Parvaneh Delkabadi, Sara Hashemi,
Volume 15, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
ackground and Aim: Vitiligo, as one of the most common skin pigment production disorders has significant psycho-social consequences for patients, so it is important to discover the variables affecting mental health in these patients. present study aims to consider mediating role of internalized shame in the relationship between cognitive avoidance and interpersonal difficulties in predicting the quality of life of vitiligo patients.
Methods: The current research was of a descriptive correlation type. The statistical population of the research consisted of all the people referred to Razi Hospital in Tehran who were suffering from vitiligo. 170 people purposefully selected based on the inclusion criteria. In this research, Sexton and Dagas cognitive avoidance, Barkham's interpersonal problems, World Health Organization's quality of life, and Cook's internalized shame questionnaires were used. Data analysis was done by Pearson correlation coefficient test, regression analysis and path analysis using SPSS 26 and PLS software.
Results: The results showed that the internal shame in the relationship between interpersonal problems and quality of life was recognized as a relative mediating variable. The path of cognitive avoidance with quality of life and internal shame as a mediating variable was not significant with a significance level of less than 0.05.
Conclusion: Mental health professionals can play an important role by considering the role of internal shame in helping vitiligo patients to overcome challenges, improve their mental health and well-being.
Mehdi Mirzaei Alavijeh, Mahin Amini, Farzad Jalilian,
Volume 15, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers. Numerous studies have shown the positive effect of using sunscreen creams in preventing skin cancer. The purpose of this study was to determine the inequality in the use of sunscreen cream.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in Kermanshah city. Data was collected using questionnaire by interview. Concentration index and curve were used to quantify and analyze inequality in sunscreen use. The results of adjusted odds ratio and decomposition analysis for sunscreen use were also estimated.
Results: 14.39% used sunscreen. The ratio of use in men was 5.65% and in women was 21.72%. The concentration index for sunscreen use (P<0.001) was 0.344, which indicates the greater concentration of sunscreen use among the rich. The rich groups are 3.72 times more likely to use sunscreen than the poor, and people in the middle class are also 1.48 times more likely to use sunscreen. The highest share of participation in the creation of inequality in sunscreen consumption was achieved by the socio-economic status variable with 61.26%, education level with 13.23% and age with 13.02%.
Conclusion: The focus of health promotion interventions should target groups with low socio-economic status. Men and less educated people should be prioritized in the development and implementation of interventions.
Negar Asghari Hosori, Zeinab Bagheri,
Volume 15, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
The limitations of common needles in drug delivery, such as pain, infection, and side effects, have become a stimulus to search for more efficient alternatives. Meanwhile, microneedles have brought new hope in skin drug delivery. These microstructures are temporarily placed in the upper layers of the skin and provide a painless and non-invasive way for drugs to pass through the skin barrier. Diversity in the design and ingredients of microneedles allows the release of a wide range of drugs with high efficiency and low side effects. On the other hand, nanomedicines are proposed as an ideal alternative due to the limitations of traditional drugs and the need for more targeted and less detrimental options. Nanomedicines are new drug delivery systems that are designed and produced in nanometer dimensions. These small particles can carry and release drugs directly to the target cells with high precision and efficiency. By reducing side effects and increasing the effectiveness of treatment, nanomedicines can play a key role in improving the quality of treatment for various diseases. Considering the unique advantages of the combination of microneedles and nanomedicines, it is an important issue to investigate different strategies for using these new systems in drug release. In this article, this issue has been investigated as well as the applications of nanomedicine transfer by microneedle in the treatment of diseases and the upcoming challenges of this emerging technology.
