Optimizing Injections of Poly-L-lactic Acid: The 6-Step Technique.

The authors present a reproducible and effective technique utilizing poly-L-lactic acid for panfacial revolumization. The variable dilution ratios, reconstitution times, injection techniques and rates of nodule formation with poly-L-lactic acid can be intimidating to even experienced injectors. While there is no single cookie-cutter approach to facial volumization, this 6-step "Precise Sculpt" technique can be used as a template to reliably achieve optimal results while minimizing the risk of adverse events. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016;15(12):1550-1556.

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: a review of disease pathogenesis and update on future therapies.

OBJECTIVE: Review the pathogenesis of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and provide an update on research currently underway that is aimed at treating and potentially curing this severe skin disorder. DESIGN: Review article. SETTING: Private practice and large teaching hospital. PARTICIPANTS: None. MEASUREMENTS: N/A. RESULTS: Currently, patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa are managed with only supportive care. However, there are several promising new treatment avenues that may help patients in the future. These include gene therapy, cell therapy, and protein-based therapy. Each approach offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. CONCLUSIONS: The advances in understanding the molecular basis for epidermolysis bullosa over the last few decades has led to significant progress in devising new treatment options. Though many of these approaches remain several years away from regular implementation, it is an exciting time for research in the field.

Inflammatory vitiligo versus hypopigmented mycosis fungoides in a 58-year-old Indian female.

Vitiligo, particularly the rarer inflammatory variant, may be difficult to distinguish from hypopigmented mycosis fungoides (MF) clinically. Complicating the distinction is that when biopsies are taken from the periphery of early vitiliginous lesions or from lesions with an inflammatory border (inflammatory vitiligo), a dermal lymphocytic infiltrate, exocytosis, interface dermatitis, and mild spongiosis may be seen, all resembling the findings seen in hypopigmented MF. We present a case demonstrating the difficulty in differentiating between these two diseases and examine some characteristic clinical and histopathological features of each. Often, a conclusive diagnosis cannot be made, necessitating close follow-up of the patient and monitoring for progression of their disease over time.