Sunscreen

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Ultraviolet radiation exposure causes deleterious effects on the skin, contributing to skin aging, cancer and photosensitivity. To prevent its impact, sunscreen application is imperative in protecting the skin against these harmful radiation. 

 

The sun emits three main UV radiation at different wavelengths:

  • Ultraviolet A (UVA) comprises 95% of the UV radiation. Its intensity is consistent throughout the day and from season to another. 
  • Ultraviolet B (UVB) makes up the remaining 5% UV radiation detected on the earth’s surface. The intensity of UVB is highest during summer and from 10 a.m to 4 p.m during the day. 
  • Ultraviolet C (UVC) is absorbed by earth’s atmosphere and is of little concern.  



Sunscreen works by absorbing or scattering UV radiation, primarily UVA and UVB, minimizing the effect on the skin. There are two categories of sunscreen agents with different mechanisms: Chemical (organic) and physical (inorganic). 

 

Chemical (organic) filters 

It acts by absorbing high energy light. They are further classified into UVA filters and UVB filters but companies use a combination of both filters to yield higher sun protection factor (SPF), stability and broad-spectrum absorption. In addition, organic filters have outstanding safety and aesthetic properties with minimal phototoxicity, photosensitivity and staining on skin. 

 

Physical (inorganic) filters

Inorganic filters reflect and scatter light. Most common agents are metal oxides titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, it’s chemically inert and protects against the full UV spectrum. However the inorganic leaves a whitecast that raises cosmetic concerns. 

 

There are other measures for protection that can be implemented alongside sunscreen application, like choosing long sleeves and trousers, wearing broad hats and adequately applying/reapplying sunscreen. 



The use of sunscreen is beneficial in mitigating the risks of skin cancer and disorders from UV radiation. Both chemical and physical sunscreens generally have an excellent safety profile, but chemical sunscreens are systemically absorbed. There are no harms, but further studies are required to confirm that.

 

Written by: Naif Alalshaikh, medical student.

 

References: 

“Topical Sunscreen Agents.” Sunscreens, Sunblocks | DermNet NZ, https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-sunscreen-agents. 

Gasparro, Francis P., et al. “A Review of Sunscreen Safety and Efficacy.” Photochemistry and Photobiology, vol. 68, no. 3, 1998, pp. 243–256., https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-1097.1998.tb09677.x. 

 

Ngoc, et al. “Recent Trends of Sunscreen Cosmetic: An Update Review.” Cosmetics, vol. 6, no. 4, 2019, p. 64., https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics6040064. 


Female Pattern Hair Loss

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Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a type of nonscarring hair loss that affects mostly adult women. The disorder is marked by the loss of terminal hairs in the frontal and vertex regions of the scalp, resulting in an apparent loss of hair density. In contrast to many cases of androgenetic alopecia in males (male pattern hair loss), the loss of terminal hairs in afflicted areas is generally partial, and the frontal hairline is frequently preserved. This article will go through the pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, and diagnosis of FPHL.

The phrase “androgenetic alopecia” was once the most popular word used to describe the emergence of common, progressive hair loss on the frontal scalp and/or vertex of the scalp in both men and women. The terms “andro” and “genetic” denoted a hormonal etiology and a component of inheritance to the clinical presentation, respectively. As more research on hair loss was published throughout time, the phrase “female pattern hair loss” evolved to be the favored word for this kind of hair loss in women. This updated name reflects the absence of evidence to support a hormonal impact in all cases of the illness and helps to separate the distinct clinical aspects of this process in women vs males.

Hair loss across the frontal scalp and vertex of the scalp in FPHL is caused by a gradual decrease in the ratio of terminal hairs to shorter, thinner vellus hairs in the afflicted regions, a process known as follicular shrinkage. The duration of the anagen (growth) phase of hair follicles is reduced from a few years to weeks or months as a result of this process. Although hormonal variables and genetic predisposition are thought to have a role in FPHL, the mechanism by which these factors cause FPHL is unknown. The majority of women with FPHL do not have high amounts of androgens in their blood.

