DERMATITIS

The Importance of Zinc

2011-08-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

Topically applied zinc has been used for decades by various medical physicians for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions. They have used zinc either as the primary ingredient or in conjunction with other anti-inflammatory medications. Currently, zinc is found in several different active forms in hundreds of over-the-counter skin care products and medications. Topically applied zinc has been shown to have a potent anti-septic effect.

The Healing Properties of Sodium Chloride

2011-07-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

The use of salt as a healing ingredient appears in some of the oldest medical scripts. The ancient Egyptians refer to the use of salt for the treatment of an infected chest wound. The belief was that salt would dry out and disinfect the wound. The ancient Egyptians had many salt formulations for making laxatives and anti-infection methods using salt. Salt-based remedies were also used for callous skin, epidemic diseases, to check bleeding, as an eye ointment, and to accelerate childbirth.
Both sea salt and rock salt were well known to the ancient Greeks who noted that eating salty food affected basic body functions such as digestion and excretion (urine and stools). This led to salt being used medically. The healing methods of Hippocrates (460 BC) especially made frequent use of salt. Salt-based remedies were thought to have expectorant powers. Salt-water was used externally against skin diseases and freckles. Hippocrates also mentions inhalation of steam from salt-water. We know today that the anti-inflammatory effects of inhaled salt provide relief from respiratory symptoms. Thus, 2000 years ago, Greek medicine had already discovered topical use of salt for skin lesions, drinking salty or mineralized waters for digestive troubles and inhaling salt for respiratory diseases!

The Greek doctor Galen from Pergamon (129–200 A.D made use of salt (sea salt, rock salt, salt foam) in recipes against many diseases: infectious wounds, skin diseases, callosities, digestive troubles. His list of salt-containing remedies also included emetics and laxatives.
The School of Salerno (11th -13th Century A.D.) mentions the use of Powdered and roasted salt was said to have a pain-killing effect and rock salt was considered to be a good remedy against fever.

The doctor and alchemist Paracelsus (1493–1541 A.D.) believed that Only salted food could be digested properly: "The human being must have salt, he cannot be without salt. Where there is no salt, nothing will remain, but everything will tend to rot." He recommended salt water for the treatment of wounds and for use against intestinal worms. A hip-bath in salt water was a superb remedy for skin diseases and itching: "This brine - he said - is better than all the health spas arising out of nature." He described the diuretic effect of salt consumption and prescribed salt preparations of different strengths that were used for instance against constipation.

The pharmacists of the 19th century recommended External application in cases of rash and swelling and, in ophthalmology, to drive off stains and stain-obscurations of the cornea.

In 1860, in eastern Bavaria, a sodium chloride solution was used as a compress against inflammation. Further west, inflammations of the belly button of children were washed with salt water. Warts were removed by spreading the juice of a snail that had been sprinkled with salt. Hot foot-baths containing salt and ashes were used to alleviate headaches. Burns were treated with brandy, vinegar or salt water.
Our journey through history has revealed that the antiseptic action of salt on the skin and mucous membranes has been known for a very long time. Scientific studies have now confirmed the effectiveness of salt therapy in several indications. The antiseptic and bactericidal qualities of dental salt (sea salt) help remove plaque, which is a cause of gingivitis and cavities. Salt is being increasingly used as support treatment for skin diseases. Chronically inflamed skin is treated with medical bath salt from the Dead Sea or table salt. The salt peels off dandruff, reduces inflammation, itching and pain, and helps regenerate the skin. Salt-baths are frequently used to treat psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, chronic eczema as well as arthritis.

Salt can be used as an additive especially in body care products (ointments, shampoos, gels, washes and body lotions). According to modern scientific research, salt does indeed have weak disinfectant properties when applied topically.

Salt is considered to be particularly useful in chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis.

Medicinal use tended to emphasize the positive aspects of salt, e.g. prevention of putrefaction, reduction of tissue swelling, treatment of diarrhea. Evidence was also available to ancient peoples of its relationship to fertility, particularly in domestic animals. The history of salt thus represents a unique example for studying the impact of a widely used dietary substance on different important aspects of man's life, including medical philosophy.

Sodium chloride has long been well known for its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory actions, by which they reduce redness better than antibiotics, and their vascular constrictor action, which reduces overall facial redness whereas no other products constricts the dilated skin vessels as these ingredients do so well.

Combine equal parts baking soda and salt, then brush onto a sting or bite area to help relieve itch.

Treat a mosquito bite by soaking it for a few minutes in saltwater, then applying an ointment made of salt and lard.

Poison ivy and poison oak: Help poison ivy clear up more quickly by soaking irritated skin in hot saltwater.

Dermatitis Treatment

2011-04-15T07:28:00.000-07:00

"I found Dermatitis-Ltd on the internet for dermatitis and wondered if it might work for me. I tried it. I rub a very small amount 2-3 times per day, and it works. I haven't had a flare up since (it's been about 8 weeks so far). While my fingertips aren't totally perfect (I still get some dryness occasionally), they have significantly improved. No more peeling, cracking or pain. I can hardly believe it. Thank you so much for this marvelous product.

Defining Dermatitis

2011-03-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

Dermatitis is inflammation of the various levels of the dermis which is the second layer of the skin. The dermis contains sweat glands, blood vessels and nerves to provide sensations of pleasure, pain, pressure, itch, or temperature. The dermis is composed of tissue types of collagen, elastic tissue, and reticular fibers. Any rash or inflammation such as psoriasis, eczema, skin cancer, seborrhea, etc. is dermatitis. Specific types of dermatitis are as follows: allergic contact dermatitis which is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction involving allergens and antibodies, contact dermatitis is due to exposure to irritating chemicals or detergents, atopic dermatitis which is an allergic reaction that is accompanied by hay fever, asthma, and very dry skin.

The Facts on Dermatitis

2011-03-02T04:22:00.000-08:00

Dermatitis is the most common inflammatory disease of the skin. It affects 15 million adults and children - 6% of all Americans. It nearly always begins within the first 5 years of life and while 50% of cases will be outgrown, the remainder will persist throughout a lifetime.

The exact cause of the condition is not known, but genetic factors are thought to play a role in the development of this disease.

Persons with dermatitis often have allergies or asthma, as well. Various materials such as wool can cause a worsening of symptoms.

Dermatitis appears as redness, scaling and/or small blisters (vesicles) on the head, face, neck, or the insides of the elbows, wrists, and knees. These characteristic features are often masked by secondary lesions such as crusting, excoriations, infection, or irritation from topical treatments.

There is no cure for dermatitis. Current therapy is directed at suppressing the inflammation and reducing triggering factors with topical treatments and ultraviolet light therapy.

Treatment Tips for Dermatitis

2011-02-22T11:17:00.000-08:00

Initial and ongoing treatment for dermatitis should include: Avoiding dry skin. Keep your skin hydrated through proper bathing and using moisturizers. This includes bathing in warm water, bathing for only 3 to 5 minutes, avoiding gels and bath oils, and using only nondrying soaps; Apply a moisturizer immediately after bathing; avoiding irritants that causes a rash or make a rash worse. These include soaps that dry the skin, perfumes, and scratchy clothing or bedding; Avoiding possible allergens that cause a rash or make a rash worse. These may include dust and dust mites, animal dander, and certain foods, such as eggs, peanuts, milk, wheat, or soy products; Controlling itching and scratching. Keep your fingernails trimmed and filed smooth to help prevent damaging the skin when scratching. You may want to use protective dressings to keep from rubbing the affected area. Put mittens or cotton socks on a baby's hands to help prevent him or her from scratching the area.

Psoriasis is a Variation of Dermatitis

2011-02-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

A variation of dermatitis is psoriasis. The symptoms of psoriasis include itching, cracking, stinging, burning, or bleeding. Research indicates these symptoms are usually worse in the winter months due to the lack of sunlight and low indoor humidity. The skin is most likely to crack at the joints where the body bends or in areas where the individual fails to refrain from scratching. Scratching can also lead to bleeding and infection, which is why it should be avoided at all costs. Psoriasis has also been known to affect fingernails and toe nails by causing pits or dents in them. There is also the possibility that the soft tissue inside the mouth and genitalia can be affected. In some cases, individuals experience joint inflammation, which can lead to the development of arthritis symptoms. Each type of psoriasis has it's own distinct symptoms.

Itchy Skin Can Be More Than a Physical Problem

2011-01-02T11:03:00.000-08:00

Chronically itchy skin can take not only a physical toll but a psychological one as well, a new study suggests.
Research has linked various skin conditions, such as severe acne, psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema, to higher risks of depression, anxiety and stress in some individuals. But it has not been clear whether chronic itchiness -- a common symptom of skin disorders -- can cause its own distress.

Dermatitis-Ltd tells us it is important in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis to treat the cause of the disease and the aggravating factors in as many ways as possible. Those who modify their lifestyles, mind their eating habits, and reduce their level of stress often experience a much greater degree of eczema and psoriasis clearing. There are several excellent methods of stress reduce to aid in eczema and psoriasis control.

Stress is the body's reaction to a perceived threat. Adrenaline and hormones are released, and the nervous system is activated, sharpening our senses, but simultaneously our pulse raises, our muscles tense and our immune system begins to shut down. Those that cannot relieve stress as needed may experience fatigue, upset stomach, and frequent headaches. Adult acne and rosacea are sometimes by-products of stress and/or dehydration.

Avoid stressful situations. Anger, embarrassment and fright may all result in flushing and trigger rosacea symptoms.

You can combat stress by changing your situation, your attitude toward people and things (we can learn to be positive), and taking the personal time out to have fun and friendship. Sleep eight hours or more per night to help alleviate stress. Caffeine, being a stimulant, can make you hyper and cause difficulty in sleeping.
Stimulants such as coffee, tea, cigarettes, and excessive sugar from sweets and soda are vascular dilators and should be avoided. Sodas (soft drinks, pop) containing aspartame and or NutraSweet cause excessive redness in approximately 30% of rosacea sufferers and should be avoided. Anything that affects the entire body, brain, and nervous system to awaken it in the morning or stimulate it during the day can easily stimulate the sebaceous glands to secrete more oil that has to leave the body via the pores. Also, stimulants create stress.

Aerobic exercise is a great way to alkalize your body by replacing carbon dioxide with oxygen. However, any exercise should be moderated to prevent a build-up of lactic acid, an acidic byproduct of muscle activity. When your muscles begin to "burn," you know that lactic acid is building up. If you exercise regularly, try to break up your sessions for a maximum of thirty minutes at a time and remember to drink more water on days you are exercising. Otherwise, fifteen minutes of aerobic exercise each day would be a good start.

Hand Dermatitis

2010-12-02T08:35:00.000-08:00

Hand dermatitis appears as intensely itchy blisters on the hands and fingers. This form of dermatitis may also occur of the soles of the feet. When it affects the hands it’s called cheiropompholyx and pedopompholyx when it affects the feet. It is also known as pompholyx, keratolysis exfoliativa, or vesicular eczema of the hands and/or feet. The cause of this pattern of eczema is not fully understood but in some cases there is a history of allergic contact dermatitis especially to nickel. Very often no specific allergen is found despite extensive patch testing. This form of eczema is aggravated by stress.

Treat Dermatitis With Dermatitis-Ltd

2010-08-20T08:31:00.000-07:00

Dermatitis-Ltd is designed for use on sensitive or inflamed skin as the result of various forms of dermatitis. Within this website, you will find information for the treatemnt of the symptoms of dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. Most products for dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis usually have side effects of being messy, smelly or thinning the skin such as steroids do and still do not solve the problems and often complicates them. Dermatitis-Ltd is unlike anything you have tried before. The application of Dermatitis-Ltd is a very elegant, simple two second process. Simply cleanse the affected area, leaves the skin damp and glides the smooth as glass Dermatitis-Ltd disk over the affected area to dissolve a very small invisible amount of the ingredients on to the skin with the application being sufficient for the ingredients to penetrate and migrate to other skin areas. Penetration and drying will take place in less than one minute allowing for easy application.

The Symptoms of Peri-Oral Dermatitis

2010-07-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

When treating the symptoms of facial skin conditions, you may encounter a rosacea-like eruption around the mouth area. Known as perioral dermatitis, perioral refers to the facial area around the mouth while dermatitis pertains to inflammation, redness, or irritation of the skin. This inflammation generally consists of small red bumps or even pus bumps and mild peeling as the skin is extremely aggravated.

Perioral dermatitis is often aggravated by fluoridated or tartar-control toothpaste, chapstick, the ingredients in lipstick, and mouthwash. It is also believed that cinnamon, cosmetics, moisturizers, topical steroids, and even residue from asthma inhalers containing steroids contribute to perioral dermatitis. Hormones, sunlight, and stress can cause perioral dermatitis to be more severe. Perioral dermatitis is a common skin problem that mostly affects young women, however, occasionally men and children are affected by it.

Perioral dermatitis symptoms characteristically involve the mouth area, but do not affect the lips themselves. There may also be some flaking of the skin at the site of occurrence. Many times if the flaking is isolated to the lip area it may be mistaken for chapped lips.

Often the skin around the nose is affected too, and sometimes it can affect the area under and around the eyes. When perioral dermatitis expands to include the eye area, it should more correctly be termed "periocular", or even, "periorificial" dermatitis. Periocular dermatitis consists of similar flaking and redness around the eyes and eyelids with or without the appearance of small papules or pustules.

Treatment of Dermatitis

2010-06-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

Treatment of dermatitis is a mixture of both science and art, and fine-tuning may improve the outcome, even with relatively small changes. Many people with dermatitis will learn that their disease is primarily based on an allergic reaction to something. Indeed, the hope of every person with dermatitis is for a real cure. The clinical management of this disease remains quite complex, with much trial and error required. It's always a good idea to look into any rumored new therapy, whether you actually try it or not. And if you do try it, don't be too put off by apparent failures, or too ecstatic at what appear to be promising results. Although your disease is stubborn, it is also manageable.

The symptoms of dermatitis occur due to the overproduction of damaging inflammatory skin cells and continue to worsen as a result of certain factors in the environment. The cause of Allergic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, and Atopic Dermatitis can all be traced to environmental factors. Foods, shampoos, soaps, laundry detergents, synthetic fabrics, stress, and temperature changes are capable of irritating already existing eczema (Dermatology Times, Oct. 1998) and may even be the cause of a new eczema condition. Although eczema is a chronic skin condition, there are various forms of treatment and interventions available to help control eczema. Eczema or dermatitis is a hereditary condition and thus is not contagious to others. The eczema-affected skin is very sensitive and the individual must be aware of the trigger factors and try to avoid them.

Cradle Cap is a Form of Dermatitis

2010-04-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

Cradle cap is a crusting and scaling rash found on the scalps of many healthy babies. The sebaceous glands in their skin are hyper-activated often because of mom’s hormones that crossed the placenta just before birth. These glands pump out a greasy substance that keeps the old skin cells attached as it dries. Cradle cap can occur in any baby, and most commonly begins sometime in the first 3 months. The baby develops patchy scales and redness on the scalp, even though the early baby pictures showed beautiful baby skin. The scales may appear cracked, greasy, or even weeping. The same rash is often prominent around the ear or the eyebrows. It may appear in other locations as well, where it is called seborrheic dermatitis rather than cradle cap.

Dermatitis Skin Bumps and Spots

2010-03-30T11:26:00.000-07:00

The majority of skin bumps, spots, growths, and moles are harmless. Colored skin spots, also called pigmented lesions such as freckles, moles, or flesh-colored skin spots, or growths including warts or skin tags may be present at birth or develop as the skin ages.

Some common skin growths include:

Moles. Most people have between 10 and 40 moles. You may continue to form new moles until you are in your 40s. Moles may change over time. They can gradually get bigger, develop a hair, become more raised, get lighter in color, fade away, or fall off.

Skin tags are harmless growths that appear in the skin folds on the neck, under the arms, under the breasts, or in the groin. They begin as small fleshy brown spots and may grow a small stalk. Skin tags never turn into skin cancer.

Seborrheic keratoses are harmless skin growths that are found most often on the chest or back, occasionally on the scalp, face, or neck, and are less common below the waist. They begin as slightly raised tan spots that develop a crusty appearance like that of a wart. Seborrheic keratoses never turn into skin cancer. For more information, see the topic Seborrheic Keratosis.

Treatment of a skin change depends on what is causing the skin change and what other symptoms you are having. Moles, skin tags, and other growths can be removed if they become irritated, bleed, or cause embarrassment.

Perioral Dermatitis May be Mistaken For Rosacea Or Acne

2010-03-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

When treating acne, one sometimes sees an acne-like eruption around the mouth area. Known as peri-oral dermatitis, peri-oral refers to the facial area around the mouth while dermatitis pertains to inflammation, redness or irritation of the skin. In addition, there are usually small red bumps or even pus bumps and mild peeling as the skin is extremely aggravated. Peri-oral dermatitis symptoms characteristically involve the mouth area, but generally do not affect the lips themselves. You may also notice flaking of the skin at the site of occurrence. Many times if the flaking is isolated to the lip area it may be mistaken for chapped lips. Often the skin around the nose is affected too, and sometimes it can affect the area under and around the eyes.

When peri-oral dermatitis expands to include the eye area, it should more correctly be termed "peri-ocular", or even, "peri-orificial" dermatitis. Peri-ocular dermatitis consists of similar flaking and redness with or without the appearance of small papules or pustules. This condition may be wrongfully thought of as acne while others believe it to be a component of rosacea.

The most common causes of peri-oral dermatitis are topical steroid use and fluoridated and/or tartar control toothpaste. Peri-oral dermatitis is often aggravated by fluoridated or tartar-control toothpaste, chapstick, the ingredients in lipstick, and mouthwash. The International Rosacea Foundation, recommends discontinuing the use of fluoridated or tartar control toothpaste for six months may help reduce the symptoms of peri-oral dermatitis. Peri-oral dermatitis is often aggravated by fluoridated or tartar-control toothpaste, chapstick, the ingredients in lipstick, and mouthwash. Peri-oral dermatitis is a common skin problem that mostly affects young women, however, occasionally men and children are affected by it.

The easiest first step for improvement is the prevention by eliminating those factors mentioned above so that the affected perioral dermatitis area may heal. Sufferers of peri-oral dermatitis tend to have oily skin. Some people are more susceptible to peri-oral dermatitis than others, and recent research indicates the occurrence may be related in part to a proliferation of bacteria in the hair follicles.The following conditions or circumstances have been found to aggravate Peri-oral dermatitis:

1) Cleansing the facial skin with the wrong type of soap. A soap-free cleanser such as Cetaphil or Neutrogena is recommended. Avoid harsh scrubbing of the area.

2) Facial scrubs or acne treatments may cause or worsen the condition.

3) Applying face creams regularly to the area bounded by the cheek folds and chin, or around the eyes in the case of peri-ocular dermatitis. These creams include moisturizers, anti-wrinkle creams, cream cleansers, make-up foundation, and sunscreens. Many of the moisturizers and creams currently on the market contain sunscreens or ingredients that can cause or worsen the peri-oral condition. Anti-wrinkle or anti-aging creams contain retinols, citric acids, beta-hydroxy acids or alpha hydroxy acids which increased facial redness and skin irritation.

4) Applying topical steroids to the facial area. The more potent the steroid cream, the more rapid and severe the occurrence of the peri-oral dermatitis.

5) Lip balms, glosses and lipsticks that extend over the actual lip area can also aggravate the condition.

