Blastomycosis is a subacute or chronic deep mycosis caused by a dimorphic fungus, Blastomyces dermatitidis, that generally produces a pulmonary form of the disease and, to a lesser extent, extrapulmonary forms, such as cutaneous, osteoarticular, and genitourinary. Both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals can be infected, but more severe disease occurs in the immunocompromised. Blastomycosis can be diagnosed by culture, direct visualization of the yeast in affected tissue, antigen testing, or a combination of these methods.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFLangerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), also known as histiocytosis X, is a group of rare disorders characterized by the continuous replication of a particular white blood cell called Langerhans cells. These cells are derived from the bone marrow and are found in the epidermis, playing a large role in immune surveillance and the elimination of foreign substances from the body. Additionally, Langerhans cells are capable of migrating from the skin to lymph nodes, and in LCH, these cells begin to congregate on the bone, particularly in the head and neck region, causing a multitude of problems.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFJ Clin Aesthet Dermatol
July 2015
Granuloma annulare is a disease characterized by granulomatous inflammation of the dermis. Localized granuloma annulare may resolve spontaneously, while generalized granuloma annulare may persist for decades. The authors present the case of a 41-year-old Hispanic man with a two-week history of periocular granuloma annulare.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSalivary gland choristoma (heterotopic salivary gland tissue) is a rare condition typically seen in the newborn period. This developmental heterotopia is generally nonprogressive, with little risk of malignant transformation. We present the second known reported case of a salivary gland choristoma located on the anterior chest wall.
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