FPHL is a non-scarring type of hair loss that manifests as a gradual decrease in the density of terminal scalp hairs in a specific pattern. The principal areas of involvement are the frontal scalp and the vertex of the scalp. Although widespread involvement does occur from time to time, the occipital scalp is typically avoided.

The trend of hair loss differs from woman to woman. Frontal scalp thinning is the most apparent characteristic in some individuals, resulting in a “Christmas-tree” pattern when the hair is separated at the midline, but diffuse center thinning is the most prominent feature in others. Although women commonly have modest bitemporal thinning, the frontal hairline is typically preserved. It’s uncommon to observe a combination pattern that looks like male androgenetic alopecia (frontotemporal recession and vertex loss).

FPHL is not characterized by scarring, inflammation, or scaling. If these characteristics are present in a patient with hair loss, another scalp condition may be present alongside FPHL or may be the only cause of the clinical symptoms. FPHL is generally diagnosed clinically, depending on the patient’s medical history and physical examination. The presence of a reduction in hair density in the typical distribution, as well as an increasing incidence of miniaturized hairs, suggests the diagnosis. Biopsies of the skin are seldom done, although they might be useful when the diagnosis is unclear or a concurrent scalp condition is suspected. Several types of non scarring and scarring hair loss are included in the differential diagnosis of FPHL. Telogen effluvium, central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, and traction alopecia are among of the more frequent illnesses having FPHL-like characteristics.

 

Written by:  Lama Altamimi, medical intern.

 

Reference:

UptToDate

 

Monkeypox

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Monkeypox virus belongs to the orthopoxvirus genus. Orthopoxvirus is a genus of viruses in the family Poxviridae –the same family as cowpox and smallpox. Monkeypox is endemic in several African countries. Since 13 May 2022, several cases of monkeypox have been reported outside the endemic countries. Surprisingly, there hasn’t been any established travel links to endemic areas in those cases. Moreover, the current outbreak of monkeypox is evolving, as the number of cases is changing rapidly.

Transmission: 

Monkeypox virus is transmitted from person to person through contact with body fluids or lesion material, contact with fomites, or exposure to respiratory secretions. Fortunately, monkeypox is not easily transmitted.

Diagnosis: 

The diagnosis of monkeypox virus requires a 2-step process to be done on the specimen. First is the OPX DNA testing to confirm the presence of orthopox virus –CDC is currently treating all orthopox virus cases as monkeypox until proven otherwise. The second step is a PCR test (only available at CDC) which confirms monkeypox virus. 

Clinical features: 

Monkeypox initially begins as a flu-like illness with fever and lymphadenopathy –lymphadenopathy is a key clinical feature that helps differentiate monkeypox from smallpox. Then a centrifugal rash erupts; rash starts as macules>papules>vesicles>pustules>scabs. Lesions usually appears simultaneously and evolve together at any part of the body, eg. pustules on the face and vesicles on the arm. Lesions are well circumscribed, deep seated and are occasionally umbilicated. Lesions could be pruritic or painful. 

Treatment: 

 All specimens reported outside of endemic countries, to date, are from the West African clade of monkeypox. This variant is associated with milder illness, therefore, supportive treatment is usually sufficient. Nevertheless, there are 2 CDC-approved therapies to be used in severe cases of monkeypox: tecovirimat and Vaccinia Immune Globulin Intravenous (VIGIV). 

 

Written by: Rema Aldihan, Medical student.

References: 

www.cdc.gov 

https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2022-DON385

 

Basal Cell Carcinoma

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Basal cell carcinoma is by far the most common cutaneous malignancy. Basal cell carcinoma is a tumor that grows slowly and rarely metastasizes.  BCC is more common among males living in geographic locations with greater UV exposure. Furthermore, previous history of SCC or BCC is the most common predictor of BCC development. 