FOOT ECZEMA

2009-12-31T08:04:00.000-08:00

Juvenile Plantar Eczema or "foot eczema" is skin inflammation triggered by friction of the sole of the foot often from rubbing against the inside of an ill-fitting synthetic athletic shoe or trainer. Juvenile Plantar Eczema is also known as juvenile plantar dermatitis, forefoot dermatitis, atopic winter feet, dermatitis plantaris sicca, forefoot eczema, peri-digital dermatitis, sweating sock dermatitis.

Juvenile plantar eczema most often occurs in boys between 3-15 years of age, but it occasionally occurs in adults and females. When it occurs in children it does tend to gradually improve. It is usually most severe during the summer months. The synthetic materials or chemicals used in the shoes or socks often play an important role in foot eczema. Sweat retention and covering of the feet by woolen or polyester socks aggravates this condition. Keeping the foot for a long time in a shoe or sock without aeration is an important triggering factor. Changing to leather footwear and wearing cotton socks may help relieve the problem. Above all else it is important that the footwear fits well and the sole of the foot is not sliding against the insole of the shoe. Walking barefooted on woolen or polyester carpets may contribute to juvenile plantar eczema as this may lead to static electric charges that may play a role in skin dryness and initiation of this condition.

Juvenile plantar eczema is characterized by symmetrical smooth, red-glazed appearance of the skin with fissuring, loss of epidermal ridge pattern, and fine scaling. It causes the sole of the foot to become red, hot, and sore. The most common symptoms are redness, irritation, cracking, and soreness, itching is seldom reported. The plantar surfaces of the larger toes are the first areas to be involved. Other weight-bearing areas are subsequently affected, but there is relative sparing of the instep and inter-digital web spaces of the foot.

The symptoms of foot eczema are characterized by the sudden onset (1 to 3 days) of deep-seated, clear blisters. In the later stages, scaling, thickening, and painful fissuring may occur. Secondary bacterial infection is very often a complication with Juvenile plantar eczema. Successful treatment may include wearing socks that are 100% cotton and changing shoes every day -- alternate 2 to 3 pairs of shoes. Follow recommended treatments for at least 4 months after skin has healed. It takes a long time for skin to recover, and unless you're careful the eczema will reoccur.

Dermatitis, Eczema, Psoriasis, and Related Skin Conditions

2009-11-13T08:14:00.000-08:00

Learn more about dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and related skin conditions at The International Eczema-Psoriasis Foundation.

There are approximately 176 different skin conditions. The four most common are as follow:

1) Dermatitis is a general term that describes an itchy skin with rashes or inflammation of the skin. There are different types of dermatitis, including seborrheic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Though the disorder can have many causes and occur in many forms, it usually involves swollen, reddened skin. Dermatitis is a common condition that is not life-threatening or contagious. But, it can make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. A combination of self-care steps and medications can help you treat dermatitis. Learn more about dermatitis and Dermatitis-Ltd III.
2) Melanomas are malignant tumors and are one type of skin cancer but they cause the majority of skin cancer related deaths. The Melanoma's cause is due to uncontrolled growth of pigment cells (elanocytes). The best most effective treatment is surgical removal as soon as possible before it grows further. No further information is provided about melanomas here as it is more of a surgical solution that is to be quickly removed so we will continue with less complex skin disorders here such as acne.

3) Acne occurs when the skin pores become blocked, the skin oil called sebum becomes trapped and bacteria growth continues until it erupts. When the trapped sebum and bacteria stay below the skin surface, a whitehead or pustule is formed which finally erupts as to the various forms of acne while whiteheads appear as small yellowish white lesions. Many acne patients firmly believe that their acne is influenced by dietary factors, while in previous decades, doctors thought that diet had little influence on acne. For a bullet proof medical product, you may be very impressed with Acne-Ltd III. There is surprisingly little good scientific evidence to support or refute diet as a factor influencing acne, as some experts commonly believe. Most dermatologists are awaiting confirmatory research linking diet and acne but some support the idea that acne sufferers should experiment with their diets, and refrain from consuming such foods if they find such food affects the severity of their acne. This also applies to the belief that eating chocolate directly causes acne. A most generous large founding gift from the Milton S. Hershey Trust paid for the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital and has continued with $5 to $10 million per year. Now you may figure out why there is a 'conflict' of diet effects on acne and many skin disorders.

4. Rosacea is characterized most often with the prominent red face, sometimes papules without pus and pimples with pus. More advanced cases have spidery blood vessels composed of arteries and veins. And the most advanced has a bulbulous nose. Rosacea is the most often misunderstood dermatological disorder. Any of these conditions can occur alone or in a combination of two or more which can sometimes make the diagnosis difficult. Some very insightful information on the causes of skin conditions can be found on the Rosacea-Ltd Etiology and Research Page.

Dermatitis-Ltd

2009-10-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Dermatitis-Ltd is a blend of soothing, beneficial minerals specially formulated to work synergistically with your skin to improve the appearance of dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis-related conditions. Dermatits sufferers have reported an excellent improvement in the appearance of their skin condition after stopping their current dermatitis treatments and applying Dermatitis-Ltd III. Dermatitis-Ltd has found that most dermatitis sufferers have become frustrated by spending many years and dollars in their search for the best dermatitis treatment. Dermatitis-Ltd is now in their seventh successful year of serving dermatitis sufferers throughout the world. Over 98% of Dermatitis-Ltd III users report great satisfaction with the condition of their skin even where dermatitis problems were present for years. Dermatitis-Ltd III does not stain clothes or bedding, does not smell, and dries invisibly on the skin in less than one minute.

Many existing Dermatitis-Ltd users had been frustrated for many years with unsuccessful or marginal results from other dermatitis treatments. Many of you will note that prescribed dermatitis medications such as steroids, retinoids, coal tar, anti-fungal agents and various light/ laser therapies did not work for you and, in fact, can cause additional damage to the skin.

Hair Dye Causing Increase in Dermatitis and Facial Swelling

2007-02-13T11:27:00.000-08:00

More people using hair dye to color their hair are experiencing an allergic reaction such as dermatitis and facial swelling and the problem is more prevalent in teenagers who are seen sporting different hair colors in keeping with a trend.
According to John P. McFadden of St. John's Institute of Dermatology in London, more than two-thirds of hair dyes currently contain para-phenylenediamine, or PPD, which is responsible for the problems. More people are experiencing positive allergic reactions on patch testing.
Because of reactions and other allergies, PPD and other related agents have been banned from hair dyes in Germany, France and Sweden.
According to an editorial published in the British Medical Journal dermatitis is the most common form of allergic reaction in the people using hair dyes. The symptoms of the disease include red, sore itchy rashes caused by exposing skin to things like chemicals, medications, certain plants, jewelry, fragrance, cosmetics, metals, creams, etc.
A recent survey in London found that contact dermatitis cases had doubled over the past six years.

Dermatitis

2007-01-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

Occupational Dermatitis

2007-01-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

Hand eczema often results from a combination of causes, including genetic makeup, injury, contact with irritants and allergy. It is frequently caused or aggravated by work, when it is known as occupational dermatitis. Hand dermatitis is particularly common in industries involving cleaning, catering, metalwork, hairdressing, healthcare and mechanical work.Hand dermatitis varies in severity. It may affect the backs of the hands, the palms or both sites. Often it starts as a mild intermittent complaint, but it can become increasingly severe and persistent. The affected skin initially becomes red and dry, then progresses to itchy bumps and fluid-filled blisters, scaling, cracking, weeping and swelling. Bacterial infection can result in pustules, crusting and pain. Longstanding dermatitis at the ends of the fingers may result in deformed nails. Hand dermatitis can spread to affect other sites, particularly the forearms and feet.

Types Of Dermatitis

2006-12-11T11:31:00.000-08:00

The more common types of dermatitis include:
Contact Dermatitis is dermatitis caused by physical contact with an irritant or allergen;
Atopic Dermatitis is a hereditary dermatitis thought to be caused by an allergic reaction;
Stasis Dermatitis is dermatitis of the leg area due to poor circulation;
Seborrheic Dermatitis appears as flaking or redness of the skin;
Neurodermatitis is dermatitis caused by repeated scratching or chafing.

Stress Triggers Dermatitis

2006-12-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

Scientists have long sought to learn whether and how stress can lead to skin problems. A new study in mice shows that a stress-triggered hormone could worsen or even cause skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema.
The scientists found that blocking the hormone called glucocorticoid—which increases in stressful times—resulted in better skin.
Understanding how glucocorticoids work could help scientists come up with ways to prevent human skin problems triggered by psychological stress, said lead researcher Kenneth Feingold of the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco and the University of California at San Francisco.
"Here you have things going on in your mind that affect what's going on in your skin," Feingold told LiveScience.Scratching the Surface
Eczema, also called dermatitis, is an inflammation of the skin with many causes and forms. It causes swollen, reddened and itchy skin.

New Insights Into Atopic Dermatitis

2006-11-02T07:46:00.000-08:00

Recent insights into the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD) and its role as a possible precursor to food and other allergies are driving treatments that seek to restore the skin's barrier function, experts say.
"The prevalence of AD is increasing, and it affects between 10 percent and 17 percent of the total United States population," with 80 percent to 90 percent of patients being diagnosed before age five and about half of them eventually outgrowing it (Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 1997 Sep;79(3):197-211), says Leon Kircik, M.D., clinical associate professor of dermatology at Indiana University, Indianapolis.
One in five affected
"More than 15 million patients have symptoms of AD," including 20 percent of American children and infants, he adds.
"And 60 percent of affected infants continue to have symptoms in adulthood (Am Acad Dermatol. 2005 Jul;53(1 Suppl 1):S86-93)," Dr. Kircik says.
"Most of the time, patients with AD also suffer from secondary infections," including those caused by community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), Dr. Kircik notes.
Therefore, he says, "I suggest culturing every secondary infection" occurring with AD.
AD also can be a marker for other atopic diseases such as asthma, food allergies, hay fever, allergies and rhinitis, Dr. Kircik asserts.
There's also a theory that if one prevents AD from developing or from becoming severe, one will be able to prevent asthma developing later in life. The concept is called the atopic march (BMJ. 2002 Jun 8;324(7350): 1376-1379), Dr. Kircik explains.
Research inroads
Over the past several years, research into the pathogenesis of AD also has focused on the possibility that patients with this disease have a functional problem with their skin barrier, says Amy E. Gilliam, M.D., assistant clinical professor of pediatrics and dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco.
In particular, she says researchers have shown that this barrier dysfunction in patients with AD correlates with a reduction in ceramides, one of the three key stratum corneum lipids.
"Ceramides may also influence inflammatory responses, in addition to their contribution to effective barrier function," Dr. Gilliam says.
"Another recent development in the understanding of the pathogenesis of AD involves a study showing that there may be a genetic predisposition for AD," she says.
In particular, researchers have shown that an inherited reduction in the expression of filaggrin, a key protein involved in the formation of the skin barrier, is a major predisposing factor in AD (Nat Genet. 2006 Apr;38[4]:441-446. Epub 2006 Mar 19).
"This genetic mutation in filaggrin in affected families further supports the hypothesis that an impaired skin barrier plays a key role in the pathogenesis of AD," Dr. Gilliam says.
Similarly, Dr. Gilliam notes other studies have shown that the skin of patients with AD is deficient in certain antimicrobial peptides, specifically beta defensins and cathelicidins, which contribute to the skin's barrier against infection (J Invest Dermatol. 2005 Jul;125[1]:9-13).
Pharmaceutical armamentarium
In keeping with the foregoing developments, manufacturers have begun offering ceramide-based moisturizing creams and other barrier repair formulations, sources say.
Ceramide-based creams include TriCeram (Osmotics), EpiCeram (Ceragenix) and TriXera (Eau Thermale Avene), while products that have earned Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval include Atopiclair (Sinclair Pharmaceuticals Ltd./Chester Valley) and Mimyx (PEA, Steifel), Dr. Gilliam says.
"Atopiclair and Mimyx do not contain ceramides, but multiple other agents that have anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic properties," she tells Dermatology Times.
Both are indicated for the management and relief of itching, burning and pain associated with a variety of inflammatory and allergic dermatoses including atopic and contact dermatitis, Dr. Gilliam explains.
However, she says, "One of the caveats one should consider is that Atopiclair contains shea butter, which is a derivative of shea nut oil," to which patients may be allergic.
Moreover, Dr. Kircik says that in a study that compared Mimyx, Atopiclair and Eucerin (10 percent urea cream, Beiersdorf), "Mimyx decreased transepidermal water loss twice as well as Atopiclair and three times as well as petrolatum."
Overall, Dr. Kircik says, "The treatment of AD is changing."
Originally, he says physicians relied heavily on topical steroids, which are still used, but less frequently due to concerns for side effects such as systemic absorption, HPA suppression, atrophy, telangiectasia formation and tachyphylaxis.
Next, he says, "Everybody jumped on the steroid-sparing agents, namely the topical calcineurin inhibitors Elidel (pimecrolimus, Novartis) and Protopic (tacrolimus, Astellas)."
However, Dr. Kircik says that although dermatologists disagree with the FDA's decision to add black box warnings to these products' labels, "It has affected our prescribing patterns because everybody's afraid medically and legally to use those products on children less than two years old."
On a positive note, he says that the approval of Mimyx, Atopiclair and Biafine (trolamine/sodium alginate, OrthoNeutrogena) as FDA 510(k) devices means these products can be used in any age and in pregnant patients.
However, he says, "The problem is that because they're considered devices and not drugs, they're not covered by most prescription insurance plans."
A place for probiotics?
As for probiotics, Dr. Gilliam says that while studies suggest they may be helpful in treating AD (Arch Dis Child. 2005 Sep;90[9]:892-897. Epub 2005 Apr 29), she reserves them as a backup for patients who already are using maximal topical therapy and have motivated parents.
"The issue is where does one get them, and how does one practically recommend them to patients? They're available at health food stores, but it can be difficult to ensure that patients get the correct formulation and dose," Dr. Gilliam says.
Overall, she says, "The jury's still out in terms of how effective they are, but it can't hurt to try them."

Disclosures: Dr. Kircik serves as a consultant, investigator and speaker for OrthoNeutrogena, Steifel, Novartis and Astellas. Dr. Gilliam reports no financial interests relevant to this article.
For more information:
Leung DY et al. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 1997 Sep;79(3):197-211; National Institute of Arthritis
and Musculoskeletal Diseases /NIAMS; Abramovits W. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2005 Jul;53(1 Suppl 1):S86-93; Barnetson RS, Rogers M. BMJ. 2002 Jun 8;324(7350):1376-9; Palmer CN et al. Nat Genet. 2006 Apr;38(4):441-446. Epub 2006 Mar 19; Braff MH et al. J Invest Dermatol. 2005 Jul;125(1):9-13; Weston S et al. Arch Dis Child. 2005 Sep;90(9):892-897. Epub 2005 Apr 29.

Identifying The Cause Of Dermatitis

2006-10-31T10:32:00.000-08:00

The steps taken to identify the cause of dermatitis are akin to a detective story, in which a few clues may lead to a suspected allergen or irritant. Try to remember anything that changed prior to the reaction.
Was there any change in clothing, detergents, personal care items, behaviors, habits, or foods? A specific area of the body may point to a possible offender. For instance, if dermatitis is confined to the eyelids, the culprit may be a recent change in makeup procedures. The preservatives, vehicles, or colorants in eye makeup or eyelid cleansing products should be reviewed. Hair care products, eyelash curlers, or other facial cosmetics may also be the cause.
If an allergy to a ring has developed, often, there will be a ring of dermatitis under the ring. If the ring is a gold alloy, allergy to nickel in the ring is possible, but the probable cause is a detergent or other product to which the hands are exposed. An allergen or irritant residue can remain under the ring, where dermatitis eventually develops. To reduce this problem it is best to remove the ring until the hands are thoroughly washed and completely dried.
Parents may find that a child has dermatitis around the mouth. If the irritation extends in a complete circle at least one or more inches out from the lips, the culprit may be lip-licking. The child may have a nervous habit of licking the lips and face as far as the tongue will extend. Oral fluids are irritating to skin with constant exposure, and the child needs to be taught that licking causes the problem rather than soothes it. Other causes of lip inflammation include lip makeup, ingestion of oranges, apples, mangoes, potatoes, carrots, tomatoes and kiwi.
An underappreciated sensitizer is neomycin; a component of the most commonly sold topical antibiotic products (e.g., Mycitracin, Neosporin). These products are only safe for preventing infections in minor injuries. If a person develops an allergic reaction when using them as directed, they must be immediately discontinued. Since the appearance of an allergy to neomycin can cause cross-sensitivities with other aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin, one should choose a topical antibiotic free of neomycin.
Patients using veterinary products, such as Bag Balm, as hand softening agents may develop a quinolone sensitivity. In order to avoid this, you should be urged to only use products labeled for human use. Benzocaine is a sensitizer that is found in topical products for itch, burns, dermatitis, canker sores, insect bites, teething, and hemorrhoids. If you develop a sensitivity to these products, an alternate local anesthetics (e.g., pramoxine) should be chosen.

Alternative Treatments May Not Reduce Dermatitis Symptoms

2006-10-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

Call it swimming against the tide of alternative medicine. It is a futile effort costing taxpayers tens of millions of dollars a year.

Last week’s study showing that the widely touted and sold supplement DHEA does nothing to slow the effects of aging was only the latest major piece of research with powerfully negative results from the National Institutes of Health Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. Previous placebo-controlled trials proved the uselessness of St. John’s Wort for depression and saw palmetto for enlarged prostates, shark cartilage for cancer, echinacea for the common cold and glucosamine plus chondroitin sulphate for arthritis.
But it doesn’t matter much — few seem to care.

The NIH launched its office of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in 1991 in response to the public’s huge interest in finding ways around mainstream medicine. At first, those heading the effort brought dubious credentials. Much of the research ranged from mediocre (meaningless animal studies) to laughable (passing magnets over sore knees).
But, in 1999, with the name changed to the National Center for CAM, Dr. Stephen E. Straus took over. Straus, who spent much of his career at the National Institute on Allergy and Infectious Diseases, enjoys a reputation as an accomplished scientist. In his time as director, the Center for CAM has spent much of its $122 million annual budget on clinical trials putting most popular alternative treatments to the same rigorous tests as those required of pharmaceuticals and medical devices before approval by the Food and Drug Administration.

Except for acupuncture, already proven effective in China, almost all the research has come to the same conclusion: the stuff doesn’t work.

The powerful industry that sells these products ignores the results and often finds allies who believe in them because of an anecdote or advertisement.

After the chondroitin results appeared, Jane Brody, the longtime health columnist for the New York Times who has always prided herself in offering advice based on scientific research, wrote that she would continue taking chondroitin for her knee pain because “it transformed my 11-year-old spaniel from an arthritic wreck into a companion with puppylike agility, giving him nearly six more active years."

CAM means many things — often just the search for care beyond the 12-minute visit to a harried physician. Some treatments under the alternative medicine heading, like massage, clearly do no harm and could make anyone feel better. CAM can offer a vehicle for a sick person simply to spend time with someone attentive to their symptoms.

As long as it doesn't kill anyoneSo-called “dietary supplements,” such as DHEA, saw palmetto and chondroitin, present the biggest problem.

Marketers often sell them under the guise of a mom-and-pop alternative to big pharma. Yet the $29 billion-a-year dietary supplement industry wields such power that it got Congress to pass a law in 1994 that basically frees it to peddle almost anything that doesn’t kill people with claims of medical benefit that need not be proven.

No doubt some of the thousands of products sold as dietary supplements work well, but the industry that sells them has neither motivation nor desire to know which ones work and which don’t.

