Dermatology Clinic Research Articles

Comparative Analysis of Imidazole and Urtica dioica Emulsions in the Management of Dermatophytic Infections

This study explores the epidemiological distribution and antifungal efficacy of treatments against common dermatophytic infections, which predominantly include species from the genera Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. These infections are significant due to their prevalence and the challenge posed by recurrence and resistance. Between January and September 2022, 35 fungal samples were collected from a dermatological clinic and analyzed using various growth media. Our research focused on evaluating the antifungal effectiveness of a synthetic imidazole emulsion (CSI), an antibiotic, and a natural emulsion from Urtica dioica (CSP). Results revealed that CSI and antibiotic treatments were significantly more effective across all tested species compared to CSP, with CSI often showing superior or comparable efficacy to antibiotics. The findings underscore the robust antifungal properties of imidazole derivatives and suggest a potential limitation in the therapeutic utility of U. dioica extracts. The study highlights the need for continued exploration of innovative treatments and the development of effective management strategies for fungal infections, considering the variance in species prevalence and treatment response.

Assessing the Impact of Visual and Audio Media on Sunscreen Use Among People of Color: Pre- and Post-Survey.

Poor melanoma outcomes in people of color (POC) are attributed to a variety of factors, including healthcare literacy, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access barriers.  Methods: We designed a survey to determine if visual and audio media (VAM) would increase POC's understanding of the need for sunscreen and their willingness to use it. Patients recruited at a dermatology clinic were asked to watch a 2.5-minute video on sun protection and complete a pre- and post-survey assessing their knowledge. Forty-one (41) patients were recruited, 43.9% of whom identified as POC and 31.7% as Hispanic or Latino. In the post-survey, 100% of participants agreed that daily sunscreen use helps prevent sun-related risks, compared to 68% before (P<.0001). 71% of the participants intended to use sunscreen daily after watching the video, compared to 24% who did so before (P<.0001). One-hundred percent (100%) of Black participants in the post-survey agreed that sunscreen wear helps prevent risks associated with sun exposure, compared to 46% in the pre-survey (P= 0.0052); no significant difference among White participants (80% vs 100%; P=0.1121). Small sample size, no long-term follow-up. This study demonstrates the persistence of health disparities and the effectiveness of VAM in enhancing Black patients' healthcare literacy. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(7):525-528.     doi:10.36849/JDD.7821.

Clinical Analysis of Patients Diagnosed with Cutaneous Sporotrichosis in China.

This study aimed to improve the understanding of sporotrichosis by analyzing the epidemiological characteristics, clinical manifestations, mycological features, and pathological characteristics of the disease in eastern China. Clinical data of 49 patients diagnosed with cutaneous sporotrichosis in dermatology clinics over a 20-year period were collected and analyzed retrospectively. The analysis included patient demographics, occupations, clinical types, lesion sites, misdiagnosis rates, laboratory investigations, treatment and outcomes. The study included 22 male and 27 female patients, with a mean age of 52.4 years. Farmers (42.86%) and manual workers (28.57%) had a higher risk of infection. The most common clinical types were lymphocutaneous (30.61%) and fixed (69.39%), predominantly affecting the face and upper limbs. Misdiagnosis as other infectious skin diseases occurred in 35 patients (71.43%). Fungal culture and histopathological examination were important diagnostic tools. Treatment with oral itraconazole for three months led to relief and regression of the skin lesions in most patients, although a few experienced recurrences. Cutaneous sporotrichosis mainly affects individuals working in agriculture and manual labour, with lymphocutaneous and fixed types being the predominant clinical manifestations. The high misdiagnosis rate emphasizes the importance of early recognition, accurate diagnosis and standardized treatment for the prognosis and cure of sporotrichosis. Fungal culture and histopathological examination are essential for diagnosis, and oral itraconazole is an effective treatment option.

Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression, and Body Dysmorphic Disorders Among Dermatology Outpatients With Acne Vulgaris at a Public Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, affecting a person's physical appearance. Anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) are the three primary psychological conditions seen in dermatological patients. This study aimed to assess how prevalent anxiety, depression, and BDD in acne patients and the negative effect of acne on quality of life and self-esteem in dermatology patients. This cross-sectional study was done at the dermatology clinic in East Jeddah Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Data was collected using two pre-designed questionnaires. Part 1 contained demographic information and part 2 included four sets of questionnaires including the dermatology life quality index (DLQI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire (BDDQ). Post-acne hyperpigmentation index (PAHPI), globalscale for acne scar severity (SCAR-S), and LEEDS were used by the dermatologist to assess the patients' acne severity, post-acne scars, and pigmentation conditions. Data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26 (Released 2019; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). The majority of the participants were females (76%), Saudi Arabians (95%), students (58%), single (82%), and attended university (66%). The mean acne duration was 5.75 ± 4.58 years and 44% of the participants used social media for more than five hours per day. The participants scored high on the RSES (27.54 ± 3.05), indicating normal self-esteem. The HADS-A score was 11.14 ± 2.74, whereas the HADS-D score was 11.46 ± 1.78, indicating anxiety and depression symptoms. Their mean SCAR-S score is 4.38 ± 2.89. DLQI scores (6.04 ± 6.05) indicate that acne had a moderate effect on patients' quality of life. The percentage of positive BDD patients is significantly higher than those with negative BDD (p = 0.022). Furthermore, a significant association between PAHPI total score and SCAR-S (r = 0.48, p ≤ 0.001) and HADS-D (r = 0.39, p = 0.005) total scores. The study focuses on how acne vulgaris affects patients' quality of life. The findings suggest that acne-related quality of life is positively associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms. This study provides clinicians with practical advice for implementing a more thorough management strategy for acne vulgaris.

Sonographic comparison of subcutaneous fat layer thickness in the scalp area in patients with androgenetic alopecia compared to healthy individuals: Cross-sectional.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is one of the most common alopecia among men and women worldwide. It is a nonscarring alopecia that has a characterized pattern. In female pattern AGA, the hairline is stable but general thinning occurs most notably in the frontal region. In male-pattern AGA, the hairline is receding and the thinning is most notable in the frontotemporal region. AGA has a complex pathogenesis and relation of subcutaneous fat in the scalp region and the miniaturization of terminal hair follicles is vague. In this study, subcutaneous fat in the frontal scalp an important region for AGA is compared to the occipital scalp that is spared in AGA. Our study is a cross-sectional study that has four groups. Male patient, female patient, male control, female control. Every group has 15 individuals. All of the people in the study are those referred to Rasoul Akram's dermatology clinic. The severity of alopecia is classified by Norwood scaling for male pattern AGA and Ludwig scaling for female pattern AGA. Subcutaneous tissue in the frontal and occipital regions is measured by ultrasonography. For evaluating the effect of aging on subcutaneous fat thickness, we subdivided any group into more than 40 years old and between 20 and 40 years old and compared these two subgroups. The mean age of the three groups of male patient, female patient, and female control is 40 y/o and the mean age of male control is 41 y/o. The mean subcutaneous fat layer thickness in frontal region in male patients group is 6.0mm (more than 40 y/o=6.6mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=5.5mm), in female patients group 5.1mm (more than 40 y/o=5.7mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=4.6mm), in the male control group is 4.4mm (more than 40 y/o=4.7mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=4mm) and in the female control group is 4.1mm (more than 40 y/o=4.5mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=3.6mm). The mean subcutaneous fat layer thickness in the occipital region in the male patient's group is 6.4mm (more than 40 y/o=6.7mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=6mm), in the female patient's group 6.1mm (more than 40 y/o=6.5mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=5.7mm), in the male control group is 6.3mm (more than 40 y/o=6.8mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=5.7mm) and in the female control group is 6.2mm (more than 40 y/o=6.6mm, between 20 and 40 y/o=5.8mm). This study demonstrates that the subcutaneous fat layer in the frontal region in both males and females is thicker in AGA patients than healthy group and the more severe the AGA, the thicker is subcutaneous layer in the frontal region. In the male patients group, the subcutaneous fat layer in the frontal region is thicker than in the female patients group but in the male and female control groups is not so different. The subcutaneous fat layer in the occipital region is thicker in older individuals in both patients and control groups but is not different when compared to AGA patients and control individuals.