Tayebeh Momeni, Alieh Safamanesh, Faezeh Kashanian,
Volume 15, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
Curcuma zedoaria, an aromatic plant from the ginger family, has gained attention for its medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, Curcuma zedoaria has been used as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and analgesic. Recent scientific research has revealed significant benefits of Curcuma zedoaria for skin health. Curcuma zedoaria contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce skin inflammation, redness, and swelling. This makes Curcuma zedoaria a suitable option for treating acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Curcumin in Curcuma zedoaria also possesses strong antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, curcumin can promote collagen and elastin production, which are essential for wound healing. The antimicrobial properties of curcumin can aid in combating bacteria and fungi that cause skin infections. Curcuma zedoaria also exhibits anticancer properties that can help prevent the growth of skin cancer cells. Therefore, Curcuma zedoaria is a natural and safe plant that can help treat a wide range of skin problems. This review article explores the various benefits of Curcuma zedoaria for the skin.
Mansour Nassiri Kashani,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
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Ala Ehsani, Seyedamirmohamad Rezaei Majd, Amirhoushang Ehsani, Pedram Nourmohammadpour, Mina Koohian Mohammadabadi, Zahra Razavi, Mahshid-Ol-Sadat Ansari, Reyhaneh Seyf, Amirhossein Rahimnia,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and aim: Pityriasis lichenoides (PL) is a rare papulosquamous disorder with an unknown etiology. Due to limited recent studies on this subject, the present research was conducted to describe the clinical manifestations and treatment course of these patients.
Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study (2019-2023) was conducted on patients diagnosed with PL at Razi Dermatology Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran confirmed by biopsy of skin lesions. Basic information was obtained from hospital records, and treatment follow-up was gathered from medical files and phone interviews with patients. Data were analyzed using R software, with a P<0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 147 patients were evaluated. No significant difference was found between genders (P=0.358). The predominant subtype was PLC (91.8%), with a mean age of onset of 29.79 ± 18.73 years. The most common type of skin lesion was papules (48.4%), and generalized body involvement was the most frequent manifestation, observed in 58 patients (32.4%). The most commonly used treatment was topical corticosteroids, administered to 86 patients (52.4%). The average duration from onset to full recovery was 160.80±221.40 days. A total of 45 patients (30.6%) reported recurrent episodes of the disease. No significant association was found between treatment efficacy and gender (P=0.620), underlying conditions (P=0.293), or age (P=0.876).
Conclusion: Given the limited clinical data on patients with pityriasis lichenoides, establishing an electronic database and a national registry system for this condition is recommended.
Majid Rostami Moghaddam, Hamed Zandian, Mohammad Jafarzadeh, Amirhossein Jodeiri Agaei,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Telogen effluvium (TE) is a type of diffuse hair loss that occurs 2 to 3 months after a stressful event, including a covid-19 infection. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of TE in women with covid-19.
Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 270 women who referred to the skin and hair clinic of Imam Reza Ardabil Hospital with complaints of hair loss. Information related to the history of covid-19 infection, hospitalization, medications, vaccination and demographic characteristics were collected. The severity of alopecia was checked by clinical examination and traction test, and the data were analyzed with SPSS software.
Results: The average age of the patients was 41 years. 61.1% had a history of hospitalization, 43.7% used antibiotics, 61.8% used corticosteroids, and 51.8% used NSAID. The severity of Covid-19 had a significant relationship with the earlier occurrence of TE (P=0.001) and the increase in the number of pulled hairs in the traction test (P=0.001). Hospitalization due to covid-19 and corticosteroid use reduced the time between illness and onset of TE symptoms. The injection of AstraZeneca vaccine was associated with an increase in the number of plucked hairs (P=0.02).
Conclusion: The severity of TE was related to the severity of covid-19, hospitalization, corticosteroid use and injection of AstraZeneca vaccine.
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.
