Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42305907
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BACKGROUND: Dermatitis cruris pustulosa et atrophicans (DCPA), a chronic skin inflammatory condition involving the shins, is a marginally recognized disorder in Uganda. PURPOSE: To describe the clinical manifestation of...BACKGROUND: Dermatitis cruris pustulosa et atrophicans (DCPA), a chronic skin inflammatory condition involving the shins, is a marginally recognized disorder in Uganda. PURPOSE: To describe the clinical manifestation of DCPA and risk factors among populations in southwestern Uganda. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study was conducted in Mbarara and Kabale Regional Referral Hospital Skin Clinics. Demographic data and digital images of affected shins were taken and stored on remote server. In a descriptive cross-sectional study, data was collected from 405 participants from 02/November/2022 to 04/January/2024 and was analyzed using R, a data visualization and statistical computing programming language. RESULTS: Most patients (74.9%) were aged 0-25 years, with a mean age of 21.6 years (SD = 15.1). Females constituted 71.9% of cases. Patients were almost evenly distributed between Mbarara (46.2%) and Kabale (53.8%) Hospitals. The largest affected groups were students (38%) and pupils/infants (25.4%) followed by Farmers (16%) and semiskilled laborers (8.9%). Petroleum jelly was the most topical application (28.6%) while herbal remedies (11.9%), Systemic antibiotics (8.9%) and topical antifungal treatments (5.2%) were less frequently used. CONCLUSION: DCPA presents with itching, pus discharge, and atrophic skin changes. In southwestern Uganda, it mainly affects young females. In its multifactorial etiopathogenesis oily cosmetic products is a contributory factor.These findings, supported by Mbarara University Data Science Research Hub (MUDSReH), highlight the need for improved diagnostic tools and targeted interventions for DCPA. Further research is needed to assess the broader impact of DCPA in Uganda.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42299447
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INTRODUCTION: Botulinum toxins type-A (BTX-A) including onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox Cosmetic), abobotulinumtoxin A (Dysport), and incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin) have regulatory approval and are widely used as a highly effect...INTRODUCTION: Botulinum toxins type-A (BTX-A) including onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox Cosmetic), abobotulinumtoxin A (Dysport), and incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin) have regulatory approval and are widely used as a highly effective non-surgical treatment for dynamic facial wrinkles. BTX-A injections have become a mainstay in aesthetic medicine due to their minimally invasive nature, predictable results, and relatively low risk of complications. PURPOSE: Optimizing post-BXT-A skincare is crucial for maximizing results and overall skin health. This randomized double-blind vehicle-controlled, split-face study investigated a novel neuropeptide serum designed to complement BTX-A injections in a post-procedural setting. METHODS: This is a 10-week, split-face, double-blind, vehicle-controlled randomized study designed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of a topical neuropeptide serum compared to vehicle control as pre- and post-procedural skincare around onabotulinumtoxinA injections in subjects with mild-to-moderate facial lines, facial wrinkles, and rough skin. At pre-treatment, subjects applied either neuropeptide serum or vehicle to one-half of the face randomized in conjunction with moisturizer, cleanser and sunscreen for 14 days. At baseline, subjects received on-label onabotulinumtoxinA injections for glabella and lateral canthal lines, post-injection subjects continued their randomized skincare regimen. Clinical efficacy live grading was assessed at pre-treatment, baseline, weeks 2, 4 and 8. Tolerance and subject self-assessments were conducted during the study. RESULTS: The novel neuropeptide serum demonstrated statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) compared to vehicle in 18 facial attributes assessed by the clinical dermatologist, including forehead wrinkles, global fine lines, smoothness and radiance at 8 weeks post BTX-A injection. Additionally, no tolerability concerns were observed by either the investigator or subjects. Compared to vehicle, the neuropeptides serum's statistical benefits can be seen as early as 2 weeks prior to BTX-A injection. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrated that the neuropeptide serum is an effective complementary product that can be used with BTX-A treatments to achieve enhanced results.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42299446
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OBJECTIVE: To integrate protein quantitative trait loci (BD pQTL) data from the UK Biobank (UKB) and the Icelandic population to investigate the causal relationship between circulating proteins and basal cell carcinoma (...OBJECTIVE: To integrate protein quantitative trait loci (BD pQTL) data from the UK Biobank (UKB) and the Icelandic population to investigate the causal relationship between circulating proteins and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), as well as their mediation mechanisms. METHODS: Bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) was performed to assess the causal association between UKB-derived pQTLs and BCC. Protein-protein interaction networks and functional enrichment analyses were applied to identify core pathways. A mediation MR framework was further constructed to model the regulatory axis of "upstream proteins-mediator proteins-BCC", and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure robustness. RESULTS: Circulating proteins have a unidirectional causal effect on BCC, and the associated proteins are significantly enriched in immune and inflammatory pathways. A total of 13 UKB pQTLs were identified to potentially affect the risk of BCC through 6 BD pQTLs, and the robustness of the results was confirmed. Among them, STAT3 and GUCA1A emerged as key mediator hubs, each mediating multiple protein pathways (with the highest mediation proportion reaching 15.2%). CONCLUSION: This study reveals the causal associations between certain UKB pQTLs, BD pQTLs, and BCC, and identifies six BD pQTLs that mediate the effect of UKB pQTLs on BCC through STAT3 and GUCA1A as core mediator proteins, providing new genetic evidence for the precise stratification and targeted intervention of BCC.
