OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the potential risk of Bullous pemphigoid (BP) associated with antidiabetic agents, antimicrobials, diuretics, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and biological agents. RESEARCH DESIGN AND...OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the potential risk of Bullous pemphigoid (BP) associated with antidiabetic agents, antimicrobials, diuretics, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and biological agents. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A retrospective pharmacovigilance data analysis was conducted using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) between Q1/2004 and Q3/2024. Disproportionality analyses, viz. Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), and Information Component (IC) were performed to identify signals of BP. Additionally, a literature review of case reports of BP was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. RESULTS: Disproportionality analysis identified 61 signals, and the following drugs exhibited the highest number of BP case associations: metformin (596 cases), vildagliptin (406 cases), nivolumab (376 cases), and furosemide (301 cases). Strong statistical correlation for signals was observed for vildagliptin [PRR = 295.8, LB (lower bound) ROR = 287.2, IC = 7.5], dapsone [PRR = 20.7, LBROR = 14.4, IC = 3.4], furosemide [PRR = 7.2, LBROR = 6.4, IC = 2.6], and nivolumab [PRR = 31.5, LBROR = 28.5, IC = 4.6]. These findings were supported by 106 identified case reports of BP. CONCLUSION: This study suggests a strong statistical correlation between vildagliptin, dapsone, furosemide, nivolumab, and the development of BP.
PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE: Snail mucin (SM) has garnered significant attention in dermatology, particularly for its potential in scar therapy and wound healing, due to its bioactive compounds, like allantoin, glycolic acid,...PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE: Snail mucin (SM) has garnered significant attention in dermatology, particularly for its potential in scar therapy and wound healing, due to its bioactive compounds, like allantoin, glycolic acid, and hyaluronic acid. These compounds are known to promote tissue regeneration, enhance skin hydration, and reduce scarring. MATERIALS AND METHODS: However, despite growing interest, significant gaps remain in the clinical understanding of SM's therapeutic potential, including a lack of standardised formulations and limited clinical trials. There is a urgent need for more extensive human clinical trials to fully explore SM's potential in scar therapy, particularly given the potential safety concerns, such as skin irritation, sensitisation, and allergic reactions, these issues highlight the importance of toxicological evaluations and regulatory scrutiny. RESULT AND CONCLUSION: While current regulatory frameworks, such as from FDA and CIR, emphasise the importance of safety substantiation for SM-based products, no formal toxicological monographs exist. This review discusses the therapeutic relevance of SM, identifies research gaps, and emphasises the need for rigorous safety testing and clinical validation to support its use in dermatology.
BACKGROUND: Combination of targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is a leading approach in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, an increased incidence of skin rashes poses...BACKGROUND: Combination of targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is a leading approach in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, an increased incidence of skin rashes poses a clinical challenge. Understanding the acute cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs) during the early stage of the combination treatment is crucial. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical characteristics of acute CADRs in HCC patients undergoing combined targeted agents and ICIs and identify potential risk factors contributing to the development of severe CADRs phenotypes. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 33 HCC patients with acute CADRs following combination therapy was conducted. Patients were categorized into maculopapular eruption (MPE) group and atypical targetoid eruption (ATE) group based on the rash phenotypes. Clinical characteristics were compared between the subgroups, and the administration pattern of the combination therapy was analyzed. RESULTS: 16 MPE cases and 17 ATE cases were identified. No other types of acute skin eruptions were documented. Patients with ATE developed rashes with a shorter time latency, experienced more systemic symptoms, showed higher severity grades, had longer disease courses, and demonstrated a lower rate of successful rechallenge compared to patients with MPE. The ATE group displayed a significantly higher percentage receiving full-dose targeted agents and a shorter interval between targeted agents and ICIs upon initiation of combination therapy. CONCLUSIONS: In HCC patients receiving combined regimens, atypical targetoid rashes indicate a more severe CADR. Full-dose targeted agents and shorter intervals between targeted agents and ICIs may contribute to the more severe CADR phenotype.