Etiology: 

It is believed that BCC originates from pluripotent cells in the basal layer of the epidermis or the pilosebaceous unit. This might explain the rare occurrence of BCC in the hand despite it being a frequently sun exposed area. As the dorsum of the hand lacks the presence of sebaceous structures. 

Moreover, it is well-established that the single most important risk factor for developing BCC is UV light exposure –particularly UVB light. Lighter skin phototypes, ionizing radiation exposure, immunosuppression, and genetic predisposition are all associated with increased risk of BCC. 

Clinical Features: 

BCC presents as a slowly growing skin colored/pink plaque or nodule, that could bleed or ulcerate spontaneously. Occasionally BCC could metastasise to lymph nodes. 

 BCC subtypes: 

1.Nodular BCC:

It presents as a pearly nodule with a smooth surface, rolled edges, and may have central depression, ulceration, and telangiectasia . Cystic variant is soft, with jelly-like consistency. 

2. Superficial BCC:

It presents as a scaly, irregular plaque with thin rolled edges. It may present with multiple micro-erosions.

3.Morphoeic BCC:

It presents as a waxy, scar-like plaque with irregular borders. It may present with deep extensions, sometimes infiltrating cutaneous nerves. 

4. Basosquamous carcinoma:

It is a mix between basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). it has an infiltrative growth pattern and could potentially be more aggressive than other subtypes of BCC

5. Pigmented BCC:

The rarest type of BCC, which comprises 6% of total BCC. This type can occasionally mimic melanoma. 

Diagnosis and Treatment: 

A histological diagnosis of BCC is a must, either through a biopsy or following excision. Furthermore, there are multiple treatment modalities used for BCC, which include both surgical and non-surgical therapies. Surgical treatment include: excision biopsy, mohs micrographically controlled excision, and superficial skin surgery.  Non-surgical modalities include: cryotherapy, Imiquimod cream, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy and Fluorouracil cream.

 

Written by: Rema Aldihan, medical student. 

References: 

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482439/
  2. dermnet

Melanoma

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What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that affects melanocytes, which are pigment-producing cells that give skin its color. Melanoma is more likely to spread and invade other organs in the body, making it more dangerous and malignant than other forms of skin cancers.

How does melanoma develop?

Transformation of melanocytes to melanoma requires a complex interaction of various factors. The cells undergo histological changes and ultimately progress to malignant melanoma. The first change that occurs is the development of benign nevi, comprising mainly of neval melanocytes, a variant of normal melanocytes but slightly larger. Nevi can remain dormant and static for decades but with certain endogenous and exogenous factors, like genetic mutations in CDKN2A and BRAF, it can progress to malignancy.

Who gets melanoma and what are the risk factors?

The strongest risk factors for melanoma are UV light exposure, family history of melanoma, previous melanoma and sun sensitivity. It affects mainly white population with fair skin, and the highest reported rate are in Australia and New Zealand. Melanoma occurs most commonly between the age of 40 to 60 years, however there has been an increase in incidence in young adults around the age of 20. The occurrence is extremely rare in children. 

What are the clinical features of melanoma?

Melanocytes are found throughout the body, thereby melanoma can be present anywhere on the body, not necessarily in areas with a lot of sun exposure. It begins as a mole or freckle, frequently on the back in males and lower extremities in females, but clinical presentation varies depending on the type.

Melanoma subtypes

There are four main types of melanoma that are associated with the same growth pattern, i.e horizontal, and anatomical site predilection.

Superficial spreading melanoma

Most common type, associated with intermittent UV exposure. It can appear on an existing mole or a new mole. It is likely found on the torso in men and legs of women.

Lentigo malinga

Occurs in chronically sun-exposed individuals and it is easily detected by simple visual inspection.

Nodular melanoma

This type is rapid growing and aggressive.