Leguina-Ruzzi A, Rawshani N, Brito S
… +3 more, Bin BH, Abbas Z, Zhao Q
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42299445
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BACKGROUND: Thread lifting has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to surgical facial rejuvenation, providing mechanical tissue repositioning with shorter recovery times. Advances in biomaterials and thread desig...BACKGROUND: Thread lifting has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to surgical facial rejuvenation, providing mechanical tissue repositioning with shorter recovery times. Advances in biomaterials and thread design have improved safety and lifting capacity; however, variability in clinical outcomes persists due to differences in vector design, thread type, tissue manipulation, and anesthesia techniques. These factors may influence complication rates, procedural tolerance, and postoperative downtime, contributing to ongoing concerns regarding the predictability and reproducibility of thread-lifting procedures. OBJECTIVE: To describe the development of a vector-optimized thread-lifting technique (VectorLift) and to compare its clinical performance in an exploratory, real-world, non-randomized comparative study with two commonly used thread-lifting approaches employing different biomaterials and insertion methods. METHODS: The VectorLift protocol was developed using anatomically guided vector placement, ligament-oriented reinforcement, and optimized local anesthetic infiltration. Over a three-year period, 44 female patients (mean age 47 years) underwent facial thread-lifting procedures. Eighteen patients were treated using the proposed technique with cannulated polydioxanone (PDO) threads, while the remaining patients were treated with either double-needle poly-L-lactic acid (PLA) plus poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) cone threads or cannulated PLA/polycaprolactone (PCL) threads. Clinical outcomes included recovery time (days of downtime), intraoperative pain levels, patient satisfaction measured using the FACE-Q scale before treatment and two weeks post-procedure, and complication rates including dimpling, bruising, edema, and transient asymmetry. Standardized clinical photographs were obtained before and immediately after treatment. RESULTS: VectorLift was associated with lower reported intraoperative pain, shorter recovery time and lower rates of early postoperative complications compared with the other techniques, while patient satisfaction scores were comparable among groups. Immediate photographic assessment confirmed visible aesthetic improvement without overcorrection. CONCLUSION: VectorLift is an anatomically guided thread-lifting technique that, in this real-world non-randomized comparative study, was associated with improved procedural tolerance and shorter postoperative downtime while maintaining high patient satisfaction and effective aesthetic outcomes. Further controlled studies with larger patient populations and longer follow-up periods are warranted to confirm these findings.
