identified between CO and SC groups [median (p25-p75)]: ΔVD =1.4 (-0.3-3.6) vs. 5.5 (4.8-6.6); p<0.01. There was no difference between SC and NO groups: 5.4 (3.1-6.1) vs. 4.1 (2.5-6.0); p=0.17. STUDY LIMITATIONS: Laboratory analysis technique (chemiluminescence) with great variability, loss of food intake standardatization, unbalanced groups. CONCLUSIONS: Suberythemal sun exposure with sunscreen (SPF 30) provides similar vitamin D serum variation than without photoprotection in healthy adults.

Evaluation of vitamin D plasma levels after mild exposure to the sun with photoprotection

Abstract: Background: Most of the organism's vitamin D (VD) is obtained through the cutaneous synthesis after exposure to the sun's UVB radiation. Sunscreens are indicated for the prevention of actinic damage to the skin, however, there are few clinical trials assessing the synthesis of cutaneous VD in real-life situations of sun exposure with ordinary clothing and usual photoprotection. Objectives: To evaluate the synthesis of VD with suberythemal sun exposure in healthy adults using topical photoprotection (SPF 30). Methods: Quasi-experimental study, conducted at Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), during winter, with 95 healthy adults who had 25-OH-VD checked twice, 24 hours apart, and were exposed to the sun (UVB=20 mJ/cm2), according to a randomized grouping: SC - use of SPF 30 on the face, neck and chest (n=64), NO - no sunscreens (n=10), CO - confined from sun exposure for 24h (n=21). The groups were matched according to the propensity score related to gender, age, phototype, body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin and baseline levels of VD. The outcome evaluated was the variation (ΔVD) in serum level of 25-OH-VD (ng/ml) between the groups. Results: A statistically significant difference was identified between CO and SC groups [median (p25-p75)]: ΔVD =1.4 (-0.3-3.6) vs. 5.5 (4.8-6.6); p<0.01. There was no difference between SC and NO groups: 5.4 (3.1-6.1) vs. 4.1 (2.5-6.0); p=0.17. Study limitations: Laboratory analysis technique (chemiluminescence) with great variability, loss of food intake standardatization, unbalanced groups. Conclusions: Suberythemal sun exposure with sunscreen (SPF 30) provides similar vitamin D serum variation than without photoprotection in healthy adults.

Profile of dermatological consultations in Brazil (2018)

Abstract: Background: Dermatological diseases are among the primary causes of the demand for basic health care. Studies on the frequency of dermatoses are important for the proper management of health planning. Objectives: To evaluate the nosological and behavioral profiles of dermatological consultations in Brazil. Methods: The Brazilian Society of Dermatology invited all of its members to complete an online form on patients who sought consultations from March 21-26, 2018. The form contained questions about patient demographics, consultation type according to the patient's funding, the municipality of the consultation, diagnosis, treatments and procedures. Diagnostic and therapeutic decisions were compared between subgroups. Results: Data from 9629 visits were recorded. The most frequent causes for consultation were acne (8.0%), photoaging (7.7%), nonmelanoma skin cancer (5.4%), and actinic keratosis (4.7%). The identified diseases had distinct patterns with regard to gender, skin color, geographic region, type of funding for the consultation, and age group. Concerning the medical conducts, photoprotection was indicated in 44% of consultations, surgical diagnostic procedures were performed in 7.3%, surgical therapeutic procedures were conducted in 19.2%, and cosmetic procedures were performed in 7.1%. Study limitations: Nonrandomized survey, with a sample period of one week. Conclusion: This research allowed us to identify the epidemiological profiles of the demands of outpatients for dermatologists in various contexts. The results also highlight the importance of aesthetic demands in privately funded consultations and the significance of diseases such as acne, nonmelanoma skin cancer, leprosy, and psoriasis to public health.

Profile of dermatological consultations in Brazil (2018).

BACKGROUND: Dermatological diseases are among the primary causes of the demand for basic health care. Studies on the frequency of dermatoses are important for the proper management of health planning. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the nosological and behavioral profiles of dermatological consultations in Brazil. METHODS: The Brazilian Society of Dermatology invited all of its members to complete an online form on patients who sought consultations from March 21-26, 2018. The form contained questions about patient demographics, consultation type according to the patient's funding, the municipality of the consultation, diagnosis, treatments and procedures. Diagnostic and therapeutic decisions were compared between subgroups. RESULTS: Data from 9629 visits were recorded. The most frequent causes for consultation were acne (8.0%), photoaging (7.7%), nonmelanoma skin cancer (5.4%), and actinic keratosis (4.7%). The identified diseases had distinct patterns with regard to gender, skin color, geographic region, type of funding for the consultation, and age group. Concerning the medical conducts, photoprotection was indicated in 44% of consultations, surgical diagnostic procedures were performed in 7.3%, surgical therapeutic procedures were conducted in 19.2%, and cosmetic procedures were performed in 7.1%. STUDY LIMITATIONS: Nonrandomized survey, with a sample period of one week. CONCLUSION: This research allowed us to identify the epidemiological profiles of the demands of outpatients for dermatologists in various contexts. The results also highlight the importance of aesthetic demands in privately funded consultations and the significance of diseases such as acne, nonmelanoma skin cancer, leprosy, and psoriasis to public health.

