Search Results (3,270)

Introduction: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer entity in Germany, following basal cell carcinoma. Its incidence has increased fourfold over the past three decades. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for achieving favorable outcomes. Our study aims to identify prognostic factors based on real-world data to improve follow-up protocols and raise clinical vigilance. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, monocenter analysis with a total of 124 patients with at least one cSCC thicker than 3 mm, treated at the Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, between 2010 and 2020. Tumor-specific criteria were correlated with patient-specific data, such as gender, age, immunosuppression, UV exposure and mortality. Results: A higher incidence of cSCC was found on UV-exposed skin (91.1%); however, tumors on non-UV-exposed skin were on average thicker (6.55 mm vs. 9.25 mm, p = 0.011) and associated with higher metastasis rates (10.6% vs. 63.3%, p < 0.001). Immunosuppression was strongly associated with a younger age at diagnosis (74 years vs. 81 years), a higher metastasis rate (29% vs. 10.8%, p = 0.021) and a worse 5Y-OS-rate (36.1% vs. 97.8%, p = 0.04). SLNB was performed in eight patients, with one positive SLN identified (12.5%). Local recurrence was observed in 18.1% (n = 21) of patients who did not experience SLNB, whereas no local recurrences (0%) were reported in patients with SLNB (p = 0.349). Discussion: Tumors on non-UV-exposed areas were thicker and more often metastatic, suggesting delayed detection or more aggressive tumor subtypes. Immunosuppression was associated with worse outcomes, underscoring the need for intensified follow-up. SLNB was rarely performed, and larger studies are needed to assess its role. Full article

Intraosseous hemangiomas (IH) are rare intrabony lesions that represent less than 1% of intraosseous tumors. IH are mostly seen in the axial skeleton and skull. Most commonly, the frontal bone, zygomatic, sphenoid, maxilla, ethmoid, and lacrimal bone can manifest IH. Currently, IH is classified as a developmental condition of endothelial origin. According to WHO, the five histological types of IH are cavernous, capillary, epithelioid, histiocytoid, and sclerosing. IH of the zygoma is an extremely rare condition with female predominance. A systematic review recently estimated that there were 78 cases published in the literature until 2023. The lesion is usually asymptomatic and presents with a gradually deteriorating deformity of the malar area, and the patient might be able to recall a history of trauma. Numbness due to involvement of the infraorbital nerve might also be present; however, atypical skin and bone sensations might also occur. Other symptoms include painful swelling, bone asymmetry, skin irritation, sinus pressure, paresthesia, diplopia, enophthalmos, or atypical neuralgia. A bony lesion with a trabecular pattern in a radiating formation (sunburst pattern) or a multilocal lytic lesion pattern created by the multiple cavernous spaces (honeycomb pattern) is commonly observed during radiologic evaluation. We present a rare case of IH of the zygoma in a 65-year-old generally healthy woman. A cyst-like bone tumor was revealed from the CT scan, which made preoperative biopsy of the lesion problematic. A careful radiological diagnostic differentiation of the lesion should always be conducted in such cases to outline a safe surgical plan and possible alternatives if needed. The patient underwent total tumor resection in the operating room, and the defect was reconstructed with the use of a titanium mesh and a synthetic hydroxyapatite bone graft based on a 3D surgical guide printed model. Full article

Background: Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are a major cause of emergency room (ER) visits and hospitalizations. Long-acting lipoglycopeptides (LALs), such as dalbavancin and oritavancin, offer potential for early discharge and outpatient management, especially in patients at risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or with comorbidities. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study from March to December 2024 in an Italian tertiary-care hospital. Adult patients treated in the ER with a single dose of dalbavancin (1500 mg) or oritavancin (1200 mg) for SSTIs were included. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected. Follow-up evaluations were performed at 14 and 30 days post-treatment to assess outcomes. Results: Nineteen patients were enrolled (median age 59 years; 53% female). Most had lower limb involvement and elevated inflammatory markers. Three patients (16%) were septic. Fourteen patients (74%) were discharged without hospital admission; hospitalization in the remaining cases was due to comorbidities rather than SSTI severity. No adverse drug reactions were observed. At 14 days, 84% of patients had clinical resolution; only 10% had recurrence by day 30, with no mortality nor readmission reported. Conclusions: LALs appear effective and well-tolerated in the ER setting, supporting early discharge and reducing healthcare burden. Broader use may require structured care pathways and multidisciplinary coordination. Full article

