Search Results (254)

Whether the spongiotic reaction caused by the interaction of keratinocytes, T-lymphocytes, inflammatory dendritic epidermal cells (IDECs), and Langerhans cells (LCs) observed in atopic dermatitis (AD) represents a common feature of spongiosis in various skin diseases remains unclear. We analyzed the characteristics of spongiosis in AD compared with those in other eczematous dermatitis and inflammatory skin diseases by using immunohistochemical methods. Infiltration of IDECs (CD11c+ cells and/or CD206+ cells) and T-lymphocytes, accompanied by degenerated keratinocytes and aggregated LCs (CD207+ cells), was frequently observed as a common feature of spongiosis in multiple conditions. However, IDECs expressing IgE were identified exclusively in IgE-mediated AD. Aggregation of IDECs was predominantly observed in the spongiosis of adaptive immune-mediated eczematous disorders, such as AD and allergic contact dermatitis. These IDEC aggregations constituted the major components of the epidermal dendritic cell clusters seen in AD and other eczematous or eczematoid dermatoses, and may serve as a useful distinguishing marker from Pautrier collections seen in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. These findings suggest that IDECs, in cooperation with other immune cells, may play a pivotal role in spongiosis formation in AD and various skin diseases, although the underlying immunopathological mechanisms differ among these conditions. Full article

Topical percutaneous drug delivery has recently emerged as a novel strategy for the treatment of allergic diseases, offering targeted drug delivery to mucosal tissues adjacent to the skin. Unlike conventional topical approaches that act on the skin surface or mucosal membranes, topical percutaneous drug delivery enables non-invasive pharmacologic modulation of deeper structures such as the conjunctiva, nasal mucosa, and trachea. This review explores the rationale, pharmacokinetic foundation, clinical data, and future prospects of transdermal therapy in allergic conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma-related cough. In allergic conjunctivitis, eyelid-based transdermal delivery of antihistamines such as diphenhydramine and epinastine has shown rapid and long-lasting symptom relief, with epinastine cream recently approved in Japan following a randomized controlled trial (RCT) demonstrating its efficacy. Preclinical and clinical pharmacokinetic studies support the eyelid’s unique permeability and sustained drug release profile, reinforcing its utility as a delivery site for ocular therapies. In allergic rhinitis, diphenhydramine application to the nasal ala demonstrated symptomatic improvement in patients intolerant to intranasal therapies, though anatomical separation from the inflamed turbinates may limit consistent efficacy. Similarly, cervical tracheal application of steroids and antihistamines has shown potential benefit in asthma-related cough, especially for patients refractory to inhaled treatments, despite anatomical and depth-related limitations. Overall, site-specific anatomy, skin permeability, and disease localization are critical factors in determining therapeutic outcomes. While trans-eyelid therapy is supported by robust data, studies on the nasal ala and trachea remain limited to small-scale pilot trials. No major adverse events have been reported with nasal or tracheal application, but eyelid sensitivity requires formulation caution. To validate this promising modality, further RCTs, pharmacokinetic analyses, and formulation optimization are warranted. Topical percutaneous drug delivery holds potential as a non-invasive, site-directed alternative for managing allergic diseases beyond dermatologic indications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with rising global prevalence. Increasing maternal antibiotic use during pregnancy has raised concerns about its potential link to childhood allergic diseases, including AD. However, existing meta-analyses have yielded inconsistent results. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the association between prenatal antibiotic exposure, including intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP), and the risk of AD developing in offspring. Methods: A systematic search protocol (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024577804) was conducted up to 29 August 2024, across the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Cohort and case–control studies reporting associations between maternal antibiotic exposure during pregnancy or intrapartum and the risk of AD in offspring were included. Data were analyzed using RevMan Web and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software. Results: Twenty studies involving 3,256,929 mother–child pairs were reviewed. The meta-analysis data demonstrated that prenatal antibiotic exposure was associated with AD in the main analysis (odds ratio [OR]: 1.12, 95% CI 1.03–1.21), but not in a separate analysis with a pooled hazard ratio (HR) (HR: 1.12, 95% CI 0.96–1.31). Trim-and-fill correction for significant publication bias (Egger’s test p = 0.003) in the main analysis resulted in a non-significant effect size (OR: 1.09, 95% CI 0.99–1.20). Subgroup analysis and meta-regression suggested that publication years and sample sizes contributed significant heterogeneity (p < 0.05). Regarding IAP and the risk of AD, no association was found (OR: 1.62, 95% CI 0.87–3.00). Conclusions: Current evidence in the existing literature does not support a positive relationship between antibiotic exposure, either during pregnancy or in the intrapartum period, and the risk of development of AD in offspring. However, substantial heterogeneity and the very low certainty of evidence limit the strength of our findings. Further studies that address confounders more thoroughly are needed to confirm these results. Full article