Acral and mucosal melanoma

Most common type of melanoma in Asian and African population. This type is not associated with UV radiation. 

Melanoma comes in many shapes, sizes and colors. Clinical diagnosis is primarily based on patient history total-body skin examination. Early detection and prevention are key in curing and preventing melanoma; applying sunscreen and UV radiation avoidance (staying indoor, avoiding tanning bed) may prevent the development of melanoma.

Written by: Naif Alalshaikh, Medical student. 

References 

  1. “Melanoma.” DermNet
  2. Miller, Arlo J., and Author AffiliationsFrom the Dermatopathology Unit. “Melanoma: Nejm.” New England Journal of Medicine, 28 Sept. 2006,
  3. “Melanoma.” The Skin Cancer Foundation, 28 Apr. 2022,
  4. Melanoma – Edisciplinas.usp.br.

Pachyonychia congenita

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Pachyonychia congenita is a rare inherited disorder of keratinization that primarily affects the nails and skin. Affected people develop thickened skin on the soles and palms, white patches on the tongue and mouth, and bumps around the elbow and knees. 

What is the cause of pachyonychia congenita?

The disorder is caused by a genetic mutation but features vary depending on the affected gene. Five keratin specific genes are involved: K6a, K6b, K6c, K16, and K17. These genes provide instructions for the synthesis of keratin; a protein found in the skin, hair and nails. The frequent pathogenic variant is in K6a.

 

Pachyonychia congenita is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. It is found in ethnic groups and occurence is equal in both sexes.

What are the clinical features of pachyonychia congenita?

Clinical features vary based on the involved keratin gene and specific genetic mutation but it is usually characterized by:

  • Calloused palms and soles with plantar pain in most of the patients. Sometimes underlying blisters are present 
  • Thickened nails often with brown discoloration. 
  • Certain types of sebaceous gland cysts, steatocystoma and pilosebaceous, are found in PC patients.
  • White patches affecting the tongue and inside of the mouth. 

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the presence of clinical signs and appearance. There is a clinical diagnostic criteria that includes the triad of the commonest features of toenail thickening, plantar keratoderma and plantar pain of pachyonychia congenita (PC) In addition, detection of a mutation in only one of the aforementioned genes confirms PC diagnosis. 

What is the treatment of pachyonychia congenita?

Limiting certain physical activity like walking, maintaining ideal body weight, and wearing ventilated shoes with moisture-wicking socks. Regular trimming of nails and calluses when necessary, and if needed, appropriate treatment of infections. Topical therapy to remove hyperkeratosis includes emollients and retinoids.

Pachyonychia congenita is an extremely rare disease that does affect the lifespan of the affected person, however it can negatively impact the quality of life. The pain and appearance of this condition can interfere with day-to-day activities and social life. 

Written by: Naif Alalshaikh, Medical student.

References

  1. “Pachyonychia Congenita.” Pachyonychia Congenita | DermNet NZ, https://dermnetnz.org/topics/pachyonychia-congenita. 
  2. “Pachyonychia Congenita.” Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/10753/pachyonychia-congenita. 
  3.  PMC, Europe. Europe PMC, https://europepmc.org/article/nbk/nbk1280#free-full-text

Xeroderma pigmentosum

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Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal recessive DNA repair disorder characterized by enhanced UVR sensitivity, early pigmentary alterations, UVR-induced skin and mucous membrane malignancies, and, in some cases, progressive dementia. Moritz Kaposi, a dermatologist, first reported XP in 1874, coining the word “xeroderma” to describe the dry or xerotic skin quality of his four XP patients. While early research suggested that UVR played a role in the disease’s development, it wasn’t until 1968 that the sickness was linked to faulty DNA repair in cultured skin fibroblasts. XP subtypes or “complementation groups” were discovered as a result of this; XP-variant is the only form of XP with intact DNA excision repair capacity.

