Use of low-energy X-rays in the treatment of superficial nonmelanomatous skin cancers.

The Photon Radiosurgery System (PRS), developed by the Photoelectron Corporation in Lexington, Massachusetts, produces low-energy x-rays from the tip of a needle-like probe at a high dose-rate. This portable device can be located directly over the target volume, delivering a uniform dose while sparing surrounding normal structures. To evaluate its radiotherapeutic profile, a prospective phase I Food and Drug Administration trial was performed utilizing this device in the management of nonmelanomatous skin cancers.

Pemphigus foliaceus presenting as eruptive seborrheic keratosis and responding to oral gold treatment.

Pemphigus Foliaceus (PF) is an antibody-mediated autoimmune disease. IgG directed against desmoglein-1 induces acantholysis in the superficial epidermis, leading to the classic presentation of crusted erosions in a seborrheic distribution. We report a case of a 51-year-old African-American man with an 8-year history of PF, who developed multiple hyperpigmented, 'stuck-on' appearing verrucous papules and plaques on the back, chest, and neck.