Neither do many of those who advocate their use, such as the guru of alternative medicine Dr. Andrew Weil.

On his Web site someone recently inquired if a supplement called NT was useful for fatigue. “I'm not convinced by the scant literature on the subject that there's anything to recommend taking NT Factor for fatigue,” Dr. Weil replied, in a surprisingly forthright response.

But, then he added that the fatigue sufferer might want to try “Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), coenzyme Q10, the Ayurvedic herb ashwaganda or cordyceps, a traditional Chinese medicinal mushroom that may help fight fatigue and boost energy levels.”
I can find no evidence that any of these relieve fatigue any better than NT.

It gets better.

Dr. Weill concluded his answer by advising that a better-studied treatment might be something called Juvenon. At the bottom of the Web page appeared an ad from the manufacturer of Juvenon with the quote “I take Juvenon every day — Dr. Andrew Weil.”

Such crass commercialism would put most big drug companies to shame.

Dr. Weill has claimed he approaches medicine with a new way of thinking. But, in the end, no matter what the hype, either something is effective or it isn’t. If no one really cares, maybe we should stop spending millions to find the answer.

By Robert Bazell
Chief science and health correspondent
NBC News

SkinMedica Receives FDA Approval For Dermatitis Treatment

2006-10-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

SkinMedica Receives FDA Approval
Pharmaceutical company SkinMedica Inc. announced Oct. 23 that the company’s new drug application has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, allowing SkinMedica to take another step forward into a billion dollar market.
SkinMedica’s dermatologic gel Desonate — created in partnership with Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences — is a corticosteroid treatment that helps improve the appearance of skin affected by atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis affects more than 15 million people and gives patients itchy skin, leading to rash, redness, swelling and scaling.
Steroids are considered the best treatment for atopic dermatitis and more than $1 billion in prescriptions are written annually by physicians in the United States for the treatment of inflammatory dermatoses.
Carlsbad-based SkinMedica specializes in developing dermatological products to improve the appearance of skin.
— Andy Killion

Seborrheic dermatitis treatmenrt

2006-10-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

By Jill Stein
RHODES, GREECE --
MAS064D cream is safe and effective for the management of mild to moderate seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD) of the face, according to results presented here at the 15th Congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV).MAS064D is a steroid-free cream that contains multiple active ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties and is approved in the European Union as a class II medical device.Stefano Veraldi, MD, specialist, department of dermatology and venereology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy, presented results in 60 adults who applied the MASO64D cream or a vehicle cream to the face 3 times per day for 28 days."Mainstream treatment options for SD include topical corticosteroids, topical and oral antimycotics, and a range of ointments, emollients and moisturizers, although the quality of evidence supporting their efficacy is often low," Dr. Veraldi said.The primary efficacy endpoint was the investigator's global assessment (IGA) score on day 28 compared with baseline (graded on a scale of 0 (clear) to 4 (severe). A score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) was classified as treatment success; a score of 2-4 (mild, moderate or severe, respectively) was classified as failure.Results showed that MADO64D had a high IGA success rate. A 4-week course of MAS064D was effective in 68% of 40 of the MASO64D group compared with 11% of 18 patients in the vehicle group (P < .0001), Dr. Veraldi noted.Reductions in erythema and desquamation scores between baseline and day 28 were significantly higher in the MAS064D group (P < .0001 and P < .01, respectively).For pruritus, MAS064D was significantly superior to vehicle at day 14 and 28. Scores on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) show that patients rated pruritus as having decreased by 20 mm at day 14 and 28 in those receiving MASO46D, whereas vehicle-treated patients showed no or slight improvement in their perception of pruritus at both time points.Patients' assessment of global response between baseline and day 28 showed statistically significant improvement at days 14 and 28 for the MAS064D group (P < .01 and P < .0001, respectively).No patient in the MASO64D group required rescue medication compared with 2 in the vehicle group.Two patients in each group (5% MAS064D; 10% vehicle) reported a total of 6 non-serious adverse events. One patient stopped MAS064D due to a flare.Dr. Veraldi said the study is the first pilot, randomized, double-blind, parallel-open group, vehicle-controlled, phase 4 study of the efficacy and safety of MASO64D in the treatment of adult patients with mild to moderate SD of the face.Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory disease of the skin characterized by erythema and scaling that is confined to areas such as the scalp, face, upper chest, shoulders, flexures, and pubis. The condition is frequently accompanied by itch.The study was sponsored by Sinclair Pharmaceuticals, Ltd and Chester Valley Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

FDA Grants Approval For Topical Non-Steroidal Treatment

2006-09-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

Ceragenix Pharmaceuticals, Inc., announced it has received 510K clearance from the FDA for its EpiCeram Skin Barrier Emulsion to improve dry skin conditions and relieve and manage the burning and itching associated with various dermatoses including atopic dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, radiation dermatitis, and other dry skin conditions by maintaining a moist wound and skin environment. This topical, non-steroidal treatment that consists of a specific combination of lipids will be available by prescription only.

The Facts On Baby Eczema

2006-09-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

If your baby has an itchy skin rash the problem may be eczema (also called atopic dermatitis). Baby eczema can crop up on a baby's cherubic skin when a child is as young as 2 months old. It generally appears on the forehead, cheeks, or scalp and sometimes spreads to the arms or chest. The rash often shows up as dry, thickened scaly skin, but is sometimes made up of tiny red bumps that may ooze or become infected if scratched. Eczema is thought to be a reaction to allergy-causing substances in the environment. About 10 percent of infants have eczema at some point, but many improve before they're 2 years old. Because the condition is often inherited, your child is more likely to develop eczema if you or some other close family member has any kind of allergic condition, says Amy Paller, professor of pediatrics and dermatology at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago.

Connetics Dermatitis Drug Succeeds On Second Trial

2006-09-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

Connetics Corp. said its experimental drug for seborrheic dermatitis, which had been rejected by U.S. regulators due to concerns about its effectiveness, showed favorable results in another late-stage trial.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration in November 2004 rejected the product, called Extina, after it failed in an earlier Phase III trial to prove superior to a placebo foam for the condition.
In the latest four week trial, however, Connetics said 56 percent of patients treated with Extina had an improvement in symptoms, compared with 42 percent of those receiving the placebo foam, a difference that was highly statistically significant.

Cobalis Drug Enters Phase III Clinical Trials

2006-09-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

Cobalis Corp. (OTC BB: CLSC), a pharmaceutical development company specializing in anti-allergy medications, announced that the Company has successfully completed the enrollment of a total of 1,551 patients across two identical Phase III Clinical Trials of its anti-allergy medication PreHistin(R) in patients with moderate to moderately severe seasonal allergic rhinitis. The trials are being conducted at 23 sites across the central, southern and eastern United States.
It is expected that the ten-week trials will be completed in November. Cobalis expects to report final data from these Phase III Clinical Trials in the first quarter of 2007, followed by submission of a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Dr. Gerald Yakatan, Cobalis' CEO, said, "I am very pleased with the speed and efficiency with which the patient enrollment was conducted, and I believe it is a reflection of the breadth of the market opportunity we are addressing. I would like to congratulate our clinical team on a job well done. Assuming a favorable trial outcome, we plan to expeditiously prepare and submit the NDA.
These twin studies, consisting of 788 and 763 patients, are anticipated to fulfill the requirement for the two Phase III double blind, placebo controlled studies typically required for FDA approval.

Cobalis Corp. is a specialty pharmaceutical development company specializing in medications to prevent and treat atopic disease, including allergies, migraine headache, atopic asthma and dermatitis. Its flagship drug candidate PreHistin is an allergy prevention medication. Cobalis plans to seek FDA approval to market PreHistin over-the-counter in the US. For further information, visit www.cobalis.com

Common Types Of Dermatitis

2006-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

The more common types of dermatitis include: Contact Dermatitis is dermatitis caused by physical contact with an irritant or allergen; Atopic Dermatitis is a hereditary dermatitis thought to be caused by an allergic reaction; Stasis Dermatitis is dermatitis of the leg area due to poor circulation; Seborrheic Dermatitis appears as flaking or redness of the skin; Neurodermatitis is dermatitis caused by repeated scratching or chafing.

Controlling Foot Eczema

2006-08-07T12:31:00.000-07:00

Athlete's foot is caused by a fungus that produces skin rashes, typically on the soles of the feet and between the toes. It usually appears as itchy, red patches of skin that burn, blister, flake or crack.
Since the fungus spreads in areas that are damp and sweaty, you should keep your feet clean and dry. Always wear socks, and look for all-natural fibers that absorb sweat. Also choose shoes that are well-ventilated, such as those with small holes or mesh.
Athlete's foot is easily spread, and is often found in public locker rooms, pool areas, and showers. To avoid contracting the fungus in these areas, always wear flip flops or some other type of shoe.
Treatment typically involves an over-the-counter antifungal cream or spray, which can clear up the fungus in a few weeks. If athlete's foot doesn't clear up or recurs, you should consult a doctor about a stronger treatment.
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Seborrheic Dermatitis: An Overview

2006-07-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Seborrheic Dermatitis: An Overview
ROBERT A. SCHWARTZ, M.D., M.P.H., CHRISTOPHER A. JANUSZ, M.D., and CAMILA K. JANNIGER, M.D.University of Medicine and Dentistry at New Jersey-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey

Seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp, central face, and anterior chest. In adolescents and adults, it often presents as scalp scaling (dandruff). Seborrheic dermatitis also may cause mild to marked erythema of the nasolabial fold, often with scaling. Stress can cause flare-ups. The scales are greasy, not dry, as commonly thought. An uncommon generalized form in infants may be linked to immunodeficiencies. Topical therapy primarily consists of antifungal agents and low-potency steroids. New topical calcineurin inhibitors (immunomodulators) sometimes are administered. (Am Fam Physician 2006;74:125-30. Copyright © 2006 American Academy of Family Physicians.)

Seborrheic dermatitis can affect patients from infancy to old age. The condition most commonly occurs in infants within the first three months of life and in adults at 30 to 60 years of age. In adolescents and adults, it usually presents as scalp scaling (dandruff) or as mild to marked erythema of the nasolabial fold during times of stress or sleep deprivation. The latter type tends to affect men more often than women and often is precipitated by emotional stress. An uncommon generalized form in infants may be linked to immunodeficiencies.

Infants with generalized seborrheic dermatitis, diarrhea, and failure to thrive should be evaluated for immunodeficiencies.

Seborrheic dermatitis and pityriasis capitis (cradle cap) are common in early childhood. According to one survey of 1,116 children, the overall age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of seborrheic dermatitis was 10 percent in boys and 9.5 percent in girls. The highest prevalence occurred in the first three months of life, decreasing rapidly by one year of age, and slowly decreasing over the next four years. Most patients (72 percent) had minimal to mild seborrheic dermatitis. Pityriasis capitis occurred in 42 percent of the children examined (86 percent had a minimal to mild case). Prevalence estimates for older persons are consistently higher than estimates for the general population.

The Seborrheic Dermatitis - Rosacea Connection

2006-06-27T07:38:00.001-07:00

Research by Bass & Boney Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in 1999 determined that patients with rosacea often have seborrheic dermatitis which co-exists in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition.1 In the summer of 2004, research by the National Rosacea Society verified these facts in a study of their own: “According to a new study, rosacea is the most common facial skin disorder overlapping with seborrheic dermatitis (SD), a chronic and recurring inflammatory condition characterized by a red, scaly or itchy rash often found in the creases around the nose, the inner eyebrows or as dandruff on the scalp. Dr. James Del Rosso, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Nevada, found that 26 percent of rosacea patients had facial SD and 28 percent had SD of the scalp.2
“ Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition which results in overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face. If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil. Seborrheic dermatitis usually affects the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the body, such as eyebrows, eyelids, the folds of the nose, lips, behind or inside the ears, in the external ear, the forehead and the chin and the skin of the trunk, particularly around the navel, in the skin folds under the arms, in the groin, or under the breasts. In infants seborrheic dermatitis is referred to as cradle cap or infantile eczema.

Associated Reference 1. Patients with Rosacea often have seborrheic dermatitis which co-exist in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition; and even more so when adult acne co-exist with rosacea in approximately 82% of sufferers. The combination of the three is quite aggravating as seen by years of past efforts, the treatment of one condition aggravates the other two medical conditions. 2. Del Rosso J. The prevalence of seborrheic dermatitis in patients with other commonly encountered facial dermatoses. Poster presentation, American Academy of Dermatology summer meeting, New York, July 2004.

Dust Mites And Dermatitis

2006-06-27T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ridding the house of dust mites and making dietary changes does nothing to stop children developing asthma or eczema as was commonly thought.
The surprising research results prove that popular steps taken by parents to prevent the onset of allergic conditions simply don't work.
A team of Sydney researchers tracked 600 children from birth to age 5 to test whether avoiding dust mites in the home had any benefits.
"Basically, there wasn't any reduction in the risk of allergic disease or asthma, which was unexpected," said Dr Guy Marks, a researcher at Sydney's Woolcock Institute.
Scientists also tested the commonly held belief that boosting levels of omega-3 fatty acids in a child's diet could ward off allergic conditions.
Previous studies had shown that children who once a week ate fish, which has high doses of the special fats, were less likely than others to have asthma.
But this, too, was proven to have no preventative benefits, Dr Marks said.
"Once again we weren't able to demonstrate any beneficial effect," he said.
The study, published today in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, involved children in western and south-western Sydney with a family history of asthma.
The result undermines popular beliefs and leave parents with no solid advice as to how they can protect their children, beyond the recommendation not to smoke around them.
"We're left with not having any strong evidence, apart from the avoidance of environmental tobacco smoke, about things that can be done to prevent the onset of asthma in children," Dr Marks said.
On the upside, the results prove parents should not blame themselves for failing to help their children dodge the conditions.
"Clearly, now there is no reason for people to feel that they should have been making major changes in the household."
But this does not mean asthma and eczema are purely genetic diseases, with Dr Marks saying some environmental factors very likely contribute to their onset.
"The fact is that at the moment, though, we don't know what they are, or how they affect us," he said.
More than two million Australians have asthma, with 15 per cent of children diagnosed with the condition.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Gene Identified

2006-06-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

A new gene associated with a variant of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis has been identified by a research group led by Dr. Ohad Birk at the Morris Kahn Laboratory of Human Genetics at Ben Gurion University and Soroka Medical Center. The gene discovered by the Israeli researchers is of much interest as it allows the first major molecular insight into why the specific skin cells proliferate excessively, causing these two common skin diseases. Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis affect 2-3% of the population worldwide and 85% of AIDS patients. Both skin diseases are caused by excessive proliferation of specific cells (keratinocytes) in the skin. To date, there is only very limited understanding as to the molecular mechanisms causing these two common disorders. The two-and-a-half-year study examined an Israeli Moroccan Jewish family with 44 members over five generations who showed signs characteristic of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. By using advanced techniques to analyze DNA samples of the affected members of the family and comparing them to normal, unmutated DNA, Ramon Birnbaum, a doctoral student at Birk's laboratory, has succeeded in pinning the beginning of the molecular pathway on a mutation in a gene that is normally expressed, or "turned on" in the keratinocytes. The gene is believed to suppress or regulate cell proliferation and is thought to be a transcription factor, meaning that it switches on other genes, which may also play a role in the disease. When mutated, this regulation malfunctions, enabling excessive proliferation of skin cells and calling in cells of the immune system. The findings, to be reported in this month's issue of Nature Genetics, allow new insights into the mechanism of disease in psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. In turn, these insights are likely to assist pharmaceutical companies in developing "smart drugs" for these two common skin diseases.

Top Ten Contact Dermatitis Allergens Identified

2006-06-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

A new Mayo Clinic study reveals the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, a skin inflammation resulting in swollen, reddened and itchy skin due to direct contact with an allergen.
Topping the list were:
* Nickel (nickel sulfate hexahydrate) -- metal frequently encountered in jewelry and clasps or buttons on clothing
* Gold (gold sodium thiosulfate) -- precious metal often found in jewelry
* Balsam of Peru (myroxylon pereirae) -- a fragrance used in perfumes and skin lotions, derived from tree resin
* Thimerosal -- a mercury compound used in local antiseptics and in vaccines
* Neomycin sulfate -- a topical antibiotic common in first aid creams and ointments, also found occasionally in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food
* Fragrance mix -- a group of the eight most common fragrance allergens found in foods, cosmetic products, insecticides, antiseptics, soaps, perfumes and dental products
* Formaldehyde -- a preservative with multiple uses, e.g., in paper products, paints, medications, household cleaners, cosmetic products and fabric finishes
* Cobalt chloride -- metal found in medical products; hair dye; antiperspirant; objects plated in metal such as snaps, buttons or tools; and in cobalt blue pigment
* Bacitracin -- a topical antibiotic* Quaternium 15 -- preservative found in cosmetic products such as self-tanners, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen or in industrial products such as polishes, paints and waxes.
This study, presented at the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting in San Francisco, confirmed that patch testing with a standard contact dermatitis series of substances is useful for identifying common contact allergens. Patch testing is conducted by placing potential allergens covered with patches on patients' backs for two days and then observing which substances cause skin inflammation.
The study confirmed previous findings by the North American Contact Dermatitis Group. The researchers examined contact dermatitis testing results from 3,854 patients over a five-year period between Jan. 1, 2001 and Dec. 31, 2005. The patients were tested with an average of 69 allergens. Of these patients, 2,663 (69 percent) had at least one positive reaction, and 1,933 (50 percent) had two or more positive reactions. Results of two other Mayo Clinic studies on contact dermatitis will be presented at the American Contact Dermatitis Society meeting, which immediately precedes the American Academy of Dermatology meeting.
In the first study, researchers mailed a written survey to 1,458 recently tested contact dermatitis patients. The survey found that, overall, patients were satisfied with the contact dermatitis patch testing process and with subsequent improvement of their skin conditions. More than 75 percent of respondents said they were at least "somewhat satisfied" with the overall testing and treatment process, and over one-half reported they were "very satisfied." Nearly 60 percent indicated improvement in their skin conditions since the patch testing.
In the second study to be presented at the American Contact Dermatitis Society meeting, researchers included a write-in question with the aforementioned survey mailing. The survey found patients could recall only 50.6 percent of the allergens for which they tested positive an average of 13.4 months after patch testing.
The researchers indicate these findings point to the ongoing need for education to remind patients of their allergens and reinforce the importance of avoiding them.
Contact dermatitis is common among all age groups and can cause minor annoyance to more severe handicaps, according to Mark Davis, M.D., Mayo Clinic dermatologist and lead study researcher. "Patients with contact dermatitis can get a very itchy rash from head to toe, or in a confined area," he says. "If it's on the hands and feet it can be disabling, and patients at times can't do their jobs."
Allergen avoidance is the chief treatment for contact dermatitis, according to Dr. Davis, though at times corticosteroid creams are used to treat rashes. He notes, however, that 3 percent of patients with contact dermatitis are allergic to the topical steroids that would alleviate their symptoms.

Tomato Extract May Help Heal Atopic Dermatitis

2006-06-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Kikkoman Corporation, in collaboration with Tohoku University, has discovered that the extract of tomato plays a role in healing atopic dermatitis. The joint research compared two groups of mice: one that had been given tomato extract and the other, naringenin chalcone (NGC), a kind of polyphenol found in tomato peels. Both groups showed favorable results, and symptoms of atopic dermatitis improved. In particular, the administration of NGC inhibited the rise of serum IgE, an indicator of allergy.