STUDY PURPOSE: Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is commonly used for both cosmetic and medical purposes. However, improper use can lead to iatrogenic botulism. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the systemic and skin-related ef...STUDY PURPOSE: Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is commonly used for both cosmetic and medical purposes. However, improper use can lead to iatrogenic botulism. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the systemic and skin-related effects, identify risk factors, and highlight safety gaps in BoNT-related botulism. METHODS: We followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines to search for literature from 1997 to 2024 across PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Ten case reports (113 patient cases) met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: Females accounted for 78.8% of cases. Systemic symptoms typically developed within four days after the injection. Notably, 46% of cases involved unlicensed BoNT products, raising safety concerns. Among the licensed formulations, Abobotulinum toxin A accounted for 33.6% of cases, Onabotulinum toxin A for 10.6%, and other or unspecified products for 9.7%. Doses ranged from 100 to 2000 units (average of 487±312 units). Intramuscular injection was the most common method at 60.2%. Common symptoms included dysphagia in 82.3% of cases, ptosis in 78.8%, and generalized weakness in 65.5%. Respiratory failure occurred in 12.4% of severe cases. Interestingly, there were no consistent reports of skin or injection-site reactions, suggesting potential underreporting of skin-related effects. Treatments included antitoxin in 59.3% of cases and pyridostigmine in 24.8%. The majority of patients, 86.7%, fully recovered, though six experienced symptoms lasting over six months. CONCLUSION: Both licensed and unlicensed BoNT products can lead to iatrogenic botulism. Inconsistent reporting of skin complications highlights a gap in safety data. Adhering to proper injection protocols and thoroughly documenting adverse events is crucial for enhancing patient safety.
BACKGROUND: Abilar is a wound salve containing 10% medical-grade Norway spruce () resin, known for its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. However, isolated reports of allergic contact dermatitis have raised conc...BACKGROUND: Abilar is a wound salve containing 10% medical-grade Norway spruce () resin, known for its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. However, isolated reports of allergic contact dermatitis have raised concerns regarding its cutaneous safety profile. It is thus important to evaluate any potential for skin irritation and sensitisation. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the irritation and sensitisation potential of the resin salve using a modified Draize Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT) in a healthy adult cohort, thereby providing toxicological insights relevant to both clinical applications and consumer safety. METHODS: A single-blind study was conducted with 215 healthy volunteers (207 completed the study). The resin salve was applied through cutaneous patches in an induction phase and a challenge phase. Skin reactions were evaluated using modified Draize scoring system. RESULTS: During the induction phase, only 7 of 207 subjects (3.38%) of participants exhibited mild erythema (Grade 1) attributed to the resin salve. Notably, no participant experienced moderate to severe reactions (Grades 2-5). In the subsequent challenge phase, no reactions were observed, and subjects with prior Grade 1 responses reverted to a non-reactive status. CONCLUSIONS: The HRIPT findings demonstrate that medical-grade resin salve has a low irritation and sensitisation potential under the conditions tested. Although rare allergic contact dermatitis cases have been reported, the data of this study suggests that the overall risk in the general population is low. These findings are also supported by clinical studies and extensive post-market surveillance of Abilar in wound care for both acute and chronic wounds.
OBJECTIVES: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) causes pain, discharge, odor, and scarring, potentially worsening sleep quality and psychological health. This study evaluated sleep, mood, and quality of life in HS patients com...OBJECTIVES: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) causes pain, discharge, odor, and scarring, potentially worsening sleep quality and psychological health. This study evaluated sleep, mood, and quality of life in HS patients compared to healthy controls, considering disease severity. We hypothesized that increased HS severity significantly impairs these outcomes. METHODS: This case-control study involved 55 HS patients from a university hospital and 55 healthy controls. Participants completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). HS severity was assessed using the Hurley staging system, and pain was measured with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). RESULTS: HS patients had significantly higher anxiety, depression, DLQI, and PSQI scores than controls ( < 0.001). Depression scores correlated with Hurley stage ( = 0.041), but anxiety, DLQI, and PSQI scores did not ( > 0.05). VAS pain scores over the past week correlated with anxiety ( = 0.005), depression ( = 0.020), and DLQI scores ( < 0.001). DLQI scores positively correlated with depression, anxiety, and PSQI scores ( < 0.001, < 0.001, = 0.004, respectively). Depression scores correlated with anxiety and PSQI scores ( < 0.001 for both). Anxiety and PSQI scores also showed a positive correlation ( < 0.001). CONCLUSION: HS is associated with poorer mood, sleep quality, and quality of life compared to healthy controls.
PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE: This review emphasizes the significance of emerging drug delivery technologies and explores potential avenues for future dermatological treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hyperpigmentation is a pr...PURPOSE OF THE ARTICLE: This review emphasizes the significance of emerging drug delivery technologies and explores potential avenues for future dermatological treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Hyperpigmentation is a prevalent skin condition characterized by dark patches due to excessive melanin production. Various forms, such as melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and UV induced pigmentation, arise from a complex interplay of genetic factors, inflammation, hormonal fluctuations, and light exposure. While conventional topical treatments, including azelaic acid, retinoids, hydroquinone, and kojic acid, remain effective, their use is often limited by adverse effects like skin irritation, blistering, and sensitivity. To address these challenges, advanced drug delivery systems have been developed to improve therapeutic efficacy, enhance formulation stability, and enable targeted delivery, thereby minimizing potential side effects. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Advanced vesicular carriers, including liposomes, niosomes, lipid nanoparticles, and nano-emulsions, offer enhanced drug penetration, bioavailability, and reduced toxicity. However, achieving sustained results and preventing recurrence remain critical challenges in hyperpigmentation management. Recent advancements in personalized treatment strategies and novel delivery methods provide promising solutions for safer and more effective therapies. Additionally, procedural interventions such as chemical peels and micro-needling have demonstrated encouraging results in managing chronic hyperpigmentation.
BACKGROUND: Laser therapy is widely used in scar repair, and the use of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as an adjuvant treatment has also attracted attention. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of 5-FU combined w...BACKGROUND: Laser therapy is widely used in scar repair, and the use of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as an adjuvant treatment has also attracted attention. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of 5-FU combined with ultra-pulsed fractional carbon dioxide laser (UFCL) treatment and UFCL treatment alone for hypertrophic scars after burns, and to analyse influencing factors to provide evidence for clinical practice. METHODS: A total of 150 patients with hypertrophic scars from burns were randomly divided into an observation group (OG) and a control group (CG). Assessments were based on the Vancouver scar scale (VSS), patient scar assessment scale (PSAS), and records of adverse reactions (AR). RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of burn causes, disease duration, hypertrophic scar formation time, and wound healing time ( > 0.05). After treatment, the OG showed greater improvements in VSS and PSAS scores compared to the CG. In terms of clinical efficacy, 11 cases in the OG achieved complete recovery, and 42 cases showed visible improvement, with a total effective rate of 93.33%, higher than that of the CG. The incidence of AR in the OG (6.67%) was lower as against the CG. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that advanced age, longer disease duration, and higher pre-treatment VSS scores were negatively correlated with treatment effectiveness ( 0.05). CONCLUSION: The combination of 5-FU and UFCL treatment is significantly more effective than laser treatment alone. Risk factors affecting clinical efficacy include advanced age, longer disease duration, and higher pre-treatment VSS scores.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Psoriasis vulgaris (PV) and lichen planus (LP) are inflammatory skin diseases. Systemic inflammatory markers, which may indicate inflammation in these diseases, have been investigated in various...BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Psoriasis vulgaris (PV) and lichen planus (LP) are inflammatory skin diseases. Systemic inflammatory markers, which may indicate inflammation in these diseases, have been investigated in various studies. This research focused on analysing the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and RDW values in patients with PV and LP. Additionally, we investigated their associations with comorbidities and assessed the diagnostic value of NLR in identifying psoriatic arthritis (PsA). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 110 patients with LP and 140 patients with PV who presented to the dermatology outpatient clinic between 2022 and 2024. Age, gender, NLR, PLR, SII, RDW values, and accompanying comorbid diseases of the patients were recorded. Differences in NLR based on disease type and comorbid conditions were analysed. Additionally, in patients with PV, the relationship between the presence of (PsA) and NLR was evaluated. Cut-off values, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC values were calculated. RESULTS: We observed that the PV group had significantly elevated NLR and PLR values in comparison to the LP group ( < 0.001, = 0.027). For NLR: (AUC: 0.669; 95% CI: 0.607-0.727); cut-off value: ≤2, sensitivity: 66.36%, specificity: 66.43%; < 0.0001. For PLR: (AUC: 0.584; 95% CI: 0.520-0.646); cut-off value: ≤109.35, sensitivity: 55.45%, specificity: 63.57%; = 0.0221. In the group with PsA, A significant elevation in NLR was observed ( = 0.043). For NLR in this group: (AUC: 0.621; 95% CI: 0.535-0.701); cut-off value: >2.15, sensitivity: 83.33%, specificity: 47.27%; = 0.0175. CONCLUSIONS: NLR and PLR may be useful markers in distinguishing PV. NLR, with a higher AUC and specificity compared to PLR, may be considered a stronger marker. Furthermore, due to its high sensitivity for PsA, NLR could be more suitable for screening purposes rather than diagnosis.
