Rosacea treatment with mussel adhesive protein delivered via microneedling: In vivo and clinical studies.

BACKGROUND: Rosacea is a prevalent chronic dermatological condition marked by facial inflammation and erythema, significantly compromising the quality of life for affected individuals. Current treatment methods for rosacea are not considered ideal because of the complex etiology of the disease. Mussel adhesive protein (MAP) is a glycoprotein derived from the foot gland of mussels. The protein exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, relieves skin itching, and promotes wound healing. AIMS: We aimed to explore the feasibility of using MAP administered via microneedle delivery for treating rosacea and the potential molecular mechanism involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The therapeutic effect and mechanism of MAP microneedle delivery in an LL-37-induced rosacea-like mouse model were observed using morphological and histological methods. Twenty-seven patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) underwent treatment once every 1 month, with three treatments constituting one treatment course. The therapeutic effect was evaluated by comparing the clinical images taken at baseline, after the first treatment course, and after the second treatment course. The red value, CEA, and GFSS score were also calculated. RESULTS: In response to the microneedle delivery of MAP, innate immunity, inflammatory infiltration, and abnormal neurovascular regulation improved significantly in rosacea-like mice. In the clinical experiments, the microneedle delivery of MAP significantly improved the symptoms of erythema, flushing, and telangiectasia in patients with ETR, and no obvious adverse reactions were observed. CONCLUSIONS: MAP delivered by microneedling is effective and safe for treating ETR.

Narrow-Band Intense Pulsed Light as Treatment for Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea can be successfully treated using various laser and light-based devices. However, the use of narrow-band intense pulsed light for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea has not been investigated in detail. This retrospective study aimed to analyze the clinical efficacy of narrow-band intense pulsed light (500-600 nm) for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea among Chinese individuals.  Methods: Patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea who had completed 3 sessions of treatment with narrow-band intense pulsed light and follow-up from July 2016 to December 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. Clinical improvement was assessed by 2 blinded dermatologists based on photographs obtained at each follow-up visit using the clinician erythema assessment scale and 5-grade scale. RESULTS: Forty-five patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea treated with narrow-band intense pulsed light were included in this study. The effectiveness and excellent rates after 3 treatment sessions were 68.9% and 35.6%, respectively. An average of 2 treatment sessions was required among patients who achieved good or excellent clearance of erythema and telangiectasia. Except for transient erythema and edema, no severe adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Narrow-band intense pulsed light is a safe and effective treatment for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. Even with a small number of treatment sessions, narrow-band intense pulsed light can deliver a significant therapeutic effect, which may be applicable in clinical practice. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(11):1095-1098     doi:10.36849/JDD.4920.

Ethanol Embolotherapy for Cutaneous Erythema of High-Flow Vascular Malformations in the Head and Neck.

BACKGROUND: Cutaneous erythema is one of the most common signs of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the head and neck region, influencing aesthetic appearance. Surgical resection of AVMs may lead to cicatrization of the skin or aggravation of the lesion. Laser treatment, although effective in improving superficial vascular lesions, cannot prevent deep AVMs from further development. OBJECTIVE: The authors propose an absolute ethanol embolization therapy that can effectively and safely eradicate the nidus with a favorable aesthetic outcome. METHODS: The authors conducted a retrospective observational study of 14 AVM patients with distinct cutaneous erythema in the head and neck region undergoing embolotherapy in a single primary care center. Symptoms before and after treatment, complications, and degree of devascularization were recorded and assessed. Changes in cutaneous redness were evaluated using a previously reported quantitative measurement. RESULTS: Complete symptomatic relief was observed in 5 patients, and major improvement was observed in 9 patients. The mean Δ a * value of the color change had a significant reduction of 6.50 ± 4.04, p < .001, indicating a remarkable remission of cutaneous erythema. CONCLUSION: Ethanol embolization is an effective and safe treatment for head and neck AVMs with excellent aesthetic outcomes and might become a potential treatment method for other superficial vascular anomalies.