Skin Lesions Predict Atopic Dermatitis

2006-05-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

Eczema at the arms and joints are the early skin lesions that are the most predictive of atopic dermatitis in young children, according to a new study.
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, indicates a hypersensitivity to something in the environment and may occur together with symptoms of asthma or hay fever. The condition is usually genetic, and may also be particularly severe during the winter months. The itchy, painful condition can affect just about any area of the body.
The current study involved 411 infants who were born to mothers with a history of asthma. During follow-up until 3 years of age, the subjects were seen every 6 months and whenever any skin symptoms presented. Fifty-five subjects had incomplete follow-up and were not included in all of the analyses.
Forty-four percent of the children had developed atopic dermatitis by 3 years of age, Dr. Hans Bisgaard, from Copenhagen University Hospital, and colleagues report. Disease occurrence peaked at 2 years of age in boys and at 2.5 years in girls, but no other gender-based differences were noted.
Atopic dermatitis in young children typically started in the scalp, forehead, ear, and neck, before moving on to the trunk and extremities, the authors note.
As noted, the best predictors of atopic dermatitis were early skin lesions of the arms and joints, the report indicates.
"This improved description of the progression of skin lesions facilitates early diagnosis of atopic dermatitis in infancy and allows studies examining the early intervention and prevention strategies," the authors conclude.

SOURCE: Archives of Dermatology May 2006.

Fabric Effective In Soothing Atopic Dermatitis

2006-05-31T08:58:00.000-07:00

An Osaka-based textile maker has developed a new fiber that is effective in soothing the itchiness of atopic dermatitis.
About 80 out of 100 atopic dermatitis sufferers found in clinical testing that their itchiness was reduced when wearing underwear made from the fiber.
Those who suffer from atopic dermatitis, more commonly called eczema, have intense itchiness of skin. And the attendant excessive scratching further aggravates the skin condition by bacterial infection and bleeding, causing more itchiness.
Drawing on research conducted by Shinshu University and other institutions, the textile maker, Daiwabo Neu Co., dyed a fiber with iron phthalocyanine, an organic chemical that destroys the protein that accelerates itchiness.
As a result, the firm found that the fiber decomposes allergens such as dust mites and house dust, which are a major cause of itchiness.
In the tests, around 100 sufferers wore underwear made of the fiber when they went to sleep at night. In the morning, they answered questions about how itchy they felt. Doctors also checked their skin for the presence of scratches on their bodies.

Early Exposure To Cats Can Increase Risk Of Eczema

2006-05-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

Children who are exposed to cats soon after birth may have an increased risk of developing eczema, according to a study to be presented at the American Thoracic Society International Conference on May 21st.
Being exposed to two or more dogs at home suggested a slightly protective, but not significant, effect on children's risk of developing eczema, said lead researcher Esmeralda Morales, M.D., Pediatric Pulmonary Fellow at the University of Arizona in Tucson.
The study included 486 children who had been followed since birth. The researchers asked their parents how many cats and dogs they had in the house at the time the child was born, and then followed up one year later to see which children had been diagnosed with eczema.
Of the 134 children with cats in the household, 27.6% had eczema by one year of age, compared with 17.8% of 286 children without cats. While exposure to cats increased a child's risk of eczema whether or not their mother had asthma, the effect was more pronounced in children whose mothers did not have asthma.
Previous studies have found that people with eczema have a higher chance of also having allergic conditions including hay fever and asthma.
"Other studies have found that having cats or dogs at home seems to be protective against allergic diseases, so we expected to have similar findings," said Dr. Morales. "Pets are a source of a compound called endotoxin, and if a child is exposed to endotoxin early in life, the immune system may be skewed away from developing an allergic profile."
It's possible that the children in the study who developed eczema at age 1 might end up having a reduced risk of asthma or other allergic diseases later in life, Dr. Morales noted. "The findings do seem to add more questions about pets and asthma and allergies," she said. "Since there are a lot of contradictory data out there already, clearly it's a topic that needs further research."

Tea tree Oil May Cause Skin Irritation And Eczema Rashes

2006-05-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

ALLERGIC reactions to tea-tree oil are rising as more people mistakenly apply the popular herbal substance undiluted and directly to the skin.
Dermatologists have warned the public to take care when using tea-tree-derived products, which despite their seemingly benign origin have powerful antiseptic properties even at low concentrations.
Tea-tree oil is sold almost pure as an essential oil and is included in many skin and hair products. It is often used to treat sores, cuts and abrasions, even acne.
A study to be presented at a conference of dermatologists in Melbourne today found that the longer the tea-tree oil product was used after opening, the greater its potential for causing skin irritation, as the oil "readily oxidises to become more allergenic".
It is not a substance routinely "patch tested" by allergy specialists who see patients with unexplained dermatitis. But researchers found that of 2320 people tested over five years at one clinic, 41 (1.8 per cent), had a positive reaction. It was deemed the cause of dermatitis in 41 per cent of cases.
Study co-author Rosemary Nixon, of the Skin and Cancer Foundation, said allergy specialists should be aware of tea-tree oil's potential to cause skin rashes.
"We are not saying don't use it - we are just saying it shouldn't be used in a concentrated form and directly applied to the skin," she said. It was an effective antiseptic in concentrations of 5 to 10 per cent, said Dr Nixon.

The Facts On Allergic Contact Dermatitis

2006-05-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

Allergic contact dermatitis is a red, itchy, weepy reaction where the skin has come into contact with a substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign, such as poison ivy or certain preservatives in creams and lotions. Red, bumpy, scaly, itchy, and swollen skin are all symptoms which can signify an allergic skin condition. These skin problems are often caused by an immune system reaction, signifying an allergy. Allergic skin conditions can take several forms and are due to various causes.

Treating Seborrheic Dermatitis

2006-05-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition characterized by chronic inflammation, redness and scaling of the skin. It occurs when the sebaceous glands produce too much natural oil (sebum). Yeast (and sometimes bacteria) can grow in the sebum, causing chronic itching, redness, flaking and drying of the skin. Some people confuse the condition with dandruff. However, dandruff only causes scaling. Seborrheic dermatitis causes both scaling and redness.

Seborrheic dermatitis can occur at any age, but is most common in three age groups - infants, middle aged adults and the elderly. In infants, the condition is also known as cradle cap. Babies may develop thick, crusty, yellowish scales in their heads. In most cases, the condition clears up on its own by 12 months.

In adults, seborrheic dermatitis may occur on the scalp, nose, eyebrows, eyelids, behind the ears, ear canals and the middle of the chest. Some patients also develop patches around the belly button, armpits, breasts, buttocks or groin. The symptoms can come and go and may vary in severity. Stress, fatigue, changes in humidity or weather, oily skin and infrequent cleansing or shampooing can exacerbate the symptoms. For some patients, symptoms can cause a great deal of embarrassment.

There is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis. However, treatments can often control the symptoms. Over-the-counter shampoos containing tar, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole or salicylic acid are often effective. Patients may need to try more than one type of shampoo or cleanser to find the one that works best. Frequent shampooing or leaving the lather or cleanser on the scalp (or skin) for longer periods of time increases the effectiveness of the products. Some doctors recommend rotating between different shampoos for the best control.

When symptoms don't respond to over-the-counter treatments, prescription steroids may be applied to the area once or twice a day. Long-term use of steroids is usually discouraged because they can sometimes make the symptoms more difficult to treat. In more severe cases, doctors may recommend keeping medication on the area overnight.

Dry Flaky Skin

2006-05-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

DERMATITIS is often used as another word for eczema, but some forms are harmless and easily treatable. Most commonly, a form of "seborrhoeic" dermatitis occurs in the oilier areas of skin, such as the folds around the nostrils. The condition causes flaking skin around the nose or in the eyebrows, and can be treated with a topical cream.
"This dermatitis is very common, and is effectively the same condition which causes dandruff on the scalp," says Dr Susan Mayou, a consultant dermatologist at London's Chelsea & Westminster Hospital.
"Many people think it is dry skin and so rub moisturiser into the affected area, but that won't make a difference as it occurs in areas of the skin which produce natural oils.
"What you need is a preparation which acts on the yeast we all have on our skin, so ask your pharmacist for an antifungal cream."

Brown Spots May Be A Sign Of Berloque Dermatitis

2006-05-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

Berloque Dermatitis is a skin condition in which patients develop a brownish to reddish discoloration of the neck and sometimes the arms due to applying perfume or cologne to the skin. Sometimes the skin first turns red before changing to a brownish color. This condition can persist for years or even be permanent.
Many perfumes and colognes contain oil of bergamot, an extract of the peel of a specific orange grown in the South of France and the Calabria district of Italy. When this oil comes in contact with the skin and the skin is exposed to sunlight, the oil of bergamot causes the skin to discolor. With repeated exposures to sunlight, the discoloration becomes permanent.
Cosmetics such as Dermablend and Covermark work well to cover the area so it is not as noticeable.
Patients with berloque dermatitis should use a daily sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to help keep the condition from worsening. Also, perfume should no longer be applied to areas of the skin that get sun exposure.
Laser treatment may be an effective treatment in the future. At this time, we do not have this available. You may want to go to a laser center to seek their opinion.
Tretinoin (Retin-A) applied to the involved areas daily will improve this condition.
Daily application of Keralyt gel is a treatment for this problem.
Jessner's peels will improve Berloque dermatitis.

Herbals Popular In Treatment Of Dermatitis

2006-04-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Licorice (Glycyrrhizin) Glycyrrhizinic acid has also been shown to improve dermatitis. In a study by Saeedi and associates, 2% glycyrrhizinic acid gel was reported to significantly decrease scores for erythema, edema, and itching over the 2-week treatment period. A recent study by Dieck and associates found that licochalcone A exhibited a potent anti-inflammatory action on a broad range of skin cells involved in skin inflammation.

Glycyrrhiza glabra L. has been used in herbal medicine for skin eruptions, including dermatitis, eczema, pruritus and cysts. The effect of licorice extract as topical preparation was evaluated on atopic dermatitis. The plant was collected and extracted by percolation with suitable solvent. The extract was standardized, based on Glycyrrhizinic acid by using a titrimetry method. Different topical gels were formulated by using different co-solvents. After standardizing of topical preparations, the best formulations (1% and 2%) were studied in a double-blind clinical trial in comparison with base gel on atopic dermatitis over two weeks (30 patients in each group). Propylene glycol was the best co-solvent for the extract and Carbopol 940 as gelling agent showed the best results in final formulations. The quantity of glycyrrhizinic acid was determined 20.3% in the extract and 19.6% in the topical preparation. Two percent licorice topical gel was more effective than 1% in reducing the scores for erythema, oedema and itching over two weeks. The results showed that licorice extract could be considered as an effective agent for treatment of atopic dermatitis.

Saeedi M, Morteza-Semnani K, Ghoreishi MR., Department of Pharmaceutics, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

Topical B-12 Vitamin For Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis

2006-04-27T05:51:00.000-07:00

Topical vitamin B12--a new therapeutic approach in atopic dermatitis-evaluation of efficacy and tolerability in a randomized placebo-controlled multicentre clinical trial.

Stucker M, Pieck C, Stoerb C, Niedner R, Hartung J, Altmeyer P. Clinic for Dermatology and Allergology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin B(12) is an effective scavenger of nitric oxide (NO). As the experimental application of a NO synthase inhibitor, N omega-nitro-L-arginine, led to a clear decrease in pruritus and erythema in atopic dermatitis, it would be reasonable to assume a comparable effect of vitamin B(12). OBJECTIVES: The efficacy and tolerability of a new vitamin B(12) cream as a possible alternative to current therapies was examined. METHODS: A prospective, randomized and placebo-controlled phase III multicentre trial, involving 49 patients was conducted. For the treatment duration of 8 weeks, each patient applied twice daily (in the morning and evening) the vitamin B(12)-containing active preparation to the affected skin areas of one side of the body and the placebo preparation to the contralateral side according to the randomization scheme. RESULTS: On the body side treated with the vitamin B(12) cream, the modified Six Area Six Sign Atopic Dermatitis score dropped to a significantly greater extent than on the placebo-treated body side (for the investigational drug 55.34 +/- 5.74 SEM, for placebo 28.87 +/- 4.86 SEM, P < 0.001). At the conclusion of the study, the investigator and patients awarded mostly a 'good' or 'very good' rating to the active drug (58% and 59%, respectively) and a 'moderate' or 'poor' rating to the placebo (89% and 87%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Topical vitamin B(12) is a new therapeutic approach in atopic dermatitis. These results document a significant superiority of vitamin B(12) cream in comparison with placebo with regard to the reduction of the extent and severity of atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, the treatment was very well tolerated and involved only very low safety risks for the patients.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Or Scalp Psoriasis

2006-04-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

Scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp can be hard to differentiate. Both are common skin disorders that often affect the scalp. They share some similar symptoms — such as itchy, red, scaly skin. Fortunately, they also share some similar treatments, including daily use of an over-the-counter medicated shampoo, containing:
Ketoconazole
Tar
Pyrithione zinc
Selenium sulfide
Salicylic acid
There is no single test to confirm a diagnosis of psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. These skin disorders typically are diagnosed with a visual exam of the affected skin. Sometimes, however, a skin biopsy may be used to help differentiate between the two disorders.

Rosacea Dermatitis

2006-04-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

The Rosacea Sufferer often has Seborrheic Dermatitis which co-exist in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition. Seborrheic dermatitis involves overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face. If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil.

A new entitiy of rosacea has been clasified as rosacea dermatitis. This varies but is similar to seborrheic dermatitits.

Rosacea dermatitis is caused by chronic dermal inflammation from damaged or dysfunctional blood vessels. Over time this can alter the skin’s immune system, the health of the dermal cells and the growth rate of epidermal cells.

Rosacea dermatitis is often confused with atopic dermatitis, eczema or seborrheic dermatitis. A rosacea sufferer with rosacea dermatitis is much more prone to itching, burning, stinging, “angry face syndrome’, and scaling. In certain areas of the face rosacea dermatitis can result in extremely thin skin by slowing the growth of epidermal cells and in other areas of the face can result in dry patches of skin from a natural protective reaction to the inflammatory cycle. Physicians must now consider this dermatitis also instead of just making a quick diagnosis of atopic dermatitis, eczema, or seborrheic dermatitis.

Shoe Allergy Dermatitis

2006-04-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

If you are experiencing itchiness on your feet that does not respond to treatment, you may have a shoe allergy. Such feet allergies are common, yet the symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed, says Cleveland Clinic dermatologist James S. Taylor, M.D.
Shoe allergy is a form of contact dermatitis, which is inflammation caused by contact of the skin with a particular substance. The rash is often confined to a specific area and has clearly defined boundaries. The allergy can cause red and swollen skin that may blister. Shoe allergy is often confused with atopic dermatitis, a chronic itchy inflammation of the skin that is common in people who have hay fever or asthma. There are two types of contact dermatitis. In the irritant type, exposure to substances such as soaps, detergents or metals may irritate the skin. In the allergic type, exposure to a substance is the cause, but the initial exposure or even numerous subsequent exposures will not cause an allergic reaction.
Allergic contact dermatitis of the foot develops over time, as the skin of the foot is repeatedly exposed to an allergen, a substance that causes an allergic reaction. "Building an allergic reaction can take years," notes Dr. Taylor, who heads the Clinic’s section of industrial and environmental dermatology, and writes and lectures on shoe allergies. "So it’s not unusual for someone to ‘suddenly’ become allergic to a substance they’ve had contact with for a long time."
Diagnosis can be trickyThe most common shoe allergens include rubber, chemicals used in tanning leather, and adhesive materials and dyes. Sometimes metal buckles or shoelace grommets may cause contact allergy. Sport shoes are often implicated in shoe allergy, although this may be because they are widely worn by many people. Footwear that keeps feet in a warm, moist environment—work shoes are a good example—are common culprits. Sandals, on the other hand, are less often associated with shoe allergy. Their open design allows feet to "breathe," and there isn’t as much shoe material to irritate the feet.
Because allergic contact dermatitis can be difficult to distinguish from other rashes, the diagnosis can be elusive. A skilled dermatologist will use the location of the rash to help identify shoe allergy. For example, dermatitis on the sole of the foot points to an allergy to the insole or shoe lining. A rash on the top of the foot suggests an allergy to the shoe upper. Dermatitis between the toes, however, is likely caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, says Dr. Taylor.
Patch testingIdentifying the specific allergen can be challenging, and patch testing is the procedure useful in making the diagnosis. Patch tests are performed by applying small amounts of potential allergens directly onto the skin with tape. The tape strips are removed after 48 hours. A reaction is characterized by a small red spot that appears at the patch site.
"If the allergen can be identified and avoided, most shoe allergies can be cleared up completely," says Dr. Taylor. In some patients, treatment may include medication to control excessive sweating, since sweat can aggravate dermatitis.

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Common Causes of Contact Dermatitis Revealed

2006-03-29T11:46:00.000-08:00

A recent study performed by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester reveals the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, a skin inflammation resulting in swollen, reddened and itchy skin.Dermatitis can have many causes and there are several different types. It is not life threatening or contagious, but it can make people feel uncomfortable and self-conscious.Contact dermatitis is common among all age groups and can cause minor annoyance to more severe handicaps, according to Dr. Mark Davis, a Mayo Clinic dermatologist and lead study researcher.“Patients with contact dermatitis can get a very itchy rash from head to toe, or in a confined area,” Davis said in a press release from the Mayo Clinic. “If it's on the hands and feet it can be disabling and patients at times can't do their jobs.”Contact dermatitis results when one's skin comes into contact with an allergen or irritant. In some cases, blisters and weeping sores may be present.The chief treatment for contact dermatitis is avoidance of allergens, according to Davis. At times corticosteroid creams are used to treat rashes, however, about 3 percent of patients with contact dermatitis are allergic to the topical steroids that would alleviate their symptoms.
The Mayo study found that the top 10 causes of contact dermatitis were:- Nickel (nickel sulfate hexahydrate), a metal frequently encountered in jewelry and clasps or buttons on clothing.- Gold (gold sodium thiosulfate), a precious metal often found in jewelry.- Balsam of Peru (myroxylon pereirae), a fragrance used in perfumes and skin lotions, derived from tree resin.- Thimerosal, a mercury compound used in local antiseptics and vaccines.- Neomycin sulfate, a topical antibiotic common in first aid creams and ointments. It is also found occasionally in cosmetics, deodorant, soap and pet food.- Fragrance mix, a group of the eight most common fragrance allergens found in foods, cosmetic products, insecticides, antiseptics, soaps, perfumes and dental products.
- Formaldehyde, a preservative with multiple uses such as paper products, paints, medications, household cleaners, cosmetic products and fabric finishes.- Cobalt chloride, a metal found in medical products and also hair dye and antiperspirant. Cobalt chloride can also be found in objects plated in metal such as snaps, buttons or tools and in cobalt blue pigment.- Bacitracin, a topical antibiotic.- Quaternium 15, a preservative found in cosmetic products such as self-tanners, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen or in industrial products such as polishes, paints and waxes.Sometimes, the most important part of treatment is the proper diagnosis. A biopsy may be necessary for proper diagnosis or patch testing may be ordered.The Mayo study determined that patch testing with a series of substances is useful for identifying common contact allergens. Patch testing is conducted by placing potential allergens, covered with patches, on patients' backs for two days. After two days, doctors observe which substances cause skin irritation.The study confirmed previous findings by the North American Contact Dermatitis Group.