Skin disorders are common and often chronic conditions with significant therapeutic challenges. Limitations of conventional treatments, such as adverse effects and antimicrobial resistance, have increased interest in plant-based alternatives. This article presents the phytochemical composition and pharmacological potential of several medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of skin diseases, including Rubus vulgaris, Plantago major, Artemisia terrae-albae, and Eryngium planum. Based on an analysis of scientific literature, the presence of bioactive compounds—including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, tannins, and sesquiterpenes—is summarized, along with their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Emphasis is placed on the correlation between traditional ethnomedicinal applications and pharmacological mechanisms. The findings support the potential of these species as sources for dermatological phytotherapeutics. Further research is needed to standardize active constituents, assess safety, and conduct clinical validation. Full article

Metagenomic studies have provided deeper insights into the complex interactions between the skin and its microbiota. However, limited research has been conducted on the skin microbiota of Brazilian women. Given that Brazil ranks as the fourth-largest consumer of cosmetics worldwide, the development of new tools to analyze skin microbiota is crucial for formulating cosmetic products that promote a healthy microbiome. Skin samples were analyzed using the Illumina platform. Biometrology assessments were applied. The results showed pH variations were more pronounced in the older age group, along with higher transepidermal water loss values. Metagenomic analysis showed a predominance of Actinobacteria (83%), followed by Proteobacteria (7%), Firmicutes (9%) and Bacteroidetes (1%). In the older group (36–45 years old), an increase in Actinobacteria (87%) was observed and a decrease in Proteobacteria (6%). Moreover, the results differ from the international literature, since an increase in proteobacteria (13.9%) and a decrease in actinobacteria (46.7%) were observe in aged skin. The most abundant genus identified was Propionibacterium (84%), being the dominant species. Interestingly, previous studies have suggested a decline in Cutibacterium abundance with aging; although there is no significant difference, it is possible to observe an increasing trend in this genus in older skin. These studies can clarify many points about the skin microbiota of Brazilian women, and these findings could lead to the development of new cosmetics based on knowledge of the skin microbiome. Full article

Insulin resistance (IR) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of several dermatological diseases, including psoriasis, acne, acanthosis nigricans, and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). These conditions are characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction, which are exacerbated by IR. This narrative review examines the emerging role of nutraceutical insulin-sensitizing agents (ISAs), including myo-inositol, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin D, vitamin C, and folic acid, in managing IR-related dermatological disorders. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Cochrane Library and MEDLINE (1965–May 2025), focusing on clinical trials involving nutraceutical ISAs in dermatological conditions associated with IR. Only human studies published in English were included. Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies suggests that ISAs improve glycemic control, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate inflammatory pathways in IR-related dermatoses. Notably, myo-inositol combined with magnesium and folic acid has demonstrated significant reductions in acne severity, hirsutism, and quality-of-life impairments in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Similar benefits have been observed in psoriasis and HS, though data remain limited. Nutraceutical ISAs offer a promising adjunctive approach for the management of IR-associated dermatological diseases, potentially addressing both metabolic dysfunction and skin inflammation. However, robust RCTs with long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these preliminary findings and to establish optimal treatment regimens. Full article

The correlation between fermented vinegar’s physicochemical properties and functional characteristics, particularly skin-related functionalities, remains unclear. We analyzed the quality of widely consumed Korean fermented vinegars, including grain and persimmon vinegars, and their correlation with skin-related functionalities to establish quality control criteria linked to functional properties. Fifteen traditional Korean grain vinegars and fourteen persimmon vinegars were collected; distilled white vinegar was used as the control group. Grain vinegars showed 3.57–100.00% collagenase and 62.38–77.03% tyrosinase inhibition; persimmon vinegars showed 0.00–94.50% and 30.75–71.54%, respectively. To determine which quality characteristics are high in fermented vinegar with high skin-related functionality, a correlation analysis was conducted. In grain vinegar, total nitrogen and free amino acids were strongly associated with skin-related functionalities. In persimmon vinegar, organic acids, particularly lactic acid, were correlated with skin-related effects; thus, both demonstrated the importance of quality assessment. Insights into relationships between the composition and functional properties of fermented vinegar were gained. Specific quality markers for managing skin-related functionality of Korean fermented vinegar established a scientific basis for standardizing quality control, developing high-value functional vinegar products, and ensuring consistent product quality. Full article