Treatment of Periorbital Vascularity, Erythema, and Hyperpigmentation.

Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH) is a common aesthetic concern that impacts patients' emotional well-being and quality of life. POH can be difficult to manage as the etiology is often multifactorial or difficult to elucidate. An understanding of different contributing factors and ability to classify hyperpigmentation can aid in the management of POH. Classification of POH is divided into pigmented, vascular, structural, and mixed subtypes. A wide array of treatment options has been proposed belying the challenges inherent to improving POH. Modalities vary from topical therapies, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and lasers, to surgical intervention. Because POH can be multifactorial, successful management of POH will depend on elucidating the etiology and often requires a combination of therapies.

Efficacy and safety of intense pulsed light for the treatment of facial erythema: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Facial erythema can be seen in many patients. Despite various clinical trials exploring the effect of intense pulsed light (IPL) in treating facial erythema, comprehensive evidence about the specific outcomes remains lacking. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: We searched published studies in the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases based on established inclusion criteria. We calculated odds ratios (OR) to evaluate the effectiveness of IPL in patients with facial erythema. We used Review Manager 5.4.1 software for statistical data analyses with a 95% confidence interval (CI). EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: This review includes seven studies with 219 patients, of which five compared the efficacy of IPL with pulsed dye laser (PDL). IPL significantly improved facial erythema compared to no treatment (OR=56.64, 95% CI: 22.70-141.33; P<0.00001). However, there was no significant difference between IPL and PDL treatment (OR=1.00, 95% CI: 0.31-3.22; P=1.00). Moreover, there was no significant difference in patients with a >50% reduction in telangiectasias between IPL and PDL treatment (OR=1.00, 95% CI: 0.39-2.56; P=1.00). Furthermore, IPL therapy had no apparent adverse effects for most people besides transitory edema and erythema. CONCLUSIONS: Our meta-analysis indicated that IPL could effectively and safely improve facial erythema with similar efficacy to PDL. Based on its comprehensive function, light side effects, and long curative effect, IPL appears to be a good alternative for treating facial erythema. However, further prospective and high-quality studies are required.

Facial psoriasis in the etiology of prolonged erythema following medium-depth chemical peels for severe photodamage.

BACKGROUND: Chemical peeling is the controlled wounding of the epidermis and dermis for skin rejuvenation, involving the application of ablative agents to induce keratolysis and regeneration of damaged cell layers. Prolonged erythema is one complication of this procedure. We report the prevalence and probable etiology of prolonged facial erythema in a cohort of patients treated with medium-depth chemical peels. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective audit was conducted of all medium-depth facial chemical peels performed at two major teaching hospitals. All patients had severe facial photodamage affecting at least 75% surface area of the face. The occurrence of prolonged erythema following this peel was then identified and analyzed. RESULTS: Of our treatment cohort (n = 82, 51 women, 31 men) with 60 years mean (61.3 years for women, 56.7 years for men), 10 patients (12%; eight women, two men) experienced prolonged erythema beyond a month of treatment. Facial psoriasis was not apparent at the time of chemical peel but manifested as prolonged erythema beyond the expected timeframe following the procedure. CONCLUSION: When patients experience prolonged erythema beyond a month of treatment and fail to respond to standard treatments, clinicians should examine carefully for extra-facial psoriasis prior to this procedure, and also consider facial psoriasis a possible cause of prolonged post-peel erythema.

Treatment of sensitive skin by short-wave radiofrequency combined with intense pulsed light.

