The role of DNA polymerase chain reaction, culture and histopathology in the diagnosis of cutaneous tuberculosis

Abstract

Background

Cutaneous tuberculosis (TB) is re-emerging as a significant problem in India due to increased incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), other immunosuppressive states/factors like drugs, and emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR-TB). Proper diagnosis is warranted as there is varied clinical presentation and similarity with many other diseases.

Objective

To assess the sensitivities of DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR), culture, and histopathology for the diagnosis of cutaneous TB in clinically suspected skin lesions.

Methods

Clinically suspected cases of cutaneous TB were enrolled in the study. Two skin punch biopsies were taken from each patient and sent for histopathology examination and DNA PCR with culture, respectively.

Results

Of the total 70 cases enrolled, 49 were detected as cutaneous TB by the above tests. The sensitivities of DNA PCR, culture, and histopathology were 24.5, 16.3, and 91.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

DNA PCR and culture should be advised in cases of cutaneous TB with inconclusive histopathology. DNA PCR should be considered in preference over culture if facilities are available as it gives rapid results and has a higher sensitivity.

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Skin diseases in indigenous population: retrospective epidemiological study at Xingu Indigenous Park (XIP) and review of the literature

Abstract

Background

Skin diseases among indigenous populations have been poorly described in the literature. Risk factors linked to habits, cultural practices, genetics, and environmental characteristics can influence the frequency and clinical presentation of these diseases.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted through a review of dermatological medical records. Data were obtained over three visits to Xingu Indigenous Park (XIP). Main dermatoses were compared by gender, age, ethnicity, and village. Diseases were classified into four groups: infectious, inflammatory, neoplastic, and other.

Results

Of the 398 patients included in the study, 54.2% were female. The participants ranged in age from 1 to 75 years (median, 10 years). The predominant ethnic group was Caiabi (49.7%), followed by Ikpeng (14.3%) and Kamaiurá (10.0%). The primary village studied was Diauarum, followed by Moigú and Morena. Infectious dermatoses were the most frequent (43.8%), followed by inflammatory (33.7%), neoplastic (15.5%), and other skin diseases (7.0%). Infectious diseases were predominant in Caiabi and Kamaiurá Indians, whereas inflammatory skin diseases were more frequent in Ikpeng and Juruna populations. We also observed a high frequency of malignancy in the Ikpeng and Trumai ethnic groups. Infectious skin diseases, except for fungal infections, were frequent in younger age groups. This trend was not replicated for neoplastic skin diseases. Uncommon dermatoses such as Heck's disease, lichen striatus, and aquagenic urticaria were also observed. Jorge Lobo's disease was not included in this analysis.

Conclusion

Improved knowledge of the distribution of common dermatoses among different ethnic groups and villages in XIP will aid in the prevention of skin infections and skin cancer. This improved knowledge will also allow the development of skin disease guidelines that can help local indigenous health professionals.

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Relevance of Lipophilic Allergens in Food Allergy Diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to provide available data on a new class of allergens, the oleosins, and their diagnostic value. There is evidence that allergen extracts used for in vivo as well as in vitro diagnostic tests do not contain oleosins because these proteins are lipophilic and nearly insoluble in saline or aqueous solutions. So far, only oleosins of peanut, sesame and hazelnut have been registered as allergens. Reports on IgE-binding tests performed with oleosins of different species with sera from allergic patients show that IgE specific for oleosins are associated with severe allergic reactions which is why they should be part of the diagnostic tests in the future.

Recent Findings

Recent findings showed that oleosins purified from in shell-roasted peanuts revealed a higher IgE-binding capacity when compared to raw ones. Naturally purified as well as recombinantly produced peanut oleosins can be used in basophil activation test.

Summary

The synopsis of all reports on different thermal processing of several oleosin sources and the respective data obtained with patients sera investigated via immunoblot and basophil activation test points to the recommendation that—if naturally purified oleosins are used, they should mostly be obtained from roasted food allergen sources. For immunoblot and basophil activation test, both, naturally purified oleosins as well as recombinant modified oleosins are valuable diagnostic tools.

http://ift.tt/2vO43Ij

Relevance of Lipophilic Allergens in Food Allergy Diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to provide available data on a new class of allergens, the oleosins, and their diagnostic value. There is evidence that allergen extracts used for in vivo as well as in vitro diagnostic tests do not contain oleosins because these proteins are lipophilic and nearly insoluble in saline or aqueous solutions. So far, only oleosins of peanut, sesame and hazelnut have been registered as allergens. Reports on IgE-binding tests performed with oleosins of different species with sera from allergic patients show that IgE specific for oleosins are associated with severe allergic reactions which is why they should be part of the diagnostic tests in the future.

Recent Findings

Recent findings showed that oleosins purified from in shell-roasted peanuts revealed a higher IgE-binding capacity when compared to raw ones. Naturally purified as well as recombinantly produced peanut oleosins can be used in basophil activation test.

Summary

The synopsis of all reports on different thermal processing of several oleosin sources and the respective data obtained with patients sera investigated via immunoblot and basophil activation test points to the recommendation that—if naturally purified oleosins are used, they should mostly be obtained from roasted food allergen sources. For immunoblot and basophil activation test, both, naturally purified oleosins as well as recombinant modified oleosins are valuable diagnostic tools.

http://ift.tt/2vO43Ij

Skin signs of primary immunodeficiencies – how to find the genes to check

Abstract

Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are a heterogeneous group of rare diseases that result from defects in immune system development and/or function. The clinical manifestations of PIDs are highly variable, but most disorders involve at least an increased susceptibility to infection. Furthermore, cutaneous manifestations are very common in PIDs. As an easy accessible organ, skin canbecrucial for early diagnosis and treatment. This is relevant for preventing significant disease-associated morbidity and mortality.We provide a table, which enables the reader to find the possible diseases and according gene defects based on the skin manifestations of the suspectedPIDs. To our knowledge, this is the first review that allows finding relevant PIDs and the respective gene defects through solitary or combined skin signs.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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Comment on “Effects of Helicobacter pylori treatment on rosacea: A single-arm clinical trial study”

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Clear cell sarcoma of the scalp: A case report

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