Mehdi Mirzaei-Alavijeh, Asad Bohrojeh, Hossein Ashtarian, Behrooz Hamzeh, Farzad Jalilian,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Skin cancer is the most preventable type of cancer. Farmers, due to their work under the sun's ultraviolet radiation, are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. The purpose of this study was to determine the determinants of skin cancer prevention behaviors in farmers.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among farmers in the rural of Javanroud city in the west of Iran. Information was collected by questionnaire and interview. Data were analyzed in SPSS version 16 statistical software. Crude and adjusted linear regression was used to measure the determinants of skin cancer prevention behaviors.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 36.47 years. Perceived self-efficacy (ß=0.193, P=0.004) and response costs (ß=0.145, P=0.025) were the most important influencing determinants on skin cancer prevention behaviors.
Conclusion: It seems that if the development of interventions to promote skin cancer prevention behaviors among farmers focuses on promoting perceived self-efficacy and reducing response costs, it can seek useful findings in promoting skin cancer prevention behaviors.
Elham Rezayi Jarihani, Nahid Hassanzadeh Nemati,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Aging and wrinkles on the face and neck are natural processes throughout a person's life. On these days, there are various techniques to treat these facial lines. The non-invasive facelift technique is suggested considering the risks and effects of different cosmetic procedures. This research collected information about using polymer threads for lifting the face and treating ptosis from authentic scientific texts published in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Web of Science. The investigations showed that when placed correctly, biodegradable polymer threads cause skin irritation and promote collagen formation, so that’s interesting for patients and doctors. Patients undergoing a facelift with polymer threads experience fewer complications than those undergoing traditional methods. Despite the low side effects of this method, some patients have opted to remove the threads after the lift due to dissatisfaction with their appearance. Threads with superficial spines and biodegradability are considered popular and attractive for lifting the soft tissue of the face due to their quick recovery and low cost. Different types of absorbable threads are available in the market, each with different compositions and have different designs depending on the place of use. This review study will discuss biodegradable polydioxanone (PDO), polycaprolactone (PCL), and polylactic acid (PLLA) yarns.
Erfan Zamani, Shayan Zamani, Mansour Nassiri Kashani, Alireza Firooz,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
This review study examines the effects of oral collagen supplementation on various biophysical properties of the skin, including hydration, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction. Collagen, as the most abundant structural protein in the skin, plays a vital role in maintaining its firmness, elasticity, and moisture. With aging, collagen production declines, leading to visible signs of aging such as wrinkles, sagging, and dryness of the skin. Additionally, factors like UV radiation and environmental pollutants accelerate collagen degradation, contributing to premature skin aging. In recent years, oral supplements containing hydrolyzed collagen, particularly collagen peptides, have gained significant popularity due to their potential ability to stimulate collagen production and improve skin quality. Various studies indicate that regular consumption of these supplements can significantly increase skin hydration, enhance elasticity, and reduce the depth and number of wrinkles. However, there are notable limitations in the existing studies, including variations in dosage, intervention duration, and collagen sources. Moreover, many of these studies have small sample sizes and short intervention periods, which limit the validity of the results. Additionally, the presence of other ingredients, such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in some supplements, makes it challenging to isolate the direct effects of collagen. Despite these challenges, the existing evidence suggests that oral collagen supplementation holds high potential as an effective approach for addressing skin aging. However, further long-term studies with larger sample sizes and more diverse populations are necessary to determine the precise mechanisms and optimal dosage, thereby providing more definitive scientific recommendations.
Seyedmohsen Mohebi Nodez, Alireza Zare Karizi, Bita Ghaderi, Shahrazad Aghababaei, Ismaeil Alizadeh,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Scorpions are known as one of the oldest venomous animals on the planet. Scorpion bites are an important public health problem in many parts of the world, including Iran.
Case Report: In this paper, a 49-year-old woman is presented who came to the hospital with a complaining of skin reactions in the thigh area. The clinical findings in this study showed that the scorpion bite site had inflammatory reactions and redness after 24 hours. The patient was treated with Pentavalent anti-scorpion serum by intravenous injection. Approximately one week after the scorpion bite, the local and systemic symptoms disappeared with the use of anti-inflammatory ointments. Immediately after the scorpion bite, the patient's resting place was checked by the companions, and a specimen of the Hottentotta jayakari scorpion species was identified.