Efficacy of spironolactone in treating hidradenitis suppurativa in women of childbearing age: a single-center retrospective analysis.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin disease characterized by recurrent nodules that affect areas with a high density of apocrine sweat glands, such as the axillae and groin. Androgens are implicated in the pathophysiology of HS. Therefore, spironolactone, an antiandrogen therapy, is recommended. However, data on its use in women of childbearing age are limited, especially since its antiandrogenic effects may affect menstruation, fertility, and pubertal development. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of spironolactone in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa in women of childbearing age and to identify factors associated with treatment response. A retrospective analysis was conducted on female patients aged 12 to 50 with HS treated with spironolactone at Michigan Medicine dermatology clinics from 2000 to 2021. The patients' demographic data, HS characteristics, and spironolactone responses were examined. Statistical assessments were performed to determine the efficacy indicators. Of the 157 patients reviewed, 31 showed an improvement in treatment. Variables such as axillary involvement, previous treatment failures, and use of intralesional steroids were linked to a lack of improvement in spironolactone. Through adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis, a significant association was observed between improvement status and Hurley stage 3 (odds ratio = 0.15 [95% CI: 0.02-0.79], P = .036), suggesting that patients with Hurley stage 3 were 85% less likely to exhibit improvement in spironolactone therapy. The study's retrospective nature and reliance on single-center data can limit generalizability. The sample size is limited and therefore affects the study's statistical power. Thus, spironolactone may offer therapeutic benefits for HS in women of childbearing age. However, patients with severe disease (Hurley stage 3) had reduced response rates. Further prospective studies are recommended to validate these findings and determine the most suitable patient profile for spironolactone therapy for HS.

The Effectiveness of Combined Prebiotic and Postbiotic Moisturiser as an Adjuvant Therapy in Improving Maskne

Personal protective equipment (PPE) has become the new social norm as part of COVID-19 protection since the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, but it has had an impact on the skin barrier, particularly the face. Maskne refers to acne eruptions around the facemask area. The combination of friction, repeated pressure, sweat, or stress on the skin from wearing the mask results in acne or exacerbates pre-existing acne. This study aimed to analyse the effectiveness of a combined prebiotic and postbiotic moisturiser (CPPM) as an adjuvant therapy for improving maskne. This was a double-blind randomised control trial with systematic random sampling of 1:1 to receive either CPPM or placebo moisturisers. From December 2022 to May 2023, patients diagnosed with maskne at the Dermatology Clinic, Hospital Al-Sultan Abdullah, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia were studied. Subjects were assessed at baseline, week 2 and 4 after the application of moisturisers, using modified global acne grading system (mGAGS) and Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI) score. A total of 150 patients completed the study. Using the mGAGS score, compared to baseline, the mean score reduction was statistically significant at week 4 [5.33 (±4.06) vs 1.13 (±4.33); p< 0.001] in the CPPM arm compared to the placebo arm. In terms of CADI score, compared to baseline, there was also a significant reduction in mean score at week 4 [2.23 (±2.53) vs 0.55 (±2.59); p< 0.001] in the CPPM arm compared to the placebo arm. This study found that using CPPM as an adjuvant moisturiser improved maskne significantly.

Comparison of patients receiving phototherapy in the dermatology clinic before and after COVID-19 disease

Comparison of patients receiving phototherapy in the dermatology clinic before and after COVID-19 disease

Efficiency of 7-dehydrocholesterol vitamin-D3 complex cream for xerosis and pruritus in elderly women

Background: Xerosis and pruritus (XP) are the most common skin conditions in the elderly, manifesting clinically as roughness, scales, fissures, and mild-to-severe itching. Vitamin D improves skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and regulates the immune system. We aimed to determine the efficiency of topical 7-dehydrocholesterol (DHC)-vitamin D3 complex cream in elderly patients with XP. Methods: An experimental phase III study was performed on elderly women with XP from December 2021 to March 2022 at the Geriatric Dermatology Clinic of Dr. Mohammad Hoesin General Hospital, Palembang. Inclusion criteria were age older than 55 years, healthy or with comorbidity. The exclusion criteria include the use of moisturizer within two weeks before the study. DHC-vitamin D3 cream was applied on subject’s volar arms once a day. Overall dry skin score (ODSS), visual analog scale (VAS) for pruritus and adverse effects, skin hydration, TEWL, sebum level, serum vitamin D level, and dermatology life quality index (DLQI) were assessed at baseline and after 4 weeks. Statistical analysis was done with Wilcoxon and paired T-test. Results:Eighteen elderly women were included. Most subjects were 60 to 74 years old (83,3%). Half the subjects (50%) had comorbidity. There was a significant difference in skin hydration (p Conclusion: Topical 7-DHC vitamin D3 complex cream is proven to improve skin barriers, increase serum vitamin D levels, well-tolerated, and provided satisfaction and comfort in elderly women with XP.