Sebazole In Phase II Trials For Treatment Of Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis

2006-03-20T11:48:00.000-08:00

Barrier Therapeutics released the results of two Phase III trials for its drug Sebazole, indicating the drug's effectiveness in the treatment of facial seborrheic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting about 3% of the United States adult population. Currently-approved prescription therapies require twice-daily application and must be used for four weeks or until remission.
Results from the 50-center 900 patient trial determined that Sebazole is effective in the treatment of facial seborrheic dermatitis with a once-daily treatment regimen of only two weeks.
The blinded, placebo-controlled Phase III trials compared the safety and efficacy of the following treatment arms: Sebazole (Barrier's proprietary gel containing 2% ketoconazole, an antifungal); Barrier's gel containing 0.05% desonide, a steroid; Seboride (Barrier's gel containing a combination of 2% ketoconazole and 0.05% desonide); and a placebo consisting of Barrier's gel with no active ingredient. Patients were treated once daily for a period of only two weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients that were effectively treated ("cleared" or "almost cleared") at Day 28, which was two weeks following the end of treatment.
Sebazole emerged as the best treatment from among the treatment arms. In both studies. Sebazole achieved statistical significance in the primary efficacy endpoint against the placebo gel (U.S. study: p=0.002 and EU study: p=0.021).
Furthermore. Sebazole was found to be comparable to the gel containing desonide and to Seboride, the combination of ketoconazole with desonide, indicating that adding a steroid to the topical regimen does not provide additional benefit in this patient population at two weeks post treatment. Good symptom suppression was maintained with Sebazole for the two weeks following the end of treatment.

The Connection Between Seborrheic Dermatitis And Rosacea

2006-03-17T11:08:00.000-08:00

Exploring the Connection Between Rosacea and Seborrheic dermatitis Research by Bass & Boney Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in 1999 determined that patients with rosacea often have seborrheic dermatitis which co-exists in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition.1
In the summer of 2004, research by the National Rosacea Society verified these facts in a study of their own: “According to a new study, rosacea is the most common facial skin disorder overlapping with seborrheic dermatitis (SD), a chronic and recurring inflammatory condition characterized by a red, scaly or itchy rash often found in the creases around the nose, the inner eyebrows or as dandruff on the scalp.
Dr. James Del Rosso, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Nevada, found that 26 percent of rosacea patients had facial SD and 28 percent had SD of the scalp.2 “ Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition which results in overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face.
If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil.
Seborrheic dermatitis usually affects the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the body, such as eyebrows, eyelids, the folds of the nose, lips, behind or inside the ears, in the external ear, the forehead and the chin and the skin of the trunk, particularly around the navel, in the skin folds under the arms, in the groin, or under the breasts.
In infants seborrheic dermatitis is referred to as cradle cap or infantile eczema.

Associated Reference
1. Patients with Rosacea often have seborrheic dermatitis which co-exist in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition; and even more so when adult acne co-exist with rosacea in approximately 82% of sufferers. The combination of the three is quite aggravating as seen by years of past efforts, the treatment of one condition aggravates the other two medical conditions.
2. Del Rosso J. The prevalence of seborrheic dermatitis in patients with other commonly encountered facial dermatoses. Poster presentation, American Academy of Dermatology summer meeting, New York, July 2004.

Metal-Induced Dermatitis

2006-03-14T10:51:00.000-08:00

Precious metal is among the leading causes of a skin condition called allergic contact dermatitis.
According to experts at the Mayo Clinic, allergic contact dermatitis is a skin inflammation characterized by swollen, reddened and itchy skin that's caused by direct contact with an allergen.
The Mayo team analyzed results from contact dermatitis testing conducted on 3,854 patients, each tested with an average of 69 allergens. Of the patients in the study, 69 percent had at least one positive reaction and 50 percent had two or more positive reactions.
The top ten contact dermatitis allergens were:
Nickel, frequently used in jewelry and clasps or buttons on clothing;
Gold, common to jewelry;
Balsam of Peru, a tree resin-derived fragrance used in perfumes and skin lotions;
Thimerosal, a mercury compound used in vaccines and local antiseptics;
Neomycin sulfate, a topical antibiotic common in first-aid creams and ointments. It's also found in cosmetics, deodorants, soap and pet food;
Fragrance mix, a group of the eight most common fragrance allergens found in foods, cosmetic products, insecticides, antiseptics, soaps, perfumes and dental products;
Formaldehyde, a preservative used in numerous items including paints, medications, fabric finishes, paper products, household cleaners and cosmetics;
Cobalt chloride, a metal found in medical products, hair dye, antiperspirant, and metal-plated objects such as snaps, buttons and tools. Also found in cobalt blue pigment;
Bacitracin, a topical antibiotic;
Quaternium 15, a preservative found in cosmetic products such as self-tanners, shampoo, nail polish and sunscreen, and in industrial products such as polishes, paints and waxes.
The findings were presented this week at the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting, in San Francisco.
The study also confirmed that patch testing with a standard contact dermatitis series of substances is useful for identifying common contact allergens. Avoiding allergens is the chief treatment for contact dermatitis. In some cases, corticosteroid creams can be used to treat rashes caused by contact dermatitis.

Managing Your Dermatitis Treatment

2006-03-10T10:24:00.000-08:00

Remember that treating skin disease is a mixture of both science and art, and fine-tuning may improve the outcome, even with relatively small changes. It's best to make these in close partnership with your trusted provider. A small proportion of persons with eczema will learn that their disease is primarily based on an allergic reaction to something. Indeed, the hope of every person with eczema is for a real cure, but at this writing there isn't one in sight. The clinical management of this disease remains quite complex, with much trial and error required. It's always a good idea to look into any rumored new therapy, whether you actually try it or not. And if you do try it, don't be too put off by apparent failures, or too ecstatic at what appear to be promising results. Although your disease is stubborn, it is also manageable. This information sets forth current opinions from recognized authorities, but it does not dictate an exclusive treatment course. Persons with questions about a medical condition should consult a physician who is knowledgeable about that condition.

Reducing the Risk Of Childhood Eczema

2006-03-07T12:40:00.000-08:00

Women who ingest alcohol through pregnancy may increase the risk that their child will develop atopic dermatitis within the fist 60 days of its life, researchers reported here at the 62nd annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and immunology (AAAAI).

The researchers, who reviewed records since 1955 in the Danish National Birth Cohort, detected a 4-fold increase in rates of atopic dermatitis among women who reported having more than four drinks per week while they were pregnant."The results suggest that alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk of early-onset atopic dermatitis in predisposed infants," said presenter Allan Linneberg, MD, Senior Scientist, Research Centre for Prevention and Health, Glostrup University Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark.

In his poster presentation, Dr. Linneberg demonstrated that as alcohol consumption among Danes increased between 155 and 2000, so did reported increases in atopic dermatitis. Dr. Linneberg and colleagues scrutinized records of 24,231 mother-child pairs and doctors' interviews with the mothers after the child was 18 months of age.

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy was associated with a significant and dose-dependent increased risk of atopic dermatitis in the infant, Dr. Linneberg said. This effect was mainly seen in children born to parents who were at high risk of allergy themselves.Children of non-drinkers had little increased risk of having atopic dermatitis. The risk doubled if one parent was atopic; nearly tripled if the mother had more than four drinks per week.If both parents had atopy, the initial risk of having a child with atopic dermatitis was about 2.2 times higher than if neither parent had atopy. If the mother of the high risk child had more than four drinks a week, the chance that the child will have atopic dermatitis was 8.5 times higher if that child was born to non-drinking, non-allergic parents."Alcohol passes the feto-placental barrier and may thus influence the immune system of the fetus," Dr. Linneberg said.

In another study presented by Dr. Linneberg at the meeting, data suggested that drinking alcohol may stimulate acetaldehyde to increase histamine-release from mast cells, causing atopic dermatitis.He said that the cohort of children is still being studied to determine if there is any connection between peri-natal alcohol consumption and allergy development in children in later early childhood.

Causes Of Peri-Oral Dermatitis

2006-03-02T11:48:00.000-08:00

Perioral dermatitis affects mostly women. In addition to redness around the mouth, the symptoms of perioral dermatitis may also include small red bumps or even pus bumps and mild peeling. Treatments include using a non-tartar, non-fluoride toothpaste. Lip balms, lipstick, or toothpaste can also cause perioral dermatitis.

Fabric to Soothe Eczema

2006-02-28T12:01:00.000-08:00

Making contact with almost any fabric can be an agonizing experience for people who suffer from itchy, drysensitive skin caused by eczema, atopic dermatitis, or psoriasis, conditions which affect over 30 million people of all ages nationwide. Now, a breakthrough fabric called DermaSmart(TM) created by Milliken & Companypromises to reduce itching and the appearance of dryness, peeling and scaling commonly associated with these skin conditions.

Traditionally, people with skin conditions are treated with either oral or topical drugs, or a combination of both. DermaSmart offers an additional method for symptom relief. "DermaSmart has demonstrated in lab tests and instudies with patients to be a better choice of fabrics than the traditionally-recommended 100% cotton, both for comfort and for relief of symptoms," said Lyn Murajda, Brand Manager for the Apparel & Specialty FabricsDivision of Milliken.
DermaSmart is a silky, soft, breathable fabric that significantly reduces the friction or drag of the fabric against the skin.
* DermaSmart has been proven to help reduce itching and the appearance of dryness, scaling and peeling.
* DermaSmart fabric absorbs excess perspiration and disperses it through the fabric so it dries quickly, keeping the wearer comfortable.
* DermaSmart fabric contains silver, which is a safe, natural antimicrobial that prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Additionally, DermaSmart clothing is designed with superior comfort attributes. Each shirt and pant has smooth, flat seams and a "tagless" sizelabel, and the pants have covered waistbands, features which keep the clothing construction from irritating the skin.

Dermatologist Tested
"Two of the most vexing problems confronting patients with eczema, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, aside from their disease, are how to dress and howto get a good night's sleep," explains Zoe Diana Draelos, M.D., adermatologist based in High Point, North Carolina. "And clothing plays a large contributing role in this. Wearing a smoother, less irritating fabric directly against the patient's skin helps to reduce the irritation and itching, and this allows the oral and topical treatments to work more efficiently."
In 2003, Dr. Draelos completed a study with patients who had eczema, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, to compare 100% combed cotton t-shirts toDermaSmart. She concluded that, "The study demonstrated statistically significant improvement in skin condition and decreased itching" in the patients who wore the DermaSmart shirts. The symptoms it improved specifically were itching, and the appearance of dryness, scaling and peeling. A clinical study she completed in early 2006 further verified these results.

DermaSmart garments are now available through Hill Dermaceuticals, Inc.,in infant, children and adult sizes in several silhouettes, including long sleeved shirts and lounge pants. The garments are recommended for use as pajamas, and for base layers to wear under everyday clothing or exercise gear.To order call toll free 1-888-445-5468, or go online to http://www.DermaSmart.com.

New Variety of Steroid Treatment For Dermatitis

2006-02-24T08:15:00.000-08:00

SkinMedica, Inc., announced today the positive outcome of two Phase III clinical trials evaluating Desonate (desonide) HydroGel 0.05%, a low-potency topical steroid formulated in a proprietary alcohol-free, aqueous gel delivery vehicle to treat atopic dermatitis. SkinMedica, Inc. is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing, acquiring and commercializing products that improve the appearance of skin and treat dermatologic conditions and diseases.
The Desonate Phase III studies were conducted as a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled comparison involving pediatric subjects with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. These clinical trials included 582 patients from age 3 months to 18 years, and were designed to demonstrate superiority of Desonate HydroGel over vehicle (placebo) without desonide. Patients received either Desonate HydroGel or placebo twice daily for four weeks.
The results of these two studies demonstrated a consistently robust and highly statistically significant treatment effect for Desonate compared to placebo in both primary and secondary end-points. These included Investigator Global Severity Assessment (IGSA) along with the alleviation of signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis, including erythema, induration/papulation, and scaling. The proportion of patients achieving treatment success using the IGSA primary end-point was 44% for Desonate HydroGel and 14% for the vehicle group in the first trial. In the second trial, treatment success rates were 28% for Desonate HydroGel and 6% for the vehicle group. The p value for each of these comparisons was p less than 0.001.
The data from these trials also demonstrated that Desonate HydroGel was well-tolerated, with the most frequently observed side effects being mild in nature and largely limited to application site reactions. There were no serious adverse events reported. Overall, the safety analysis revealed no unexpected findings for a topical agent of this type.
"We are very enthusiastic about the robust results of these Desonate HydroGel pivotal trials," said Ron Trancik, PhD, Vice President of Research and Development for SkinMedica. "We are particularly excited about this new, low-potency steroid formulation with desonide, in a novel patented aqueous vehicle. HydroGel will offer dermatologists and their patients, particularly younger children, a product with enhanced properties which we believe will lead to increased patient compliance and satisfaction."
"The collaboration between SkinMedica and Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences is an excellent example of how two companies can work together in planning and executing an important development project," said Rex Bright, Chief Executive Officer of SkinMedica. "We will be seeking approval to market Desonate HydroGel in the United States."
Desonide is a leading topical steroid prescribed by dermatologists within the U.S. low-potency steroid market which generates 7.7 million annual prescriptions. If approved, Desonate HydroGel would provide SkinMedica with its first steroid product in the $1.1 billion topical steroid market. SkinMedica believes that the HydroGel delivery system has important advantages over more conventional drug delivery vehicles. Conventional steroid formulations including gels and foams typically contain alcohol that may be irritating to patients with atopic dermatitis. HydroGel, an aqueous-based and alcohol-free system, has been developed by Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences to compete against the conventional formulations as a functionally and cosmetically acceptable delivery system. Patients in the clinical trial noted that the HydroGel formulation helped to relieve dryness, which is often a problem with atopic dermatitis. The patented HydroGel drug-delivery technology was licensed by SkinMedica from Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences in June 2003 for use with desonide. The development of Desonate HydroGel is a collaborative effort between Dow Pharmaceutical Sciences and SkinMedica. In April 2005, the companies expanded their collaboration in which SkinMedica licensed the rights to apply the HydroGel technology to certain other prescription steroids worldwide.

Key To Eczema In Winter

2006-02-22T08:20:00.000-08:00

DRY and sore skin in winter is often blamed on the long months of cold, blustery weather. But new research shows eczema and the increase in dry skin symptoms is linked instead to hormones.
Dermatologist Dr Michael Cork found increased glucocorticoid levels in winter (often twice as much as in summer) have been shown to damage the skin barrier, leading to eczema and other painful skin conditions.
His findings will have a big impact in Scotland where dry skin is a common problem. A survey of Scots by skin specialists found:
44 per cent have continuous dry skin.
One in 10 suffers from eczema.
61 per cent of dry skin sufferers developed their condition during adulthood.
75 per cent say their skin gets worse over the winter months.
To minimise discomfort, Dr Cork recommends adult sufferers:
Use an intensive emollient therapy that helps to replace parts of the skin barrier.
Ensure all carpets, fabrics and curtains are kept dust free.
Avoid synthetic materials and wool blends.
Use artificial light to combat depression and lower levels of glucocorticoid hormones.

Get The Facts On Dermatitis

2006-02-14T08:01:00.000-08:00

Dermatitis is the most common inflammatory disease of the skin. It affects 15 million adults and children - 6% of all Americans. It nearly always begins within the first 5 years of life and while 50% of cases will be outgrown, the remainder will persist throughout a lifetime.The exact cause of the condition is not known, but genetic factors are thought to play a role in the development of this disease.Persons with dermatitis often have allergies or asthma, as well. Various materials such as wool can cause a worsening of symptoms.Dermatitis appears as redness, scaling and/or small blisters (vesicles) on the head, face, neck, or the insides of the elbows, wrists, and knees. These characteristic features are often masked by secondary lesions such as crusting, excoriations, infection, or irritation from topical treatments.There is no cure for dermatitis. Current therapy is directed at suppressing the inflammation and reducing triggering factors with topical treatments and ultraviolet light therapy.

Another Option In Dermatitis Care

2006-02-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

Dermatitis-Ltd III. is a great option for individuals whose skin has been left sensitive and delicate by over-the-counter or prescription medications which often are messy, smelly, stain clothing, or thin the skin such as steroids. Skin appears more conditioned, even, elastic, and calm with Dermatitis-Ltd III. The ingredients of Dermatitis-Ltd are: zinc oxide, sodium chloride, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, iron oxide, copper oxide, and sulfur. Zinc oxide is well known for its ability to protect and heal the skin. This product is currently only available at www.dermatitis-ltd.com.

Types of Eczema

2006-02-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

The more common types of eczema include:
Nummular eczema - or discoid eczema causes disk-shaped patches to appear on the lower leg; Seborrheic dermatitis - this eczema will cause dry flaky patches, frequently on the face or scalp; Dyshidrotic eczema - dermatitis of the hands and/or foot;
Atopic eczema - often occurs with allergies or hayfever indicating an allergen cause;
Contact dermatitis - caused by a substance which may cause an allergic or irritant contact reaction;
Baby eczema - red rash on the cheeks, chin, torso; the cause is usually environmental; Neurodermatitis - the cause of this condition is repeated scratching.

Tea Tree Oil

2006-02-01T07:51:00.000-08:00

Tea tree oil is an anti-fungal which is study-proven to eliminate dandruff, warts and toenail fungus.
In one study, 64% of people with athlete's foot were cured in four weeks.

To use:
Rub tea tree oil or cream or gel directly on the skin.

Causes Of Dermatitis

2006-01-30T13:01:00.000-08:00

A number of health conditions, allergies, genetic factors, physical and mental stress, and irritants can cause dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis results from direct contact with one of many irritants or allergens. Common irritants include laundry soap, skin soaps or detergents, and cleaning products. Possible allergens include rubber, metals such as nickel, jewelry, perfume, cosmetics, weeds such as poison ivy, and neomycin, a common ingredient in topical antibiotic creams. It takes a greater amount of an irritant over a longer time to cause dermatitis than it takes for an allergen. If you're sensitized to an allergen, just brief exposure to a small amount of it can cause dermatitis.
Neurodermatitis typically develops in areas where something, such as a tight garment, rubs or scratches your skin. This irritation may lead you to rub or scratch your skin repeatedly in that area. Common locations include ankles, wrist, outer forearm or arm, and the back of your neck.
Seborrheic dermatitis causes a red rash with a yellowish and somewhat "oily" scale. It's common in people with oily skin or hair, and it may come and go depending on the season of the year. It may occur during times of physical stress, travel or in people who have neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease. In infants, this disorder is known as cradle cap.
Stasis dermatitis can occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues just beneath your skin, and typically involves the lower leg. The extra fluid interferes with your blood's ability to nourish your skin and places extra pressure against the skin from underneath. Varicose veins and other chronic conditions that slow the return of venous blood in your legs often cause this fluid buildup.
Atopic dermatitis often occurs with allergies and frequently runs in families in which other family members have asthma or hay fever. It usually begins in infancy and may vary in severity during childhood and adolescence. It tends to become less of a problem in adulthood, unless you're exposed to allergens or irritants in the workplace. The exact cause of this disorder is unknown, but is likely due to a combination of dry, irritable skin together with a malfunction in the body's immune system. Stress can exacerbate atopic dermatitis, but it doesn't cause it.
Perioral dermatitis may be a form of the skin disorder rosacea, adult acne or seborrheic dermatitis, involving the skin around the mouth or nose. The exact cause is unknown, but makeup, moisturizers, topical corticosteroids or some dental products containing fluoride may play a role.
Parkinson's disease
Varicose veins
Asthma
Hay fever
Rosacea
Acne

American Academy of Dermatology Disagrees With Action Taken By FDA

2006-01-24T11:26:00.000-08:00

The American Academy of Dermatology (Academy) has issued a statement in response to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) announcement that a black box warning will be added to the labeling and a medication guide will be distributed for the topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), pimecrolimus and tacrolimus.
These topical medications effectively reduce the inflammation and other symptoms associated with the skin disease eczema.
"The American Academy of Dermatology disagrees with this action taken by the FDA. We believe that the data does not prove that the proper topical use of pimecrolimus and tacrolimus is dangerous," said dermatologist Clay J. Cockerell, M.D., president of the American Academy of Dermatology. "Because these medications are applied to the skin, virtually none of it gets inside the body. It's not the same as taking a pill. These are valuable medications, and if used properly, they allow millions of our patients with eczema to live normal lives."
This past summer, the Academy held a conference to discuss the scientific, regulatory, clinical, and public concerns raised by this potential FDA action. The dermatologists, patients, pharmacists and immunologists participating in the conference reviewed the current literature and safety data for these medications. It was determined that the addition of a black box warning and medication guide was unwarranted and could limit access to TCIs, or limit treatment options if qualified patients decide not to use these medications based on fear of a malignancy risk.
"The health, safety and welfare of our patients being treated with these topical medications are of paramount importance to dermatologists," said Dr. Cockerell. "We are concerned that this warning will confuse and unnecessarily worry our patients. We urge patients to get the facts on how to appropriately manage their eczema from their dermatologist."