BACKGROUND: Sensitive skin is a widespread dermatologic condition, and no optimal treatments have been established so far. OBJECTIVE: To investigated the efficacy and safety of the combined therapy of short-wave radiofrequency (SWRF) and intense pulsed light (IPL) in improving transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and facial erythema in sensitive skin patients. METHODS: Twenty-two patients with sensitive skin received the SWRF treatment once per week for 4 weeks and IPL treatment once. Digital photographs and three-dimensional images were taken at each follow-up. The clinical efficacy was evaluated by the improvement of sensitive scale-10 including irritant symptoms and facial erythema. In addition, erythema area and TEWL values were measured. RESULTS: All patients showed subjective and objective improvement in irritant sensations and facial erythema after treatment. The TEWL values decreased from 20.29 ± 5.97 g·h-1 ·m-2 at baseline to 14.70 ± 6.02 g·h-1 ·m-2 after SWRF treatment and 13.78 ± 4.70 g·h-1 ·m-2 after combined therapy (p = 0.000). The clearance of the erythema area was statistically significant, with 14.05% ± 5.71% at baseline, 9.38% ± 4.08% after SWRF treatment, and 5.73% ± 2.79% after combined therapy (p = 0.000). No adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of SWRF with IPL was effective in relieving skin irritant sensations and facial erythema of sensitive skin by repairing skin barrier function.

Treatment of Periorbital Vascularity, Erythema, and Hyperpigmentation.

Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH) is a common aesthetic concern that impacts patients' emotional well-being and quality of life. POH can be difficult to manage as the etiology is often multifactorial or difficult to elucidate. An understanding of different contributing factors and ability to classify hyperpigmentation can aid in the management of POH. Classification of POH is divided into pigmented, vascular, structural, and mixed subtypes. A wide array of treatment options has been proposed belying the challenges inherent to improving POH. Modalities vary from topical therapies, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and lasers, to surgical intervention. Because POH can be multifactorial, successful management of POH will depend on elucidating the etiology and often requires a combination of therapies.

Integrative skincare trial of intense pulsed light followed by the phyto-corrective mask, phyto-corrective gel, and resveratrol BE for decreasing post-procedure downtime and improving procedure outcomes in patients with rosacea.

BACKGROUND: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition of varying severity that can significantly impact patient quality of life. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is an established treatment for rosacea-associated telangiectasia, inflammation, and erythema. This study assessed whether application of a phyto-corrective mask, gel, and resveratrol antioxidant serum after IPL treatment can improve outcomes and reduce procedure-related adverse effects. METHODS: In a prospective, open-label, split-face, 3-month study, 10 subjects with moderate-to-severe facial rosacea underwent IPL treatment on both sides of the face. The following were applied to the right side of the face only: phyto-corrective mask once weekly starting immediately after IPL; phyto-corrective gel twice daily; and resveratrol antioxidant treatment at night. Both sides of the face were treated with sunscreen. Subjects were assessed on Day 1, 1 and 3 months after IPL by three, independent evaluators using the 5-point Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). All subjects rated skin redness, hydration, and overall improvement on Day 1 and completed a patient satisfaction questionnaire at the 1- and 3-month visits. RESULTS: Ten women were enrolled, aged 44-72 years old, with moderate (n = 6) to severe (n = 4) rosacea. IPL was effective at reducing symptoms with rosacea classified as absent in five women and mild in five at the final 3-month visit. GAIS scores also revealed improvements on both sides of the face, but the skincare treated side showed continuous improvement over 3 months with all patients remaining at least "Improved", whereas there appeared to be a waning effect after 1 month with IPL alone. On Day 1 after IPL, all women reported less redness, improved hydration, and improved skin appearance on the right side of the face. Patient satisfaction was consistently rated higher on the right side of the face. CONCLUSION: Application of a phyto-corrective mask, gel, and resveratrol antioxidant serum may complement IPL treatment for rosacea by enhancing treatment outcomes and reducing procedure-related symptoms.

Comparative study between the effectiveness of plasma skin regeneration versus micro-needling in the treatment of striae distensae.