Males and females are equally affected by Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), which is found worldwide but has a wide range of occurrence. The estimated incidence in the United States and Western Europe is one per million live births, according to retrospective investigations. Incidences as high as 15 to 20 per million in Libya and 10 to 50 per million in Japan have been reported in other research. Due to more frequent consanguineous marriages, incidences in Northern African and Western Asian nations such as Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, and Pakistan may be greater. Consanguinity, on the other hand, isn’t thought to account for all of the global differences.

Early-onset pigmentary skin alterations, early development of skin malignancies (typically in the first decade of life), and ocular signs, such as photophobia, conspicuous conjunctival injection, and severe keratitis, are all common features across all xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) groups. Neurologic diseases, such as sensorineural hearing loss and gradual cognitive impairment, are seen in certain patients.

Skin cancer — Squamous cell cancer (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and melanoma all occur more frequently in XP than in the general population, and at a younger age. The odds of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and melanoma were shown to be 10,000-fold and 2000-fold greater in a 40-year National Institutes of Health follow-up study of 106 XP patients, respectively, than in the general population.

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer connected with XP, although multiple studies suggest that XP patients may be at an increased risk of other malignancies as well. In 142 consanguineous French families of North African origin with an XPC mutation, an increased frequency of hematologic malignancies, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia, was observed. Colorectal cancer susceptibility has been linked to XPG single nucleotide polymorphisms, particularly among Asians. In nonsmoking Chinese female patients, XPD polymorphisms were found to be associated with the risk of non-small cell lung cancer.

A child with acute sun sensitivity with minimum exposure, early and prominent freckling (before the age of two years), and skin cancer within the first decade of life should be suspected of having xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). Photophobia with conspicuous conjunctival injection, severe keratitis, sensorineural hearing loss, and increasing cognitive impairment are other clinical symptoms that point to the diagnosis. Clinical symptoms, a family history consistent with autosomal recessive inheritance, and/or confirmatory genetic tests are used to make the diagnosis.

Dermatologists, ophthalmologists, oral surgeons, geneticists, and neurologists are part of a multidisciplinary team that treats individuals with xeroderma pigmentosum (XP). The pillars of treatment are strict sun protection and avoidance, diligent clinical follow-up with regular skin and eye examinations, and appropriate and early treatments of any premalignant or malignant skin lesions.

Patients with xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) die most often from metastatic skin cancer, followed by neurodegeneration. Patients with neurodegeneration die at a significantly younger age than patients without neurodegeneration, with a median age of 29 versus 37 years.

 

Written by: Lama Altamimi, medical intern.

Reference: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/xeroderma-pigmentosum?search=xeroderma%20pigmentosum&topicRef=3004&source=see_link

 

 

Unilateral Laterothoracic Exanthem

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What is Unilateral laterothoracic exanthem?

It is an uncommon condition characterized by a unilateral, periflexural rash that starts from the axilla or groin and can spread to the face, genitalia or hands. The lesions are red, raised and surrounded by white halos. 

Who is affected by it?

The condition affects mostly children of the age of 2-5 years, but there has been an increase in the number of cases among adults. 

What is the cause?

The cause of unilateral laterothoracic exanthem (ULE) is unknown but exposure to certain viruses are implicated in (UTLE). Epstein Barr virus and parvovirus B19 are commonly associated with UTLE, and most recently with COVID-19. 

How is ULE diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and skin biopsy in some cases. If the patient is asymptomatic, no treatment is needed. Emollients and topical steroids are used to relieve the itching. 

 

ULE resolves without treatment. It can be mistaken for other cutaneous conditions such as contact dermatitis, scabies and a slew of other conditions

 

Written by: Naif Alalshaikh, medical student.

References: 

Glick LR, Fogel AL, Ramachandran S, Barakat LA. Unilateral laterothoracic exanthem in association with coronavirus disease 2019. JAAD Case Reports. 2020 Sep;6(9):900.

