Scalp Skin Research Articles

Development and Evaluation of Dutasteride Nanoemulgel for the Topical Delivery against Androgenic Alopecia.

Dutasteride is approximately three times more potent than finasteride in treating alopecia. For reducing systemic exposure to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), researchers have shown special interest in developing topical formulations for treating androgenic alopecia. Dutasteride emulsification may lead to good skin penetration and improved availability in different lipophilic skin environments. This study aimed to encapsulate the drug into the lipidic carrier system for better local availability in the scalp skin, develop and evaluate nanoemulgel of dutasteride to ensure efficient topical administration, and perform the in-vivo activity of the developed gel for improved efficacy against alopecia. Dutasteride-loaded nanoemulsion was prepared by a high-speed homogenizer, followed by thickening of the dispersion using Carbopol 934. Skin permeation and accumulation were investigated in the excised skin of male Swiss albino mice. The nanoemulgel was characterized based on pH, stress stability, viscosity, and hardness. The optimized dutasteride-loaded nanoemulsion had a size of 252.33 ± 8.59 nm, PDI of 0.205 ± 0.60, and drug content of 98.65 ± 1.78%. Stress stability was performed was well observed in nanoemulsion formulation. Nanoemulgel evaluation results were as follows: pH 5-6 was desirable for topical application, hardness was 43 gm, and spreadability was 79 gm with in vitro release of nanoemulgel at 91.98% and permeation study at 13.67%. The in vivo studies demonstrated the growth of newer hair follicles and increased hair diameter and length in dutasteride-loaded nanoemulgel-treated alopecia animals compared to the marketed sample and testosterone-treated group. Provided with the same and long-term storage stability, the developed formulation is supposed to offer a good option for the topical administration of dutasteride in treating androgenic alopecia.

Superficial fungal infections in adults in Northern Finland between 2010 and 2021: A register-based study.

Superficial fungal infections are common dermatological reasons to visit a doctor in primary care in Finland. However, their variable clinical picture and minor symptoms may lead to delayed diagnosis. We aimed to investigate the epidemiology and patient profile of fungal infections treated in secondary care over a decade. This is a retrospective study including adult patients with a fungal infection in the scalp, nails, or superficial skin diagnosed at the Oulu University Hospital, Finland between the years 2010 and 2021. There were 573 patients with male predominance (57.6%). All studied fungal infections were more common in the oldest age group (>61 years). The number of fungal infections increased from the year 2017 onward. Only one-third (37.7%) of the patients were referred to the dermatology clinic because of a suspected dermatophyte infection, and in 46.0% of cases, the diagnostic delay exceeded 6 months. The most common fungal infection was tinea pedis (n = 295, 51.5%) followed by tinea unguium (n = 275, 48.0%); as concomitant infection, they were present in 108 (18.8%) of all patients. The most common pathogen causing a fungal infection was Trichophyton rubrum. During the study period, the incidence of diagnosed superficial fungal skin infections increased. There was a remarkable diagnostic delay from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis in these most common dermatological conditions.

An Optimal Scalp Rotation Flap Design: Mathematical and Bio-Mechanical Analysis

The design and implementation of successful rotational flaps of the scalp remains a complex process. There are several described techniques, all of which are based on a two-dimension surface, absent consideration of the convexity and thereby three-dimensional nature of the scalp. This has contributed to flaps that are either too small or unnecessarily large in a bid to compensate.Mathematical analysis using trigonometric and algebraic formulae were used to derive the relationship between the defect, triangulation, the contour of the scalp, the radius of the arc of rotation for the flap and scalp skin tension. Polyurethane models were used to test the applicability of the resultant formula, and a consecutive clinical case series is presented.Rotation flap dimensions were calculated using an apex angle of 30 degrees depicted as a two-dimensional construct. The contour of the defect was then measured as the depth of depression with radius of the rotation flap calculated based on the changes in flap surface area across the defect. Finite Element Analysis was utilised to measure redistribution of tension along the flap reconstructing the defect, and the efficacy of the approach confirmed in the consecutive clinical series. The current study provides a reliable flap design based on mathematical analysis, with evidence-based application to the clinical setting.

