Efficacy of tacrolimus 0.1% ointment in cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial.

Background: Topical calcineurin inhibitors are licensed for the treatment of atopic dermatitis; however, the efficacy of tacrolimus in cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) has only been shown in single case reports.

Objective: In a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial, we sought to evaluate the efficacy of tacrolimus 0.1% ointment for skin lesions in CLE.

Photoprotective effects of a broad-spectrum sunscreen in ultraviolet-induced cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a randomized, vehicle-controlled, double-blind study.

Objective: We sought to assess if the exclusive use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen can prevent skin lesions in patients with different subtypes of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) induced by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation under standardized conditions.

Methods: A total of 25 patients with a medical history of photosensitive CLE were included in this monocentric, randomized, vehicle-controlled, double-blind, intraindividual study. The test product and its vehicle were applied 15 minutes before UVA and UVB irradiation of uninvolved skin areas on the upper aspect of the back in a random order, and standardized phototesting was performed daily for 3 consecutive days.

Effect of bosentan on skin fibrosis in patients with systemic sclerosis: a prospective, open-label, non-comparative trial.

Objectives: To assess the effect of the ET-receptor antagonist bosentan on skin fibrosis and functionality in patients with SSc.

Methods: In this prospective, open-label, non-comparative trial, a total of 10 patients with SSc received 62.5 mg of bosentan twice daily for 4 weeks and then 125 mg twice daily for 20 weeks.

[Occupational decisions of young physicians and possible future consequences for the provision of medical care. Results of an anonymous questionnaire].

Objective: This study was undertaken following a request of the Bavarian Ministry of Sciences, Research and the Arts to analyse the future provision in different occupational areas.

Methods: In a preliminary enquiry, statistics of the Medical Association of Bavaria (BLAEK) were analysed for several years (2000-2004) to find out how many physicians are working in different occupational areas and fields, according to gender. In early 2004 a questionnaire was sent to all physicians who had received their licences to practise medicine in the four preceding years and were still reported to the Medical Association of Bavaria.

[Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis with confirmed type IV allergy. Report of 3 cases].

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is characterized by an acute disseminated eruption of multiple, non-follicular pustules. In addition, it can be associated with fever, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and leukocytosis. The pathogenesis of AGEP is still unknown; however, medications appear a likely cause in most cases.