Conclusion: Considering that there are scorpion bite in Iran, in order to prevent and control them, it is necessary to increase the general awareness and knowledge of people at risk in society in order to reduce possible risks. In addition to these, increasing the awareness among doctors, especially dermatologists, of the skin symptoms of this dangerous animal, as therapists, can help speed up the treatment process.
Mansour Nassiri Kashani,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
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Shahin Hamzelou, Fatemeh Jafari, Maryam Nasimi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Background and aim: In the severe cases psoriasis, there is a need for biologic treatments which target the immunological responses contributing to the disease pathophysiology. There is no study in definite indications for the treatment choice and the time to start the biologic treatment in Iranian psoriasis patients.
Methods: We designed a cross-sectional study and evaluated all psoriasis patients who had received biologic treatment. After determining the patients who were eligible to participate in the study, their records were studied and analyzed.
Results: 50 patients with the mean age of 42.86 (SD=14.33) participated in the study. Twenty-five patients had received phototherapy for the treatment of psoriasis. All patients had received topical agents and 47 (94%) had received systemic treatment. Adalimumab was the most common biologic treatment used for the treatment of psoriasis patients (74%). 24% of patients had received Infliximab and 4% had received Etanercept.
Conclusion: 50 patients with the mean age of 42.86 (SD=14.33) participated in the study. Twenty-five patients had received phototherapy for the treatment of psoriasis. All patients had received topical agents and 47 (94%) had received systemic treatment. Adalimumab was the most common biologic treatment used for the treatment of psoriasis patients (74%). 24% of patients had received Infliximab and 4% had received Etanercept.
Hasan Adalatkhah, Shabnam Fahim, Sohrab Iranpour, Zahra Mohebbi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Melasma is an acquired, chronic, and recurrent pigmentation disorder that usually affects sun-exposed skin areas. SAHA syndrome is also an acronym for four words: seborrhea, acne, hirsutism, and androgenic alopecia. Given the association of melasma with some components of SAHA syndrome, such as acne and hirsutism, this study was conducted to determine the relationship between melasma and SAHA syndrome.
Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 75 women with melasma as the case group and 75 women without melasma as the control group. Data were collected in the form of a questionnaire consisting of 28 questions and analyzed.
Results: In the case group, 32% had hirsutism and 70.7% had acne. In the control group, 10.7% had hirsutism and 26.7% had acne. There was a significant association between factors (history of melasma in first-degree relatives, history of hirsutism in first-degree relatives, acne, alopecia) and melasma. Among the case group, 5.3% had SAHA syndrome.
Conclusion: Considering that androgenic disorders are implicated in the etiology of SAHA syndrome and melasma, it seems that melasma lesions are more common in patients with SAHA syndrome.
Homa Hatefi Minaei, Ali Khamesipour, Alireza Firooz, Akram Miraminmohammadi, Seyedebrahim Eskandari, Shahla Mirazizi, Minoo Tasbihi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Leishmaniasis is difficult to control and is not cost-effective in endemic areas. Antimony toxic compounds is the drug of choice, which drug resistance is increasing. Animal studies showed that interferon-gamma deficiency impairs the recovery of leishmaniasis. In this study, the therapeutic effects of subcutaneous injection of recombinant gamma interferon on leishmaniasis lesions in Balb/ C mice were evaluated.
Methods: 40 Balb/ C mice were infected with Leishmania major. After developing lesions, the therapeutic effects of interferon gamma alone or in combination with glucantime were investigated. Also, the standard treatment of glucantime and the control group without treatment were evaluated for comparison.
Results: The treatment groups (glucantime, gamma interferon, and gamma interferon-glucantime) had a significant difference (P<0.01) in terms of reduction in the footpad thickness compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in the mortality rate in the groups receiving gamma interferon and the group receiving standard glucantime treatment.