Dermoscopic and histopathologic findings in diagnosing postpartum pemphigoid gestationis

Background: Pemphigoid gestationis (PG) is an uncommon autoimmune vesiculobullous skin disorder associated with pregnancy, that occurs during mid-to-late pregnancy and immediate postpartum period. The diagnosis of PG is based on histopathology and direct immunofluorescence. Dermoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that provides a connection between macroscopic clinical dermatology and microscopic dermatopathology. Case Illustration: We reported a case of a 22-year-old primigravida woman with postpartum PG. This PG case was diagnosed clinically, dermoscopically, and histopathologically. Discussion: Since PG is thought to be a variation of the bullous pemphigoid (BP), the two resemble each other clinically and immunologically. The well-defined structures with brown-black dots in the central, yellowish translucent areas, follicular openings, peri-eccrine and perifollicular pigmentations, and a distorted pigment network were the dermoscopic findings of PG. To date, there is no literature about the dermoscopic features of PG. Conclusion: Dermoscopy is a simple non-invasive tool that can assist in making a rapid diagnosis, as well as in evaluating the prognosis, observing the response to treatment, and helping to determine the appropriate lesion and location for histopathological examination. We recommend that the dermoscopic features of PG in our case as a dermoscopic picture of PG.

BT23 Artificial intelligence generation of patient information leaflets can have a useful role in the dermatology clinic

BT23 Artificial intelligence generation of patient information leaflets can have a useful role in the dermatology clinic

PS01 (P075) A retrospective review of isotretinoin treatment-related psychosexual health side-effects in a tertiary dermatology clinic

PS01 (P075) A retrospective review of isotretinoin treatment-related psychosexual health side-effects in a tertiary dermatology clinic

The Spectrum of Pediatric Skin Diseases: A Prospective Study in Sudan

Background: In line with the World Health Organization's (WHO) campaign to improve community dermatology services, research on the spectrum of pediatric skin diseases is crucial for both patients and policymakers. Identifying the spectrum of pediatric skin conditions among children visiting the Khartoum Dermatological Hospital's outpatient dermatology clinic was the goal of this study. Methods: Over six months, a prospective cross-sectional study including children (0–18 years old) was undertaken. Once the pertinent medical history and examinations were gathered, dermatologists made the diagnosis. Skin conditions were divided into several categories. The analysis of the data was done with the SPSS version 23. Results: A total of 320 children, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1, were enrolled. Ten categories with 38 different skin diseases were established after diagnosis. Infections in 152 (47.5%), eczematous disorders in 89 (27.8%), and appendageal disorders in 19 (5.93%) children were the most prevalent conditions by group. Impetigo (37.5%), scabies (10.9%), and seborrheic dermatitis (10.6%) were the most frequently seen diseases. These illnesses most commonly afflicted the areas of the limbs (30%), face (20%), and scalp (18.7%). Papules in 148 (46%) and scales in 74 (23%) children were the most prevalent primary and secondary efflorescence, respectively. A clinical diagnosis was made in the majority (266 [83.1%]) of the cases. Conclusion: The most frequently observed group was infection. This demonstrates how crucial it is to maintain good personal and family hygiene, minimize overcrowded spaces, and promoting public health.

P075 A retrospective review of isotretinoin treatment-related psychosexual health side-effects in a tertiary dermatology clinic

P075 A retrospective review of isotretinoin treatment-related psychosexual health side-effects in a tertiary dermatology clinic

Photoprotection: Current developments and controversies.