Eczema Treatment's Receive Black Box Warnings

2006-01-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

The labels on two prescription creams to treat eczema will have to bear "black box" warnings of possible cancer risks. The Food and Drug Administration's action Thursday follows an agency advisory committee recommendation last February that Elidel cream and Protopic ointment carry the label warnings.
The new labeling also will clarify that the two drugs are recommended for use only after other prescription topical medicines have been tried by patients, the FDA said. The agency is also issuing a guide updating patients of its concerns.
A black box warning is the most serious type of warning in prescription drug labeling. The warning will be located lower on the labels of the two drugs than is typical, although a statement higher on the labels will refer to the risk.
"This is something that is a possible risk, is a long-term possibility and is something that still needs to be researched," FDA spokeswoman Susan Cruzan said.
As of October, the FDA has received reports of 78 cases of cancers, including skin and lymphoma, in patients treated with the two drugs, said Dr. Stanka Kukich, the acting director of the FDA's dermatologic and dental drug products division.
Novartis Pharmaceuticals, which makes Elidel, said in a statement Thursday that it remained confident in the safety and efficacy of Elidel.
"While Novartis believes this action is not substantiated by scientific or clinical evidence, Novartis has agreed to make the requested changes," the company said.
Astellas Pharma Inc., formed through the merger of Protopic maker Fujisawa Healthcare Inc. and Yamanouchi Pharmaceutical Co., said in a statement that its drug "is safe and effective when used in a manner consistent with its label."
"It addresses a theoretical risk — a potential risk, not a demonstrated link," Dr. Joyce Rico, vice president for medical sciences research and development at Astellas, said of the warning.
While the two manufacturers dispute whether there is a cancer link, the FDA felt it had to convey notice of the cancer reports to doctors and patients, said Dr. Julie G. Beitz, an acting director of one of the FDA's drug evaluation offices.
Along with the small number of cancers reported in both children and adults treated with the drugs, animal tests have shown an increase in cancer associated with the drugs, the FDA said last year.
No causal link between use of the drugs and cancer has been established, Beitz said.
The long-term safety of the drugs has not been established, according to the FDA. While both companies are studying that issue, the results may not be known for years, the FDA said.
Elidel and Protopic are applied to the skin to control eczema by suppressing the immune system.
The companies estimate that roughly 10 million people combined have used the two drugs.

Defining Urticarial Dermatitis

2006-01-19T10:05:00.000-08:00

Urticarial dermatitis may represent a useful term for a subset of a reaction pattern designated most commonly as dermal hypersensitivity by pathologists. The term is not commonly used, and requires definition to determine whether it is clinically relevant.

To define urticarial dermatitis and distinguish it from other urticarial reaction patterns and to review the frequency with which dermatologists can recognize clinical settings that match the biopsy findings of urticarial dermatitis.

Retrospective analysis of clinical and/or histological diagnosis of urticarial dermatitis, applying strict histological criteria in a center using urticarial dermatitis as a diagnostic term in 190 archived reports.

Tertiary referral dermatopathology service reporting for dermatological practices in Sydney, Australia.

The correlation between clinical and histological diagnoses of urticarial dermatitis and alternate diagnoses was analyzed. The frequency of positive immunofluorescence findings for bullous pemphigoid was determined in a subset of patients with urticarial dermatitis in whom this test was ordered to exclude prodromal bullous pemphigoid.

Urticarial dermatitis was the histological diagnosis in at least 1 biopsy result in 148 patients, and matched the provisional clinical diagnosis in 49 (33.1%) patients. Urticarial dermatitis was the only diagnosis provided in 21 patients. The main alternate clinical diagnoses provided were early bullous pemphigoid or dermatitis herpetiformis (47 patients [31.8%]), dermatitis (39 patients [26.4%]), drug reaction (35 patients [23.6%]), urticarial vasculitis (24 patients [16.2%]), and urticaria (12 patients [8.1%]). In 91 patients with a clinical diagnosis of urticarial dermatitis, the histological diagnosis in at least 1 biopsy result was matched in 49 patients (53.8%); other histological diagnoses included dermatitis (21 patients [23.1%]), papular urticaria (12 patients [13.2%]), drug reaction (6 patients [6.6%]), and urticaria (3 patients [3.3%]). Review of 38 direct immunofluorescent results for prodromal bullous pemphigoid and a biopsy finding of urticarial dermatitis revealed only 3 positive results (7.9%).

Urticarial dermatitis seems to be a useful histological and clinical term for a subset of the dermal hypersensitivity reaction pattern. Although the clinical presentation is not restricted to a specific entity, eczema and drug reactions seem to be the most frequent clinical associations; and in a subset of patients, urticarial dermatitis remains as a recognizable reaction pattern. Urticarial dermatitis without eosinophilic spongiosis is not a reliable indicator for bullous pemphigoid, because the findings of immunofluorescence are often negative.

PMID: 16415383 [PubMed - in process]

Kiwi Can Relieve Dry Flaky Skin

2006-01-13T10:23:00.000-08:00

Kiwi's complexion-soothing powers come from its high Vitamin C content: One kiwi contains 75 mg. or 95% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
Vitamin C helps produce collagen, a protein in the skin's connective tissue that provides structural support, strength and resilience, explains S. Manjula Jegasothy, M.D., medical director of Miami Skin Institute.
To reap the full beauty beneficts of kiwi, he recommends consuming two kiwi fruits per day.

Contact Dermatitis And Thimerosal

2006-01-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory response of the skin to an antigen or irritant. Common allergens associated with contact dermatitis include, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, nickel or other metals, antibiotics, topical anesthetics, detergents, cosmetics, perfumes, and other chemical substances.

Thimerosal is a preservative that is used in vaccines, topical medications, oils, and cosmetics.

According to various medical journals, such as the Archives of Dermatology and American Journal of Contact Dermatitis, thimerosal is considered one of the most common allergens in North America and worldwide. Recent studies have suggested that these reactions to thimerosal are of no consequence. A study in the medical journal Contact Dermatitis, examined 508 adult patients who were suspected to have an allergic contact dermatitis using a patch test.

Dermatologists apply patch tests in patients with dermatitis, to find out whether their skin condition may be caused or aggravated by a contact allergy. Although former studies had shown a low percentage of relevant allergies to thimerosal of 8 to 16 percent, “our study population shows a relatively low (3.7%) percentage of positive reactions to thimerosal but a much higher [percentage of] relevant ones.

A high proportion of thimerosal positive reactions (approximately 73%) was found to be clinically relevant.” This means that of the small percentage of reactions to thimerosal, approximately 3 out 4 of those were considered to be important by the study authors.

The face was found to be the most common location for contact dermatitis among the thimerosal sensitive group, followed by the palms, and eyelids. The authors conclude that, “although previous reports found thimerosal highly irrelevant, our daily experience being supported by the above data indicates that positive reactions to thimerosal could be relevant for many patients.”

SOURCE: Contact Dermatitis, December 2005

Soothing And Protecting The Skin

2006-01-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

Native Americans used to extract the oil from jojoba beans as a treatment for cuts, sores and bruises, as well as sunburn. It has been applied to both face and scalp to help prevent evaporation and provide lubrication for dry, flaky skin. It absorbs easily, is non-greasy, and is very pleasant and soothing no matter what your skin type. Many women claim that jojoba oil also has a minimizing effect on pores!
Jojoba oil, like other natural oils, is considered a "natural moisturizing factor". Just like the lipids that are naturally found in your skin, it helps fight surface roughness, flaking, and fine lines. But it isn't reserved just for those who have dry skin. People with acne-prone skin, who suffer more than others from clogged pores and blackhead formation, tend to avoid oil-based products like the plague. They assume that all oil-based products will make their acne worse.
Not so! Due to the unique molecular structure of jojoba oil, not only will it mix readily with the skin's natural oils, but studies have shown that it can even inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria associated with acne.
Jojoba oil is also soothing for skin conditions like rosacea and sebborheic dermatitis, and will not cause flare-ups. By helping to reinforce the structure of the skin's outer layer (the epidermis), jojoba oil -along with the natural oils produced by the skin- is extremely helpful in the healing process. Natural oils help prevent individual cells from losing moisture, and aid in keeping the skin smooth and supple.

Cleanliness: Can Too Much Cause Dermatitis?

2005-12-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

Americans almost seem obsessed with cleanliness. A walk into the local grocery store or department store reveals one or more aisles of products related to personal hygiene. Shoppers often have a wide selection of choices of soaps, facial washes, scrubs, and shampoos. Is it possible for us to be "too clean"?
The outer layer of the skin acts a barrier against potentially dangerous organisms. Normally, the skin maintains a delicate balance of water, fats, pH, and turnover of skin cells. Washing removes the oils in the skin, upsetting the moisture balance, and compromising the protective barrier properties. It's particularly a problem in the cold, dry months of winter. Eventually, too-frequent washing can lead to chronic damage to the outer layer of the skin and cause the development of rough, dry skin and conditions, such as irritant contact dermatitis or eczema. Ironically, while washing is meant to remove germs, research shows dry, damaged skin actually harbors more disease-causing GERMS than healthy skin. In addition, in people with damaged skin, washing is less effective in removing germs. One study found the number of organisms spread by nurses who wash frequently with antimicrobial soap actually increased over time.
There are other reasons to be concerned about over-cleanliness. Not all bacteria are bad. But personal cleaning products don't distinguish between the good and the bad ?washing it all away. In addition, overly clean environments may not be good for infants and children. We need some exposure to GERMS for our immune system to develop antibodies and to learn how to respond to an infection. Some researchers speculate the increase in asthma and other immunological diseases may be related to decreased exposure to GERMS and poorly developed immune systems.
There are some small steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of skin problems from personal hygiene routines. Try to limit washing to one bath or shower a day. Use a mild cleanser and warm (not hot) water. Pat dry the skin with a soft towel. Use a moisturizer immediately after washing to seal moisture in the skin and reduce further moisture loss.

Knowledge Is Power : Know What You Are Applying To Your Skin

2005-12-20T11:05:00.000-08:00

Parents risk harming their children because of misinformation about the best treatments for eczema, experts said today.
While some parents turn to herbal lotions of unknown quality to treat their youngsters' skin, others are shunning prescribed steroid creams because of misconceptions about the side effects, a meeting of dermatologists was told.
Dr Sue Lewis-Jones, a specialist in paediatric dermatology from Dundee, said a network of nurses focusing on the management of childhood eczema and other skin problems was urgently needed.
She said that a lack of money and focus on the speciality was to blame for the small number of nurses working in this area.
"These nurses can help parents manage their children's condition, keep an eye on their progress and lead to fewer admissions to hospital. "But there is no money for it.
"It is an obvious thing to do and it would ultimately save the NHS money," Dr Lewis-Jones said.
The consultant dermatologist, speaking at the British Skin Foundation meeting in central London, also highlighted concerns about parents opting for herbal Chinese remedies to treat their children.
She said there were examples of companies springing up promising "wonder cures" for eczema and psoriasis.
"There are lots of reputable companies and there is no reason why some remedies shouldn't work because most medicines originally came from plants.
"But the problem is that we don't know what part of the plant is having the effect and there is less known about the side effects. "With modern medicines much more is known about the side effects.
"Some people out there just want to make money and will dishonestly promote small pots of cream that cost £30 each," Dr Lewis-Jones said. She said that these creams often contained hidden steroids which produced the desired effect and led patients to believe the treatments were working.
But this led to the danger that young children could be exposed to very strong steroids normally only given to adults.
Dr Lewis-Jones said she knew of a case where a parent had used a very strong steroid called Dermovate which was bought from Hong Kong to treat her 12-year-old's psoriasis.
Although the product was clearly labelled, the mother used the cream on her child for 18 months without knowing the dangers of such heavy steroid use.
The girl went on to develop Cushing's Syndrome which leads to weight gain, thinning of the bones and blood pressure problems and is caused by too many steroids.
The condition can cause patients to collapse and die and the child had spent three weeks in hospital while she was treated. But Dr Lewis-Jones said under-treatment was a much more serious concern for children with skin conditions.
She said research had shown that three-quarters of parents were worried about using steroid creams on their children and a quarter stopped using them all together.
They were apparently concerned about products would thinning the skin with some even believing they would lead to muscle development such as that seen in bodybuilders who abuse steroids. "The thing about eczema is that we can get it under control and are not going to have to use steroids for very long.
"There is also widespread ignorance of the public and health professionals about the use of steroids but they are a life-saver for people with eczema," Dr Lewis Jones said.
One in three-children under the age of three-and-a-half suffers from eczema. Psoriasis is also very common, affecting 1.2 million people in the UK.
Dr Colin Holden, trustee of the British Skin Foundation, said: "The number of people suffering from skin disease is increasing every day. "It's vital we keep investing money in life-changing research."

Treating Atopic Dermatitis

2005-12-16T07:41:00.000-08:00

More than 15 million Americans are diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, commonly referred to as eczema. There's a new therapy available by prescription.
While many products to treat eczema are currently available, the FDA has recently cleared a new approach in managing the signs and symptoms of eczema called Mimyx cream.
Unlike current prescription therapies, Mimyx is safe enough to be used on patients of any age and there is no limit on the duration of use.
The chronic inflammatory disease that affects 90 percent of patients within the first five years of their lives, is characterized by red, dry, itchy skin that rashes.
This uncomfortable and unpleasant condition largely affects children but can also affect adults and often leads to sleep interruption due to the severity of the itch.

New Drug Application Submitted For Sebazole

2005-12-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

"If approved by the FDA, Sebazole may provide an alternative in the non-steroidal management of seborrheic dermatitis, with less risk for irritation and a more convenient treatment regimen as compared to currently available ketoconazole cream products," stated Dr Geert Cauwenbergh, Chairman and CEO of Barrier Therapeutics.Sebazole is a topical formulation consisting of 2% ketoconazole, an antifungal agent, formulated in a waterless gel for once-daily application. The NDA for Sebazole topical gel was submitted to the FDA in September 2005.

The NDA submission for Sebazole was based on the results of a pivotal confirmatory phase III clinical trial in addition to the results from two prior supportive phase III trials. In the confirmatory two arm phase III pivotal study, which enrolled 459 subjects at 24 centers across the US, Sebazole achieved statistical significance at the primary endpoint as compared to the vehicle treated patients.

Sebazole also achieved statistical significance for the same primary efficacy endpoint in both of the prior Phase 3 clinical trials, which enrolled a combined total of 474 patients in the Sebazole and vehicle arms at 47 centers in the United States and Europe.

FDA Issues Warning About Dermatitis Treatment

2005-12-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

December 7, 2005
The Food and Drug Administration is advising consumers not to use Miracle II Neutralizer and Miracle II Neutralizer Gel products manufactured by Tedco, Inc., West Monroe, Louisiana because the products are bacterially contaminated and have not been proven to be safe and effective.
The agency says use of these products could pose a risk of serious adverse events such as infections, particularly in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems who are particularly susceptible to illness.
"We will not tolerate the marketing of products that use deceptive and untruthful claims to lure consumers into potentially dangerous situations," said Margaret Glavin, FDA's Associate Commissioner for Regulatory Affairs.
"We consider it a significant public health hazard when consumers are deliberately deceived into using potentially dangerous products that promise health benefits but deliver only risk of harm."
The company promotes Miracle II Neutralizer for ophthalmic use in the eyes, including treatment of cataracts and pink eye, and as an eyewash. FDA requires that all ophthalmic products be sterile. Due to the substantial risk posed by non-sterility, Miracle II Neutralizer should never be applied to the eyes.
Tedco, Inc., also markets Miracle II Neutralizer for other unapproved uses, including treatment of AIDS, cancer, Crohn's Disease, dermatitis, diaper rash, diabetes, ear ache, hemorrhoids, hives, gout, herpes, mouth ulcers, psoriasis, skin cancer, and yeast infection.
The firm sells Miracle II Neutralizer Gel for many of the same unapproved uses, including diaper rash, diabetes, gout, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
Tedco, Inc., promotes its Miracle II products with claims such as, "supreme technology has made possible for a perfect soap cleaner, deodorizer, natural insecticide and antibacterial product to be put on the market. This is the only product that is made in the world that can wash a newborn baby or clean up an oil spill and everything in between."
Contrary to such claims, recent FDA testing of Miracle II Neutralizer and Miracle II Neutralizer Gel revealed bacterial contamination and poor manufacturing conditions.
Although Tedco, Inc., has been advised by FDA of the contamination found in its Miracle II Neutralizer and Miracle II Neutralizer Gel products, the firm has declined to voluntarily remove the products from the market.
A number of stores sell Miracle II Neutralizer and Miracle II Neutralizer Gel, and the products are distributed and sold worldwide and sold via the Internet. The products are packaged in 8 oz, 22 oz, and one-gallon size containers.

Dealing With Dermatitis

2005-12-05T11:25:00.000-08:00

Try and remove all fragranced items in the house, and replace with fragrance free (not just ‘unscented’, this is not necessarily the same thing).

Replace most if not all artificial cleaning agents and instead use natural products, including vinegar and/or baking soda.

Oatmeal baths are considered invaluable for eczema sufferers; you can put unground oatmeal in a bag made from old pantyhose and soak it in the bath (this method can also be used as a compress on affected areas while in the bath) or you can grind it finely and either put in a bag or directly into the bath.

Use Tea Tree essential oil on affected areas, especially if it may be a fungal-caused reaction (avoid it, however, if it is dry-skin based, as it can dry the skin out even more).

Lavender essential oil is often touted as indispensable for eczema sufferers for its soothing and healing properties.

Emu oil can be invaluable for most skin irritations, eczema included.

Use shea butter and/or camellia oil on affected areas regularly to help with dryness.

Use a good, gentle skin moisturizer (even olive oil will work well for this).

Take a lactobacillus supplement; this can usually be found with other vitamins and supplements... it can even be found in chewable cherry flavored tablets for children.

Take a flaxseed oil supplement, also found in most vitamin/supplement aisles.

Take evening primrose supplements, and/or break open the capsules and apply directly to affected areas, or add to an oil/salve recipe (breaking open the caplets is recommended for children).Take cod liver oil as a supplement (about 3 tbsp daily for an adult).

Consider using a humidifier in winter if it is dry-skin related.