Grass pollen allergies significantly contribute to atopic diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, resulting in considerable healthcare burdens. Objective: In this study, molecular sensitization patterns to grass pollen in Swiss patients were addressed. The research utilized a retrospective cohort approach using ImmunoCAP™ ISAC testing from October 2015 to July 2020. Clinical histories, demographics, and skin prick test results were collected for analysis. The minimum patient age was 18 years and the average patient age was 41.3 years, with a female predominance (68.5%). In total, 4814 measurements were analyzed. Allergic rhinitis was the most common clinical symptom, followed by asthma and urticaria. A total of 1963 patients (40.8%) revealed sensitization to grass pollen. The most common sensitizations were found to the major allergens Phl p 1 (86%) and Phl p 5 (65%), but also to Phl p 4 (62%). Monosensitization was mostly found to allergens Phl p 1 (266/13.5%) and Phl p 4 (157/7.9%), and less so to Phl p 5 (33/1.7%). Notably, the Phl p 4-monosensitized subgroup showed only an 18% positivity rate in skin prick tests and presented mostly with urticaria. This study gives insights into the spectrum of grass pollen allergies in a Central European setting and underscores the possibly underestimated role of Phl p 4 among grass pollen allergens, especially in a subgroup that suffers mainly from seasonal urticaria. Monovalent sensitization to Phl p 4 can also cause seasonal rhinitis and might therefore be missed if only Phl p 1/p 5 are tested. A better understanding of sensitization patterns will further improve diagnosis and treatment options. Full article

Domestic cats are currently recognized to be infected by 10 different Felis catus papillomavirus (FcaPV) types that are classified into three genera. Examination of a skin sample from a cat with presumptive allergic dermatitis revealed clusters of large amphophilic intracytoplasmic bodies within epidermal cells. A 312 bp section of DNA from a novel PV type was amplified from the sample, while the entire 7569 bp genome was amplified and sequenced from a skin swab. The novel PV, which was designated FcaPV11, was predicted to contain coding regions for five early proteins and two late ones. Phylogenetic analysis of the L1 gene sequence showed FcaPV11 clusters with members of the Treisetapapillomavirus genus and shares less than 64% similarity with any of the previously fully sequenced FcaPV types. FcaPV11 DNA was not detected in a series of neoplastic and non-neoplastic skin samples from an additional 30 cats. These results show, for the first time, that cats can be infected by members of the Treisetapapillomavirus genus and suggest PVs in this genus may have co-evolved with a common Carnivora ancestor. While FcaPV11 was considered unlikely to have caused skin lesions in this cat, the prominent PV-induced cell changes indicate the PV can influence cell regulation. This suggests FcaPV11 may have the potential to cause skin disease in cats. Full article

The novel secreted protein Meteorin-β (Metrnβ) is a homologous protein of the neurotrophic regulator Meteorin, which is widely expressed in the skin, mucous membranes, and white adipose tissue upon stimulation by a variety of inflammatory mediators, including cytokines and chemokines, while, at the same time Metrnβ may also regulate the expression of these cytokines and chemokines. As a small secreted protein with low tissue specificity, Metrnβ plays vital roles in energy metabolism, insulin sensitivity regulation, neurodevelopment, white fat browning, and inflammatory response. Specifically, Metrnβ may act as an adipokine, myokine, neurotrophic factor, and cytokine, thereby being involved in the pathological and physiological processes of various human diseases, including metabolic, autoimmune and infectious/allergic diseases, and certain types of tumors. This review aims to systematically introduce the current research progress on Metrnβ, including its expression and distribution profiles, biological functions, and immunomodulatory roles in the process of human diseases. Additionally, we also discuss its potential as a biomarker, as well as a therapeutic/preventive agent for human diseases. Full article

Recent studies have emphasized the impact of gut microbiota on skin health, but the reverse, how skin diseases affect gut homeostasis, has received less attention. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), a common skin disorder affecting one in four people worldwide, can be accompanied by intestinal disturbances. To explore this, we used an experimental model of ACD to investigate the intestinal changes induced by the disease. Parameters assessed included intestinal microbiota, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), gene expression related to intestinal permeability, inflammatory cytokines, and mucus production. To evaluate potential therapeutic interventions, the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum strain BB536 was administered via gavage, starting 10 days before dermatitis induction and continuing until the last day of disease induction. ACD caused alterations in the composition of intestinal microbiota compared to naïve mice but did not affect SCFA production. The probiotic altered microbiota composition and increased acetate production in dermatitis-induced mice. ACD decreased the gene expression of TjP1, ATHO1, and MUC2, while probiotic treatment restored TjP1 and ATHO1 to normal levels. The cytokine IL-6 increased in the ACD group compared to naïve mice, whereas IL-10 decreased; probiotic treatment also restored these levels. Intestinal mucus production, affected by ACD, was partially restored by probiotic treatment. The findings suggest that probiotics could be a therapeutic strategy to prevent intestinal issues caused by skin diseases. Full article