BACKGROUND: Striae distensae (SD) or stretch marks, a common condition causing significant cosmetic concern and distress, are linear dermal scars associated with epidermal atrophy that occur due to overstretching. Recently, micro-needling with dermapen is considered as one of the therapeutic modalities for SD. Also, plasma skin regeneration with plasma jet has been recommended as an effective method for the treatment of SD. AIM: The aim was to compare between the efficacy of both methods in the treatment of SD. METHODS: This study included 30 patients with striae distensae. Body was divided into two halves; one was treated with plasma jet for two sessions with 1 month interval and follow-up one month after the last session and the other half was treated with dermapen for four sessions with two weeks interval and follow-up one month after. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference (p- value >0.05) between dermapen and plasma jet procedures as regard to width, Total Atwal Score, Atwal score component, score of erythema, and skin texture after treatment. There was high statistically significant difference (p value <0.01) between dermapen and plasma jet as regards pain with higher values with plasma jet while there were statistical higher values concerning hyperpigmentation and erythema with dermapen. There was high statistically significant difference (p value <0.001) between width of striae before and after treatment with dermapen. CONCLUSIONS: Both lines of treatments are effective and promising therapeutic modalities for striae distensae with minimal side effects.

Dupilumab Facial Redness/Dupilumab Facial Dermatitis: A Guide for Clinicians.

Dupilumab facial redness (DFR), or the development of an eczematous rash of the face and neck with dupilumab use, has been observed in recent case reports. It is estimated to impact between 4 and 43.8% of dupilumab users, including children and adults. Aside from reviewing the pathogenesis and clinical presentation, we present potential diagnostic steps (such as skin scraping, serologies, biopsy, and patch testing) and management options for DFR ranging from allergen avoidance to dupilumab interruption. It is hoped that this article will serve as a means for clinicians to familiarize themselves with DFR regarding the differential diagnosis, diagnostic tools, and treatment options associated with this phenomenon.

Red light emitting diode as an adjuvant treatment for epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors-induced paronychia.

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of red light LED as an adjuvant treatment for epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor-induced paronychia. Eight patients were recruited in this randomized, single-blinded controlled trial. They were randomized to receive red-light on one hand or foot 2-3 times/week for 6 weeks while the contralateral side served as controls. The standard treatments were continued. Erythema and lesion elevation observed by Anthera® 3D, severity and pain scores were obtained at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8. The red light group showed significantly lower erythema, severity, and pain scores at weeks 4, 6, and 8. The elevation was significantly lower in the red light group at every follow-up visit. No adverse events occurred. Red light therapy may be an option as adjunctive treatment for EGFRi-induced paronychia.

Red scrotum syndrome: An update on clinicopathologic features, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management.

The genital skin may be affected by a variety of dermatoses, be it inflammatory, infectious, malignant, idiopathic, or others. The red scrotum syndrome is characterized by persistent erythema of the scrotum associated with a burning sensation, hyperalgesia, and itching. Its cause is unknown, but proposed mechanisms include rebound vasodilation after prolonged topical corticosteroid use and localized erythromelalgia. The condition is chronic, and treatment is often difficult. Here we review the etiology, the physical and histopathologic findings, and the management of this condition. We also describe related conditions such as red scalp syndrome, red ear syndrome, and red vulva syndrome. Finally, we summarize the different cases reported in the literature and discuss the features that help in the differentiation of red scrotum syndrome from its mimickers.

Acne vulgaris.

THE COMPARISONA. A 27-year-old Hispanic woman with comedonal and inflammatory acne. Erythema is prominent around the inflammatory lesions. Note the pustule on the cheek surrounded by pink color.B. A teenaged Black boy with acne papules and pustules on the face. There are comedones, hyperpigmented macules, and pustules on the cheek.C. A teenaged Black girl with pomade acne. The patient used various hair care products, which obstructed the pilosebaceous units on the forehead.