Chuh AA, Chan HH. Unilateral mediothoracic exanthem: a variant of unilateral laterothoracic exanthem. CUTIS-NEW YORK-. 2006 Jan 1;77(1):29.

Adams SP. Dermacase. Unilateral laterothoracic exanthem. Canadian Family Physician. 1997 Aug;43:1355.

dermnetnz.org

 

Papillon-Lefèvre Syndrome

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Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome (PLS) is a rare genetic condition that affects children between the ages of one and five. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. It results from alterations of the CTSC gene; which regulates the production of cathepsin C enzyme. PLS is characterized by the appearance of hyperkeratotic patches on the palms and soles, as well as severe inflammation and deterioration of the structures that surround and support the teeth (periodontium). 

Clinical Presentation: 

Oral features: 

Severe gingivostomatitis and periodontitis are the most common symptoms of PLS. In patients suffering from PLS, deciduous teeth erupt in the expected order, with normal structure and shape, at the appropriate ages. However, gingiva becomes inflamed during the first year after the eruption of deciduous teeth, followed by fast periodontal deterioration evidenced by visible reddish and swollen gingiva, severe bone resorption, and deep periodontal pockets out of which pus exudates in response to minimal pressure. Due of the hypermobility of the teeth, mastication is quite uncomfortable in those patients. A foul smelling mouth odor is usually present. Around the age of 4-5 years, the child’s deciduous teeth fall out prematurely, and the child becomes entirely edentulous, with gingiva returning to its normal status. Nevertheless, with the eruption of permanent or successor teeth, periodontitis occur again. By early adolescence, the majority of the successor teeth will fall out.

Cutaneous features: 

PLS is marked by the appearance of dry, scaly patches of skin (hyperkeratosis) in children between the ages of one and five; it is manifested simultaneously with oral manifestations. These patches most commonly affect the palmar aspect of the hands and the plantar aspect of the feet –although they can also affect the knees and elbows. The skin of those who are affected can be abnormally red and thick, but it can also vary in texture and color. Skin lesions may worsen in cold weather, making walking extremely difficult. 

Management: 

A multidisciplinary approach involving a team of a dermatologist, a pediatrician and a dentist is crucial for patients with PLS. Moreover, emollients and salicylic acid are used to treat the cutaneous manifestations of PLS; topical steroids may be used to enhance their effectiveness. Oral retinoids including acitretin, etretinate, and isotretinoin have been shown to help with both oral and cutaneous PLS lesions.

Written by: Rema Aldihan, Medical Student.

References: 

rarediseases.org

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4507741/

Cutaneous leiomyoma

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Cutaneous leiomyomas, also known as piloleiomyomas, are benign uncommon smooth muscle tumors that arise from the arrector pili muscle, which is in charge of hair follicle piloerection. Piloerection, or “goose bumps,” is an involuntary mechanism that can occur as a result of cold exposure or a range of emotional states (eg, fear, pleasure).

Hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer is an autosomal dominant cancer condition in which cutaneous leiomyomas can occur randomly or in large numbers. The discovery in 2001 of a link between cutaneous leiomyomas, uterine leiomyomas in women, and an aggressive form of renal cell cancer (RCC) emphasizes the importance of accurate dermatologic diagnosis of CL so that patients and at-risk relatives can receive appropriate cancer screening and counseling.

The co-occurrence of uterine leiomyoma and cutaneous leiomyomas was known under several different eponyms prior to the discovery of the association with renal cell cancer (RCC), including Reed syndrome, multiple cutaneous leiomyomas (MCL), and multiple cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis syndrome (MCUL1), leading to potential confusion regarding the associated cancer risk. All of these diseases are now known to be related with mutations in the fumarate hydratase gene (FH)

Clinical Manifestations:

Cutaneous leiomyomas are hard, red or reddish-brown nodules that range in size from 3 mm to 1 cm in diameter. Small lesions may appear as thin, slightly elevated papules, whereas bigger nodules may be exophytic and protrude significantly from adjacent lesions. Isolated leiomyomas of the scrotum (dartos muscle), vulva, or nipple have been reported on rare occasions (areolar smooth muscle). Leiomyomas arising from genital skin, unlike piloleiomyoma, are frequently asymptomatic.

