Matrilysin is expressed by lipid-laden macrophages at sites of potential rupture in atherosclerotic lesions and localizes to areas of versican deposition, a proteoglycan substrate for the enzyme.

Certain matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are expressed within the fibrous areas surrounding acellular lipid cores of atherosclerotic plaques, suggesting that these proteinases degrade matrix proteins within these areas and weaken the structural integrity of the lesion. We report that matrilysin and macrophage metalloelastase, two broad-acting MMPs, were expressed in human atherosclerotic lesions in carotid endarterectomy samples (n = 18) but were not expressed in normal arteries (n = 7). In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry revealed prominent expression of matrilysin in cells confined to the border between acellular lipid cores and overlying fibrous areas, a distribution distinct from other MMPs found in similar lesions.

Diaper dermatitis.

Preview Skin eruptions in the diaper area in infants bring many new parents to the primary care physician's office. Which topical agents and diapering strategies work best to clear lesions? And how can recurrence be avoided? The authors answer these questions and discuss common skin disorders in the diaper region as well as several rare disorders that may require dermatologic consultation.

Cutaneous presentation of juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia: a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma.

Annular, erythematous, circinate plaques were the first manifestation of juvenile chronic myelogenous leukemia (JCML) in an otherwise healthy 2.5-year-old boy who had had these lesions since 6 months of age. The lesions showed an atypical hematopoietic infiltrate on biopsy.

Diaper dermatitis. How to treat and prevent.

Dampness, maceration, fecal enzymes, chemicals, and other irritants lead to diaper dermatitis in infants. Most cases can be cleared with frequent diaper changes, use of superabsorbent disposable diapers (which contain gelling material in their core), and a low-potency topical corticosteroid. If the eruption lasts for more than 3 days or classic erythematous satellite lesions are present, addition of an antifungal agent should help resolve the condition.

Complete degradation of type X collagen requires the combined action of interstitial collagenase and osteoclast-derived cathepsin-B.

We have studied the degradation of type X collagen by metalloproteinases, cathepsin B, and osteoclast-derived lysates. We had previously shown (Welgus, H. G.