Skin lesion of external auditory canal in a patient with seborrheic dermatitis.

Patient K. turned to a dermatologist with complaints of periodic itching in the scalp skin, face, auricles, external auditory canals with discomfort and discharge from them. Clinical diagnosis: seborrheic dermatitis. At the otolaryngologist consultation, the patient was diagnosed with bilateral external otitis media with the formation of hyperkeratotic casts in both external auditory canals. Seborrheic dermatitis was treated in two stages. At the first stage, itraconazole 200 mg was prescribed orally 1 time per day for the first week of treatment, then 200 mg orally 1 time per day for the first two days of each month for 3 months and externally on the scalp ketoconazole shampoo 2% 2 times a week for 4 weeks, then 1 time in 2 weeks. At the second stage, isotretinoin was administered orally at a dosage of 10 mg per day in an intermittent mode. A positive clinical result was obtained against the background of the therapy. The patient continues to remain under supervision.

An Assessment of the Safety, Efficacy, and Tolerability of a Novel Scalp Treatment Regimen Combining a Hydroxy Acid-Based Scrub and Copper Tripeptide Serum in the Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis in Adults.

Background and objective Scalp dandruff, a prevalent dermatological condition marked by flaking and itching, affects a large segment of the population. Sun exposure, genetics, and dryness, along with winter conditions, indoor heating, and hard water, all contribute to moisture loss and scalp imbalance.This study aimed to evaluatethe safety, efficacy, and tolerability of a novel regimen combining a scalp scrub with hydroxy acidderivatives for exfoliation and dandruff removal, and a serum containing copper tripeptide-1, witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), hesperidin, hyaluronic acid, and pea protein (Pisum sativum) for hydration and scalp health. Methods This prospective, interventional, open-label, single-center study assessed the safety, efficacy, and in-use tolerability of a scalp scrub and serum regimen for mild to moderate dandruff. Ethical approval was granted by ACEAS - Independent Ethics Committee and all participants provided written consent. The study evaluated changes in Adherent Scalp Flaking Score (ASFS), scalp hydration with the Corneometer® CM 825, hair thickness, hair density, and scalp condition using CASLite Nova.Scalp appearance and treatment usage perception were evaluated on day 1, day 8, and day 15. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS Statistics v29.0.1.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) and Microsoft Excel 2019, with results reported as p-values and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results As per the ASFSscale for adherent scalp flaking, a significant improvement of 61.24% (p<0.0001) was observed by day 15. Assessmentswith CASLite Nova showed significant increases in hair density and hair thickness by 12.48% (p<0.0001) and 25.36% (p<0.0001), respectively. Regarding scalp condition, the proportion of individuals with a dry scalp and significant keratin decreased from 65.52% at baseline to 6.9% by day 15. The incidence of dry scalp with fine dandruff also decreased from 6.9% at baseline to 0% by day 15. Conversely, the percentage of individuals with a dry scalp and some keratin increased from 27.59% at baseline to 48.28% by day 15. Also, the proportion of subjects with a normal scalp, characterized by good hair density and thickness, increased from 0% at baseline to 44.83% by day 15. Scalp skin hydration, measured by Corneometer® CM 825, showed a significant improvement of 76.24% (p<0.0001) from baseline to day 15. Overall, there were notable enhancements in scalp appearance, with reductions in itchiness, redness, roughness, and scaliness. All subjects reported satisfaction with the treatment. Conclusions The ThriveCo scalp regimen (scalp scrub + serum) has been demonstrated to be both effective and safe in treating and reducing scalp dandruff in healthy adults. The regimen significantly reduced ASFS by effectively removing visible scalp flakes from day 1 to day 15 with continuous use. Furthermore, the kit improved overall scalp condition, increased skin hydration, and enhanced the scalp's appearance. The components include scalp scrub with hydroxy acidderivatives for exfoliation and dandruff removal, and a serum containing copper tripeptide-1, Hamamelis virginiana, hesperidin, hyaluronic acid, and pea protein (Pisum sativum) for hydration and overall scalp health over the 15-day treatment period. The synergistic effects of this regimen work to clear visible dandruff flakes, reduce adherent scalp flaking, rejuvenate the scalp, and simultaneously strengthen the hair.