Background/Objectives: Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare and fatal genetic disease caused by a silent mutation in the LMNA gene, leading to the production of progerin, a defective prelamin A variant. Progerin accumulation disrupts nuclear integrity, alters chromatin organization, and drives systemic cellular dysfunction. While autophagy and inflammation are key dysregulated pathways in HGPS, the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in these processes remains poorly understood. Methods: We performed an extensive literature review to identify miRNAs involved in autophagy and inflammation. Through stem-loop RT-qPCR in aging HGPS and control fibroblast strains, we identified significant miRNAs and focused on the most prominent one, miR-181a-5p, for in-depth analysis. We validated our in vitro findings with miRNA expression studies in skin biopsies from an HGPS mouse model and conducted functional assays in human fibroblasts, including immunofluorescence staining, β-Galactosidase assay, qPCR, and Western blot analysis. Transfection studies were performed using an miR-181a-5p mimic and its inhibitor. Results: We identified miR-181a-5p as a critical regulator of premature senescence in HGPS. miR-181a-5p was significantly upregulated in HGPS fibroblasts and an HGPS mouse model, correlating with Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) suppression and induction of senescence. Additionally, we demonstrated that TGFβ1 induced miR-181a-5p expression, linking inflammation to miRNA-mediated senescence. Inhibiting miR-181a-5p restored SIRT1 levels, increased proliferation, and alleviated senescence in HGPS fibroblasts, supporting its functional relevance in disease progression. Conclusions: These findings highlight the important role of miR-181a-5p in premature aging and suggest its potential as a therapeutic target for modulating senescence in progeroid syndromes. Full article

Introduction: Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a common precancerous condition affecting the lips, primarily caused by prolonged ultraviolet radiation exposure. Various treatment options are available. However, the optimal treatment approach remains a subject of debate. Objective: To summarize and compare practice-relevant interventions for AC. Materials and Methods: A pre-defined protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021225182). Systematic searches in Medline, Embase, and Central, along with manual trial register searches, identified studies reporting participant clearance rates (PCR) or recurrence rates (PRR). Quality assessment for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. Uncontrolled studies were evaluated using the tool developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The generalized linear mixed model was used to pool proportions for uncontrolled studies. A pairwise meta-analysis for RCTs was applied, using the odds ratio (OR) as the effect estimate and the GRADE approach to evaluate the quality of the evidence. Adverse events were analyzed qualitatively. Results: A comprehensive inclusion of 36 studies facilitated an evaluation of 614 participants for PCR, and 430 patients for PRR. Diclofenac showed the lowest PCR (0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.41; 0.66]), while CO₂ laser showed the highest PCR (0.97, 95% CI [0.90; 0.99]). For PRR, Er:YAG laser showed the highest rates (0.14, 95% CI [0.08; 0.21]), and imiquimod the lowest (0.00, 95% CI [0.00; 0.06]). In a pairwise meta-analysis, the OR indicated a lower recurrence rate for Er:YAG ablative fractional laser (AFL)-primed methyl-aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT) (Er:YAG AFL-PDT) compared to methyl-aminolevulinate photodynamic therapy (MAL-PDT) alone (OR = 0.22, 95% CI [0.06; 0.82]). The CO₂ laser showed fewer local side effects than the Er:YAG laser, while PDTs caused more skin reactions. Due to qualitative data, comparability was limited, highlighting the need for individualized treatment. Conclusions: This study provides a complete and up-to-date evidence synthesis of practice-relevant interventions for AC, identifying the CO₂ laser as the most effective treatment and regarding PCR and imiquimod as most effective concerning PRR. Full article

