Value of diagnostic techniques for cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Background: Traditional diagnostic tests, ie, smear, culture, and histopathology of a skin biopsy specimen, are not always conclusive in patients with a clinical diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL).

Objective: Our purpose was to find out if a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) specific for Leishmania organisms might be more sensitive than the traditional diagnostic techniques, thereby decreasing the number of false-negative diagnoses.

Methods: In a prospective study, smear, culture, and histopathology of skin biopsy specimens from 46 patients with a possible diagnosis of CL were compared with PCR specific for Leishmania.

Cutaneous adverse reactions after intra-articular injection of triamcinolone acetonide.

A patient is described with a disseminated morbilliform and partially persistent urticarial dermatitis following intra-articular injections of triamcinolone acetonide. A delayed-type hypersensitivity to triamcinolone acetonide was observed after patch and intradermal testing. However, an immediate-type hypersensitivity to this drug was not observed.

Quality of life and maladjustment associated with hair loss in women with alopecia androgenetica.

Quality of life and maladjustment related to hair loss were studied by means of a standardized interview in a group of 58 women with alopecia androgenetica who applied for treatment at the Department of Dermatology. The hair loss was found to have a negative influence on the quality of life on the majority of them. In 88%, hair loss had negative effects on their daily life; in about 75%, the hair problems were manifested in negative self-esteem and about 50% experienced social problems.

Congenital nasal stenosis in neonates.

Sixteen newborn infants with respiratory problems due to bony nasal obstruction were studied. In 14 patients no surgery was needed. In two patients surgery became necessary after a few months.