Optical Transparency Windows in Near-Infrared and Short-Wave Infrared for the Skin, Skull, and Brain: Fluorescence Bioimaging Using PbS Quantum Dots.

Fluorescence imaging (FI) employing near-infrared (NIR) light within the range of ~750-1350 nm enables biomedical imaging several millimeters beneath the tissue surface. More recent investigations into the short-wave IR (SWIR) transparency windows between ~1550-1870 and 2100-2300 nm highlight their superior capabilities. This research presents a comparison of IR-FI of PbS quantum dots, emitting at 990, 1310, and 1580 nm, through the mouse scalp skin, skull, and brain. The SWIR fluorescence is the most effectively transmitted signal, showing particularly significant enhancement when passing through the skull, which causes high light scattering. For the analysis of the imaging results and light propagation through the organs, their spectra of attenuation, absorption, and scattering coefficients are measured. In view of biomedical imaging, attenuation due to light scattering is a more destructive factor. Hence, the spatial resolution and imaging contrast can be improved by operating in SWIR due to decreased light scattering.

Skeletal Muscle, Skin, and Bone as Three Major Nitrate Reservoirs in Mammals: Chemiluminescence and 15N-Tracer Studies in Yorkshire Pigs.

In mammals, nitric oxide (NO) is generated either by the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzymes from arginine or by the reduction of nitrate to nitrite by tissue xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) and the microbiome and further reducing nitrite to NO by XOR or several heme proteins. Previously, we reported that skeletal muscle acts as a large nitrate reservoir in mammals, and this nitrate reservoir is systemically, as well as locally, used to generate nitrite and NO. Here, we report identifying two additional nitrate storage organs-bone and skin. We used bolus of ingested 15N-labeled nitrate to trace its short-term fluxes and distribution among organs. At baseline conditions, the nitrate concentration in femur bone samples was 96 ± 63 nmol/g, scalp skin 56 ± 22 nmol/g, with gluteus muscle at 57 ± 39 nmol/g. In comparison, plasma and liver contained 34 ± 19 nmol/g and 15 ± 5 nmol/g of nitrate, respectively. Three hours after 15N-nitrate ingestion, its concentration significantly increased in all organs, exceeding the baseline levels in plasma, skin, bone, skeletal muscle, and in liver 5-, 2.4-, 2.4-, 2.1-, and 2-fold, respectively. As expected, nitrate reduction into nitrite was highest in liver but also substantial in skin and skeletal muscle, followed by the distribution of 15N-labeled nitrite. We believe that these results underline the major roles played by skeletal muscle, skin, and bone, the three largest organs in mammals, in maintaining NO homeostasis, especially via the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway.

Line-Field Optical Coherence Tomography: Usefulness in the Non-Invasive Differential Diagnosis of Congenital Alopecia of Infancy.

Soon after birth, the clinical differential diagnosis between sebaceous of Jadassohn (NSJ), congenital triangular alopecia (CTA) and aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) may be challenging. A certain overlap of standard dermoscopic features can occur, especially in atypical cases, depending on scalp skin morphology and maturation age. The recently developed line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT) can provide morphological skin details with cellular resolution trough a rapid non-invasive examination. To assess the LC-OCT features of 6 cases of congenital alopecia of different aetiologies, with both typical and atypical clinical appearance. A non-invasive imaging examination combining standard dermoscopy, high-resolution videodermoscopy (HRVD) and LC-OCT was realized in 7 babies presenting for congenital alopecia with overlapping features, aged between 5 months and 5 years. Based on the specific LC-OCT features, and supported by HRVD features, a diagnosis of NSJ, congenital triangular alopecia (CTA) and AC) were made in 4, 2 and 1 case, respectively. The combined LC-OCT plus HRVD non-invasive imaging bring the advantage to have a real time diagnosis, to set the proper management and allows to avoid a skin biopsy in the perinatal age/first years of life at delicate skin site.

Metagenomic sequencing of the skin microbiota of the scalp predicting the risk of surgical site infections following surgery of traumatic brain injury in sub-Saharan Africa.