Olwit G, Nek AJ, Chris-Uchendu HC
… +4 more, Tumwijukye S, Nansimbe G, Munyaneza F, Odongo L
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42299444
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BACKGROUND: Linear IgA Dermatosis of Childhood (LAD of childhood) is a rare autoimmune sub-epidermal blistering disorder classically confirmed by direct immunofluorescence demonstrating linear IgA deposition along the ba...BACKGROUND: Linear IgA Dermatosis of Childhood (LAD of childhood) is a rare autoimmune sub-epidermal blistering disorder classically confirmed by direct immunofluorescence demonstrating linear IgA deposition along the basement membrane zone. However, in resource-limited settings, access to immunopathological diagnostics is often restricted, posing significant challenges to timely diagnosis and management. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 12-year-old girl from rural South-Western Uganda with a history of recurrent vesiculobullous eruptions beginning at 2 years of age, with subsequent episodes at 7 years and a current severe presentation at 12 years. The disease demonstrated a progressive increase in severity with each recurrence. On examination, she had multiple large, tense bullae arranged in annular and polycyclic patterns over the trunk, limbs, thighs, and groin, with a characteristic "string-of-pearls" configuration and no mucosal involvement. Due to unavailability and unaffordability of histopathology and immunofluorescence studies, a clinical diagnosis of LAD of childhood was made based on history, morphology, distribution, recurrence pattern, and exclusion of close differentials. The patient was treated with dapsone, systemic corticosteroids, antibiotic prophylaxis, and local wound care. Within one week of initiating therapy, there was marked clinical improvement, with cessation of new blister formation, resolution of existing bullae, and progressive re-epithelialization. CONCLUSION: This case underscores the critical role of clinical acumen in diagnosing LAD of childhood in resource-constrained settings where gold-standard investigations are inaccessible. It highlights that a thorough history, careful physical examination, recognition of characteristic lesion patterns, and therapeutic response to dapsone can provide sufficient diagnostic confidence. Importantly, lack of advanced diagnostic tools should not delay initiation of appropriate treatment. This report also emphasizes the need to strengthen diagnostic capacity in low-resource settings while reinforcing the value of clinical judgment in managing rare dermatological conditions.
Jiang J, Liao Q, Yang J
… +4 more, Zhang H, Huang S, Xian Z, Zhang Z
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42292643
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BACKGROUND: Syringocystadenoma papilliferum is an uncommon benign adnexal tumor originating from apocrine or eccrine sweat glands. It frequently occurs on the head and neck and is often associated with nevus sebaceous, p...BACKGROUND: Syringocystadenoma papilliferum is an uncommon benign adnexal tumor originating from apocrine or eccrine sweat glands. It frequently occurs on the head and neck and is often associated with nevus sebaceous, posing diagnostic challenges in clinical practice due to its variable clinical presentations. PURPOSE: To investigate the clinical and histopathological characteristics and outcomes of five cases with syringocystadenoma papilliferum and to improve the clinical understanding of this disease in combination with the literature. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The clinical and histopathological characteristics and outcomes of five Chinese patients with syringocystadenoma papilliferum were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: There were two males and three females with an age at onset ranging from 0 to 69 years. All the skin lesions were located on the head and neck, with 4 cases occurring on the scalp and 1 case occurring on the neck. Clinical manifestations were isolated nodules, plaques, or linear, papillary plaques, with skin-colored to light yellowish, yellowish pink, or red. The skin lesions of all cases showed a slow increase with age. The histopathological findings were as follows: the papillary projections covered by double layers of epithelial cells and stroma rich in plasma cells. The pathologies of the two cases suggested syringocystadenoma papilliferum combined with nevus sebaceous. All cases underwent complete surgical excision treatment. Postoperative follow-up duration ranged from 24 to 48 months, with no recurrence observed in surviving cases. CONCLUSION: Syringocystadenoma papilliferum is a rare cutaneous appendageal tumor, which is easily confused with nevus sebaceous and verrucous lesions. It often occurs on the head and neck. In this small case series, two of five cases demonstrated coexisting syringocystadenoma papilliferum with nevus sebaceous, underscoring the recognized association between these entities. For nevus sebaceous lesions that have persisted for a long time or have undergone morphological changes, the possibility of secondary tumors such as syringocystadenoma papilliferum should be considered. Complete surgical resection with histopathological confirmation is recommended as the definitive management strategy, with postoperative follow-up to monitor for potential recurrence or development of secondary tumors, particularly in cases associated with nevus sebaceous.
