Therapeutic Approach in Pigmented Purpuric Dermatoses-A Scoping Review.

Pigmented purpuric dermatoses (PPD) encompass a group of chronic skin conditions characterized by the presence of petechiae, purpura, and pigmentation changes. While generally benign, these dermatoses can be persistent and aesthetically bothersome. Key clinical features include red to brownish patches with a distinctive "cayenne pepper" appearance, predominantly localized on the lower extremities, particularly the shins. Subtypes include Schamberg disease, Majocchi's disease, Gougerot-Blum disease, Ducas and Kapetanakis pigmented purpura, and lichen aureus. Diagnosis relies primarily on clinical evaluation of skin lesions, with biopsy as a confirmatory tool. Although the exact cause of PPD remains unclear, capillary fragility and red blood cell extravasation are implicated. Treatment strategies for PPD aim to alleviate symptoms, considering the generally benign and chronic nature of the condition. As there is no standardized treatment, various methods with varying efficacy are employed. After searching SCOPUS and PubMed databases, we assessed 42 original articles to present current knowledge regarding therapy of PPD. This review will compare treatment approaches specifically in Schamberg disease and other manifestations of pigmented purpuric dermatoses.

The Role of Osteopontin in Psoriasis-A Scoping Review.

Psoriasis is a chronic systemic disease with an immunological basis and a complex pathophysiology. The chronic inflammatory status of psoriasis is associated with several comorbidities, such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The development of psoriasis is influenced by osteopontin, a glycoprotein that influences physiological and pathological reactions by modulating Th1 and Th17 cellular responses, stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, regulating cellular apoptosis, and promoting angiogenesis. The recent identification of immune pathways involved in psoriasis development has facilitated the development of biological treatments; however, a better understanding of the intricate relationship between underlying inflammatory processes, psoriasis development, and accompanying comorbidities is needed for improved disease management.

How old is too old to work for physicians?

The healthcare systems throughout the world are facing numerous problems, including aging and shortages of medical staff. Although senior medical practitioners are important to the healthcare, their competency may decline with age. A major problem experienced nowadays by some elderly practitioners is digital exclusion caused by difficulties with adopting new technologies. Some attempts are being made to determine the optimum moment to retire, considering its possible impact on the safety and wellbeing of patients, as well as on the health system and human resource allocation. Until legal regulations are adopted, the age-related screening programs can be used to determine the optimal retirement age.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Development, Detection and Prevention: A Scoping Review.

Psoriatic arthritis is a heterogenous chronic inflammatory disease that develops over time in some patients with psoriasis. The course of the disease is variable, with a broad clinical spectrum. The management of PsA has changed tremendously over the last decade, thanks to earlier diagnosis, a multidisciplinary approach and progress in pharmacological therapies. Therefore, screening for risk factors and the early signs of arthritis is highly important and recommended. Currently, research is focused on finding soluble biomarkers and developing imaging techniques that can improve the prediction of psoriatic arthritis. Among imaging modalities, ultrasonography seems to be the most accurate in detecting subclinical inflammation. Early intervention is based on the assumption that it is possible to prevent or delay psoriatic arthritis if systemic treatment for psoriasis can be administered early enough. This review article provides an overview of the current perspectives and evidence regarding the diagnosis, management and prevention of psoriatic arthritis.