Ion-conductive-hydrogel strain sensors demonstrate broad application prospects in the fields of flexible sensing and bioelectric signal monitoring due to their excellent skin conformability and efficient signal transmission characteristics. However, traditional preparation methods face significant challenges in enhancing adhesion strength, conductivity, and mechanical stability. To address this issue, this study employed a freeze–thaw cycling method, using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the matrix material, tannic acid (TA) as the adhesion reinforcement material, and lithium chloride (LiCl) as the conductive medium, successfully developing an ion-conductive hydrogel with superior comprehensive performance. Experimental data confirm that the PVA-TA-0.5/LiCl-1 hydrogel achieves optimal levels of adhesion strength (2.32 kPa on pigskin) and conductivity (0.64 S/m), while also exhibiting good tensile strength (0.1 MPa). Therefore, this hydrogel shows great potential for use in strain sensors, demonstrating excellent sensitivity (GF = 1.15), reliable operational stability, as the ΔR/R₀ signal remains virtually unchanged after 2500 cycles of stretching, and outstanding strain sensing and electromyographic signal acquisition capabilities, fully highlighting its practical value in the fields of flexible sensing and bioelectric monitoring. Full article

Pilomatricomas are benign tumors originating from hair follicle matrix cells and represent the most common skin tumors in pediatric patients. Pilomatricomas may be associated with genetic syndromes such as myotonic dystrophy, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), Turner syndrome, Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome, Kabuki syndrome, and Sotos syndrome. This study reviews the literature on pilomatricomas occurring in syndromic contexts and presents a novel case linked to Apert syndrome. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Cochrane databases, focusing on case reports, case series, and reviews describing pilomatricomas associated with syndromes. A total of 1272 articles were initially screened; after removing duplicates and excluding articles without syndromic diagnoses or lacking sufficient data, 81 full-text articles were reviewed. Overall, 96 cases of pilomatricomas associated with genetic syndromes were identified. Reports of patients with Apert syndrome who do not develop pilomatricomas are absent in the literature. Pilomatricomas predominantly affect pediatric patients, with a slight female predominance, and are often the first manifestation of underlying genetic syndromes. Our study highlights previously unreported associations of pilomatricoma with Apert syndrome, providing molecular insights. This study contributes to understanding the clinical and molecular features of pilomatricomas in syndromic contexts and underscores the importance of genetic analysis for accurate diagnosis and management. Full article

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease common in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. This study aimed to develop a topical meglumine antimoniate gel (MA-gel) for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The MA-gel was characterized in terms of morphology, pH, swelling, porosity, rheology, and thermal properties by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Biopharmaceutical evaluation included in vitro drug release and ex vivo skin permeation. Safety was evaluated through biomechanical skin property measurements and cytotoxicity in HaCaT and RAW 267 cells. Leishmanicidal activity was tested against promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania infantum, and in silico studies were conducted to explore possible mechanisms of action. The composition of the MA-gel included 30% MA, 20% Pluronic^® F127 (P407), and 50% water. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a sponge-like and porous internal structure of the MA-gel. This formula exhibited a pH of 5.45, swelling at approximately 12 min, and a porosity of 85.07%. The DSC showed that there was no incompatibility between MA and P407. Drug release followed a first-order kinetic profile, with 22.11 µg/g/cm² of the drug retained in the skin and no permeation into the receptor compartment. The MA-gel showed no microbial growth, no cytotoxicity in keratinocytes, and no skin damage. The IC₅₀ for promastigotes and amastigotes of L. infantum were 3.56 and 23.11 µg/mL, respectively. In silico studies suggested that MA could act on three potential therapeutic targets according to its binding mode. The MA-gel demonstrated promising physicochemical, safety, and antiparasitic properties, supporting its potential as a topical treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Full article