Wu J, Ren Y, Cui J
… +4 more, He M, Zhang X, Li D, Zhang N
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42292642
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BACKGROUND: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder characterized by selective melanocyte loss, largely driven by interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-induced Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) act...BACKGROUND: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder characterized by selective melanocyte loss, largely driven by interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-induced Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT) activation. While the immune aspects of JAK-STAT signaling are well-documented, its downstream transcriptional mediators within melanocytes remain incompletely understood. METHODS: We integrated multi-omics analyses, including cross-tissue and single-tissue transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS), conditional and joint analysis (COJO), and summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR), using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data comprising 391 vitiligo cases and 465,673 controls. These were combined with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from 15 samples (10 vitiligo lesions and 5 healthy controls) and in vitro functional assays to identify causal JAK-responsive genes associated with vitiligo. RESULTS: Mediator complex subunit 15 (MED15) emerged as a robust gene associated with increased vitiligo risk (significance thresholds were set at P < 0.05, with False Discovery Rate [FDR] corrections detailed in Supplementary Data). Single-cell transcriptomic data revealed significant upregulation of MED15 in melanocytes from lesional skin, positively correlated with STAT1 expression and enrichment of the JAK-STAT pathway. Functional assays confirmed that MED15 overexpression profoundly inhibited melanocyte proliferation and suppressed intrinsic melanin synthesis, both of which were significantly reversed by JAK inhibition with Ruxolitinib. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed that MED15 is a direct transcriptional target of STAT1, governed by upstream JAK signaling. CONCLUSION: MED15 functions as a JAK-responsive transcriptional cofactor contributing to melanocyte proliferation and melanogenesis dysfunction in vitiligo. These findings establish a direct STAT1-MED15 transcriptional axis driving melanocyte injury, offering new insights into transcriptional mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. MED15 may represent a complementary therapeutic target alongside JAK inhibition.
Aggarwal R, Peeva E, Fiorentino DF
… +7 more, Vleugels RA, Mangold AR, Werth VP, Oemar BS, Rath JN, Sloan A, Chu M
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42273013
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PURPOSE: Interferon-β (IFNβ) dysregulation contributes to dermatomyositis (DM) pathogenesis. In a previously published phase 2 study, 12-week treatment with dazukibart, an anti-IFNβ monoclonal antibody, reduced disease a...PURPOSE: Interferon-β (IFNβ) dysregulation contributes to dermatomyositis (DM) pathogenesis. In a previously published phase 2 study, 12-week treatment with dazukibart, an anti-IFNβ monoclonal antibody, reduced disease activity in moderate-to-severe DM. This prespecified secondary analysis evaluated the rapidity of onset of efficacy of dazukibart in DM at time points before Week 12, which may inform treatment decisions. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase 2 study (NCT03181893). Adults with skin-predominant (SP) or muscle-predominant (MP) DM received placebo or dazukibart (150 mg/600 mg) at baseline and every 4 weeks. Efficacy outcomes assessed at Weeks 1, 4, and 8 included: SP cohort-change from baseline (CFB) in Cutaneous Dermatomyositis Disease Area and Severity Index activity (CDASI-A), 5D-itch, and Dermatology Quality of Life Index (DLQI) and proportion of patients achieving ≥40% decrease in CDASI-A; MP cohort-Mean Total Improvement Score (TIS), CFB in myositis core set measures, and TIS response. RESULTS: In SP cohort (n=57), statistically significant improvement was observed with dazukibart in mean CFB (placebo-adjusted difference) CDASI-A (Week 4; 150 mg: -10.5 [p=0.0006]; 600 mg: -9.7 [p=0.0004]), 5D-itch (Week 1; 600 mg: -2.0 [p=0.0359]), and DLQI (Week 4; 150 mg: -2.8 [p=0.0249]; 600 mg: -2.7 [p=0.0160]). CDASI-A score decreased by ≥40% in 53.3% (dazukibart 150 mg), 42.9% (dazukibart 600 mg), and 7.7% (placebo) patients at Week 4. In MP cohort (n=18), numerical improvements (sample size not powered to detect statistical significance) with dazukibart 600 mg vs placebo in mean TIS (Week 4) and statistically significant improvements in mean CFB creatine kinase levels (Week 4; p=0.0445) and Patient Global Assessment (Week 8; p=0.0470) were observed. At Week 4, 77.8% and 22.2% (dazukibart 600 mg) vs 66.7% and 0 (placebo) patients achieved minimal and major improvement, respectively. CONCLUSION: Dazukibart induced rapid improvement in key skin- and muscle-related efficacy outcomes of disease activity in patients with DM. The small sample size of the MP cohort warrants a well-powered Phase 3 study to confirm these Phase 2 proof-of-concept results. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT03181893.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42266765