PURPOSE: Primary immune deficiencies (PIDs) can present with a wide range of clinical findings. This review aims to evaluate PIDs in which cutaneous findings are common. MATERIALS AND METHODS: English literature regardin...PURPOSE: Primary immune deficiencies (PIDs) can present with a wide range of clinical findings. This review aims to evaluate PIDs in which cutaneous findings are common. MATERIALS AND METHODS: English literature regarding cutaneous manifestations of primary immunodeficiencies was reviewed using PubMed between January 2005 and March 2023. RESULTS: Cutaneous findings in PIDs can be broadly classified into two main groups: infectious and non-infectious. The most prevalent skin finding in PIDs is cutaneous infections (bacterial, fungal, and viral), and these infections often manifest as early-onset, recurrent, treatment-resistant, or atypical cases. Eczema is being the most frequent among non-infectious findings. Cutaneous manifestations, such as erythroderma, telangiectasia, granulomatous dermatitis, and autoimmune symptoms like alopecia and vitiligo can also occur. CONCLUSION: Cutaneous manifestations in PIDs can assist clinicians in making early diagnoses, enabling patients to receive appropriate therapy promptly.
PURPOSE: The objective of this study, the first study of its kind conducted in Morocco, was to evaluate mercury concentrations in skin whitening products using the MA-3000 direct mercury analyser. CONTEXT: Mercury is wid...PURPOSE: The objective of this study, the first study of its kind conducted in Morocco, was to evaluate mercury concentrations in skin whitening products using the MA-3000 direct mercury analyser. CONTEXT: Mercury is widely recognised as one of the most dangerous elements to human health. Despite the well-known risks, skin whitening creams and soaps containing this toxic substance continue to be produced and purchased, especially in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. This practice constitutes a global public health issue due to the widespread distribution of these products. In Morocco, these items are commonly found in beauty stores and boutiques, which are frequently used for their skin-lightening effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-nine samples of skin whitening products were collected from the local market in Rabat. The mercury content in these products was measured using the MA-3000 direct mercury analyser, in accordance with USEPA Method 7473. The method has a Limit of Detection (LOD) of 0.002 µg/g and a Limit of Quantification (LOQ) of 0.008 µg/g, ensuring the reliability and validity of the results. Moreover, the method demonstrated a recovery rate of 105%, further confirming its accuracy and precision. The mercury concentration was measured in micrograms per gram (µg/g). This unit is equivalent to parts per million (ppm), a unit commonly used to express very low concentrations. RESULTS: The analysis revealed that 25 out of 29 samples contained mercury concentrations ranging from 1.01 µg/g to 10.47 µg/g, exceeding the 1 µg/g limit established by the Minamata Convention on Mercury. Conversely, 4 samples showed no detectable traces of mercury. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals the concerning presence of mercury in skin-lightening products available on the Moroccan market. The continued circulation and frequent use of mercury-containing creams and soaps, both in Morocco and in other developing countries, underscore the pressing need for strengthened regulatory frameworks and stricter control of hazardous substances in cosmetic products. These findings raise significant public health concerns, particularly for vulnerable populations who may be unknowingly exposed to toxic levels of mercury through daily use of skin-lightening products.
BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder treated effectively with oral isotretinoin, which can cause significant side effects. This study compares the efficacy and adverse events of single versus divided dosin...BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder treated effectively with oral isotretinoin, which can cause significant side effects. This study compares the efficacy and adverse events of single versus divided dosing and evaluates morning versus evening administration. METHODS: This single-center, retrospective cohort study included 60 acne vulgaris patients treated with oral isotretinoin between October 2021 and December 2022. Patients were grouped based on dosing regimen: 30 mg received as a single daily dose and 30 mg received in divided doses (15 mg in the morning, 15 mg in the evening). Laboratory parameters (Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine kinase (CK), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and total cholesterol) were measured at baseline and 2, 4, and 6 months. Acne severity was assessed using the Global Acne Grading System. Clinical side effects were recorded during follow-up visits. RESULTS: Both dosing regimens showed similar efficacy, with significant reductions in acne severity. No significant differences were observed in laboratory parameters between the groups. patients on the single-dose regimen experienced a higher incidence of conjunctivitis and facial erythema compared to those on divided doses (-values 0.01 for both). Morning dose was associated with a significantly higher incidence of ocular side effects than evening dosing. CONCLUSION: Divided dosing of isotretinoin preserves efficacy while reducing conjunctivitis and erythema. If a single dose is preferred, evening administration may minimize ocular adverse events. These results support using divided or evening dosing to improve tolerability without compromising treatment outcomes. .
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the levels of ischaemia-modified albumin, an oxidative stress marker, and antioxidant vitamins and minerals in patients with Alopecia Areata to measure total antioxidant and ox...OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the levels of ischaemia-modified albumin, an oxidative stress marker, and antioxidant vitamins and minerals in patients with Alopecia Areata to measure total antioxidant and oxidant capacity and to determine whether the obtained values were related to the severity of the disease. METHODS: This prospective, controlled study has enrolled 30 patients admitted to our institution's outpatient clinic with a clinical or histopathological diagnosis of AA and 30 individuals as the control group. Serum ischaemia-modified albumin, vitamin E, selenium, copper, zinc, total antioxidant capacity and total oxidant capacity levels of the individuals included in the study were evaluated, and their relationship with the severity of the disease was determined. RESULTS: Ischaemia-modified albumin level was significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group and vitamin E level was significantly lower in the patient group compared to the control group Ischaemia-modified albumin levels were significantly higher in patients with severe disease than in those with mild disease while Zn was significantly lower No significant difference was found between Se, Cu, Zn, TAC, and TOC levels in the patient and control groups. No significant difference was found between the disease severity and vitamin E, Se, Cu, TAC, and TOC levels. CONCLUSION: In our study, the high ischaemia-modified albumin and low vitamin E levels in AA patients indicate that the oxidant-antioxidant balance in AA patients has shifted towards the oxidant state, and oxidative stress may be effective in the pathogenesis of the disease. We believe new studies conducted in larger patient groups may shed light on the relationship between Se, Cu, Zn, TAC, and TOC levels and oxidative stress in AA patients.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, doxycycline is widely used in the treatment of various dermatological diseases. Recent studies have indicated that doxycycline may influence hematological p...BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, doxycycline is widely used in the treatment of various dermatological diseases. Recent studies have indicated that doxycycline may influence hematological parameters by suppressing the inflammatory response. This study aimed to evaluate changes in hematological inflammatory parameters (NLR, PLR, MLR, MPV, and SII) in patients undergoing doxycycline treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 72 patients who were prescribed doxycycline treatment. The severity of acne was assessed using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS). Hematological parameters (NLR, PLR, MLR, MPV, and SII) were recorded and analyzed at baseline (month 0), during treatment (month 1), and at the second month of treatment. RESULTS: A significant decrease in NLR, PLR, and SII values was observed during doxycycline treatment. The initial NLR value was 2.24 ± 1.69, which decreased significantly to 1.59 ± 0.575 in the second month ( = 0.002). The initial SII value was 640 ± 593, which also decreased significantly to 432 ± 277 in the second month ( = 0.004). The initial Global Acne Grading Score (GAGS) was 26.3 ± 5.40, decreasing significantly to 21.9 ± 5.78 by the second month ( < 0.001). Additionally, NLR, PLR, and SII values showed a significant positive correlation with the Global Acne Grading Score (GAGS) both at baseline (month 0) and after treatment (month 2). NLR exhibited the strongest relationship with GAGS ( < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that doxycycline treatment significantly reduces inflammatory response markers, including NLR, PLR, and SII. The significant decrease in GAGS scores, along with NLR, PLR, and SII, confirms the inflammatory role of these markers. Further large-scale, controlled studies are needed to better understand the systemic anti-inflammatory effects of doxycycline.
PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of two different concentrations of atropine eye drops on choroidal thickness (ChT) and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) in a Caucasian child population after one year of treatment. MET...PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of two different concentrations of atropine eye drops on choroidal thickness (ChT) and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) in a Caucasian child population after one year of treatment. METHODS: The medical records of patients who received atropine eye drops every other day (0.01% and 0.05%) due to myopia progression were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data and ocular biometry were recorded. The ChT (subfoveal, 1000 µm nasal, and 1000 µm temporal) was measured by spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Total choroidal area (TCA), luminal area (LA), stromal area (SA), and CVI were assessed with ImageJ software. Comparisons were made between baseline and 1-year data. RESULTS: Sixty-eight eyes of 34 (25 female, 73.5%) patients were included in the study. The spherical equivalent was significantly increased, whereas axial length and anterior chamber depth changes were not significant. Baseline to one-year changes in ChT, TCA, LA, SA, and CVI were not statistically significant both in all eyes and in 0.01% and 0.05% groups. CONCLUSIONS: Atropine eye drops used at 0.01% and 0.05% doses every other day did not cause a statistically significant change in ChT, TCA, LA, SA, and CVI at the end of 1 year.
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: This research project aims to create and test an eco-friendly method for producing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using herbal extracts. The goal is to study how these nanoparticles can boost the...BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: This research project aims to create and test an eco-friendly method for producing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using herbal extracts. The goal is to study how these nanoparticles can boost the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of sunscreens when used along with the synthetic UV filter octocrylene. METHODS: To make the ZnO NPs extracts from green tea, Bhringraj, Licorice and Cinnamon were used. These nanoparticles were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Sunscreen compositions were formulated as oil in water emulsions with or without octocrylene incorporating the ZnO NPs. Stability tests were carried out to monitor pH levels, colour and viscosity over the eight weeks at 45°C. The Sun Protection Factor study was done in vitro using a UV spectrophotometer. RESULTS: The results showed that formulations containing both ZnO NPs and octocrylene had SPF levels compared to using octocrylene or ZnO NPs alone. Around 1.4 to 1.65 times higher than octocrylene alone and 3.7 to 4.5 times higher than ZnO NPs alone. The stability study demonstrated changes in pH, viscosity and colour during storage. Conclusion: In conclusion eco-friendly production of ZnO NPs utilizing herbal extracts presents a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. When combined with octocrylene these nanoparticles significantly enhance the SPF of products. CONCLUSION: In conclusion eco-friendly production of ZnO NPs utilizing herbal extracts presents a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. When combined with octocrylene these nanoparticles significantly enhance the SPF of products.This study introduces an eco-friendly approach, to creating high SPF sunscreens focusing on sustainability and addressing safety and environmental issues in sun care products. The rising demand for sunscreens has triggered the exploration of innovative methods for producing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) that go beyond traditional chemical processes. The research exhibits a synthesis method for ZnO NPs using herbal extracts from green tea leaves, Bhringraj leaves, Liquorice roots and Cinnamon bark avoiding the use of harmful precursors. The results display dispersed ZnO NPs with an average size of 100 nm. Furthermore, the study investigates how these green synthesized ZnO NPs interact with the synthetic UV filter octocrylene to potentially enhance SPF in sunscreen formulations. By combining these components, the study shows an increase in SPF compared to using them individually.This study adds to the knowledge of how green synthesized ZnO NPs enhance efficacy of sunscreen products. This study also introduces an innovative approach, for creating eco-friendly effective sunscreens that could revolutionize sun protection methods.
