ABSTRACT
Juvenile xanthogranulomas (JXGs) are rare, benign lesions that belong to the large group of non-Langerhans cell histiocytoses. JXG presents with 1 or more erythematous or yellowish nodules that are usually located on the head or neck. Most JXG lesions are congenital or appear during the first year of life. Extracutaneous involvement is rare, but the literature traditionally suggests investigating the possibility of ocular compromise. JXG is mainly a clinical diagnosis, but a skin biopsy may sometimes be needed for confirmation. JXGs on the skin are self-limiting and usually do not require treatment. This review describes the clinical and therapeutic aspects of JXG, emphasizing available evidence and the diagnosis of extracutaneous involvement.
Subject(s)
Histiocytosis, Non-Langerhans-Cell , Xanthogranuloma, Juvenile , Biopsy , Humans , Skin , Xanthogranuloma, Juvenile/diagnosisABSTRACT
Spironolactone is an economical potassium-sparing diuretic with an anti-androgenic effect and a good safety profile. Our experience suggests that this diuretic is underexploited in dermatology even though there is evidence supporting its use in several skin conditions. When prescribed for acne in female patients (level 1-2 evidence; strength of recommendation, B), for example, it can reduce the need for antibiotics and possibly isotretinoin. Other diseases in which spironolactone is potentially useful are hidradenitis suppurativa and female androgenetic alopecia. We discuss the indications for spironolactone, dosing in dermatology, precautions to consider, and adverse effects. We also review new evidence that stresses the safety of long-term therapy and supports the use of this drug without the need for complementary testing in young women. We think that spironolactone merits a place among the medications commonly used in routine clinical practice.
Subject(s)
Acne Vulgaris , Dermatology , Hidradenitis Suppurativa , Acne Vulgaris/drug therapy , Alopecia/drug therapy , Female , Hidradenitis Suppurativa/drug therapy , Hirsutism/drug therapy , Humans , Spironolactone/adverse effectsABSTRACT
Porokeratosis comprises a group of heterogeneous and uncommon acquired or congenital skin diseases of unknown origin characterized by a keratinization disorder resulting from abnormal clonal expansion of keratinocytes. Numerous genetic mutations are thought to be involved. These conditions are characterized histologically by the presence of a cornoid lamella. Clinical manifestations are variable, with localized, disseminated, and even eruptive forms. Porokeratosis has been associated with immunosuppression, ultraviolet radiation, and systemic, infectious, and neoplastic diseases. Many authors consider it to be a premalignant condition because of the potential for malignant transformation to squamous cell or basal cell carcinoma. Therefore, long-term follow-up is a key component of treatment, which is usually complex and often unsatisfactory. We review the latest advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment and propose a treatment algorithm.