Conclusion: It seems that gamma interferon was effective in treating cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions in Balb/c mice alone and in combination with standard treatment and can be considered as an alternative treatment.
Fatemeh Torkashvand, Abdolah Chalechale, Sina Vafi,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Image brightness heterogeneity is one of the major challenges in computer image processing that can lead to inaccurate results in image segmentation. Despite the existence of numerous segmentation methods, few studies have been conducted on the effect of brightness heterogeneity and the selection of the best color channels in segmentation. In this paper, different color spaces have been used for automatic detection of skin lesions.
Methods: In this study, the LSE (Level Set Evolution) segmentation method along with intensity smoothing has been used for computer recognition of skin lesions. First, the brightness heterogeneity is reduced and a more uniform image is created. Then, the proposed segmentation divides the image domain into distinct regions. This method results in more accurate recognition of skin lesions.
Results: The proposed method has been tested on 200 dermoscopic images from the known PH2 dataset using different color channels. The results show that this method performs better than other methods. Accuracy of 97%, sensitivity of 98%, specificity of 99% and Dice coefficient of 92% have been obtained.
Conclusion: This method has the ability to accurately isolate and diagnose lesions and can help doctors in the treatment process of skin lesions.
Bahareh Nowruzi, Zahra Nasiri, Zahra Atar, Fateme Ganbarpour,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Bacteria are natural sources of metabolites that exhibit diverse bioactive properties, including wound healing, antioxidative, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Two important groups of bacteria with wound healing potential are polysaccharides and peptides. In addition to cellulose, bacteria produce various polysaccharides (such as exopolysaccharides) with wound healing potential. The most common bacterial peptides used in wound healing studies are bacteriocins and lipopeptides. The aim of this article is to review recent literature on the potential of wound healing in vitro and in vivo by polysaccharides and peptides derived from bacteria (Actinobacteria, Bacteroides, Cyanobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria). For this reason, a search was conducted in scientific research databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Wiley, Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, BMC Springer and MDPI with the keywords polysaccharide, peptide, bacteriocins, lipopeptides, streptomyces, bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, cyanobacteria and wound healing. The overall results showed that polysaccharides and peptides and peptides derived from bacteria show wound healing power both in vitro and in vivo. In living models, including animals and humans, these metabolites have a positive effect on wound healing by inhibiting pathogens, antioxidant activity, modulating the inflammatory response, moisturizing the wound environment, promoting the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, increasing collagen synthesis, remodeling, epithelialization and angiogenesis. Therefore, peptides and polysaccharides derived from bacteria play a significant role in wound healing.
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.
Bahareh Nowruzi, Zahra Nasiri, Zahra Atar, Fateme Ganbarpour,
Volume 15, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
Bacteria are natural sources of metabolites that exhibit diverse bioactive properties, including wound healing, antioxidative, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Two important groups of bacteria with wound healing potential are polysaccharides and peptides. In addition to cellulose, bacteria produce various polysaccharides (such as exopolysaccharides) with wound healing potential. The most common bacterial peptides used in wound healing studies are bacteriocins and lipopeptides. The aim of this article is to review recent literature on the potential of wound healing in vitro and in vivo by polysaccharides and peptides derived from bacteria (Actinobacteria, Bacteroides, Cyanobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria). For this reason, a search was conducted in scientific research databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Wiley, Elsevier, Taylor and Francis, BMC Springer and MDPI with the keywords polysaccharide, peptide, bacteriocins, lipopeptides, streptomyces, bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, cyanobacteria and wound healing. The overall results showed that polysaccharides and peptides and peptides derived from bacteria show wound healing power both in vitro and in vivo. In living models, including animals and humans, these metabolites have a positive effect on wound healing by inhibiting pathogens, antioxidant activity, modulating the inflammatory response, moisturizing the wound environment, promoting the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, increasing collagen synthesis, remodeling, epithelialization and angiogenesis. Therefore, peptides and polysaccharides derived from bacteria play a significant role in wound healing.
