Dermatology and Cosmetic

Editorial Note

Mansour Nassiri Kashani

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Epidemiological study of surgically treated patients with cutaneous melanoma in southern Iran: a 5-year retrospective analysis

Yasamin Dehghan

Background and aim: Cutaneous melanoma is one of the most aggressive skin cancers with high metastatic potential and considerable mortality. Prognostic factors such as tumor thickness, surgical margin status, and lymph node involvement play a decisive role in prognosis and treatment selection. Reports from Iran also indicate an increasing incidence of this disease, and providing epidemiological and clinical data at the regional level can help guide therapeutic policies.

Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, all patients with cutaneous melanoma who underwent surgery at Shahid Faghihi Hospital, Shiraz, between 2019 and 2023 were evaluated. Demographic information, lesion site, tumor size and thickness, histopathological type, surgical method, margin status, and the need for reoperation were extracted from medical records and analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical tests.

Results: A total of 84 patients were included (51.2% male and 48.8% female). The most common histopathological type was malignant melanoma (31%). Lesions were most frequently located on the hands (28.6%) and feet (21.4%). The majority of lesions measured between 2–5 cm (36.9%). Only 2.4% of patients had tumors thinner than 1 mm, while 11.9% had tumors thicker than 5 mm. Excision was the most common surgical method (54.8%). Surgical margins were free of tumor in 53.6% of cases, and 61.9% of patients required reoperation.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that cutaneous melanoma in southern Iran predominantly occurs in the extremities, and the high rate of reoperation underscores the need for more precise surgical planning and earlier diagnosis.

The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy on alexithymia and pain coping strategies of women with lupus

Alireza Homayouni

Background and aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy on Alexithymia and pain coping strategies in women with lupus.

Methods: The research method was semi experimental with a pretest–posttest and two–month follow–up design with a control group. The statistical population of this research included all female patients with lupus who had referred to the Lupus Association in 2024 for lupus counseling and treatment. Among the statistical population, 30 qualified volunteers were available entered into the study and randomly assigned to two experimental and control groups (each group includes 15 people). The cognitive-behavioral therapy was implemented in the experimental group as 8 sessions one a week. Data analysis of the research was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc test at a significance level of 0.05, with SPSS software version 27.

Results: The results indicated that the effect of time, the effect of group, and the interaction effect of time and group on emotional distress scores and pain coping strategies were significant (p<0.001). In the intervention group, there was a significant difference in Alexithymia scores and pain coping strategies between the pre-test and post-test stages, as well as between the pre-test and follow-up (p<0.001). However, no significant difference observed between the post-test and follow-up for these variables.

Conclusion: This research showed that teaching the cognitive-behavioral therapy to women with lupus is suitable for improving alexithymia and pain coping strategies.

The influence of micronutrients on healthy skin and hair

Forouhe ZahirJouzdani

The health of the skin and hair serves not only as an indicator of overall physiological well-being but also plays a significant role in personal appearance and self-confidence. A range of intrinsic and extrinsic factors-including genetics, hormonal balance, environmental exposures, and, most notably, nutrition-affect the maintenance and integrity of skin and hair. Micronutrients, comprising essential vitamins (such as B-complex, C, and E), minerals (including zinc), and bioactive phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (such as astaxanthin), play a critical role in supporting the structural and functional health of these tissues. These compounds contribute to the regulation of cellular metabolism, mitigation of oxidative and inflammatory damage, and enhancement of immune function, thereby aiding in the prevention of common dermatological and hair-related conditions such as dryness, hair loss, and premature aging, and promoting overall skin and hair health.

The impact of isotretinoin on thyroid function and autoimmunity: a review of clinical studies

Fatemeh Yazdani Hamid

This article reviews the impact of isotretinoin on thyroid function, based on various clinical studies. Isotretinoin, a commonly prescribed treatment for severe acne, has been linked to significant changes in thyroid hormone levels, including elevated TSH and decreased FT3 and FT4. Several studies suggest that long-term isotretinoin use can induce thyroid dysfunction, with potential effects on thyroid volume, hormone levels, and the immune system. Autoimmune thyroid conditions, particularly autoimmune hypothyroidism, have also been observed in patients receiving isotretinoin. These findings highlight the need for regular thyroid monitoring during isotretinoin therapy, especially for patients with autoimmune predispositions. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of collaboration between endocrinologists and dermatologists to ensure optimal patient care. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms behind these changes and their clinical significance.

Aging of the human lip and clinical lmplications

Azin Ayatollahi

Human lip aging is one of the natural signs of the body’s aging process, occurring over time due to factors such as a decrease in collagen and elastin, exposure to sunlight, environmental stress, and genetic changes. As time passes, the lips may lose their appearance, and fine lines or deep wrinkles may form around the lips and the upper lip area. These changes can lead to a reduction in lip volume and the loss of their natural shape. Additionally, dryness and chapping of the lips are other issues commonly observed with lip aging. Skin care, the use of moisturizers, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure can help slow down this process.

A review of novel treatments and diagnostic challenges in Erosive Lichen Planus of the genitalia

Farid Mohamadi

Erosive lichen planus of the genitalia is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease primarily affecting the genital mucosa, causing pain, discomfort, and impairing urinary, reproductive, and sexual functions. This condition is more common in postmenopausal women and is often associated with other autoimmune diseases such as vitiligo and thyroid disorders. Standard treatments include topical and systemic corticosteroids, but several challenges persist, especially in cases resistant to conventional therapies. This review discusses novel and alternative treatment options, including immunomodulators and systemic therapies like tacrolimus, secukinumab, and anti-malarial drugs. It also emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment strategies for patients resistant to standard treatments. Additionally, the psychological impacts of the disease on patients’ quality of life and the need for a multidimensional approach in managing these patients are highlighted.

The impact of menopausal hormone therapy and oral contraceptives on melanoma risk: a review of findings

Pegah Tamimi

This article reviews the impact of Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and oral contraceptives on melanoma risk. While some studies suggest an association between MHT and melanoma, conflicting evidence exists, including differences in drug formulations across countries, age at the start of treatment, and duration of use. Most studies have found no connection between oral contraceptive use and an increased melanoma risk, though environmental factors like sun exposure may play a role in this relationship. Overall, it appears that women should continue hormone therapy based on their healthcare provider’s advice, without specific concerns about melanoma risk.