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the forms of allergic dermatitis and the most common chronic recurring inflammatory skin disease. In case of allergic dermatitis, oxidative stress (OS) promotes inflammation, disrupts the skin’s barrier function, and facilitates the penetration of allergens into the body. As a result, studying oxidative stress and its influence on the course and spread of these diseases is important in the search for new treatment strategies. This literature review aims to discover the effect of oxidative stress on the course of atopic dermatitis and review additional options for treatment. A comprehensive literature review was performed using the medical databases “PubMed” and the specialized search engine “Google Scholar” using the PICO model. Analyzed scientific articles were published from 2019 to 2024 in English. Of the 167 initial studies, 51 articles were included based on relevance, language, and release date. The other 116 articles were rejected due to incomplete publications and publications involving animals. Key biomarkers are associated with oxidative stress, including urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione, and glutathione disulfide, and they correlate directly with the severity of atopic dermatitis. This research emphasizes that antioxidants, such as vitamins, sun protection, coenzyme Q10, a balanced diet, melatonin, flavonoids, and NB-UVB therapy may have a positive impact on the pathogenesis and progression of atopic dermatitis. Full article

The skin cannot be considered as just a barrier that protects against physical, chemical, and biological damage; it is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that varies across lifespans. Interest in the relationship between physical activity and skin microbiota has grown significantly in recent years. The skin microbiota has a crucial role in skin functions and physiology, and an imbalance, known as dysbiosis, is correlated with several diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infectious disease, obesity, allergic disorders, and type 1 diabetes mellitus. Among the causes of dysbiosis, the practice of physical exercise, especially in contact sports, including wrestling, artistic gymnastics, and boating, certainly represents a predisposing factor for infectious disease. This review aims to provide an overview of the skin microbiota and its regulation, focusing on interactions between physical exercise and skin microbiota, the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as regulators of skin microbiota, and the impact of probiotics supplementation on physical performance. Full article

This study focused on identifying the environmental allergens causing allergic dermatitis in 250 dogs from Western Romania. Among the 250 dogs tested, 43% (107) exhibited significant allergic reactions (IgE levels greater than 2 kU/L), particularly in Maltese, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, and West Highland White Terriers. The highest reactivity was observed to house dust mites (Dermatophagoides farinae, 91%), rye pollen (45%), and flea allergen Ctef 1 (15%). Statistical analyses revealed significant correlations between breed, sex, and living environment. Males exhibited a higher susceptibility to allergies (p < 0.001), whereas dogs that spent most of their time indoors were significantly more susceptible to allergic diseases than their mostly outdoors counterparts (p < 0.05). Additionally, dogs under two years old, especially those on a dry food diet, had an elevated risk of developing allergies (p < 0.01). Clinical manifestations included pruritus (60%), otitis externa (42%), and specific skin lesions (66%). The study underscores the role of environmental and dietary factors in the development of allergies in dogs. However, financial limitations related to allergy testing kits restricted the sample size, highlighting the need for further, more comprehensive research to enhance the generalizability of these findings. Full article

Background and objectives: Increased levels of nitric oxide (NO) are produced in various inflammatory diseases like allergic asthma. Fractional exhaled NO has been studied as a biomarker of type 2 inflammation in asthma, while the use of nasal NO (nNO) as a diagnostic tool for allergic rhinitis (AR) is less established. In the present study, we investigated nNO as a potential biomarker for differentiating AR from nonallergic rhinitis (NAR). Materials and methods: Medical students were invited to complete a questionnaire on rhinitis symptoms. Individuals who reported nasal symptoms were invited to participate in the clinical phase of the study, which included considering the patient’s medical history, clinical examination, skin-prick tests (SPTs) for the 14 most relevant allergens in the region, and nNO measurement using the NIOX VERO portable nitric oxide analyzer. Informed consent was obtained at each stage of recruitment and clinical assessment. Results: Overall, 62 out of 122 volunteers recruited reported rhinitis symptoms and were investigated further with nNO measurements and SPTs. In total, 39 had SPT-confirmed AR, while 23 were classified as NAR subjects. Both nNO measurements and SPTs were performed on the same day, during the pollen season. The comparison of mean nNO concentrations (830 ± 247 ppb and 851 ± 373 in AR and NAR groups, respectively) showed no statistically significant difference. Conclusions: we concluded that nNO is not a reliable independent biomarker in the diagnosis of AR. Full article