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OBJECTIVE: Melasma is a chronic relapsing facial hyperpigmentation disorder with pigmentary and vascular heterogeneity. This study compared responses of pigmentary melasma (M), characterized predominantly by brown hyperp...OBJECTIVE: Melasma is a chronic relapsing facial hyperpigmentation disorder with pigmentary and vascular heterogeneity. This study compared responses of pigmentary melasma (M), characterized predominantly by brown hyperpigmented macules or patches with non-dominant vascularity, and pigmentary-vascular melasma (M+V), characterized by pigmentation with persistent erythema or telangiectatic vascular features, to fractional-mode 694 nm Q-switched ruby laser. METHODS: In this prospective, single-center, single-blind clinical study with assessor-blinded outcome evaluation, 100 women with facial melasma were classified at baseline as M (n = 50) or M+V (n = 50) by clinical examination and dermoscopy. All received three laser sessions at 4-week intervals. Outcomes included MASI, VISIA brown spots, ultraviolet spots, red areas, dermoscopic vascular scores, responder status, patient-reported improvement, satisfaction, and adverse events. RESULTS: Ninety patients completed week 12 assessment (M, n = 42; M+V, n = 48). Week 12 MASI percentage reduction was 71.1% ± 13.5% in M versus 51.2% ± 12.3% in M+V ( < 0.001), and ≥50% MASI improvement occurred in 95.2% versus 56.3% of patients, respectively ( < 0.001). M showed larger reductions in VISIA brown and ultraviolet spots. Red-area scores decreased in both groups, but between-subtype longitudinal reduction was not significant. MASI improvement correlated with VISIA brown (r = 0.502) and ultraviolet spots (r = 0.390), but not red areas. In multivariable analysis, M subtype independently predicted greater week 12 MASI improvement. Treatment was generally well tolerated. CONCLUSION: Fractional-mode 694 nm Q-switched ruby laser improved both subtypes, but pigmentary melasma showed a more favorable response. Baseline clinicodermoscopic subtype classification and multimodal assessment may support individualized laser treatment and response evaluation.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42266764
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Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia (PEH), a rare histopathological manifestation of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), closely resembles squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and leads to misdiagnosis, yet relevant reported cases remain...Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia (PEH), a rare histopathological manifestation of pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), closely resembles squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and leads to misdiagnosis, yet relevant reported cases remain limited. We report a 71-year-old female who developed abdominal pain and persistent fever after tooth extraction. Subsequent erythema, ulcerative necrotic lesions occurred on her left dorsal hand following frequent intravenous infusion, and lesions paradoxically expanded after surgical debridement. Initial biopsy and pathological consultation suggested SCC with positive surgical margins. However, the rapid progression of the lesion was inconsistent with SCC. Finally, a repeat biopsy confirmed diffuse neutrophilic infiltration with benign PEH, confirming the diagnosis of PG. The patient received systemic immunosuppressive therapy with oral prednisolone and sulfasalazine, systemic symptoms resolved and cutaneous lesions healed completely without recurrence during follow-up. This case highlights that while PEH is a known variant of PG, its potential to mimic malignancy remains a significant diagnostic pitfall that is often underrecognized in clinical practice. Comprehensive evaluation of distinctive clinical manifestations and a repeat biopsy when necessary are crucial for confirming PG, so as to prevent diagnostic delay and unnecessary surgical interventions.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42266763
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BACKGROUND: Steroid-containing lipolysis injections may rarely induce facial lipoatrophy, resulting in persistent contour deformities and psychological distress. In compromised tissues, conventional fillers may pose safe...BACKGROUND: Steroid-containing lipolysis injections may rarely induce facial lipoatrophy, resulting in persistent contour deformities and psychological distress. In compromised tissues, conventional fillers may pose safety concerns, prompting interest in treatment approaches that support local tissue recovery. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of polynucleotide (PN) injection for facial lipoatrophy caused by steroid-containing lipolysis injections. METHODS: This retrospective clinical study included six patients who developed facial lipoatrophy following steroid-containing lipolysis injectionsand were treated with PN (Rejuran, 20 mg/mL). PN was administered using a combination of intradermal microinjections and superficial subcutaneous bolus injections at 2-4-week intervals. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Physician's Global Assessment (PGA; 1-5 scale) based on standardized photographic comparisons, along with patient-reported satisfaction. RESULTS: All patients demonstrated meaningful improvement in facial contour following PN treatment. Three patients achieved near-complete resolution (PGA 5), while the remaining three showed substantial improvement (PGA 4). Improvement progressed gradually with repeated sessions. No treatment-related adverse events were observed. CONCLUSION: PN injection appears to be a safe and effective tissue-supportive option for managing facial lipoatrophy following steroid-containing lipolysis injections. Larger prospective studies are warranted to establish standardized treatment protocols.
