Collision Lesions: Genuine Collision (Conflict) or not?

By definition, the term "collision lesion" refers to two or more tumors coinciding in the same anatomic position or visceral organ. Collision lesions coexisting on the same skin location are defined as collision skin lesions (CSLs). Although this term implies a conflict between the tumors, this is not the case. CSLs appear to be rare, but still pose a significant diagnostic problem in everyday clinical practice and clinicians should be aware of their existence. The aim of this study was to elucidate the problem of CSLs in clinical practice, with an emphasis on classification of CSLs according to position dependence, tumor histogenesis, etiology, and possible lesion combinations in CSLs, as well as diagnostic possibilities. According to our results, accurate clinical diagnosis could be only rarely reached, requiring lesion excision and pathohistological confirmation of CSLs. Considering the fact that tumors in CSLs can be partially or completely overlying or can even be positioned one within the other, the existence of two or more tumors is extremely difficult to detect.

Melanoma Controls the Metastatic Process only in Terms of Metastatic Cell Dissemination - What Is Responsible for Metastatic Cell Proliferation?

The process of melanoma metastasis can be divided into two stages of metastatic cell dissemination and proliferation. The whole process should be observed and distinguished through the variable or prism of time. The fact that melanoma metastases are detected in visceral organs at the stage when they are macroscopically visible does not imply that their onset has occurred much earlier. Additionally, it is quite obvious that the entire process is not driven by melanoma but rather only the initial stage of metastatic cell dissemination, whereas the later stage of metastatic cell proliferation is driven by other factors, firstly by mutated genes in the presence of melanoma or without it. Dissemination of metastatic cells occurs at approximately the same time in all melanomas, at MIS transition to MM, but is not immediately followed by metastatic cell proliferation; instead, some time has to elapse for a particular gene mutation to occur, and this timing varies among melanomas. Following dissemination of metastatic cells to visceral organs, they remain inactive, and in this period the presence of melanoma is not necessary anymore for metastatic cell proliferation, as they are waiting for a signal to start multiplying. This is clearly discernible from the fact that melanoma is today detected and removed frequently and early, but visible metastases then develop in the absence of melanoma, which may also regress spontaneously. Accordingly, MM is no longer necessary for metastasis later on. Finally, let me rephrase the title: melanoma is only responsible for initial dissemination of metastatic cells, whereas subsequent proliferation of metastatic cells is driven by other factors, most probably mutated genes.

Association between Blood Group and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers (Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma).

BACKGROUND: Development of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) has been associated with certain risk factors, but studies of the association between ABO blood group and NMSCs have been rare and inconclusive. The aim of this study was to assess the association of the previously known risk factors and blood group as a new potential risk factor in NMSCs. METHODS: The study included 401 patients, 202 men, and 199 women, which included 367 diagnosed cases of basal cell carcinoma and 148 diagnosed cases of squamous cell carcinoma. The control group consisted of 438 subjects, 198 men, and 240 women. A standardized questionnaire adapted for this targeted study was used. The relation between the dependent variable (NMSCs) and independent variables was investigated by logistic regression. RESULTS: Compared to the non AB blood group, the risk of developing NMSCs was significantly higher in the AB blood group (MOR = 2.28; 95% CI = 1.41-3.69). We established a logistic model that could best describe the probability of NMSCs development. CONCLUSION: Study results are expected to instigate basic research into the role of A and B antigens in normal skin epithelium, NMSCs etiopathogenesis, possible effect on metastatic potential and disease prognosis, potential tumor immunotherapy, and targeted detection and prevention in subjects at an increased risk of NMSCs development.

Dermatomycosis in Cutaneous Tumors is a Predictor for Non-malignancy: A Cross-sectional Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of spores and/or hyphae in benign cutaneous tumors (CT) and compare their presence in malignant cutaneous tumors. In this cross-sectional study we evaluated 328 CTs positive for spores and/or hyphae. The results show that the greatest number of involved CTs which contained spores and/or hyphae were found in compound nevi 181 (55.18%) and seborrheic warts 61 (18.60%). No spores and/or hyphae were observed in the melanoma samples, and a very low prevalence was found in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) (2; 0.61%) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (1; 0.30%). The presence of spores and/or hyphae could be a good indicator for non-malignancy, allowing differential diagnosis between benign CTs and SCCs or BCCs as well as between melanoma and nevi.

Orthopedic and Cutaneous Reactions to Nickel after Total Hip Replacement.