Diagnosis:

Clinical diagnosis — When a patient presents with single or several papules or nodules on the trunk or extremities that are often painful to the touch, cutaneous leiomyoma is suspected. A history of episodic pain in response to cold, rubbing, or pressure is common.

Multiple cutaneous leiomyomas should be considered a red flag for inherited leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC).

Biopsy — To confirm the diagnosis of cutaneous leiomyoma, a skin biopsy is required. The skin tissue obtained from a punch biopsy is usually sufficient for pathologic diagnosis.

Genetic testing — The presence of a germline mutation in the FH gene is required for a conclusive diagnosis of HLRCC. Individuals who appear with clinical signs of HLRCC or who have a family history of HLRCC should be offered genetic testing.

Management:

Dermatologists, gynecologists, and urologic oncologists collaborate to treat patients with hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC). The following are important aspects of management:

  • In individuals with many painful cutaneous leiomyomas, pain management is important.
  • Consultation with a gynecologist on a regular basis to check for the presence and severity of uterine leiomyomas.
  • Renal cancer surveillance

Patients with a family history of HLRCC should seek genetic counseling to identify asymptomatic at-risk relatives and begin surveillance for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) at a young age.

Treatment of cutaneous leiomyomas:

Isolated lesions — For cutaneous leiomyomas that are isolated or few in number, surgical excision is the therapy of choice. Because intralesional injection often exacerbates pain, local anesthetic should be used with caution.

Complete excision of segmental or other substantial areas of cutaneous leiomyoma involvement in the HLRCC situation may result in extensive surgical scars that are visually undesirable. Furthermore, patients with numerous lesions have been observed to have a 50% recurrence rate.

Multiple clustered or widespread lesions — Several ablative, topical, or systemic treatments have been tried for individuals with multiple symptomatic cutaneous leiomyomas for whom surgery is not a viable choice due to location, burden of disease, or cosmetic consequence.

However, there is only a single case report and one tiny randomized trial to back up their effectiveness.

Prognosis:

Fumarate hydratase (FH) mutation carriers have a 15 to 20% lifetime risk of developing kidney cancer. Between the ages of 10 and 20, FH carriers have a 1 to 2% chance of developing renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which increases as they get older. Even though the initial tumor is modest, these kidney cancers are aggressive, with rapid nodal and distant dissemination.

Written by: Lama Altamimi, medical intern

Reference: UpToDate

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/hereditary-leiomyomatosis-and-renal-cell-cancer-hlrcc?search=xeroderma%20pigmentosum&topicRef=3004&source=see_link#H56466874

Hemangioma and PHACES Syndrome:

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Hemangioma is the most common benign vascular tumor of infancy. It is more common among baby girls than boys (3:1). Low birth-weight, advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancy (twins and triplets), placenta previa and preeclampsia are all risk factors for developing infantile hemangioma. It is believed that the expression of GLUT1 protein in utero is the placental origin for infantile hemangioma. 

Most hemangiomas don’t occur at birth but appear within the first two weeks of life, most commonly on the head and neck area. It usually starts off as a red spot resembling a scratch, but instead of fading away, it gradually grows. Most infantile hemangiomas grow very rapidly in the first 3 months, they tend to have a growth arrest by 5 months of age, and recede over the next couple of years.  Hemangiomas could be superficial or deep; superficial hemangioma appear bright red, while deep hemangioma appear bluish-purple in color. The majority of hemangiomas are focal, but could occasionally present as segmental or multifocal. 

