Chronic venous disease, platelet and haemostatic abnormalities contribute to the pathogenesis of pigmented purpuric dermatoses.

Background: To investigate the aetiology of pigmented purpuric dermatoses (PPD).

Methods: 63 patients with a provisional diagnosis of PPD were assessed. Skin biopsies were performed to confirm the clinical diagnosis.

Chemical peels: A review of current practice.

Chemical peels belong to a group of cutaneous resurfacing procedures that are used in the treatment of photoageing, inflammatory dermatoses, epidermal proliferations, pigmentary disorders and scarring. This review describes best current practice, highlights recent advances in chemical peel technology and discusses the recommended uses for different peel types. It also presents the results of a survey of the chemical peeling practices of 30 Australian dermatologists.

Effects of cholecalciferol on functional, biochemical, vascular, and quality of life outcomes in hemodialysis patients.

Background And Objectives: Observational studies suggest that calciferol supplementation may improve laboratory and patient-level outcomes of hemodialysis patients with reduced 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels. This randomized controlled trial examined effects of cholecalciferol supplementation in patients on hemodialysis.

Design, Setting, Participants, & Measurements: Sixty patients with 25(OH)D levels ≤24 ng/ml (≤60 nmol/L) were randomized to receive 50,000 IU oral cholecalciferol or placebo, once weekly for 8 weeks and then monthly for 4 months.