Implant degradation products have shown signs of a cutaneous allergic response after implantation of a metal orthopedic replacement, loosening and failure of the joints as well as skin rashes, general fatigue, pain, and impaired wounds and bone healing. The prevalence of contact skin sensitivity in patients with a joint replacement device is higher than that in the general population. This delayed hypersensitivity to metallic orthopedic implants is more clearly defined and is a contributing factor to implant failure. Nickel was associated with hypersensitivity responses as the first cause in metallic orthopedic implants as early as 1966 by Foussereau and Laugieru and is a commonly used metal in alloys because it grants necessary strength and durability to the implant. Herein we report on delayed hypersensitivity to nickel sulfate in a patient with pain, fatigue, and contact allergic dermatitis in both inguinal regions, with instability of the left acetabular part and with five hip replacements from 1987 to 2013. The findings of this report support that primary sensitization to a metal due to an implant itself might develop. Proper investigation in patients with history or prior hypersensitivity reactions to metals and test evaluation before orthopedic device implantation is needed. before orthopedic device implantation is needed.

[ANTIMICROBIAL DRESSINGS FOR INFECTED ULCER AND CLINICAL COMPREHENSION OF BIOFILM]. / ANTIMIKROBNE OBLOGE ZA INFICIRANI VRIJED I KLINICKE SPOZNAJE O BIOFILMU.

Current knowledge and proofs of biofilm, interactions between various bacterial species and overall virulence of microbes play a role in delayed healing of wound and development of infection. High quality description of clinical symptoms and current knowledge of microbes provide an excellent guideline for creating the strategy of wound treatment. Owing to better understanding of the role of biofilm in prolongation of healing time and facts about biofilm system and structure, scientists have developed the Ag+ technology. This technology has strong synergistic effects of the general and antimicrobial activity of ionic silver and specific compounds, which have proved efficient in biofilm obstruction and removal.

Melanoma can control development of metastasis--Fact or myth?

The malignant melanoma spreading process cannot explain occurrence of metastases several years following local surgical therapy of primary malignancy. But, this complex process of delayed metastases is still challenging and not completely understood. We hypotheses that melanoma metastases occur early in disease, probably at the same time with the occurrence of the primary melanoma. We suggest that dissemination of metastatic "seed cells" occur at an early stage of the disease together with the development of primary melanoma and cannot be detected by standard diagnostic methods. These cells are masked between healthy cells and have the potential to proceed in true metastasis following the activation triggered by signal from primary tumor or other source. Other possibility includes the existence of two different genes, one responsible for development of primary melanoma, and the other with a roll in development of metastases. We believe that future investigation should be directed toward better understanding of mechanisms involved in metastases development keeping in mind that melanoma behavior is irrational and defies logical thinking.

A Giant Basal Cell Carcinoma Misdiagnosed and Mistreated as a Chronic Venous Ulcer.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cutaneous malignancy. Giant BCCs are quite rare. They can cause extensive local invasion, disfigurement, and metastasis. We present a case of a 58-year-old woman with an unrecognized and inadequately treated ulcerated giant BCC sized 12.5 × 10.0 cm that occurred on her left lower leg without any sign of metastasis. Neglect and inadequate treatment of the primary lesion are the most important contributing factors responsible for size in giant BCC.

History of venereal diseases from antiquity to the renaissance.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), previously known as venereal diseases (VD), were present among the populations of antiquity as well as during the Middle Ages. Clay tablets from Mesopotamia, Egyptian papyri, along with mythology, paintings of erotic scenes, and presence of prostitutes give sufficient information to assume that some form of urethral and vaginal discharge, and also herpes genitalis were present among people at that time, and that these diseases were considered a divine punishment. Some passages of the Bible say much about the sexual behavior of the ancient Hebrews. The writings of the Greek and Roman physicians and of their satiric poets (Martial, Juvenal, Ovid) described diverse genital diseases. Celsus described various diseases of the genitals, that he called the "obscene parts". Galen made a strange description of the female genitals and coined the term gonorrhea - flow of semen. The ancient Chinese and Indian physicians also gave some account on the presence of venereal diseases in their books, and the temple sculptures depict their sexual life. During the Middle Ages, numerous physicians and surgeons from Europe as well as from Arabic countries wrote on local diseases of the genitals, describing chancres, condylomata, erosions, pustules, urethral and vaginal discharge, and their treatment. Some were aware that the alterations were connected with sexual activity. In spite the fact the Christian church propagated abstinence, the spread of venereal diseases was possible because the diffusion of prostitution, communal baths, and wars. During the 19th century, some of the physicians and historians, especially J. Rosenbaum, F. Buret, and E. Lancereaux believed syphilis was as old as mankind, whereas later authors had the opinion the disease appeared at the end of the 15th century.