Winter Dandruff

2005-12-01T10:45:00.000-08:00

Each year, blizzards of white flakes send millions of men and women rushing to the drugstore — not to get snow shovels or sand — but to try to find relief from the embarrassing itch of dandruff. We all have to learn, though, not to stress out over it. Stress and anxiety, many dermatologists agree, can exacerbate an existing condition.
According to Diane Berson, M.D., a NYC-based dermatologist, "For someone who is already predisposed to developing dandruff, stress can definitely make the condition worse. We don't know why this is so, but, we do know, without question — that dermatological disorders, such as dandruff, are exacerbated by stress."
Dandruff is a mild inflammation of the scalp, and it occurs when the scalp sheds larger than normal amounts of dead skin cells at an excessive rate. Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, a more severe form of dandruff, can, according to many dermatologists, increase with stress — regardless of whether the stress is caused by a negative event, such as losing a job, or a positive one, such as getting married.
While dandruff can cause plenty of embarrassment despite routine shampooing, the good news is that the condition responds readily to treatment. And, with a little attention, it's easy to keep it under control, regardless of your stress level.
First line of defense — schedule a visit with your dermatologist who can prescribe a specific medication meant to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
According to Dr. Berson, "If you're on a particular dandruff maintenance therapy to prevent flare-ups, and you know you're going to have an especially stressful week, you might want to step up the regimen, just in case."
In addition, dandruff sufferers may want to practice some anti-stress techniques to help keep dandruff flare-ups at bay. "Tapes, books and videos on relaxation may help," suggests Dr. Berson. "Yoga or medication may also help — even a long, hot bath."

HIVES

2005-11-29T09:33:00.000-08:00

URTICARIA or hives is a rash with raised, itchy, red wheals on the surface of the skin. The rash is usually transient, lasting less than 24 hours, but tends to recur. Sometimes the patient complains only of generalised itch and the rash appears only on scratching.
Urticaria is common and has an incidence of about 15% in some populations studied. Although persons from any age may experience urticaria, the condition is most commonly seen in young adults.
Hives is characterised by a rash with raised, itchy, red wheals on the skin.In urticaria, as a result of an abnormal reaction to certain substances, histamine and other substances are released, causing itching, swelling and other symptoms.
Many substances can trigger urticaria, for example, medications, food (like shellfish, fish, nuts, eggs and milk) and animal dander (especially from cats). Certain food additives and preservatives may also cause this reaction.
Urticaria can persist and become chronic and in these cases the trigger may not be apparent. In some of these cases, an immunological abnormality in the blood may be the cause of the disease.

HAND DERMATITIS AND HEALTHCARE UPDATE

2005-11-21T12:08:00.000-08:00

Studies have shown that a reason oft-repeated by healthcare workers as to why they aren't always compliant with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s "Guideline for Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings"1 is because frequent washing causes dry, cracked skin. That's not just an aesthetic problem; it's an occupational hazard for themselves and their patients. Cracks in dry skin provide perfect hiding places for pathogens that can be transferred from Healthcare workers' (HCWs) hands to sick patients in the blink of an eye.
Sprixx hand sanitizers
The problem of hand care is so serious that it garners much attention from high-profile regulatory and advisory agencies. The CDC considers skin dermatitis to be a critical healthcare issue.1 Thejoint Commission on Accreditation for Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) surveils for compliance with the CDC's hand-hygiene guideline as part of its National Patient Safety Goals.2 The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health notes that "skin disorders are the number one occupational illness across all occupations and cost $1 billion annually.1 The Association for Professions in Infection Control and Epidemiology Inc., (APIC) advises HCWs to "insist on products that promote and maintain healthy skin, reduce transepidermal water loss, increase skin hydration (moisturization), and have low irritancy potential."4
The stepped-up attention to hand care has industry constantly developing new and improved hand-care products to address this important problem.
What should you look for?
Makers of hand-care products are a source of valuable advice when it comes to effective hand care. They've spent a fortune researching what works before their products go on the market. They're not inclined to risk losing that fortune and potential profits by placing products on the market that they don't have reason to believe will perform. What do these experts have to say about what to look for in hand-care products?
Compatibility
Kirsten M. Thompson, technical service expert, Ecolab, St. Paul, MN, suggested looking for alcohol-based hand rubs and lotions that are compatible with other antimicrobial hand products, providing this example: "Compatibility of hand-care products is important, because persistent antimicrobial activity of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) could be diminished if you followed a hand wash containing CHG with a lotion that wasn't CHG-compatible." Steve Rausch, director of marketing, Apollo Corporation, Somerset, WI, concurred: "The most expensive products you can buy are those that don't work."
Skin-friendliness
"It's also important for hand-care products to be skin- friendly," observed Thompson. "If users don't like a product, they won't use it; so, look for a formulation acceptable to most users."
Thompson also advised HCWs to use waterless hand rubs, such as Ecolab's Endure 320 alcohol gel, that have emollients built in. "HCWs may have to wash their hands or rub their hands with a waterless product 40 to 50 times per day. Their hands can become dry and cracked, which hurts. Dry, cracked, bleeding hands are vulnerable to infection, and the bacteria they harbor can be difficult to eradicate. A hand-rub product that leaves an emollient behind not only can kill bacteria, it can preserve the integrity of the skin. The Endure line encompasses the entire spectrum of hand care: soap, alcohol-based hand rubs, surgical scrubs, and lotion, which are formulated to work well together. SkinSynergy is the basis for the Endure line. It's a patented system used to formulate a family of products. The combination of products works as good, if not better, together than each component does separately."
Ecolab hand hygiene products
Healthpoint's Triseptin
Quality
Another point to look for is quality. Rausch advised staying away from "hand-care products loaded with oils, fillers, and thickeners, because they don't perform. When a product doesn't perform, the result can be contact dermatitis and cracked skin that won't heal. A hand-care product should heal, moisturize, hydrate, and contribute to pliability of skin so that it resists drying and cracking. The epidermis is the first line of defense against bacteria. Pliable skin is more resistant to bacteria."
Rausch pointed out that "Many HCWs forget that moisturizing is an important step toward reducing infection. The CDC says that 30% to 40% of all HAIs are due to contaminated hands, and they recommend using a moisturizer to reduce incidence of dry, cracked skin, because moisturized, hydrated skin cuts down the risk of cross- contamination."
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Apollo's lotions are different, said Rausch, because they aren't oil-based. " oil-based lotions simply coat the skin and only lock in moisture already present in the skin. Thera 5 lotion and Thera 10 cream contain urea and lactic acid, chemicals produced naturally by the body. Urea attracts moisture to dry skin cells and increases the water-binding capacity of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. Lactic acid is a humectant that holds moisture in the stratum corneum. oil-based lotions don't attract moisture; they only provide a barrier to hold in whatever moisture is available in the skin. If the skin is dehydrated when the barrier goes on, there won't be any moisture to retain; so, the skin is unable to re- hydrate. Every time HCWs wash their hands with soap and water, Thera 5 or Thera 10 draws moisture into the skin to rehydrate the epidermis."
Health Care Logistics Infection control training CD
Other advantages of the Thera line cited by Rausch are that "they don't leave a heavy, greasy layer on the skin; there are no dyes or mineral oil to irritate skin or erode the structure of latex gloves, as petroleum-based products can; and the lotion or cream only need be reapplied after several hand washings."
Delivery
HCWs are always pressed for time, which is one reason alcohoi- based cleaners are so popular: an alcohol rub is quicker to complete than an effective hand wash. Ron Cagle, business development manager, Sprixx, Santa Barbara, CA, cited another advantage: Studies show that hand washing is more damaging to skin than alcohol."
"The CDC hand-hygiene guidelines recommend wall-mounted containers and individual pocket-sized containers," noted Cagle. Sprixx's focus is delivery systems for alcohol-based cleansers, making the product conveniently available to HCWs so that use becomes "a second-nature habit," said Cagle. "Alcoholbased cleansers need to be more accessible to become a second-nature habit. Cleaning hands by using a wall mount when entering or leaving a patient room is good, but it's not enough; it must be done at point-of-care. We champion the idea of body-worn, second-nature tools. Having a personal container changes the paradigm from an institutional policy or problem to a personal commitment. It changes how you think about hand hygiene fundamentally, from something impersonal to something very personal."
A beeper-sized personal container, called the Sprixxer, sprays 63% ethyl alcohol with an emollient added. It clips onto a belt or clothing and can be sprayed into the palm with one hand. "It deploys quickly, and the spray won't drip," explained Cagle.
If bought in bulk, each dispenser costs $4.95, and a 1.35-ounce replacement cartridge costs $1.25. A 0.5-ounce bottle with a reusable clip costs $1.15 per unit. Also available is a 2.36-ounce spray bottle that fits into a holster, with the holster cost at $3 and the replacement bottle at $2.10. There are currently two alcohol- based formulas with different scents, and the company has 10 new formulas with different scents, consistencies, emollients, and active ingredients in the making; however, no release date has been set for them yet.
Persistence
Lawton Seal, senior program manager, research and development, Surgical Division, HEALTHPOINT, Fort Worth, TX, added persistence to a list of qualities that should be sought by users of hand cleansers. "The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a category with specific requirements for HCW personnel handwash products that must be met for vendors to be compliant. If products don't meet these standards, they don't perform the way people think they are, and the user has a false sense of security."
HEALTHPOINT's water-optional hand wash exceeds FDA requirements.5 It employs 61% alcohol for quick kill combined with zinc pyrithione for prolonged kill. A study by Seal et al found that "the product provides antimicrobial persistence, and residual effects and repeated use contribute positively to overall skin conditioning."
"It all goes back to product efficiency," said Steve Owens, marketing director, Surgical Division, HEALTHPOINT." Sixty-two percent ethanol has good quick-kill ability, but 2 or 3 hours later, the microbes have returned. Used as often as needed, the skin may dry or crack, and microbes could grow in these niches. You need sustained, prolonged kill plus skin-conditioning properties that can replace moisture and fats removed by alcohol to maintain a barrier. oil (fat) has microbiocidal properties, too," said Owens.
Education
Most companies provide inservice when introducing their products to facilities, but some companies go far beyond that. Medline Industries Inc,Mundelein, IL, promotes education with its new "Innovations in Hand Hygiene: A Continuing Education Program" for HCWs on DVD. They also have a new awareness campaign, "Germ Stoppers," designed to educate patients and visitors, as well as HCWs, about the importance of hand hygiene. The "Germ Stoppers" campaign empowers patients to question hospital staff entering their room as to whether they've sanitized their hands. The campaign includes instructions for cleaning hands with Medline's no-rinse sanitizer.
Medline also is busy developing a self-assessment tool, called the "Hand Hygiene, Skin, and Glove-Use Survey," designed to evaluate compliance with the CDC's hand-hygiene guidelines. "Dr. Denise Korniewicz, a well-known barrier expert, and Dr. Elaine Larson, editor of the American Journal of Infection Control, designed this survey that asks questions whose answers uncover factors behind behavior and attitudes specific to each facility that result in noncompliance," said Stephen Cervieri, vice president of education and research, Medline. "The usual way to test for compliance is 'supervisory observation,' anonymously. It takes time to observe and get results, sometimes a year. Our tool will imrnediately reveal problems and challenges that need to be resolved in a particular facility, such as inconveniently located sinks or dry skin." The tool is being pilot tested at selected facilities now.
Medline's Aloetouch exam gloves
In the second phase of the tool's development, the same facilities will participate in a trial that tests Medline's aloe- coated medical gloves as a therapy for dry, cracked skin. "This product is a breakthrough," said Tripp Amdur, president of Medline's Accucare Division. "It's a patented solution that's brought the handcare product into the glove. HCWs have to wear gloves anyway, so they might as well get treatment at the same time." An added attraction: "The aloe-coated gloves can eliminate the need for lotions and the extra time needed to apply them; they can eliminate the risk of crossinfection presented when a bottle of lotion is used by more than one HCW; and they eliminate the space needed to store lotions in supply closets. Sales have exploded over the past year. We have hundreds of letters of testimony, just an overwhelming response to the aloe-coated gloves' effect on skin, and they cost less than a penny more than a glove without an aloe coating.
Whimsy
Health Care Logistics, Circleville, OH, is a medical products distribution company that also promotes hand-hygiene, but they do it with "a whimsical approach," said Ken Bober, consultant, market research and business development. Their "Just Say NOsocomial" infection control training program uses six characters, Handy the Hand Washing Octopus, Freddy the Fomite, Perry the Pathogen, Gordon the Glove, Sophie Soap and Water, and Anti Annie Septic, to motivate HCWs to practice good hand hygiene. "Infection control personnel must continually be sensitized to the importance of hand washing," observed Bober. "These humorous characters present infection control measures in a way that hospital employees will remember when conducting their jobs."
Apollo's Thera 5 moisturizing lotion
The training program includes a CD PowerPoint presentation that is intended to stimulate discussion; a binder with a copy of each slide, with talking points; 30 copies of six different posters that highlight each character and its message, for posting throughout the institution; and 25 copies of the training brochure, recapping what's on the posters. The healthcare professional who presents the program is provided with giveaways, such as hand-sanitizer spray pens and "Just Say NOsocomial" silicone bracelets and magnets, for attendees as visible reminders to practice proper handwashing techniques.
The initial cost for the 'Just Say NOsocomial" package is $110. Additional components are sold in packs of 25 at quantity discounts.
Most importantly ...
No matter which products you choose for your facility, here are some important words to keep in mind from Owens: "Take care in selecting products. Keep the standard high with regard to hand hygiene."
JCR Introduces hand hygiene buttons
Joint Commission Resources (JCR) announced the release of hand hygiene buttons designed to promote staff handwashing. JCR is an affiliate of Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The hand hygiene buttons encourage patients to ask and remind healthcare staff to wash their hands before and after patient encounters. These colorful buttons instantly communicate to patients the healthcare organization's commitment to stopping the spread of infections. They are available in packs of 10 in English or Spanish for $5. Custom orders are available in quantities of 100, 250, 500, and 1,000 for the following languages: Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, Czech, French, German, Italian, and Japanese. For more information or to order the hand hygiene buttons, call JCR Customer Service toll-free at 877-223-6866, 8
REFERENCES
1 .Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guideline for hand hygiene in Healthcare settings. MMWR Recomm Rep 200Z;51(RR16):1-44.
2.JCAHO. National Patient Safety Goals, http:// www. jcipatientsaf ety.org/show.asp? durki=9721 &site=164&return=9344.
3. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NORA allergic and irritant dermatitis. December 1998. http:// www.cdc.gov/ niosh/topics/skin.
4. Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Healthy Skin: An Ounce of Prevention for Your front Line of Defense. Washington., DC: APIC; 2005.
5. Seal LA, Rizer RL, Maas-lrslinger, R. A unique water optional health care personnel hand wash provides antimicrobial persistence and residual effects while decreasing the need for additional products. XIm JInfectConfro/2004;33:207-216.
by Susan Cantrell, ELS
Copyright KSR Publishing Nov 2005

Seborrhea Clinical Trials

2005-11-18T16:00:00.000-08:00

Do you suffer from Scaly skin on your scalp, hairline, face, or chest? You may have seborrheic dermatitis.
The SebDermEx Study is a four-week research study of an investigational drug for sebhorreic dermatitis. Participants must be at least 12 years of age.
The research site is in San Diego.
For more Information
Please see http://www.centerwatch.com/patient/studies/cat137.html.

Detecting Allergic Contact Dermatitis

2005-11-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

That itchy rash you get when you wear earrings might not be because you bought them from the sales rack; and the redness on your finger when you wear your wedding ring is not a "sign" that your marriage is in trouble. You may be one of the million of individuals who have allergic contact dermatitis. Look around you and at what you’re wearing. You may find the cause of your discomfort: you may have a metal allergy.
Speaking at the American Academy of Dermatology’s 2003 Annual Meeting in San Francisco, dermatologist Joseph F. Fowler, Jr., MD, spoke about allergic contact dermatitis and the various metals that can trigger it.
"Allergic contact dermatitis accounts for a significant number of visits to a dermatologist's office and is usually caused by substances that come into contact with the skin," said Dr. Fowler. "Metal is one of the most common culprits of allergic contact dermatitis especially due to the popular trend of body piercing which can lead to irritation and rashes in not only the earlobes, but upper portions of the ears, lips, nose, tongue, navel, breasts and genitalia as well."
After poison ivy, metal allergy is the most common form of allergic contact dermatitis. In the past, women have been more susceptible to metal allergy than men due to the amount of jewelry worn, but the numbers of males wearing jewelry is increasing and so is the incidence of metal allergy in this population.
Symptoms of metal allergy usually occur between six to 24 hours following exposure and will dissipate if exposure to the allergen is eliminated. The affected skin may become red, swollen, and blisters often appear, which may break, leaving crusts and scales. Later the skin may darken and become leathery and cracked. The rash is generally confined to the site of contact, although severe cases may extend outside the contact area, especially if the allergen is on your fingers and then transmitted to the face, eyelids or genitals."It’s important to note that allergic contact dermatitis, such as metal allergy, can be difficult to distinguish from other rashes," stated Dr. Fowler. "However, dermatologists can determine clues about the nature of a rash based on its location on the body and the patient's lifestyle and work habits."
Another way dermatologists can discover the source of an allergy is through patch testing. During patch testing, small amounts of possible allergens are applied to the skin on strips of tape and then removed after two days. An allergy shows up as a small red spot at the site of the patch and a dermatologist notes what the patient is most sensitive to.

Exposure to Cobalt Can Cause Contact Dermatitis

2005-11-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

Cobalt is also a common allergen that is found in many of the same items that contain nickel, thereby making this allergen difficult to pinpoint. It is also found naturally in soil, dust and seawater. In the home, it is most often found in the blue pigments in porcelain, glass, pottery or ceramics, as well as blue and green water color paints and crayons. In the workplace, cobalt is found in cement, bricks and mortars."Combined allergic reactions are not uncommon and represent simultaneous specific sensations to each individual metals as opposed to being reactions to the combination," stated Dr. Fowler. "Whenever possible, patients are encouraged to avoid the allergen, use plastic or wooden items, such as kitchen utensils or scissors, and wear protective clothing and a face mask at their workplace."

Chromate Can Be A Factor In Contact Dermatitis

2005-11-13T03:22:00.000-08:00

Chromate is another dermatitis-causing metal, which is also found in cement, but more commonly used as a leather tanning agent. "Shoe dermatitis" may result from leather containing chromates and patients should change their shoes and socks throughout the day especially if they are allergic or if there is excess perspiration.In addition, some matches contain chromates and touching unlit matches can contaminate fingers. The fumes from a lit match and the charred match head also contain small amounts of chromate."When a metal allergy is suspected, it's important for people to seek the medical advice of a dermatologist especially since nickel, cobalt and chromate can all be found in some common metal objects that people may touch every day," said Dr. Fowler. "If avoidance of an item isn't possible, your dermatologist can recommend some other treatment options and lifestyle changes that can help patients live and work without the itchy rash of allergic contact dermatitis."

