RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Patients with ß-thalassemia major (ß-TM), a genetic issue due to hemoglobin (Hb) synthesis disorder, require life-long erythrocyte transfusion. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and compare gingival pigmentation and skin color with serum ferritin levels of patients with ß-TM, using the Dummett's oral pigmentation index (DOPI) and Fitzpatrick skin scale, respectively. METHODS: A total of 100 patients were monitored at a thalassemia care center. Each patient's gingival pigmentation and skin color were matched with DOPI and the skin scale under natural light. Serum ferritin levels, the interval of blood transfusions, and iron chelation medications were studied. A gingival pigmentation score and skin color type were compared with the serum ferritin. RESULTS: A significant correlation was found between age, serum ferritin, pigmentation score, and skin color, which means as serum ferritin level increases, gingival pigmentation score increases, and skin color darkens. CONCLUSION: This study evaluated the correlation between gingival pigmentation and skin color with serum ferritin levels and established gingival pigmentation as a sign of iron deposition in ß-TM patients. This is the simplest and least invasive method for evaluating serum ferritin level parameters in ß-TM patients.
RESUMEN
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a long-lasting inflammatory dermatological condition characterized by itchy, eczematous, sparsely tiny blisters that hold a clear watery substance. Additionally, the diseased skin can suppurate, occasionally with weeping with thickening of the affected skin. This is considered one of the top skin disorders involving both children and adult populations globally. The principal therapeutic intervention for AD is long-standing topical glucocorticoids, which have been used for several decades. Corticosteroid therapy brings several adverse drug effects (ADRs), including irreversible skin atrophy. Tacrolimus belongs to the class of calcineurin inhibitors, which is a type of immunomodulator possessing promising efficacy in treating AD. Topical tacrolimus is an effective and safe non-corticosteroid substitute treatment for AD. We reviewed the available literature to compare and institute the safety, efficacy, and effectiveness of tacrolimus when equated to corticosteroid therapy in managing AD.