Surgical site infections (SSI) are a significant concern following traumatic brain injury (TBI) surgery and often stem from the skin's microbiota near the surgical site, allowing bacteria to penetrate deeper layers and potentially causing severe infections in the cranial cavity. This study investigated the relationship between scalp skin microbiota composition and the risk of SSI after TBI surgery in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This was a prospective cohort study, enrolling patients scheduled for TBI surgery. Sterile skin swabs were taken from the surrounding normal skin of the head and stored for analysis at -80°Celcius. Patients were monitored postoperatively for up to three months to detect any occurrences of SSI. 16S rRNA sequencing was used to analyze the skin microbiota composition, identifying different taxonomic microorganisms at the genus level. The analysis compared two groups: those who developed SSI and those who did not. A total of 57 patients were included, mostly male (89.5%) with a mean age of 26.5 years, predominantly from urban areas in Uganda and victims of assault. Graphical visualization and metagenomic metrics analysis revealed differences in composition, richness, and evenness of skin microbiota within samples (α) or within the community (β), and showed specific taxa (phylum and genera) associated with either the group of SSI or the No SSI. Metagenomic sequencing analysis uncovered several baseline findings and trends regarding the skin microbiome's relationship with SSI risk. There is an association between scalp microbiota composition (abundancy and diversity) and SSI occurrence following TBI surgery in SSA. We hypothesize under reserve that the scalp microbiota dysbiosis could potentially be an independent predictor of the occurrence of SSI; we advocate for further studies with larger cohorts.

Efficacy of modern methods for assessing the severity of alopecia areata

Purpose of the study. To evaluate the effectiveness of the standardized SALT scale to determine the severity of AA patients.Materials and methods. A one-time retrospective cohort study was conducted. There were 40 patients with AA under supervision. The gender distribution of the patients was as follows: 15 men (36.6%) and 25 (63.3%) women. The average age was 29.4 years in the 18–54 age range.Results. The AA debut varied widely in age range from 2 to 45 years. The average age at which the pathological process began was 18,2±4,4 years. 22.4% of patients with a scalp hair area of more than 25%, as well as hair loss in other areas of the body and changes in the nail.The beginning of AA is fixed to 10 years. More than two relapses occurred in 54.5% of patients with scalp hair lesions of more than 25% and only 9.2% of cases with foetal AA.The following clinical forms were diagnosed: foetal (12 patients), lenticular (ophiasis, inversive ophiasis) (7 patients), multi-focal (11 patients), total and universal (10 patients). According to the SBN Hair Loss State scale, S1 clinically corresponded to focal alopecia, S2 -S4 – ophazis, multi-focal alopecia, S5 – TA and UA. Partial or complete hair loss has been noted in these areas in 38% of patients with S2-S3 and 67% with S4-S5 clinical forms. The combination of different degrees of body hair loss and dystrophy of nail plates in examined AA patients was observed in 25% of cases.Conclusion. In determining the severity of alopecia nest principally not only the size and number of lesions on the skin scalp, but also the nature of hair loss on the skin of the eyebrows and eyelashes, as well as the possible combination of hair loss and dystrophic altered nail plates, which is considered an option for a more severe course of the disease. The SBN system effectively evaluates and describes the clinical variant of AA according to a standardized scale, which can help determine clinical management of patients with different manifestations, as well as predict the course of the disease.

Linear Scleroderma of Scalp “en coup de sabre” in a Child Presenting with Rapidly Deteriorating Acute Encephalopathy

Background: Linear scleroderma (LS) is a variant of localized scleroderma, which is termed as “en coup de sabre” (ECDS) when it involves the head and/or face. Although mainly a dermatological condition, extracutaneous manifestations have been infrequently reported. Clinical Description: A 13-year-old boy presented with fever, altered sensorium with seizures, right hemiparesis, and right-sided upper motor neuron type of facial palsy. He was noticed to have a depression in the left frontoparietal area of the scalp with skin changes. Management and Outcome: The child was initially managed along the lines of acute encephalitis supported with mechanical ventilation. Brain imaging revealed tiny calcification in the left temporal and parietal lobes with altered signal intensities ipsilateral to the scalp lesion. Suspecting an association with the overlying scalp skin lesion, biopsy of the skin lesion was done which confirmed LS. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate was elevated and the antinuclear antibody was positive. The child was started on pulse methylprednisolone following which encephalopathy improved facilitating extubation. Later, he was started on subcutaneous methotrexate and he improved on follow-up. Conclusion: This case creates awareness regarding the association between neurological manifestations and LS EDCS, which responds favorably to immunosuppressives and methotrexate.