Demographics and spatial distribution of the Brazilian dermatologists.

The medical-dermatological demographics favors health planning and guides expansion of the specialty. We conducted an ecological study of dermatologists members of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD). We evaluated: gender, age, address; which were compared with population and human development index indicators of municipalities. We evaluated 8384 members, distributed in 527 (9.5%) municipalities throughout Brazil. The female sex represented 78.4% of the members and the median age was 43 (36-54) years. The median density of dermatologists was 0.35 (0.21-0.37) per 10,000 inhabitants. The correlation (Spearman's rho) between density of dermatologists and human development index was 0.39 (p <0.01). The Brazilian dermatologist is characterized as: female, age <50 years and presenting an heterogeneous distribution throught the country.

Demographics and spatial distribution of the Brazilian dermatologists

Abstract: The medical-dermatological demographics favors health planning and guides expansion of the specialty. We conducted an ecological study of dermatologists members of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD). We evaluated: gender, age, address; which were compared with population and human development index indicators of municipalities. We evaluated 8384 members, distributed in 527 (9.5%) municipalities throughout Brazil. The female sex represented 78.4% of the members and the median age was 43 (36-54) years. The median density of dermatologists was 0.35 (0.21-0.37) per 10,000 inhabitants. The correlation (Spearman's rho) between density of dermatologists and human development index was 0.39 (p <0.01). The Brazilian dermatologist is characterized as: female, age <50 years and presenting an heterogeneous distribution throught the country.

Merkel cell carcinoma in an immunosuppressed patient.

Merkel cell carcinoma is an uncommon neuroendocrine carcinoma with a rising incidence and an aggressive behavior. It predominantly occurs in older patients, with onset occurring at a mean age of 75-80 years. Recognized risk factors are ultraviolet sunlight exposure, immunosuppression, and, more recently, Merkel cell polyomavirus. We report a case of Merkel cell carcinoma in a young HIV positive patient with Merkel Cell polyomavirus detected in the tumor.

Drug delivery de anestésicos tópicos é uma técnica eficaz para diminuição da dor no microagulhamento: um estudo-piloto / Drug delivery of topical anesthetics as an effective technique for reducing pain in microneedling: a pilot study

Introdução: O microagulhamento, também conhecido como terapia percutânea de indução de colágeno, é procedimento seguro e eficaz, usado para rejuvenescimento, melhora de cicatrizes, melasma, alopecias e outras indicações clínicas, bem como drug delivery em geral. Apesar dos benefícios e da segurança da técnica, o controle da dor ainda é seu maior fator limitante. Objetivo: Avaliar se a realização de drug delivery de anestésicos tópicos imediatamente antes do microagulhamento pode diminuir a sensação de dor. Métodos: Estudo-piloto de casos, split face com nove pacientes consecutivos, buscando tratamento para cicatrizes de acne, rejuvenescimento e melhora da firmeza da pele. Após limpeza da pele, foi aplicado creme anestésico tópico em toda a face, seguido de drug delivery deste com roller de 0,5mm somente no lado esquerdo. Imediatamente após, o anestésico foi removido de toda a face e realizado o microagulhamento nos dois lados com roller de 1mm. Resultados: O lado esquerdo da face, onde foi realizado drug delivery do anestésico tópico antes do microagulhamento, apresentou significativa diminuição da dor (p < 0,01) com média de 3,33 (± 1,49) quando comparado com o lado direito da face [média de 5,22 (± 1,74)], no qual foi aplicado o mesmo anestésico e pelo mesmo tempo. Conclusão: Neste ensaio, a técnica de drug delivery do anestésico tópico foi eficaz e segura para diminuir a sensação de dor durante o microagulhamento.

Introduction: Microneedling, also known as percutaneous collagen induction therapy, is a safe and effective procedure, mostly used for rejuvenation, treatment of scars, melasma, alopecia, and other conditions, as well as for drug delivery. Despite the safety and benefits of this technique, the control of pain during the procedure is its major limiting factor. Objectives: To assess whether the drug delivery system for topical anesthesia immediately before a microneedling session is capable of reducing the pain. Methods: A split-face pilot study was carried out with nine consecutive cases of microneedling that had been indicated for the treatment of acne scars, rejuvenation and collagen induction. All patients underwent cleansing of the skin followed by the application of topical anesthetics on the entire face, and drug delivery with a 0.5mm roller only on the left hand side of the face. Next, all anesthetics were removed and microneedling with a 1.0mm roller was performed on both sides of the face Results: There was a significant reduction of the pain on the left hand side of the face, where the drug delivery was carried out (p <0.01), with a mean value of 3.33 (± 1.49) on the Visual Analogue Scale as compared to the right hand side, which yielded a mean value of 5.22 (± 1.74). Conclusion: The topical anesthetic drug delivery technique was effective and successful in reducing the pain during microneedling procedures carried out in the study's patients group.