Efficacy of a probiotic supplement in patients with atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multifactorial long-standing inflammatory skin disease with a high incidence worldwide in both adults and children. According to the recognized correlation between skin and intestine-the so-called "gut-skin axis"-gut unbalances can affect skin by inducing systemic inflammation and triggering dermatological diseases such as AD. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of a food supplement containing selected strains of probiotics in ameliorating AD symptoms and skin conditions in adult volunteers. MATERIALS & METHODS: Eighty adult subjects showing mild-to-severe AD, skin dryness, desquamation, erythema and itching were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial to receive, for 56 days, a placebo or a mixture of lactobacilli (L. plantarum PBS067, L. reuteri PBS072 and L. rhamnosus LRH020). The latter was chosen according to the patients' production of post-biotic metabolites and B-group vitamins, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant capacity and anti-microbial activity. Clinical and instrumental dermatological evaluation was performed at T0d, T28d and T56d, and then at T84d (after a one-month wash-out). Inflammatory cytokine levels from skin tape stripping, sampled close to AD lesions at T0d and T56d, were also measured. RESULTS: Subjects receiving the probiotic mixture showed an improvement in skin smoothness, skin moisturization, self-perception, and a decrease in SCORAD index as well as in the levels of inflammatory markers associated with AD at T28d, with a positive trend up to T56d which was maintained at T84d. CONCLUSION: Administration of selected probiotic strains resulted in a fast and sustained improvement in AD-related symptoms and skin conditions.

Intraocular involvement of Mantle cell lymphoma: A case report and literature review.

Lymphomatous involvement of the ocular adnexal region (OAR) is generally rare; however, it constitutes the most common ocular malignancy. Most cases of ocular adnexal lymphomas are extra nodal marginal zone B cell lymphomas. Mantle cell lymphoma involvement (MCL) of the OAR is a less common presentation compared with other lymphomas and it has been reported anecdotally. Studies have suggested an association of OAR involvement with poor prognosis. Here, we report the case of a 61 year old man who started experiencing conjunctival erythema which was followed by development of bilateral proptosis. The diagnosis of Stage IV Mantle cell lymphoma with OAR involvement was confirmed 5 months after patient onset of symptomatology. He underwent treatment with systemic chemotherapy, which was followed by high-dose chemotherapy and autologous hematopoietic cell transplant. He is currently day +100 from his transplant and is in complete remission. A review of the literature regarding ocular involvement of MCL is also summarized.

Wound Healing Treatments After Ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing: A Review.

Laser resurfacing has progressed since the 1980s to treat a variety of medical and aesthetic indications with ever-evolving safety parameters. While laser technology has evolved to provide a more favorable safety profile and decrease wound healing time, advances in post-procedure healing agents have also helped to mitigate adverse effects, such as persistent erythema, dyspigmentation, acneiform eruptions, dermatitis, infections, and scarring. We reviewed the evidence of growth factors, stem cells, silicone and silicone polymers, botanical based treatments, fatty acids, probiotics, and closed dressings on post-ablative laser skin resurfacing. All reviewed agents demonstrated some evidence in improving post-procedure outcomes, albeit mixed in many cases. Additionally, these studies contain small numbers of participants, vary in type, strength, and clinical indication for which the resurfacing laser was used, and have differing postprocedural evaluation protocols and assessments. This highlights a need for standardization of clinical studies and the importance of choosing an optimal postprocedural skincare plan depending on every unique clinical scenario. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(11):1050-1055. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5386.

Recognizing and Managing Complications in Laser Resurfacing, Chemical Peels, and Dermabrasion.

Skin resurfacing techniques allow improvement of skin texture and color. This includes the effacement of wrinkles, signs of photoaging, and the softening of scars. Laser resurfacing, chemical peels, and dermabrasion are associated with overlapping risks of complications. The most common of these include infection, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. Patient evaluation helps provide treatment that gives the maximal benefit with a minimization of risks. This includes understanding the extent of each patient's issues (Glogau scale) and Fitzpatrick type. A thorough knowledge of potential risks will reduce their incidence and optimize early recognition and treatment of these complications when they do occur.