Hemangioma could arise on its own or as a part of PHACES Syndrome, which was first described by Dr. Ilona Freidan in 1996. It is a syndrome that includes infantile haemangiomas and malformation of eyes, heart, arteries and brain. The acronym PHACES stands for: Posterior fossa abnormalities, Hemangioma, Arterial abnormalities, Cardiac abnormalities, Eye and Endocrine abnormalities and Sternal clefts. 

 

Segmental haemangioma is more likely to be associated with PHACES syndrome when compared to focal haemangiomas. Moreover, the specific site of the segment affected by hemangioma can indicate the likely problem associated with it. For example, frontotemporal segments are associated with brain malformations, and mandibular segments are associated with cardiac anomalies and airway hemangiomas. 

Infants with hemangiomas larger than 24 cm on the face or scalp should undergo investigations to screen them for PHACES syndrome. Investigations include MRI, MRA, CTA, Eye examinations, ear examinations, audiometric testing, echocardiogram and U/S for blood vessels. 

The management of PHACES syndrome is tailored to each child depending on the involved organs. Careful evaluation of major blood vessels in the brain and heart should be undertaken prior to initiating propranolol. 

 

Written by: Rema Aldihan, medical student.

 

References:

https://www.ccakids.org/assets/syndromebk_hemangiomas.pdf

 

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB)

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Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of genetic disorders characterized by skin fragility. Patients with EB are prone to developing blisters on their skin and mucous membranes. These blisters can appear anywhere, but most commonly on areas subjected to repeated minor traumas. In some subtypes, blisters may appear in internal organs leading to various debilitating complications. Unlike epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, which is autoimmune in origin, EB arises from a genetic defect in the molecules responsible for adhesion. Loss of adhesion is the main cause of blistering in EB.

 

There are four known types of Epidermolysis bullosa; EB simplex, Junctional EB, Dystrophic EB, and Kindler syndrome. Within each type there are various subtypes, and severity varies from mild to severe in each EB type. 

 

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex: 

EBS is usually inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, i.e. an affected parent could transmit it to half of his/her children. The genetic mutations in EBS occur in genes responsible for Keratin 4, Keratin 15, or plectin. The blistering in this type occurs in the epidermis layer, hence EBS doesn’t usually cause scarring. Blistering commonly involves areas that are subjected to repeated friction, such as the hands and feet. Moreover, EBS may be localized to the hands and feet or it may present in a generalized distribution, with relatively mild internal organ involvement.

 

Junctional epidermolysis bullosa: 

JEB is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, ie. the abnormal gene must be inherited from both parents, and 1 in 4 of their children could be affected. It involves mutations in the genes for Laminin 332 (formerly known as Laminin5), plectin, and a6b4 integrin. These are essential components of the junction between the epidermis and dermis. Blistering in this type occurs in the lamina Lucida within the basement membrane. JEB causes generalized blistering of the skin and mucous membranes with varying severity. It is usually life-threatening, the mortality rate is high— especially the generalized severe form of JEB. 

 

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa:

DEB is classified into two major subtypes based on the mode of inheritance— Dominant DEB (DDEB) which is dominantly inherited, and recessive DEB (RDEB) which is recessively inherited. Both subtypes are caused by a mutation in the Type VII collagen gene. Blisters are formed in lamina densa within the basement membrane zone and the upper dermis. DEB causes generalized blistering of the skin and mucous membranes which leaves behind scarring and can cause severe disfigurement.

 

Kindler syndrome: 

Kindler Syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. It results from mutations in the FERMT1 gene; which is responsible for the production of Kindlin-1 protein. This protein plays an important role in the proliferation, cell-matrix adhesion, and migration of cells. In Kindler syndrome, there is a mixed pattern of blistering on multiple levels within and underneath the basement membrane. Blistering usually begins in early infancy, especially on the dorsal aspect of hands and feet. Patients with Kindler syndrome are at a high risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma.

 

Written by: Reema Aldihan, medical student

References :

https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/epidermolysis-bullosa/

https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/kindler-syndrome/

https://dermnetnz.org