Hydrogel-forming microneedle arrays exhibit antimicrobial properties: potential for enhanced patient safety.

We describe, for the first time, the microbial characterisation of hydrogel-forming polymeric microneedle arrays and the potential for passage of microorganisms into skin following microneedle penetration. Uniquely, we also present insights into the storage stability of these hydroscopic formulations, from physical and microbiological viewpoints, and examine clinical performance and safety in human volunteers. Experiments employing excised porcine skin and radiolabelled microorganisms showed that microorganisms can penetrate skin beyond the stratum corneum following microneedle puncture.

Efficacy of topical PUVA soaks for palmoplantar dermatoses: an audit.

Background: With a lack of evidence base for individual topical PUVA protocols, treatment is presently based on the consensus of current practice. This audit was designed to investigate the effectiveness of topical PUVA for palmoplantar dermatoses.

Methods: Phototherapy notes were reviewed on all patients who received hand and/or foot PUVA 2002-2007 in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT), Northern Ireland.

Aminolaevulinic acid diffusion characteristics in 'in vitro' normal human skin and actinic keratosis: implications for topical photodynamic therapy.

Background: The response rate of aminolaevulinic acid (ALA)-based photodynamic therapy (PDT) in certain subtypes of actinic keratosis (AK), such as hypertrophic and hyperkeratotic lesions, is variable, an effect attributable to a supposed lack of ALA penetration. A detailed and depth-related profile of spatial ALA permeation in AK following drug administration would lead to a greater understanding of concentrations achievable before protoporphyrin IX biosynthesis and subsequent PDT.

Methods: ALA penetration through excised normal human skin (NS) and AK lesions was evaluated using a cryostatic sectioning technique and radio-isotope counting following drug delivery using a novel, bioadhesive patch, loaded with 19, 38 or 50 mg/cm(2) ALA.

Could proximal white subungual onychomycosis be a complication of systemic spread? The lessons to be learned from Maladie Dermatophytique and other deep infections.

There are several published cases where dermatophyte infections have spread systemically, resulting in widespread internal dissemination as well as spread to local lymphatics and lymph nodes. The best example is provided by the condition known as Maladie Dermatophytique. In this commentary the arguments are discussed for a potential role of lymphatic dissemination in the development of proximal white subungual onychomycosis, where invasion of the nail plate by fungi proceeds from the proximal nail fold.