This review aimed at summarizing some of the key points that were discussed during the photoprotection session at the International Forum of Dermatology in 2022. This international conference was designed to address prominent topics of clinical dermatology in a holistic way, allowing to articulate multiple viewpoints. Therefore, this review does not claim to be exhaustive, but is instead intended to give an overview of recent developments and ongoing controversies in the field of photoprotection. Cumulative ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is the major aetiological factor in the development of photoageing, photoimunosuppression and photocarcinogenesis. UVA (320-400 nm) penetrates into the dermis and damages DNA and other intracellular and acellular targets primarily by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). It is the major contributor to photoageing, characterized by fine and coarse wrinkles, dyspigmentation and loss of elasticity. UVB (290-320 nm) is responsible for sunburns through direct damage to DNA by the formation of 6-4 cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and pyrimidine 6-4 pyrimidone photoproducts. Both UVA and UVB exposure increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. In recent years, visible light (VL; 400-700 nm) has also been implicated in the exacerbation of conditions aggravated by sun exposure such as hyperpigmentation and melasma. Photoprotection is a critical health strategy to reduce the deleterious effects of UVR and VL. Comprehensive photoprotection strategies include staying in the shade when outdoors, wearing photoprotective clothing including a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, and the use of sunscreen. Due to the absorption of UV filters, the safety of sunscreens has been questioned. Newer sunscreens are becoming available with filters with absorption even beyond the UV spectrum, offering enhanced protection compared with older products. Prevention of photocarcinogenesis, sun-induced or sunlight-exacerbated hyperpigmentary conditions and drug-induced photosensitivity is an important reason for adopting comprehensive photoprotection strategies.

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus-Induced Oculomotor Nerve Atrophy

Purpose: To present a case of oculomotor nerve atrophy complicated by herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO).Case summary: A 68-year-old man with a history of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia complained of diplopia and deviation in left eye. On examination, visual acuity was 20/25 in right eye and 20/20 in left eye. Prism and alternate cover tests revealed right exotropia and hypertropia in the primary position. Examination of ductions and versions showed limitation of adduction and depression in the right eye. On detailed history taking, we found that his symptoms started after suffering HZO on right side about 2 years ago. He was prescribed antiviral agents from a dermatology clinic and was told that all symptoms would improve after medication so he didn't undergo an ophthalmologic examination at that time. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed that diffuse atrophy of oculomotor nerve in cistern along with atrophic changes of medial rectus and inferior rectus muscles in right eye. A diagnosis of strabismus complicated by HZO-induced oculomotor nerve atrophy was done.Conclusions: Ophthalmoplegia secondary to HZO may not be self-limiting and have a poor prognosis resulting in cranial nerve atrophy. A detailed imaging investigation of extraocular muscle and cranial nerves along with thorough history taking are required for proper diagnosis and better prognosis.

The Prevalence of Depression and Acceptance Rate of Referral to Psychiatrist Among Psoriatic Patients in Saudi Arabia.

Background Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the skin and can significantly impact the quality of life. Previous studies have shown that psoriasis increases the risk of depression; however, there is a lack of information about the prevalence of depression and psoriatic patients' acceptance of referral to a psychiatric clinic in Saudi Arabia. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of depression among psoriatic patients in Saudi Arabia, determine their referral acceptance rate to psychiatric clinics, and assess their knowledge regarding the impact of depressive symptoms on psoriasis. Methods This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study included patients with psoriasis who presented to dermatology clinics in Saudi Arabia. All patients were instructed to complete three sets of questionnaires encompassing sociodemographic information, the clinical characteristics of their illness, and the Beck Depression Inventory. Results Of 406 patients, 54.9% had symptoms of depression, and 46.3% were willing to go to a psychiatrist when symptoms of depression were present. Most of the patients (70%) thought that depression affects psoriasis. Conclusions More than half of the psoriatic patients in this study were depressed. The patients understood that depression can lead to a worsening of their symptoms, but the majority refused to see a psychiatrist. To remove barriers to seeing a psychiatrist, psoriasis patients should be provided with mental health assistance, taught to identify psychological stressors and effective strategies to cope with these stressors, and educated about available services, including telemedicine.

Potassium dichromate sensitivity presenting as tefillin dermatitis: A retrospective cohort study.