Hair Thickness Growth Effect of Adenosine Complex in Male-/Female-Patterned Hair Loss via Inhibition of Androgen Receptor Signaling.

Aging (senescence) is an unavoidable biological process that results in visible manifestations in all cutaneous tissues, including scalp skin and hair follicles. Previously, we evaluated the molecular function of adenosine in promoting alopecia treatment in vitro. To elucidate the differences in the molecular mechanisms between minoxidil (MNX) and adenosine, gene expression changes in dermal papilla cells were examined. The androgen receptor (AR) pathway was identified as a candidate target of adenosine for hair growth, and the anti-androgenic activity of adenosine was examined in vitro. In addition, ex vivo examination of human hair follicle organ cultures revealed that adenosine potently elongated the anagen stage. According to the severity of alopecia, the ratio of the two peaks (terminal hair area/vellus hair area) decreased continuously. We further investigated the adenosine hair growth promoting effect in vivo to examine the hair thickness growth effects of topical 5% MNX and the adenosine complex (0.75% adenosine, 1% penthenol, and 2% niacinamide; APN) in vivo. After 4 months of administration, both the MNX and APN group showed significant increases in hair density (MNX + 5.01% (p < 0.01), APN + 6.20% (p < 0.001)) and thickness (MNX + 5.14% (p < 0.001), APN + 10.32% (p < 0.001)). The inhibition of AR signaling via adenosine could have contributed to hair thickness growth. We suggest that the anti-androgenic effect of adenosine, along with the evaluation of hair thickness distribution, could help us to understand hair physiology and to investigate new approaches for drug development.

Epidermal growth factor receptor/mitogen-activated kinase inhibitor treatment induces a distinct inflammatory hair follicle response that includes collapse of immune privilege.

Inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFRi) or mitogen-activated kinase (MEKi) induce a folliculitis in 75-90% of patients, the pathobiology of which remains insufficiently understood. To characterize changes in the skin immune status and global transcriptional profile of patients treated with EGFRi; to investigate whether EGFRi affects the hair follicle's (HF) immune privilege (IP); and to identify early proinflammatory signals induced by EGFRi/MEKi in human scalp HFs ex vivo. Scalp biopsies were taken from patients exhibiting folliculitis treated long term with EGFRi ('chronic EGFRi' group, n = 9) vs. healthy scalp skin (n = 9) and patients prior to commencing EGFRi treatment and after 2 weeks of EGFRi therapy ('acute EGFRi' group, n = 5). Healthy organ-cultured scalp HFs were exposed to an EGFRi (erlotinib, n = 5) or a MEKi (cobimetinib, n = 5). Samples were assessed by quantitative immunohistomorphometry, RNA sequencing (RNAseq) and in situ hybridization. The 'chronic EGFRi' group showed CD8+ T-cell infiltration of the bulge alongside a partial collapse of the HF's IP, evidenced by upregulated major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I, β2-microglobulin (B2 M) and MHC class II, and decreased transforming growth factor-β1 protein expression. Healthy HFs treated with EGFRi/MEKi ex vivo also showed partial HF IP collapse and increased transcription of human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-A, HLA-DR and B2 M transcripts. RNAseq analysis showed increased transcription of chemokines (CXCL1, CXCL13, CCL18, CCL3, CCL7) and interleukin (IL)-26 in biopsies from the 'chronic EGFRi' cohort, as well as increased IL-33 and decreased IL-37 expression in HF biopsies from the 'acute EGFRi' group and in organ-cultured HFs. The data show that EGFRi/MEKi compromise the physiological IP of human scalp HFs and suggest that future clinical management of EGFRi/MEKi-induced folliculitis requires HF IP protection and inhibition of IL-33.