Wu H, Lu Y, Feng Y
… +3 more, Zhang L, Jiang C, Liao T
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42261322
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Hailey-Hailey disease (familial benign chronic pemphigus, HHD) is a rare, relapsing genodermatosis characterized by painful erosions in intertriginous areas. Management can be challenging in patients with long-standing,...Hailey-Hailey disease (familial benign chronic pemphigus, HHD) is a rare, relapsing genodermatosis characterized by painful erosions in intertriginous areas. Management can be challenging in patients with long-standing, frequently relapsing disease, particularly when conventional therapies provide only partial or transient benefit. We describe a 45-year-old man with a 20-year history of HHD who was treated with localized infrared hyperthermia as an adjunctive therapy. Prior to presentation at our department, he had received multiple topical and systemic treatments with limited and temporary benefit, and continued to experience frequent relapses with substantial impairment in quality of life. A biphasic treatment regimen combining standard topical supportive care with localized infrared irradiation (1.0-2.4 μm, 43 ± 1°C) was administered. Initial treatment of the right axilla achieved complete local clearance and was accompanied by improvement in untreated distant lesions. Subsequent treatment of the remaining involved sites resulted in sustained overall disease control, with the Physician Global Assessment score improving from 4 to 1 and the Dermatology Life Quality Index from 23 to 2. No thermal adverse events were observed, and the patient remained recurrence-free at 11 months. This case suggests that localized infrared hyperthermia may be a safe, well-tolerated, non-invasive adjunctive option for selected patients with long-standing, frequently relapsing Hailey-Hailey disease.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42254340
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In recent years, dermatoscopy has emerged as a valuable adjunctive tool for the diagnosis of various cutaneous disorders. Initially developed for the evaluation of melanocytic lesions, this non-invasive technique has sin...In recent years, dermatoscopy has emerged as a valuable adjunctive tool for the diagnosis of various cutaneous disorders. Initially developed for the evaluation of melanocytic lesions, this non-invasive technique has since demonstrated significant utility in the assessment of non-melanocytic hyperpigmented dermatoses. This review provides an up-to-date and practical overview of the dermatoscopic manifestations of common non-melanocytic hyperpigmented conditions, including melasma, nevus of Ota, freckles, lentigines, solar lentigines, seborrheic keratosis, porokeratosis, acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation, lichen planus-like keratosis, pigmented actinic keratosis, pigmented Bowen's disease, basal cell carcinoma, and acanthosis nigricans. Many of these hyperpigmented disorders exhibit distinct and characteristic dermatoscopic features. Given the clinical diagnostic challenges posed by these conditions and their significant psychological impact on patients, dermatoscopy offers a complementary approach to enhance the accuracy of evaluation and differential diagnosis.
Chen W, Cai Y, Feng S
… +4 more, Xu R, Zhang Y, Guan J, Xu X
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42233090
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Eczema, particularly atopic dermatitis (AD), is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease. While biologics and JAK inhibitors have advanced treatment, challenges remain in sustained remission and long-term safety. Tr...Eczema, particularly atopic dermatitis (AD), is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease. While biologics and JAK inhibitors have advanced treatment, challenges remain in sustained remission and long-term safety. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may offer complementary or steroid-sparing benefits via anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and barrier-repair mechanisms. This bibliometric analysis retrieved English publications from Web of Science (WOS), PubMed, and Scopus (2010-2025). After deduplication using NoteExpress and manual screening, 158 publications were included, CiteSpace with VOSviewer were used for visualization. Publications rose markedly after 2019, with China leading output. Research foci shifted from clinical efficacy to mechanisms and network pharmacology. Limitations include weak international collaboration and limited study of non-AD eczema. Future priorities include multi-center trials, mechanistic research on TCM formulas, validated outcomes (EASI, DLQI, TEWL), and expanded subtype coverage.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42233089