Tefillin are a religious article worn by Jewish men during daily prayer. Tefillin dermatitis secondary to potassium dichromate sensitivity is recognised, but data remain sparse. To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of tefillin dermatitis. Patients who underwent patch testing with the European baseline series in a tertiary dermatology clinic in 2009-2023 and were diagnosed with tefillin dermatitis were identified by file review and their clinical data recorded. Of 1679 consecutive male patients tested, 25 (1.49%) were diagnosed with tefillin dermatitis, accounting for 15.34% of all potassium-dichromate-positive patients (163/1679). Mean pre-symptomatic duration of tefillin use was 38 ± 16.9 years, and mean follow-up time, 3.1 ± 2.9 years. Patients presented with an eczematous rash on body areas in direct contact with the leather box or straps of the tefillin. An id reaction was noted in 32%, and sensitivity to other leather accessories, in 44%. Fourteen patients (56%) switched to chromate-free tefillin: symptoms resolved completely in 11 (79%) and partially in 2. Retrospective cohort design. This is the largest study to date of tefillin dermatitis caused by sensitivity to potassium dichromate used in leather production. Prognosis after switching to chromate-free tefillin was good-to-excellent. Tefillin dermatitis may be more prevalent than previously thought.

Role of Vitamin C in Skin Aging Mechanism-A Narrative Review

Background: The cosmetics industry has seen significant growth due to the pursuit of beauty and the increasing demand for anti-aging agents. These agents, derived from active ingredients like polyphenols, retinol, and pro-xylane, are categorized into synthetic, plant, and fermentation components. Among these, synthetic components such as vitamins A, B, and C are widely used. Vitamin C has long been utilized in food and medicine for its beneficial effects, including its crucial role in collagen formation. The aging process, while slow and prolonged, is significantly influenced by vitamin C, making it an indispensable component for skin health. Objective: This study aimed to determine how vitamin C helps reduce aging and controls the mechanisms associated with skin aging. Methods: A comprehensive narrative review was conducted by synthesizing existing literature from electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search included keywords like "Vitamin C," "skin aging," "collagen synthesis," "oxidative stress," and "melanogenesis." Studies included were peer-reviewed, written in English, and published within the last 20 years. Both in vivo and in vitro studies were considered to assess the biochemical functions of vitamin C, its protective roles against UV radiation, and its therapeutic potential in various skin conditions. Data were critically analyzed, focusing on study designs, sample sizes, and statistical analyses. Results: Vitamin C was found to enhance collagen synthesis, with studies showing a significant increase in collagen production (Makrantonaki & Zouboulis, 2007). Its antioxidant properties effectively neutralized reactive oxygen species, reducing oxidative stress and preventing DNA damage, with a reduction of ROS levels by 30-50% in UV-exposed skin cells (Rinnerthaler et al., 2015). Inhibitory effects on melanogenesis were observed, with vitamin C reducing melanin synthesis by 25% (Shimada et al., 2009). Additionally, therapeutic benefits were noted in treating acne, psoriasis, and hyperpigmentation, with a 40% improvement in acne scars (Chawla, 2014) and a 35% reduction in psoriasis symptoms (Soodgupta et al., 2014). Conclusion: Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and combating aging through various mechanisms, including enhancing collagen synthesis, providing antioxidant protection, inhibiting melanogenesis, and treating skin diseases. Its consistent findings across multiple studies support its continued use in clinical and cosmetic dermatology. Further research with standardized methodologies is recommended to optimize its application and fully understand its potential.

Characteristics, Clinical, and Trichoscopic Features in Pediatric Patients with Alopecia Areata: A Single-Center Observational Study at the Dermatology Clinic of Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital Padang

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease that causes patchy hair loss. In children, AA can have a significant psychological impact. This study aims to identify the characteristics, clinical and trichoscopic features of AA pediatric patients at the dermatology clinic of Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital Padang. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical observational study involved pediatric patients (<18 years) with a diagnosis of AA who came to the dermatology clinic of Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital Padang between January 2020 to December 2023. Demographic data, disease history, clinical features, and trichoscopy examination results were collected and analyzed descriptively. Results: A total of 125 pediatric AA patients met the inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were female (62.4%) with a mean age of 10.5 years. The most common form of AA is patchy (80%), followed by alopecia totalis/universalis (12%) and ophiasis (8%). A history of atopy was found in 35.2% of patients. The most frequently found trichoscopic features were yellow dots (78.4%), black dots (64%), and broken hairs (56%). Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive description of the characteristics, clinical and trichoscopic characteristics of AA pediatric patients at Dr. M. Djamil General Hospital Padang. These findings may provide a basis for the development of better management strategies for AA in children.