Galleria mellonella as a superficial model for Malassezia globosa and its treatment.

Introduction. Malassezia globosa is a yeast species that belongs to the mycobiota of humans and animals, associated with dermatological disorders, such as dandruff. This is a chronic scalp skin disorder characterized by flaking and itching. Treatments include commercial shampoo with different formulations that contain antifungal activities like zinc pyrithione (ZPT) or piroctone olamine (PO). The effectiveness of these formulations has been evaluated for decades for dandruff symptom relief of volunteers. To date, non-mammalian, in vivo methods exist to test formulations of these actives. Aim. To evaluate in vivo in Galleria mellonella larva, two commercial antifungal shampoos (shampoo with 1 % ZPT and 1.6 % zinc Carbonate and shampoo with 0.5 % PO) against this species. Methodology. G. mellonella larvae were inoculated with M. globosa on abraded cuticular surface. Then, integument cell viability, histological changes, and fungal burden were evaluated. Results. Larvae inoculated with M. globosa showed higher lesion melanization and tissue damage. In addition, M. globosa population showed to increase over time. Concerning the shampoo's effectiveness, both formulations significantly reduced M. globosa burden and tissue damage. Conclusion. G. mellonella larvae were allowed to evaluate M. globosa superficial infection and antifungal effectiveness. Shampoos with ZPT and PO showed a positive effect on inoculated larvae.

COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON PONGAMIA GLABRA VENT. SEED OIL: EXTRACTION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY ASSESSMENT

Dandruff remains a prevalent issue globally, impacting individuals across diverse demographics. Its manifestation, characterized by the shedding of scalp skin cells leading to visible flakes, presents in dry and oily forms, each with distinct attributes. While the prevalence peaks during puberty, various factors such as humidity, trauma, and stress exacerbate symptoms. Malassezia yeast overgrowth, thriving in sebum-rich areas, plays a pivotal role, with environmental triggers further complicating the condition. Addressing dandruff necessitates multifaceted approaches, including understanding its pathophysiology and exploring diverse treatment modalities. This study focuses on Pongamia glabra Vent. seed oil, commonly known as karanj oil, extracted via a comprehensive methodology involving hydrodistillation and cold expression techniques. Characterization of the oil revealed specific properties, including appearance, odor, taste, solubility, and specific gravity, essential for evaluating its quality and suitability for various applications. Additionally, screening for antifungal activity against Malassezia furfur demonstrated promising results, with karanj oil exhibiting significant efficacy, highlighting its potential as a natural alternative for combating fungal infections associated with dandruff.

P24 Folliculin silencing in human hair follicles ex vivo upregulates intrafollicular mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 activity: a new model for studying Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome

Abstract Introduction and aims Birt–Hogg–Dubé (BHD) syndrome is a rare multisystem disorder caused by germline pathogenic variants in the FLCN gene. BHD skin tumours predominantly affect facial skin, confer a significant psychosocial burden, and there is a lack of nonsurgical therapies. Here we report a novel ex vivo human model to study the impact of FLCN loss in human hair follicles (HFs), the putative origin of BHD skin tumours. Methods Organ-cultured human anagen HFs and scalp skin were treated with small interfering RNA targeting FLCN (n = 2 donors) for 6 days ex vivo, followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and quantitative immunohistomorphometry (qIHM). Results Successful FLCN knockdown was confirmed at both the mRNA (34% reduction compared with nontargeting control levels measured by qRT-PCR) and protein level (12% reduction in FLCN expression measured by qIHM). In FLCN-silenced HFs (n = 14, two donors), our preliminary Results demonstrated an increase in p-S6 expression, a direct downstream kinase of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex (mTORC)1 signalling. This was spatially restricted to the hair bulb and proximal outer root sheath keratinocytes, and was significantly greater than quantified in nontargeting control HFs (P &amp;lt; 0.05). Conclusions FLCN silencing in ex vivo cultured, healthy human HFs and scalp skin provides a novel, instructive and accessible preclinical research model. We aim to delineate whether FLCN interacts with the key endogenous inhibitor of mTORC1 activity, TSC2, in future work, to gain insight into the role of FLCN in the pathobiology of BHD and the maintenance of healthy human HFs.

