Eccrine Poroma: Pathogenesis, New Diagnostic Tools and Association with Porocarcinoma-A Review.

Eccrine poroma (EP) is a relatively rare benign adnexal neoplasm that usually affects elderly patients. Its pathogenesis is still under investigation, but recent gene studies have revealed gene fusions as key incidences resulting in oncogenetic pathways. It often presents as a solitary, firm papule, mostly asymptomatic, located on the soles or palms. Due to its clinical and dermoscopic variability, it is characterized as the great imitator. We performed a literature review, aiming to summarize current data on the pathogenetic mechanisms, new dermoscopic features, and novel diagnostic tools that may aid in early diagnosis and proper management of this rare adnexal tumor. Furthermore, we reviewed the possible pathogenetic associations between EP and its malignant counterpart, namely eccrine porocarcinoma. This systematic approach may aid in understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms and how to use novel histopathologic markers and imaging methods to overcome the diagnostic dilemma of this rare tumor.

Clinical and Dermoscopic Characteristics of Cutaneous Sarcomas: A Literature Review.

Under the umbrella of cutaneous sarcomas (CS) we include a heterogeneous group of rare, malignant, mesenchymal neoplasia, such as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, atypical fibroxanthoma, cutaneous undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, cutaneous angiosarcoma and leiomyosarcoma. Clinical presentation and histopathological examination are the cornerstone of CS diagnosis and classification. There are scarce data in the literature in regards to the clinical and dermatoscopic characteristics of CS and the role of dermatoscopy in their early identification. We performed a literature review, aiming to summarize current data on the clinical and dermatoscopic presentation of the most common types of cutaneous sarcomas that may facilitate early diagnosis and prompt management. Based on the available published data, CS are characterized by mostly unspecific dermatoscopic patterns. Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, Kaposi's sarcoma, and in a lesser degree, cutaneous angiosarcoma, may display distinct dermatoscopic features, facilitating their early clinical recognition. In conclusion, dermatoscopy, in conjunction with the overall clinical context, may aid towards suspicion of CS.

Fungal Infections and Nail Psoriasis: An Update.

The relationship between psoriasis and onychomycosis is controversial, and the exact nature of this association remains to be clearly elucidated. In healthy nails, the compact nail plate acts as a barrier, preventing any infection. In psoriatic nails, the nail plate involvement, together with abnormalities in the blood capillaries, may lead to decreased natural defenses against microorganisms. Moreover, onycholysis (detachment of the nail plate) induces a humid environment that may favor fungal proliferation. Treatment with immunosuppressive drugs may additionally enhance onychomycosis. In this comprehensive review, we present data regarding the incidence and pathogenic action of dermatophytes and other fungi in the development of fungal infection in psoriatic nails.

Superficial Acral Fibromyxoma, Appearing as Retronychia: A Rare Clinical Entity.

We report a case of a subungual superficial acral fibromyxoma (SAFM) in a 37-year-old male patient who presented with a persistent chronic proximal paronychia of the big toenail of the right leg. Our clinical diagnosis was retronychia, an often misinterpreted condition, which must be suspected in cases of persistent paronychia, especially in the setting of trauma. The nail plate avulsion revealed a subungual tumor, which was surgically excised. Histopathology in combination with immunohistochemistry revealed features suggestive of SAFM. The follow-up examination of the patient showed no recurrence 9 months after the surgery.

The Effect of Q-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm/532 nm Laser in the Treatment of Onychomycosis In Vivo.

In this prospective clinical study, the Q-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm/532 nm laser (Light Age, Inc., Somerset, NJ, USA) was used on 131 onychomycosis subjects (94 females, 37 males; ages 18 to 68 years). Mycotic cultures were taken and fungus types were detected. The laser protocol included two sessions with a one-month interval. Treatment duration was approximately 15 minutes per session and patients were observed over a 3-month time period. Laser fluencies of 14 J/cm(2) were applied at 9 billionths of a second pulse duration and at 5 Hz frequency. Follow-up was performed at 3 months with mycological cultures. Before and after digital photographs were taken. Adverse effects were recorded and all participants completed "self-evaluation questionnaires" rating their level of satisfaction. All subjects were well satisfied with the treatments, there were no noticeable side effects, and no significant differences were found treating men versus women. At the 3-month follow-up 95.42% of the patients were laboratory mycologically cured of fungal infection. This clinical study demonstrates that fungal nail infections can be effectively and safely treated with Q-Switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm/532 nm laser. It can also be combined with systemic oral antifungals providing more limited treatment time.