Showing 69 results for Ph
Bahareh Nowruzi, Mohammad Jabari, Zeynab Yassin,
Volume 15, Issue 1 (5-2024)
Abstract
Worldwide, 16,000 deaths occur daily due to wound injuries, leading to increased concern in low- and middle-income countries. Today, with the increasing demand of consumers to use natural biological compounds instead of using harmful and carcinogenic chemical compounds, algae were introduced to the market as an effective clinical skin alternative. In fact, ease of cultivation and low nutritional requirements make algal polysaccharides an attractive alternative for advanced wound dressings. Micro and macroalgae are a new source of biological saccharide polymers for wound healing. The hydrophilic nature of these polymers due to their capacity to trap water molecules in their structure makes hydrogels that have a high ability to absorb and release liquid. In this review article, by studying the latest articles, some algae polysaccharides that are widely used as wound healing dressings such as alginates, fucoidans, carrageenans, laminarin, agar-agar and olvan are discussed. These compounds are not only used as functional biomaterials for controlled drug delivery, but also for cell stabilization and preparation of scaffolds for tissue engineering.
Ala Ehsani, Bahar Sadeghi, Amirhoushang Ehsani, Mahshid-Ol- Sadat Ansari, Zahra Razavi, Mina Koohian Mohammadabadi, Kambiz Kamyab, Pedram Nourmohammadpour, Mobina Kamalabadi Farahani, Amirhossein Rahimnia,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Angiokeratomas are rare vascular lesions, typically presenting as small red to purple macules or papules on the skin. These lesions are usually benign, though they can undergo changes in thickness and color over time. Certain types of angiokeratomas may also signal underlying metabolic disorders, necessitating careful clinical attention. This study aims to analyze the clinical and demographic features of angiokeratoma in Iranian patients at Razi Dermatology Hospital.
Methods: This descriptive, retrospective cross-sectional study examined 199 patients diagnosed with angiokeratoma between 2013 and 2023. Data on demographics, lesion characteristics (location and size), family history, and treatment methods were collected from medical records and analyzed using SPSS. Both parametric and non-parametric statistical tests were applied to assess associations, with a significance level set at 0.05.
Results: The mean age of patients was 24.75 years, with the second and third decades showing the highest prevalence. Among the patients, 51.3% were male and 48.7% female. Lesions most commonly appeared on the lower extremities (40.7%) and genital area (18.6%). Treatment methods included cryotherapy (68.14%), laser (27.14%), and electrodessication (4.44%), with cryotherapy proving the most effective among them.
Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and preferred treatment approaches for angiokeratoma in Iranian patients. Broader studies across various centers, along with long-term follow-up, are recommended to further investigate the clinical course, therapeutic outcomes, and potential complications associated with different treatment methods.
Mahmood Araghi, Zahra Oushyani Roudsari, Malihe Naghavi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Impaired wound healing following significant tissue damage such as severe burns, trauma, or surgery can result in scarring and skin fibrosis. Pathological scarring leads to changes in the natural shape of the wound and, in addition to cosmetic problems, may be accompanied by pain and even limit the person's normal movement. The immune response plays a very important role in the wound healing process. Activation of immune cells and factors initiates the inflammatory process, facilitates wound cleansing, and tissue repair and regeneration. However, disruption of the immune system during the wound healing process leads to persistent inflammation and delayed healing, ultimately leading to the development of chronic wounds. The microenvironment of a chronic wound contains a large number of immune cells, including proinflammatory macrophages, and high expression of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-1β is observed in it. Among them, macrophages, as innate immune cells, play a key role in promoting the immune response and activating adaptive immunity. These cells are also key factors in the transition from the inflammatory phase to the tissue repair phase. As a result, dysregulation of macrophage function will have consequences such as scarring. Therefore, knowledge of the exact mechanism of the inflammatory process during wound healing, the inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators produced, and the effect of macrophages on this process can promise the achievement of new strategies in scarless wound healing. Therefore, this article discusses the mechanism of the immune system during the inflammatory process, and the key role of macrophages in this process, as well as scar formation.
Aref Nassiri Kashani, Tarane Yazdanparast, Fateme Amiri, Mansour Nassiri Kashani, Alireza Firooz, Mahdi Gheisari,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background and aim: Macular amyloidosis (MA) is a form of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis (PLCA), characterized by amyloid deposits in the papillary dermis. This study aimed to compare the biophysical properties of MA lesions with those of adjacent uninvolved skin.
Methods: We measured several parameters in active MA lesions of 22 patients, including stratum corneum (SC) hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), surface friction, pH, sebum, melanin, erythema, temperature, elasticity parameters (R0, R2, and R5), as well as epidermal and dermal thickness and echo-density using ultrasonography. Measurements from the lesions were compared with those from healthy skin adjacent to the lesions, serving as controls. Statistical analysis was performed using the paired t-test, with P-values less than 0.05 considered significant.
Results: Compared to adjacent normal skin, MA lesions demonstrated significantly lower SC hydration and surface friction, while TEWL, pH, erythema index, melanin content, and epidermal thickness were significantly increased. No significant differences were found in sebum levels, temperature, elasticity parameters, or dermal thickness and echo-density.