Epithelioid Hemangioma: Report of a Case Series of 4 Patients

Epithelioid hemangioma or Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia (ALHE) is a rare benign vascular disease, characterized by solitary or multiple angiomatous papules and nodules, which are usually located on the skin of scalp and face (mainly in the preauricular zone); these have characteristic histological and immunohistochemical patterns, in particular characterized by an important lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrated with many eosinophils and vascular proliferation of capillaries with endothelial cellular changes. In this paper, four cases of this disease are reported, in the first series of Ecuadorian cases described in the literature.

Study the effect of Darun Lepa in Darunaka

Darunaka is a Kapha Vataja (due to Kapha and Vata) condition featured with itching, dryness, and scaling of skin over the scalp with an itching sensation is considered a cardinal feature. It has become the most common cause of hair fall. Dandruff is a common scalp disorder, the cause may vary among individuals like fungal, bacterial, dry scalp, oil or irritated skin. In this study a cost effective and simple topical application of Lepa using Haritaki Churna, Amra Beeja Churna and Godugdha as a combination has been evaluated in Darunaka.

36-year Follow-up on Scalp Reconstruction Using Free Latissimus Dorsi Muscle Flap, Skin Grafting, and Scalp Expansion.

Immediate coverage of a large area of exposed skull is the first step in reconstructing a major scalp loss. In the 1970s, the free omental flap was used for scalp reconstruction, replacing removal of the external table and skin grafting only. Introduction of flaps and expanders has revolutionized reconstruction of major scalp losses. A free muscle flap is used to cover the exposed skull. Skin graft covers the muscle flap, and next, the expanded scalp is used to restore the scalp to its original shape. In certain cases, a hair transplant could help create a more natural hairline. In this case, in 1987, a free latissimus dorsi muscle flap and skin grafting were used in a 27-year-old man with major scalp loss. The left latissimus dorsi muscle was harvested with its vascular pedicle intact. Left superficial temporal vessels were used as recipients. After complete healing of the free flap, scalp and forehead skin were expanded and used to restore the scalp to its preinjury shape. Coverage of the exposed parietal skull with free latissimus dorsi muscle flap and skin graft was successful. Then, scalp tissue surrounding the defect and forehead skin were expanded and used to restore the scalp to its original shape. This 36-year follow-up in a patient who had major scalp reconstruction using free latissimus dorsi muscle and skin grafting followed by scalp and forehead expansion shows that this method provides an excellent and reliable long-term coverage for such an injury.

PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF HERBO-MINERAL HAIR DYE FOR PREMATURE HAIR GRAYING

Background: Premature Hair Graying (PHG/ Canities) is the burning problem of today’s society. Despite extensive research, the treatment for PHG is still unsatisfactory. Ayurveda considers Palitya (premature hair graying) as an ailment of vitiated Pitta dosha (deranged functional factor of the body responsible for digestion and metabolism). Ayurveda therapeutics can provide the natural solution to this problem without adverse effects and also can prevent the recurrence. Objective: In present research work, attempts are made to formulate unique, safe and effective herbomineral hair dye (Keshranjak yog) an Ayurvedic formulation. The prepared formulation is also evaluated for its efficiency through various organoleptic, phytochemical and physicochemical parameters. Results: The pH of prepared herbomineral hair dye was found to be 6 which is close to neutral; to suit the requirements of different scalp and hair types. Total phenolic content (8.1%±0.7), total flavonoid content (6±1.2) of prepared sample were found to be acceptable and within limit. Conclusion: The dyeing effect of the developed dye may be attributed to keshya (good for hair), Kesharanjak (hair coloring) properties according to Ayurveda and presence of tannins, phenols as per pharmaceutics. Nowadays natural remedies are widely accepted as they are safer with minimal side effects as compared to the chemical hair dye. Kesharanjak yog may provide vital nourishment to the scalp skin and can color the hair in an utmost gentle manner. Due to nontoxic nature can act as public healthcare product.