Steroid-resistant autoimmune thrombocytopenia in systemic lupus erythematosus treated with rituximab.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem disorder characterized by production of numerous autoantibodies, some of which have pathogenic consequences and result in considerable morbidity. Herein, we present a case of 48-year-old female with SLE having autoimmune hemolytic anemia, autoimmune thrombocytopenia, renal involvement, and recurrent flares of skin manifestations. She did not respond to the conventional therapy and was controlled and treated with Rituximab, a chimeric, monoclonal antiCD20 antibody, which specifically depletes B lymphocytes.

Extra Mammary Paget's Disease: A Rare Case Report.

Extramammary Paget's disease is a marginated plaque resembling Paget's disease but occurring in anogenital area, axilla or most commonly on the vulva. A 62-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with extremely pruritic plaque on the perineal skin which progressed gradually over 3 years and did not respond to any topical/systemic steroids, antibiotics, and antifungals. Examination revealed 7 × 8 cm. hypertrophic, verrucous plaque with erosions, and crusts at places. There was no evidence of visceral malignancy. Biopsy showed Paget's cells which were positive for Periodic Acid Schiff and alcian blue stain. Surgical excision was done considering the premalignant potential.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans at an uncommon site.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a locally aggressive, cutaneous, malignant tumor characterized by high propensity for local relapse and low metastatic potential. It is seen mainly in the age group of 6-65 years over the trunk and extremities. Immunohistochemically it diagnosed by marker human progenitor cell Ag CD 34. Herein, we present a 40-year-old male with DFSP over the pubic area and extending up to the proximal penile shaft. The biopsy revealed intervening bundles of spindle-shaped cells in the dermis and the diagnostic marker human progenitor cell Ag CD 34 was positive. The patient underwent wide local surgical resection.

Pseudoepitheliomatous keratotic and micaceous balanitis with malignant transformation.

Pseudoepitheliomatous, keratotic and micaceous balanitis (PKMB) is a non-venereal and extremely rare pre-malignant condition characterized by silvery white plaque with micaceous scaling on glans seen in elderly uncircumcised men. Symptoms include phimosis, pain, and interference with sexual activity. Herein we present a young, 40-year-old male with PKMB of 5 years duration with deviation of urinary stream and histology showing acanthosis, hyperkeratosis with features of cellular atypia and abnormal mitosis suggestive of malignant transformation.

A study to evaluate the efficacy of various topical treatment modalities for alopecia areata.

CONTEXT: Alopecia Areata (AA) is a common form of non-scarring hair disorder of unclear etiology. The disease may have serious psychological effect. AIMS: The objective is to assess the therapeutic effect and side effects of various topical modalities for the treatment of AA. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Open, randomized, comparative study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this study, 30 patients were included of all age groups and both sexes having localized (<5 patches and <25% scalp involvement) alopecia, with no underlying disease or family history, and who had not received any treatment before. They were treated sequentially with 5 different combination regimes for 3 months. The response was assessed subjectively as well as objectively by the "Severity of Alopecia Tool Score". STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Chi-square test. RESULTS: Out of the 5 modalities studied, the Intralesional and Topical Steroids were the most effective with no significant side effects. CONCLUSIONS: Among the various topical modalities used for the treatment of AA, the most effective are the Intralesional and Topical steroids with no significant side-effects.