Background: Patients diagnosed with melanoma are at increased risk of developing multiple primary melanomas (MPMs). Identifying clinical and genetic factors associated with MPM is critical for implementing personalized surveillance strategies. This study aims to describe the clinical, histopathological, and genetic characteristics of patients with MPM managed in a tertiary hospital and to contextualize findings within the current literature. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with two or more primary melanomas between 2010 and 2023 at a tertiary dermatology unit. Demographic data, personal and family cancer history, phototype, melanoma characteristics, genetic testing, staging, treatments, and outcomes were collected. These data were compared with findings from the recent literature. Results: Thirteen patients (ten males, three females; median age: 59 years) were found to have a total of 33 melanomas. Most patients had Fitzpatrick phototype II and no immunosuppression. The number of melanomas per patient ranged from two to five. Synchronous lesions were observed in two patients. Common locations included the trunk and extremities. Histologically, 57% were in situ melanomas, and subsequent melanomas were generally thinner than the index lesion. Two patients showed progression to advanced disease. One patient was positive for MC1R mutation; the rest were negative or inconclusive. Additional phenotypic and environmental risk factors were extracted from patient records and are summarized as follows: Ten patients (76.9%) had Fitzpatrick skin phototype II, and three (23.1%) had phototype III. Chronic occupational sun exposure was reported in four patients (30.8%), while five (38.5%) recalled having suffered multiple sunburns during childhood or adolescence. Eight patients (61.5%) presented with a total nevus count exceeding 50, and five (38.5%) exhibited clinically atypical nevi. None of the patients reported use of tanning beds. Conclusions: Our findings are consistent with the existing literature indicating that patients with MPM often present with thinner subsequent melanomas and require long-term dermatologic follow-up. The inclusion of genetic testing and phenotypic risk factors enables stratified surveillance and supports the application of personalized medicine in melanoma management. Full article

Objectives: Nasal reconstructive surgery following skin cancer resection is challenging, with esthetic concerns impacting patients’ quality of life. Non-surgical rhinoplasty may be an alternative to repeated surgeries. This study aimed to evaluate non-surgical rhinoplasty esthetic benefits and subjective patient outcomes after skin cancer resection. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on patients with post-operative esthetic dissatisfaction after nasal skin cancer surgery, who underwent non-surgical rhinoplasty with hyaluronic acid. Subjective benefits were evaluated with the FACE-Q Rhinoplasty self-questionnaire at three consultations: before injection (baseline), and at one and two months after. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional Vectra H2 photographs were used to assess subjective esthetic concerns and objective volumetric changes. Results: The study included six female patients with an average age of 58.3 years. They had undergone, on average, five nasal surgeries for cancer. The mean FACE-Q scores were 53.3 (±10.31), 77.5 (±4.18), and 79.7 (±6.76), respectively, at baseline, one month, and two months. Significant differences were observed between baseline and one month (p < 0.001) and between baseline and two months (p < 0.001), but not between one and two months. The was a mean volumetric gain of 1.13 mL at one month and 1.19 mL at two months. Conclusions: This preliminary study suggested that hyaluronic acid-based non-surgical rhinoplasty could improve esthetic outcomes and quality of life in patients who had undergone nasal skin cancer surgery. These findings highlight a potential role for this minimally invasive technique in selected post-reconstructive cases, although the small sample size limited the generalizability of the results and underlined the need for further prospective evaluation. Full article

Aramid fibre has become a critical material for individual soft body armour due to its lightweight nature and exceptional impact resistance. To investigate its energy absorption mechanism, quasi-static and dynamic tensile experiments were conducted on Kevlar^® 29 plain-woven fabric using a universal material testing machine and a Split Hopkinson Tensile Bar (SHTB) apparatus. Tensile mechanical responses were obtained under various strain rates. Fracture morphology was characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and ultra-depth three-dimensional microscopy, followed by an analysis of microstructural damage patterns. Considering the strain rate effect, a viscoelastic constitutive model was developed. The results indicate that the tensile mechanical properties of Kevlar^® 29 plain-woven fabric are strain-rate dependent. Tensile strength, elastic modulus, and toughness increase with strain rate, whereas fracture strain decreases. Under quasi-static loading, the fracture surface exhibits plastic flow, with slight axial splitting and tapered fibre ends, indicating ductile failure. In contrast, dynamic loading leads to pronounced axial splitting with reduced split depth, simultaneous rupture of fibre skin and core layers, and fibrillation phenomena, suggesting brittle fracture characteristics. The modified three-element viscoelastic constitutive model effectively captures the strain-rate effect and accurately describes the tensile behaviour of the plain-woven fabric across different strain rates. These findings provide valuable data support for research on ballistic mechanisms and the performance optimisation of protective materials. Full article