Conclusion: MA lesions exhibit distinct biophysical and ultrasonographic changes consistent with their histopathological features. These characteristic alterations may serve as useful, non-invasive markers for the early diagnosis of cutaneous macular amyloidosis.
Parham Tamimi, Pegah Tamimi,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Kerion Celsi is a severe inflammatory fungal infection of the scalp that affects deeper layers of the skin. While it is uncommon in newborns, its incidence increases in children aged 3 years and older. It typically presents with swelling, spongy or boggy lesions, tenderness, hair loss (alopecia), and purulent discharge. Secondary bacterial infections are frequently seen following skin breakdown or maceration. Systemic symptoms may include enlarged lymph nodes, fever, and in very rare instances, fungal bloodstream infection (fungemia). Hypersensitivity reactions (Id reactions) can also occur. Diagnosis is guided by clinical evaluation, including patient history and physical examination, and must be confirmed using microscopy, fungal culture, and molecular diagnostic techniques. The most commonly isolated pathogens are anthropophilic Trichophyton tonsurans and zoophilic Microsporum canis. In contrast, geophilic fungi and molds are rarely implicated. Treatment is non-surgical, involving a combination of systemic and topical antifungal agents, with systemic antibiotics added when bacterial coinfection is suspected. Surgery should be avoided. Early and adequate therapy is critical to prevent permanent scarring and hair loss. The primary differential diagnosis includes bacterial infections of the skin and soft tissue.
Azin Ayatollahi, Mahsa Fattahi,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Dermatophytes are keratinophilic fungi responsible for common and benign infections worldwide. However, in immunocompromised patients, they may lead to rare and severe diseases. Severe forms include widespread and/or invasive dermatophytosis, such as deep dermatophytosis and Majocchi’s granuloma. These cases have been reported in individuals with primary immunodeficiencies (such as autosomal recessive CARD9 deficiency) or acquired immunodeficiencies (such as solid organ transplantation, autoimmune diseases treated with immunosuppressive therapies, or HIV infection). The clinical manifestations of these infections are non-specific. Lymph node and organ involvement may also occur. Diagnosis requires mycological and histopathological evidence. There is no consensus on treatment. Systemic antifungal agents, such as terbinafine and azoles (e.g., itraconazole or posaconazole), are effective. However, the long-term outcome and management depend on the site and extent of the infection and the type of underlying immunodeficiency.
Farnaz Valizadeh,
Volume 16, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Onychomycosis is one of the most common human fungal infections, affecting both fingernails and toenails and accounting for approximately 50% of all chronic nail disorders. It may be caused by various dermatophytes, yeasts (especially Candida spp.), and non-dermatophyte molds. Risk factors include advanced age, underlying conditions such as diabetes, immunosuppression, chronic moisture, and prolonged use of closed footwear. Accurate diagnosis requires clinical examination along with direct microscopy, culture, and, in advanced cases, molecular techniques. Treatment options include topical, systemic, or combined antifungal therapies, chosen based on the infection’s severity, causative agent, and patient status. Due to high recurrence rates, preventive measures and complete treatment follow-up are essential. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, etiologic agents, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic approaches to onychomycosis, highlighting current challenges in its management.
Maryam Kazemi, Fedora Khatibi, Shaghayegh Nasr, Afshan Shirkavand, Leila Ataie Fashtami,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (11-2025)
Abstract
Antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation is emerging as a non‑antibiotic strategy for treating infected wounds, particularly those harboring multidrug‑resistant bacteria. aPDI relies on a photosensitizer that, when illuminated with an appropriate wavelength, generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that cause rapid, non‑specific damage to microbial membranes, proteins and nucleic acids. Effective photosensitizers combine high quantum yield to penetrate both Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative organisms, while light sources such as LEDs or lasers provide precise control of irradiance and tissue penetration. Clinical investigations have demonstrated that aPDI, alone or in combination with low‑dose antibiotics or growth factors, can reduce bacterial load in chronic wounds by up to 84 % and accelerate healing. Current challenges include limited light penetration, optimal dosing, and potential phototoxicity, emerging solutions involve nanocarrier‑delivered photosensitizers, oxygen‑releasing dressings, and ultrasound‑mediated activation to enhance efficacy and safety.
Mahsa Fattahi,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background: Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency caused by defects in the NADPH oxidase complex, predisposing patients to severe bacterial and fungal infections. Dermatophytosis with severe inflammatory presentations such as tinea capitis is uncommon but challenging to manage in these patients.
Case presentation: We report a 9-year-old Iranian girl with autosomal recessive CGD who presented with refractory inflammatory scalp lesions. Mycological examination confirmed tinea capitis caused by Microsporum canis. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed reduced susceptibility to itraconazole, while susceptibility to terbinafine and fluconazole was preserved. Due to limited access to terbinafine, the patient received alternative management including antibacterial and anti-tuberculosis therapy, leading to clinical improvement.
Conclusion: This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of dermatophytosis in CGD patients and emphasizes the importance of accurate mycological diagnosis, antifungal susceptibility testing, and individualized multidisciplinary management, particularly in resource-limited settings.
