Publications
Mycobacterium marinum infection: A case report
Atypical mycobacterial infections are not uncommon in our society and are usually acquired from environmental sources like water and soil. Among them, Mycobacterium marinum infection, also called swimming pool granuloma, is characterized by a violaceous papule, nodule or plaque which appears at the site of trauma about 2 to 3 weeks after inoculation. More than one lesion may be present in a sporotrichoid pattern which ulcerate to form discharging sinuses leading to scarring. Many cases with similar and additional features have been reported in foreign literature. We describe one case of this infection along with review of literature.
Haim-Munk syndrome with erythroderma - A case report
Haim-Munk syndrome (HMS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of keratinization clinically characterized by early onset severe periodontitis, palmoplantar keratoderma, onychogryphosis and arachnodactyly. Pes planus, acro-osteolysis and recurrent pyogenic infections are the frequent findings. Lysosomal protease cathepsin C gene mutation is the key etiological factor. Diagnosis is established on the basis of clinical features. We described a case of HMS presented in our OPD, with an unusual presentation i.e. erythroderma.
Skin and vitamin D: New aspects for dermatology
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble steroid hormone, traditionally known as the “sunshine” vitamin. It is obtained by photo exposure, diet or supplements and is crucial for human health. It is globally known for its importance in calcium homeostasis, bone health and antirachitic activity. In recent years, it has been known that synthesis, activity and metabolism of vitamin D is greatly linked to skin. Vitamin D has been recently implicated in a plethora of medical illnesses
Granuloma annulare with Juxta-articular nodules: A case report
Granuloma Annulare is a benign cutaneous disease. Juxta-articular nodules are rarely seen among adults. These nodules are a considered as subcutaneous form of granuloma annulare. We are reporting a case of an adult male with this rare presentation along with history of associated diabetes mellitus. The biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of granuloma annulare and the patient responded to intralesional steroids and oral isotretinoin therapy.
Extensive cutaneous larva migrans: A case report
Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is common parasitic infestation in warmer climates among people, who have contact with contaminated soil. It is caused by migration of hookworm larvae into the human skin. Clinically an itchy, erythematous, linear serpiginous tract appears within days to even months after exposure to infested sand or soil. Diagnosis is established on the clinical presentation. We describe a case of disseminated CLM presented in our OPD.
Frequency of positive patch tests to nickel in patients suspected of metal contact dermatitis
Objective To determine the frequency of positive patch tests for nickel in patients suspected of household and occupational metal contact dermatitis.Methods This was a cross-sectional analytical study carried out in the outpatient department of dermatology unit-II, Mayo Hospital, Lahore. A total of 50 patients were inducted in the study with ages 12 and above and either sex, who were suspected of metal contact dermatitis. The patients were patch tested with the allergen nickel sulphate hexahydrate 5% in petrolatum base from the European standard series.Results In this study, out of 50 patients, 62% of the patients positively tested for nickel sulphate out of which 38% of the patients showed a strong positive reaction. Only 12% showed a weak positive reaction whereas 12% patients exhibited an extreme positive reaction. Most patients were females i.e. 46 out of 50. The most commonly affected age group was 21 to 30 years. Most patients belonged to middle class. Housewives and students were most commonly affected. Most frequent symptoms encountered were itching 84%, burning 48%, redness 42% and oozing 36%. The dermatitis aggravated in most patients’ due to hyperhidrosis and wet work.Conclusion Nickel sulphate is a common allergen in patients suspected of metal contact dermatitis. Nickel contact dermatitis is a very common problem prevalent in our community and the cultural trend towards artificial jewelry predisposes our community to risk.
Comparison of efficacy and safety of topical 0.1% tacrolimus ointment versus 0.1% mometasone furoate ointment in mild to moderate chronic hand eczema.
Objectives To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of 0.1% tacrolimus ointment versus mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment in mild to moderate chronic hand eczema. Methods It was a randomized control trial carried out in dermatology department unit-II, KEMU/ Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Patients with mild to moderate chronic hand eczema were enrolled with age range between 18-70 years, of either sex. We randomized the patients in two groups A & B by balloting. Group A used tacrolimus 0.1% ointment twice daily for 6 weeks. Group B used mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment twice daily for 6 weeks. The data were collected and analyzed by SPSS version 18 and p-value <0.05 was taken as significant. Results The study was completed by 102 patients, with 51 in each group, with mean age of 32 years and majority were married females. Both the treatment options were found to be equally efficacious with PGA Score showing significant p value at the end of study (p-value = 0.042). The side effects noted were itching and irritation. Irritation was observed in both treatment groups but did not lead to discontinuation of the treatment as it was transient. This complaint was seen more among the Group A patients. Conclusion It is concluded from our study that 0.1% tacrolimus ointment and 0.1% mometasone furoate ointment are equally efficacious and safe in the treatment of mild to moderate chronic hand eczema.