Nickel Can Cause Contact Dermatitis

2005-11-11T03:31:00.000-08:00

The most common of all metal allergens is nickel, which is found in costume jewelry, clothing ornamentation, such as zippers, buttons and snaps, and virtually all common metal objects. Approximately 16 percent of all individuals who are patch tested for allergies turn out to be allergic to nickel. Because sweat allows the metal ions to be better absorbed into the skin, areas on the body where nickel is present and where sweating may occur can see an increase in the severity of the dermatitis.
The most common location of nickel dermatitis is on the earlobes from earrings containing the metal. This reaction may start with the needle used to pierce the ears and continue as individuals begin to change their earrings daily. Dermatologists suggest that individuals with an allergy to nickel wear only nickel-free or plastic earrings.
Trace amounts of metal are found in food and people with sensitivity to metal can experience dermatitis. In particular, beans, lettuce and whole-grain foods are high in nickel, but most people do not ingest enough of them to develop a serious rash.
"While nickel dermatitis is associated most often with costume jewelry or watchbands, which have a high concentration of nickel, it can occur with finer jewelry which is usually worn for prolonged periods, for example a wedding ring," said Dr. Fowler. "If sentimental reasons prevent you from not wearing an item on a daily basis, the best way to prevent the reaction is to have it plated in a non-allergic metal, such as platinum."

Dermatitis and the Manicure

2005-11-08T02:55:00.000-08:00

In a recent issue of Women's Health in Primary Care, two New York dermatologists, Dr. Herbert P. Goodheart of Mount Sinai Hospital and Dr. Hendrik Uyttendaele of Columbia University Medical Center, reviewed the various procedures involved in current nail cosmetic practices and their possible hazards.

They began with what is often the first step in a manicure: removing the cuticle, sometimes after applying a softener with strong alkalis that break down the keratin in this protective skin. Cuticle removal should be discouraged because it can lead to inflammation and infections of the surrounding tissue and nail root and cause permanent nail deformities, the doctors advised.

They also warned against the use of a wooden pick under the nails when getting a "French manicure," which can contribute to fungal infections and loss of the nail.

Cosmetic nail products are replete with toxic and allergenic chemicals, including toluene, phthalates, camphor and formaldehyde. Many of these components can cause allergic reactions, and not just involving the nails.

For example, eyelid dermatitis can result when someone touches or rubs her eyes with polished nails, transferring the toluene-sulfonamide-formaldehyde resin in the polish to highly sensitive skin.

Nail hardeners with fiber, used to treat brittle nails, are another source of allergic reactions, as is the acrylic glue used to attach many nail wraps and tips and the plastic artificial nails used to elongate natural nails. In addition, minor pressure exerted on the tips of artificial nails can damage the underlying natural nails and cause partial or complete nail loss. The experts point out that "natural nails are often the healthiest choice and need the least maintenance." But they also recognize that getting enthusiasts to abandon nail cosmetics is a lost cause.

They suggest these steps:
To reduce the risk of infection, women who get professional manicures should buy their own "manicure pack" containing a set of manicure instruments that they bring to the nail salon.

Cuticles should not be removed -- at most, gently trimmed -- and acrylics should be used with great care.

Women should periodically refrain from using nail polish and other nail cosmetics to promote overall nail health and to permit occasional inspection of the natural nail for abnormalities.
Because trimming or filing natural nails into an "egg-shape" to make the fingers look longer increases the risk of separation from the nail bed, a grooming method similar to that used for toenails -- flat tips with long corners -- is more sensible and less likely to result in broken nails.

Probiotic Supplements Can Improve Atopic Dermatitis

2005-11-06T09:22:00.000-08:00

Children given a probiotic supplement for four months showed a significant improvement in symptoms of atopic dermatitis, said Australian researchers this month.The new study adds to previous research by the University of Helsinki into the merits of probiotics on dermatitis in children, but uses an independent analysis index to confirm the results.
Professor Susan Prescott and colleagues from the University of Western Australia in Perth used the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) index to classify a group of children aged between 6-18 months and assess their improvements.
They investigated the effects of a course of L fermentum VRI-003 PCC, made by Probiomics Australia, on 53 children scoring more than 25 on the SCORAD index.
Twenty-seven children were given 1 billion cfu of L fermentum freeze-dried powder twice daily for 16 weeks. The remaining children received maltodextran without probiotics twice daily for the same duration.
Both supplements were reconstituted by parents with 5-10 ml of water and administered orally as a suspension.
Results indicated that the reduction in the SCORAD severity scale over time was significant in the probiotic group – 92 per cent scored better at 16 weeks than at baseline – but not the placebo group.
The control set saw only a 63 per cent SCORAD improvement in their conditions.
Further tests proved that the probiotic group enjoyed a reduction in severe AD symptoms, with 54 per cent recording a drop from acute to mild AD, compared with the placebo group who saw a 30 per cent decline in severe conditions.
The SCORAD index, originally developed by the European Task Force on AD as a referent clinical severity scale, scores the extent and subjective symptoms according to clinically approved consensus agreed by more than 20 dermatologists.
First defined in 1933, AD is one of the most common skin conditions in children. Its course is chronic and recurrent. The main symptom of AD is acute pruritus accompanying eczematous skin lesions.

Special Needs in The Care And Treatment of Skin of Color

2005-11-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Nearly half of the world and more than one-third of United States population is comprised of people of color. And, just as skin color and tone varies among each individual, so do the unique needs of this sensitive and easily damaged skin.
Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology’s (Academy) skin academy, dermatologist Eliot F. Battle, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Howard University in Washington, D.C., addressed a variety of conditions that are common in people with skin of color and how to treat them.
“Skin of color reacts differently from Caucasian skin to almost all medical and cosmetic dermatologic treatments,” said Dr. Battle. “It’s more sensitive and it’s more prone to problems of discoloration and scars.”
Excessive HairExcessive hair is a common problem for many people with skin of color. Conventional methods of hair removal like electrolysis, waxing, threading, shaving, and plucking, can not only be tedious and temporary, but have a higher incidence of side effects, including dark spots and scars when used on darker skin types.
While lasers have been used successfully to remove excessive hair in people with light skin for many years, only recently, with the advent of “color-blind” lasers, are they becoming a good option for people with darker skin. Because darker skin attracts more of the light from short wavelength lasers, using them on people with skin of color causes side effects such as blistering, changes in skin pigment and scarring.
“The ‘color-blind’ lasers use a longer wavelength to account for differences in skin tone,” said Dr. Battle. “These lasers are safe and effective for helping people with skin of color eliminate unwanted hair. They also are being used for skin rejuvenation and scar therapy and we are investigating their use in treating blood vessels and blending complexions.”
Dermatologic ConditionsIt’s important for people with skin of color to see a dermatologist as they may find that their skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema and atopic dermatitis can often be misdiagnosed by doctors who may not be familiar with darker skin.
“If these skin conditions are not diagnosed and treated properly, the initial skin lesion may turn into pigmentary disorders because people with skin of color are prone to developing dark spots as the primary lesion heals,” said Dr. Battle. “These dark spots can be quite cosmetically disfiguring and can sometimes last for years.”
Skin LighteningDark spots and other discolorations are so common that some people with skin of color turn to both over-the-counter and the more powerful prescription skin lightening creams to treat them. These creams can be used to lighten both large and small patches of darker pigmentation.
“Look for proven ingredients like hydroquinone and kojic acid, but be aware that long-term use of lightening creams can result in a condition called ocronosis, a darkened, bluish discoloration of the treated area,” Dr. Battle said. “Use of these products should be monitored by a dermatologist to help prevent any negative side effects.”
ScarringMany people with skin of color also find that their skin does not heal very well from trauma, such as cuts, surgical incisions or burns. As a result, they may be prone to developing keloid or hypertrophic scars, which can be disfiguring and painful. After the skin is wounded, both skin cells and connective tissue cells (fibroblasts) begin multiplying to repair the damage. With keloids, the fibroblasts continue to multiply even after the wound is healed and project above the surface of the skin. Hypertrophic scars look similar to keloids and are more common, but they do not get as big as keloids, and they may fade with time.
“The main key to alleviating scarring problems is prevention,” said Dr. Battle. People with a family history of scarring, both hypertrophic and keloidal need to minimize any trauma to their skin, including avoiding body piercing and unnecessary surgeries. Once a wound has occurred, it should be cared for meticulously under the guidance of a dermatologist.
Skin CancerWhile many people with skin of color tend to think that they are not at risk of developing skin cancer, Dr. Battle stressed that since any, regardless of skin color or ethnicity can develop skin cancer, it is important to practice sun safety.
“Too often, people with skin of color visit the dermatologist after their melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has spread throughout the body. By that point, the chance of the treatment’s success is severely diminished,” said Dr. Battle. “It’s important that patients of color practice regular skin self-examinations and learn how to identify suspicious lesions.”
While early diagnosis is critical in the treatment of any type of skin cancer, it can be easy to miss in people with skin of color since cancerous lesions occur most commonly on the extremities, particularly the feet and on the scalp where they may be well hidden between the toes or by hair.
“It’s important for people of color to see a dermatologist who understands their skin’s unique needs,” said Dr. Battle. “The newer treatments that are available like safer cosmeceuticals, prescription medications, aesthetic services and ‘color-blind’ lasers mean that there are more options than ever before for helping people with skin of color keep their skin, hair and nails healthy.”
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 14,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.

New Product Gets FDA Approval

2005-10-31T09:37:00.000-08:00

CORAL GABLES, Fla., Oct. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Stiefel Laboratories, the world's largest independent pharmaceutical company specializing in dermatology, announced that its new product for treating atopic dermatitis - MimyX(TM) Cream - has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for sales and marketing in the United States.
"We are elated to expand our product offering to include atopic dermatitis, and we are particularly pleased to be able to offer an alternative to dermatologists and pediatricians in treating atopic dermatitis, which is a challenging chronic disease," said Charles Stiefel, President and CEO of Stiefel Laboratories. He added that MimyX(TM) Cream is currently available on a prescription-only basis.
MimyX(TM) Cream is a topical non-steroidal treatment for atopic dermatitis that can be used in patients of all ages. It takes a totally new approach to treating the condition by restoring the natural structure and components of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin.
MimyX(TM) Cream's unique treatment approach is clinically proven to relieve the signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis. In addition, essential ingredients found within MimyX(TM) Cream mimic natural components of the stratum corneum, thus helping repair and restore skin barrier function. The end result is a safe, effective, hypoallergenic product that restores barrier function while relieving the signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis without adversely affecting the patient's immune system. The product also contains no emulsifiers, perfumes or dyes that might affect sensitive/allergic patients.
"Having this treatment option that can be used by almost any patient, including children, for longer periods of time than other available medications, gives my fellow physicians and me greater flexibility in tackling atopic dermatitis. I am enthusiastic about adding MimyX(TM) to my current atopic dermatitis regimen," said Joseph Jorizzo, M.D., Professor of Dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
Atopic dermatitis is often simply referred to as "eczema." It is characterized by extremely itchy skin that leads to persistent scratching. That scratching produces redness, swelling, cracking, "weeping" of clear fluid, and finally, crusting and scaling.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), more than 15 million people in the U.S. have symptoms of atopic dermatitis. In addition, children are more commonly affected than adults, with 90 percent of acute dermatitis cases diagnosed by age 5. Roughly 60 percent of infants affected continue to have one or more symptoms of atopic dermatitis into adulthood.
NIAMS researchers project that U.S. health insurance companies spend more than $1 billion per year on atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis has also been found to affect patient quality of life due to its uncomfortable symptoms and how it alters physical appearance.
"Current therapeutic options are not meeting the needs of patients with atopic dermatitis. We believe MimyX(TM) Cream offers physicians a safe and effective maintenance therapy option in the arsenal against this condition," said Steve Gallopo, Director, New Product Planning for Stiefel Laboratories.
MimyX(TM) Cream is indicated to manage and relieve the burning and itching experienced with various types of dermatoses, including atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis and radiation dermatitis. MimyX(TM) Cream is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the components of the formulation. In radiation therapy, MimyX(TM) Cream may be applied as indicated by the treating Radiation Oncologist. Do not apply 4 hours prior to a radiation session. MimyX(TM) Cream does not contain a sunscreen and should not be used prior to extended exposure to the sun. For external use only.

Facts About Seborrheic Dermatitis

2005-10-28T06:21:00.000-07:00

Seborrheic dermatitis is a non-contagious condition that causes flaking and redness of the skin. It occurs when there is inflammation in areas of the skin where sebaceous (skin oil) glands are concentrated. It usually affects the scalp, but can also affect other parts of the body, such as eyebrows, eyelids, the folds of the nose, lips, behind or inside the ears, in the external ear, the forehead and the chin and the skin of the trunk, particularly around the navel, in the skin folds under the arms, in the groin, or under the breasts.

Seborrheic dermatitis appears to run in families. Stress, fatigue, weather extremes, oily skin, infrequent shampoos or skin cleaning, use of lotions that contain alcohol, or skin disorders such as acne or obesity may increase the risk.

Neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, head injury, and stroke can also be associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is also associated with higher incidence. Seborrheic dermatitis can be unpleasant and uncomfortable, and is usually unattractive. It can disappear spontaneously and suddenly reappear, for no known reason. Or it can stubbornly linger, resisting treatment.

But as frustrating as it can be, it is readily diagnosed and is treatable.

Althete's Foot is a Form of Dermatitis

2005-10-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

Athlete's foot appears as an itching, burning skin rash on the feet or hands. Blisters often form, and the skin is red and inflamed

The International Eczema- Psoriasis Foundation

2005-10-24T06:56:00.000-07:00

In this International Eczema-Psoriasis Foundation website, you will find information about eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, guttate psoriasis, their symptoms, causes and treatments. You will be able to distinguish between eczema and similar conditions such as contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, neurodermatitis, contact eczema, light sensitive eczema, juvenile plantar eczema, eczema craquele, eczema herpeticum, atopic eczema, infantile eczema, adult seborrheic eczema, varicose eczema, discoid eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, palmoplantar psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, scalp & ear psoriasis, and nail psoriasis. Treatment, symptoms and medications used in the treatment of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and skin conditions that co-exist with dermatitis, such as adult acne, lupus, and rosacea will be presented. The informative text on eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis discusses treatment, causes, and lifestyle changes that help treat dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

Identfying The Cause of Dermatitis

2005-10-21T09:22:00.000-07:00

The steps taken to identify the cause of dermatitis are akin to a detective story, in which a few clues may lead to a suspected allergen or irritant. Try to remember anything that changed prior to the reaction. Was there any change in clothing, detergents, personal care items, behaviors, habits, or foods? A specific area of the body may point to a possible offender.

For instance, if dermatitis is confined to the eyelids, the culprit may be a recent change in makeup procedures. The preservatives, vehicles, or colorants in eye makeup or eyelid cleansing products should be reviewed.

Hair care products, eyelash curlers, or other facial cosmetics may also be the cause.If an allergy to a ring has developed, often, there will be a ring of dermatitis under the ring.

If the ring is a gold alloy, allergy to nickel in the ring is possible, but the probable cause is a detergent or other product to which the hands are exposed. An allergen or irritant residue can remain under the ring, where dermatitis eventually develops. To reduce this problem it is best to remove the ring until the hands are thoroughly washed and completely dried.

Parents may find that a child has dermatitis around the mouth. If the irritation extends in a complete circle at least one or more inches out from the lips, the culprit may be lip-licking. The child may have a nervous habit of licking the lips and face as far as the tongue will extend. Oral fluids are irritating to skin with constant exposure, and the child needs to be taught that licking causes the problem rather than soothes it.

Other causes of lip inflammation include lip makeup, ingestion of oranges, apples, mangoes, potatoes, carrots, tomatoes and kiwi. An underappreciated sensitizer is neomycin; a component of the most commonly sold topical antibiotic products (e.g., Mycitracin, Neosporin). These products are only safe for preventing infections in minor injuries. If a person develops an allergic reaction when using them as directed, they must be immediately discontinued.

Since the appearance of an allergy to neomycin can cause cross-sensitivities with other aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin, one should choose a topical antibiotic free of neomycin. Patients using veterinary products, such as Bag Balm, as hand softening agents may develop a quinolone sensitivity. In order to avoid this, you should be urged to only use products labeled for human use.

Benzocaine is a sensitizer that is found in topical products for itch, burns, dermatitis, canker sores, insect bites, teething, and hemorrhoids. If you develop a sensitivity to these products, an alternate local anesthetics (e.g., pramoxine) should be chosen.

What is Peri-oral Dermatitis?

2005-10-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

Perioral dermatitis is a common facial skin problem in adult women. It rarely occurs in men. Groups of itchy or tender small red spots appear most often around the mouth. They spare the skin bordering the lips (which then appears pale) but develop on the chin, upper lip and cheeks. The skin surface becomes dry and flaky.Often the skin around the nose is affected too, and sometimes that around the eyes (when it should more correctly be called "periocular", or better still, "periorificial" dermatitis.)

THE INFLAMMATION OF DERMATITIS

2005-10-17T03:49:00.000-07:00

Basic Facts On Dermatitis

2005-10-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Dermatitis is the most common inflammatory disease of the skin. It affects 15 million adults and children - 6% of all Americans.

Dermatitis nearly always begins within the first 5 years of life and while 50% of cases will be outgrown, the remainder will persist throughout a lifetime.

The exact cause of dermatitis is not known, but genetic factors are thought to play a role in the development of this disease.

Persons with dermatitis often have allergies or asthma, as well. Various materials such as wool can cause a worsening of symptoms.

Dermatitis appears as redness, scaling and/or small blisters (vesicles) on the head, face, neck, or the insides of the elbows, wrists, and knees. These characteristic features are often masked by secondary lesions such as crusting, excoriations, infection, or irritation from topical treatments.There is no cure for dermatitis.

Current therapy is directed at suppressing the inflammation and reducing triggering factors with topical treatments and ultraviolet light therapy.

Identifying Factors in Dermatitis

2005-10-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

The steps taken to identify the cause of dermatitis are akin to a detective story, in which a few clues may lead to a suspected allergen or irritant. Try to remember anything that changed prior to the reaction. Was there any change in clothing, detergents, personal care items, behaviors, habits, or foods? A specific area of the body may point to a possible offender. For instance, if dermatitis is confined to the eyelids, the culprit may be a recent change in makeup procedures. The preservatives, vehicles, or colorants in eye makeup or eyelid cleansing products should be reviewed. Hair care products, eyelash curlers, or other facial cosmetics may also be the cause.If an allergy to a ring has developed, often, there will be a ring of dermatitis under the ring. If the ring is a gold alloy, allergy to nickel in the ring is possible, but the probable cause is a detergent or other product to which the hands are exposed. An allergen or irritant residue can remain under the ring, where dermatitis eventually develops. To reduce this problem it is best to remove the ring until the hands are thoroughly washed and completely dried. Parents may find that a child has dermatitis around the mouth. If the irritation extends in a complete circle at least one or more inches out from the lips, the culprit may be lip-licking. The child may have a nervous habit of licking the lips and face as far as the tongue will extend. Oral fluids are irritating to skin with constant exposure, and the child needs to be taught that licking causes the problem rather than soothes it. Other causes of lip inflammation include lip makeup, ingestion of oranges, apples, mangoes, potatoes, carrots, tomatoes and kiwi. An underappreciated sensitizer is neomycin; a component of the most commonly sold topical antibiotic products (e.g., Mycitracin, Neosporin). These products are only safe for preventing infections in minor injuries. If a person develops an allergic reaction when using them as directed, they must be immediately discontinued. Since the appearance of an allergy to neomycin can cause cross-sensitivities with other aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin, one should choose a topical antibiotic free of neomycin. Patients using veterinary products, such as Bag Balm, as hand softening agents may develop a quinolone sensitivity. In order to avoid this, you should be urged to only use products labeled for human use. Benzocaine is a sensitizer that is found in topical products for itch, burns, dermatitis, canker sores, insect bites, teething, and hemorrhoids. If you develop a sensitivity to these products, an alternate local anesthetics (e.g., pramoxine) should be chosen.