Herpes zoster as a systemic disease.

Herpes zoster (shingles, zona) is a viral infection commonly affliccting the skin and the nervous system with an overall occurring rate of 3 to 5 cases per 1000 persons per year, with higher rates in middle or later life. With the advancement of medicine, more and more case reports have started to emerge showing different incidences of VZV, some new localizations, clinical presentations, and complications, which break the well-known fact that "VZV affects the skin and nervous system." Skin lesions are the most important ones for the early and exact diagnosis of herpes zoster (HZ), due to its visibility and well-defined clinical picture of lesions. The most frequent condition following the acute herpes zoster eruption is postherapeutic neuralgia (PHN). There have been other reports of the disease with otorinolaryngologic complications and ophthalmologic ones, such as ophthalmoparesis/plegia. There have also been reports of delayed contralateral hemiparesis/hemiplegia following the infection, as a manifestation of vaculitis due to a direct VZV invasion of the cerebral arteries. Encephalitis and destructive myelitis is similarly rare, but a serious complication. Some authors found that patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at a significantly increased risk for herpes zoster. As a gastroenterologic complication, there have been several instances of HZV infection with symptoms resembling an acute abdomen. The diagnosis is hard to pinpoint, and a vast array of examinations are required to identify it, sometimes even posthumously. Nephrologic representations and complications have also been reported. With more and more skin diseases being acknowledged as systemic ones, this viral infection is a more likely candidate for the same title.

Endemic syphilis in Europe.

Nonvenereal syphilis (endemic syphilis) has existed in Europe since the 16th century. Main characteristics of the disease are its presence for a longer time in a specific territory and its transmission regardless of age and sex, mainly extragenitally in unsanitary living conditions. Nonvenereal syphilis was described under different names in almost all regions of Europe. The primary genital chancre was absent, and lesions were most frequently found in the mouth and affected mostly children. The disease spread in rural areas with poor economic and hygienic conditions. The disease was eradicated in Europe in the 20th century, but it is still present in some rural regions of the Arabian Peninsula, Southwest Asia, and North Africa.

Human papillomavirus status in extragenital nonmelanoma skin cancers.

About 5% of all cancers worldwide can be attributed to human papillomaviruses (HPVs); namely, six sites are strongly associated with HPV infections: cervix, penis, vulva, vagina, anus, and oropharynx. Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the most common malignancies in Caucasians. In fact, there is an intense connection between sunlight exposure, fair skin, HPV, and development of NMSC. We have conducted a pilot study that included tissue samples from 26 carcinoma patients, of which there were 13 BCC and 13 SCC. HPV detection and typing was done with DNA amplification and sequencing, respectively. In total, 23.1% of SCC samples (3/13) and 7.7% of BCC samples (1/13) were positive for HPV DNA. The importance of understanding all aspects of NMSC carcinogenesis may be to reveal novel therapeutic options or preventive measures for HPV containing NMSC patients.

Significance of dermatoscopy in genital dermatoses.

Dermatoscopy as a non-invasive technique has become an integrative part in the evaluation of pigmented and non-pigmented skin lesions, particularly for the early detections of melanoma. Although dermatoscopy improves diagnosis of pigmented and nonpigmented lesions of the skin, it is unknown if dermatoscopy improves the diagnostic accuracy of pigmented mucosal lesions. The "entodermatoscopy" is used for the dermatoscopy of skin infections and infestations and revised as entomodermatoscopy, as it connects the research fields of dermatology and entomology, with its roots being found in these two words. In genital dermatology along with the clinical examination, dermatoscopy is also used for the diagnosis and treatment follow-up of pediculosis pubis, genital warts, molluscum contagiosum, and scabies.

[140 years of CMA--53 years of AMSC]. / 140 godina HLZ-A--53 godine AMZH.

Croatian Academy of Medical Sciences was established in 1961 as the Commission for Scientific Research of the Croatian Medical Association Main Committee. In 1983 was separated from the Croatian Medical Association and became an independent organization--Croatian Academy of Medical Sciences. The Academy is a society of chosen scientists dealing with promotion of medical sciences to improve public health. To introduce Croatian medicine to the world the Academy publishes journals Acta Medica Croatica, Socijalna psihijatrija and Croatian Medical Journal.