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BACKGROUND: Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is characterized by central facial erythema and telangiectasia, accompanied by sensations of burning and stinging. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea can be addressed through va...BACKGROUND: Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is characterized by central facial erythema and telangiectasia, accompanied by sensations of burning and stinging. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea can be addressed through various treatments. We aimed to observe and evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a short pulse narrow-spectrum Intense pulsed light (IPL) with wavelength of 530-750nm and 555-950nm for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. METHODS: We retrospectively collected patient information on erythematotelangiectatic rosacea and evaluated the clinical outcome. RESULTS: 63 cases of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea were included. All patients received different sessions narrow spectrum IPL treatment with 555-950 nm and 530-750 nm filter combinations. The treatment efficacy rate was 57/63 (90.47%), all patients showed significant post-treatment Erythema Assessment Scale (EAS) levels reduction (<0.05), and patients who received more treatment sessions tended to obtain greater EAS score reductions. A significant reduction (<0.05) in the facial red areas was shown by VISIA images after treatment. 59 (93.7%) demonstrated improvement according to GAIS (Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale) scores. There were no significant skin adverse reactions were observed during treatment. All patients expressed satisfaction with the treatment. CONCLUSION: The narrow-spectrum IPL with 555-950nm and 530-750nm wavelengths filter combinations for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea has the advantages of a high erythema improvement rate and low adverse reaction.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42226748
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RATIONALE: Periungual warts, caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, are a therapeutic challenge due to their proximity to the nail matrix and poor drug penetration. Conventional treatments, such as cryotherapy a...RATIONALE: Periungual warts, caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, are a therapeutic challenge due to their proximity to the nail matrix and poor drug penetration. Conventional treatments, such as cryotherapy and laser, carry a high risk of nail damage and recurrence, highlighting the need for safer and more effective alternatives. PATIENTS CONCERNS: Two patients with refractory periungual warts were included, who had failed multiple previous traditional treatments. One was a 38-year-old male with a 2-year history of periungual warts on the right great toe, and the other was a 60-year-old female with a 1-year history of periungual warts on the right middle finger. Both patients showed no improvement after repeated cryotherapy, topical antiviral drugs, or oral medication. DIAGNOSES: The diagnosis of refractory periungual warts was confirmed clinically based on the characteristic verrucous lesions adjacent to and partially embedded under the nail plate, coupled with a history of treatment failure. INTERVENTIONS: Based on the "Wen Tong Qu Shi Du" (warming dredging to dispel dampness and toxin) theory, a combined therapy was adopted: filiform fire needle (0.30 mm × 40 mm, heated to incandescence with an alcohol lamp) puncturing the core of the wart every 2 weeks, combined with daily soaking in warming-yang and collateral-dredging TCM decoction (10 g Ramulus Cinnamomi, 6 g Rhizoma Zingiberis, 15 g Poria Cocos, 20 g Coix Seed, 12 g Radix Angelicae Sinensis, 9 g Flos Carthami, 15 g Radix Isatidis, 15 g Folium Isatidis; decocted to 200 mL, soaked at 40-45°C for 20 minutes each time). OUTCOMES: The 38-year-old male patient achieved complete wart shedding after 3 treatments (6 weeks), and the 60-year-old female patient achieved complete wart shedding after 4 treatments (8 weeks). No adverse reactions such as nail matrix damage or local infection occurred in either patient during treatment. During the 6-month follow-up, there was no recurrence, and the nail bed was smooth with normal nail plate growth. LESSONS: The combination of filiform fire needle and warming-yang and collateral-dredging TCM soak shows significant efficacy in treating refractory periungual warts. The filiform fire needle directly destroys wart tissue and activates the local immune microenvironment based on the "resolving fire stagnation" principle, while the TCM soak improves the "dampness-stasis-toxin accumulation" pathological state through "warming yang to resolve dampness + dredging collaterals to dissipate stagnation", achieving both symptom and root cause treatment. This therapy avoids the risk of nail matrix damage from traditional physical treatments and overcomes the limitations of poor drug penetration in antiviral therapy, providing a safe and effective TCM external treatment option for clinical practice.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42220470
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While bullous pemphigoid (BP) can be induced by various drugs, cases involving small-molecule inhibitors remain rare. We report the first case of BP occurring in a patient with psoriasis shortly after receiving deucravac...While bullous pemphigoid (BP) can be induced by various drugs, cases involving small-molecule inhibitors remain rare. We report the first case of BP occurring in a patient with psoriasis shortly after receiving deucravacitinib, a TYK2 inhibitor. Following treatment with methylprednisolone, minocycline, and ixekizumab, the lesions resolved within one month. Although the precise mechanism remains unclear, it may involve immunological drift and remodeling of skin immune microenvironment, which raises the need for clinical awareness regarding such reactions when using novel targeted immunomodulators.