Daniel AB, van der Zalm AJ, Raabe HA
… +5 more, Clippinger AJ, Choksi NY, Reinke EN, Allen DG, Kleinstreuer NC
Cutan Ocul Toxicol
· 2025 Sep · PMID 40375494
·
Full text
INTRODUCTION: Regulations require that agrochemicals be labeled to indicate potential harmful effects caused by exposure. The in vivo Draize rabbit eye test has historically been the standard method used to assess the ey...INTRODUCTION: Regulations require that agrochemicals be labeled to indicate potential harmful effects caused by exposure. The in vivo Draize rabbit eye test has historically been the standard method used to assess the eye irritation or corrosion potential of chemical substances. However, as scientific confidence has been established for certain in chemico, in vitro, and ex vivo methods developed for this purpose, regulators are increasingly accepting data from such methods in lieu of the in vivo test. Defined approaches (DAs) may also be used to derive hazard and potency predictions by applying fixed data interpretation procedures to results from multiple methods, thereby leveraging strengths of different methods. Currently, the DAs accepted by regulators to predict eye irritation or corrosion potential do not specifically list agrochemical formulations within their applicability domains. METHODS: To address this gap, we conducted testing to confirm the applicability of in vitro methods to agrochemical formulations and to develop DAs to predict eye irritation hazard labeling according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling (GHS) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classification system. Twenty-nine formulations were tested in up to four methods: bovine corneal opacity and permeability (BCOP; OECD TG 437) including histopathology, EpiOcular Eye Irritation Test (EO; OECD TG 492), SkinEthic time-to-toxicity for liquids (TTL; OECD TG 492B), and EyeIRR-IS. We propose four DAs comprising BCOP with histopathology alone, and combined with EO, TTL, or EyeIRR-IS. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Instead of evaluating direct concordance of the four individual DAs with historical in vivo rabbit eye test data, for each formulation, we assessed orthogonal concordance of GHS and EPA classifications predicted across all five approaches. Predictions were considered orthogonally concordant when they aligned with the prediction of at least two other approaches (i.e. a majority, or at least 3 of the 5 approaches, achieved the same prediction), referred to as the 'majority prediction.' We also evaluated hazard labeling and PPE labeling associated with the GHS and EPA predictions, respectively. Relative to the hazard and PPE labeling associated with the majority predictions, each of the four DAs were as, or more, protective of human health than the rabbit test; hence, we conclude that these DAs can be used to predict the GHS and EPA classifications of agrochemical formulations.
PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of systemic glatiramer acetate (GA), a drug used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model, given t...PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of systemic glatiramer acetate (GA), a drug used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), in an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model, given the common immunopathogenic mechanisms between the two diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-four adult female BALB/c mice (16-18 weeks old) were divided into nine groups (6 mice each). A psoriasis-like model was induced in eight groups by application of 5% imiquimod cream for seven days. Systemic treatments included methotrexate (2 mg/kg/week), saline (1 mL/kg/day) and GA at doses ranging from 50 to 100 mcg, administered subcutaneously either during or after the induction phase. Clinical severity was assessed using the modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (mPASI), while histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to assess inflammation and cytokine expression, focusing on TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-17. RESULTS: The highest mPASI scores were observed in the untreated psoriasis group, whereas the healthy control and mice treated with 50 mcg GA, especially after induction, showed the lowest scores. Statistically significant improvements in histopathological scores were observed (p < 0.05). GA treatment at 50 mcg resulted in the most favourable cytokine profile, with TNF-α and IL-17 levels comparable to the healthy group and a similar trend observed for IL-1β expression. CONCLUSIONS: Among the doses tested, 50 mcg GA administered after model induction was the most effective in reducing clinical severity and inflammatory cytokine expression. These findings suggest that GA is a promising systemic therapeutic agent for psoriasis.
PURPOSE: Portable UV-C disinfection devices for domestic use have been widely commercially available since COVID-19 pandemic. Concerns regarding their safety have been expressed, while there is a lack of actual data rega...PURPOSE: Portable UV-C disinfection devices for domestic use have been widely commercially available since COVID-19 pandemic. Concerns regarding their safety have been expressed, while there is a lack of actual data regarding the health effects of commercial hand-held UV-C disinfection devices. Herein, the acute effects of two commercial UV-C devices for domestic disinfection are evaluated in vitro, under realistic exposure conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Skin cells were exposed to an LP-Hg wand and an LED disinfection device for 10s, 30s, 5, 10 and 15 min. The devices measured the erythema effective irradiance was 5 W m. Cellular viability, oxidative stress, protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation were evaluated right after irradiation. RESULTS: A dose-dependent cellular viability decrease and oxidative stress, protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation increase were demonstrated, while the LP-Hg wand seemed to induce more severe effects than the LED. Lipid peroxidation has been shown to be the dominant photooxidation mechanism, even at a sublethal radiant exposure. CONCLUSION: The results provide evidence regarding the cutaneous photodamaging effects of commercially available UV-C disinfection devices for domestic use at the cellular level, contributing to the UV-C disinfection devices' risk management.