Propolis demonstrates diverse pharmacological properties encompassing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and wound-healing activities. This study investigated the therapeutic mechanism of propolis against ultraviolet (UV)-induced allergic dermatitis through an integrated approach combining network pharmacology with in vitro experimental validation. The targets of propolis components were conducted through the PubChem, the EMBL-EBI, and SEA Search Server databases, and the disease-associated targets for atopic dermatitis and related allergic conditions were extracted from GeneCards. The overlapping targets between propolis components and UV-induced dermatitis were screened. The Gene Ontology (GO) Enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed. The key targets were further validated through ELISA experiments using HSF cells. The results show that there were 28 overlapping targets between propolis and UV-induced allergic dermatitis. The GO enrichment results show that there were 1246 terms of biological functions, 52 terms of cellular components, and 98 terms of molecular functions. KEGG pathway enrichment obtained 110 signaling pathways. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network showed that TNF, NFKB1, MMP-9, and IL-2 were hub proteins. The ELISA experiment confirmed that propolis reduced the levels of MMP-9 and IL-2 in UBV-induced allergic dermatitis of HSF cells in a dose-dependent manner. These findings provide mechanistic evidence supporting propolis as a promising functional food, dietary supplements, or medicinal agent for UV-induced allergic skin disorders. Full article

Recently, the “epithelial barrier hypothesis” has been proposed as a key factor in the development of allergic diseases, such as food allergies. Harmful environmental factors can damage epithelial barriers, with detrimental effects on the host immune response and on the local microbial equilibrium, resulting in chronic mucosal inflammation that perpetuates the dysfunction of the epithelial barrier. The increased epithelial permeability allows allergens to access the submucosae, leading to an imbalance between type 1 T-helper (Th1) and type 2 T-helper (Th2) inflammation, with a predominant Th2 response that is the key factor in food allergy development. In this article on the state of the art, we review scientific evidence on the “epithelial barrier hypothesis”, with a focus on food allergies. We describe how loss of integrity of the skin and intestinal epithelial barrier and modifications in gut microbiota composition can contribute to local inflammatory changes and immunological unbalance that can lead to the development of food allergies. Full article

Background: Few reports exist regarding the incidence and factors associated with allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines during post-marketing surveillance, especially for inactivated whole virus or viral vector vaccines. We aimed to determine the incidence and factors associated with self-reported allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines in the Thai population. Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted via telephone-based interviews. Cases were defined as physician-confirmed, self-reported vaccine recipients diagnosed with non-severe immediate allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, or delayed allergic reactions. Controls were randomly sampled from vaccinated individuals who reported no adverse events and were matched by the type of vaccine (1 case:2 controls). Demographic information and the history of atopic diseases were collected in both groups. Conditional logistic regression analysis was used to explore associated factors. Results: Among 215,079 vaccine doses administered, the incidence of self-reported skin symptoms of allergic reactions was 1821 events (0.85%). The risk factors for allergic reactions included age < 60 years (aOR 3.53; 95% CI:1.43–8.70; p = 0.006), female sex (aOR 8.33; 95% CI: 4.35–15.94; p < 0.001), a personal history of allergic rhinitis (aOR 4.32; 95% CI: 2.43–7.69; p < 0.001), atopic dermatitis (aOR 4.27; 95% CI: 1.74–10.47; p = 0.002), food allergies (aOR 6.53; 95% CI: 2.42–17.61; p < 0.001), and a family history of allergic disease (aOR 2.14; 95% CI: 1.12–4.08; p = 0.021). Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccines showed a low incidence of self-reported allergic reactions, which were more likely to occur in younger individuals, females, and those with a history of atopic diseases. Full article

Canine atopic dermatitis (AD) is a T-cell-driven inflammatory skin disease, characterized by an imbalance between the Th1 and Th2 immune responses. Probiotics (live bacteria) and postbiotics (inactivated, killed bacteria) have garnered attention for the management of AD in humans and dogs. Both probiotics and postbiotics possess immunomodulating properties that could be beneficial for allergic patients. This study aims to evaluate the immunomodulating effects of Tyndallized (heat-killed) postbiotics of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which are active components of the Linkskin products (Nextmune, Palazzo Pignano, Cremona, Italy). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from healthy dogs and incubated separately with each postbiotic. The cytokine levels in the supernatants were measured before and after 12, 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation. Both Tyndallized lactobacilli significantly increased the levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ (Th1 cytokines) and IL-10 (associated with T regulatory cells), while the levels of the Th2 cytokine IL-4 remained stable. Overall, these two Lactobacillus postbiotics stimulated canine PBMCs to produce a cytokine profile typically associated with an anti-allergic response. Further studies are needed to evaluate the benefit of these postbiotics as an adjuvant for the reactive treatment or for the prevention of relapses of allergic flares in atopic dogs. Full article