Chen J, Chen Z, Li X
… +8 more, Chen J, Zhang L, Peng L, Liang B, Chen Q, Li R, Li H, Zhu H
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42220469
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Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a mast cell-mediated skin disease characterized by wheals and/or angioedema. Some patients remain symptomatic despite standard-of-care antihistamines or omalizumab. We report a 44-y...Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a mast cell-mediated skin disease characterized by wheals and/or angioedema. Some patients remain symptomatic despite standard-of-care antihistamines or omalizumab. We report a 44-year-old female with refractory CSU with a history of recurrent widespread erythema and wheals with pruritus for over one year. She was failed to achieve adequate disease control with oral antihistamines and 5 doses of omalizumab 300 mg. She was subsequently treated with anti-IL-4Rα antibody stapokibart 300 mg (loading dose 600 mg) for 35 weeks, with an extended-interval dosing regimen (every 2 week for 9 doses, every 3 weeks for 3 doses, and every 6 weeks for 2 doses). Rapid symptom control was observed by week 2 (Urticaria Activity Score [UAS7] of 0 and Urticaria Control Test [UCT] score of 12), with complete disease control achieved by week 22 (UAS7 of 0 and UCT score of 16). No relapse occurred during 3-month follow-up period.
He X, Feng N, Chang J
… +6 more, Huang X, Zhu T, Min W, Wang X, Meng Z, Zou Y
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42206247
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BACKGROUND: Skin diseases are chronic and recurrent conditions that impose substantial disability and long-term psychosocial burden. However, the global burden of pediatric skin diseases has been insufficiently studied....BACKGROUND: Skin diseases are chronic and recurrent conditions that impose substantial disability and long-term psychosocial burden. However, the global burden of pediatric skin diseases has been insufficiently studied. METHODS: We extracted age-specific data for individuals younger than 20 years from GBD 2021. A comprehensive analytical framework was applied, including Joinpoint regression analysis, SDI frontier analysis, Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) modeling, and ARIMA time-series forecasting to evaluate temporal trends and predict future disease burden. The age definition (<20 years) follows the standard GBD age grouping for children and adolescents. RESULTS: Globally, the burden of skin and subcutaneous diseases increased from 653,365.48 to 860,806.73 DALYs (EAPC = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.43-0.47). ARIMA forecasting suggested that dermatitis and other skin diseases will decline in China and Europe but rise in the United States. Children aged 5-9 years had the lowest burden, while those under 5 years and aged 15-19 years showed higher DALYs, mainly driven by atopic dermatitis and acne. CONCLUSION: The burden of pediatric skin diseases has generally increased globally, although trends vary across regions and disease categories. Acne and atopic dermatitis are the dominant contributors to disability. These findings provide actionable evidence for prioritizing pediatric dermatology in global and regional public health strategies.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol
· 2026 · PMID 42199312
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OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the contribution of environmental bisphenol A (BPA) exposure to acne pathogenesis, with a specific focus on the PLA2G2A-arachidonic acid pathway. ME...OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the contribution of environmental bisphenol A (BPA) exposure to acne pathogenesis, with a specific focus on the PLA2G2A-arachidonic acid pathway. METHODS: We integrated network toxicology and machine learning to identify common target genes linking BPA exposure and acne. Core genes and key pathways were screened through differential expression, gene enrichment, and feature selection algorithms. The findings were validated in independent datasets and further investigated using immune infiltration analysis, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. RESULTS: Three core genes were identified, with PLA2G2A being the central hub. Functional enrichment analysis revealed significant involvement of these targets in arachidonic acid metabolism, PI3K-AKT signaling, and IL-6/JAK-STAT3 pathways. PLA2G2A was upregulated in acne lesions and positively correlated with pro-inflammatory immune cell infiltration. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations indicated stable binding between BPA and PLA2G2A. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that BPA exposure may contribute to acne development by targeting PLA2G2A, disrupting arachidonic acid metabolism, and modulating the local inflammatory microenvironment. Crucially, this study highlights the environmental risk of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in dermatology and identifies PLA2G2A as a novel, potential therapeutic target for comprehensive acne management.