Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin and joint disease, with a plethora of comorbidities, characterized by a certain genetic predisposition, and a complex pathogenesis based on the IL-23/IL-17 pathway. There is no doubt that the patients affected by psoriasis are more susceptible to infections as well as that the risk of infection is higher in psoriatic subjects than in the general population. The advent of biotechnological agents on the therapeutic arsenal actually available for the treatment of moderate-to-severe patients, given the fact that the severity of the disease is a predictor of the level of infectious risk, has raised the question of whether these ‘new’ drugs could be considered a safer option and how they can be used in selected cases. Old and newer strategies in cases of chronic infectious conditions are reviewed under the light of clinical trials and other studies present in literature.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease of the apocrine glands. It typically involves the axillary, submammary, genital, inguinal, perineal, and perianal regions. The development of abscesses, sinus tracts, and scars can lead to pain, scarring, disfigurement and decreased quality of life. HS is associated with a wide range of comorbidities. Several studies of co-occurrence of HS and nonmelanoma skin cancer suggest a causal relationship. In an attempt to assess the link between HS and cancer, we performed a systematic review of the current scientific knowledge through a PubMed-based literature search. Results show that HS could be associated with an overall risk of cancer and numerous specific cancers such as: nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), hematologic malignancies, and metastatic cancer. Among NMSC, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is considered the most common complication arising in long-standing HS. Based on our review, we suggest that cautious surveillance and active intervention may be warranted in patients with HS. Moreover, an age-appropriate cancer screening should be offered to all patients, especially those who developed HS later in their life or in long-standing moderate to severe HS with multiple comorbidities.
Several cutaneous manifestations in patients undergoing COVID-19 vaccination have been described in the literature. Herein, we presented a case of new-onset vitiligo that occurred after the second dose of the Comirnaty vaccine. An updated literature search revealed the occurrence of a total of 16 cases, including new-onset or worsening of preexisting vitiligo. Given the autoimmune pathogenesis of the disease, we reviewed and discussed the potential role of the vaccine prophylaxis as a trigger for the development of such hypopigmented skin lesions.
The link between psoriasis and sport is a controversial issue. The topic has been poorly investigated, and nowadays there are many unsolved questions, dealing with the role of psoriasis in influencing the sporting habits of patients and, vice versa, the impact of sport activity on course, severity and extent of the disease, with particular regard to the indirect benefits on cardiovascular risk and metabolic syndrome. Moreover, the role of physical activity on patients’ quality of life and the potential limitations on physical activity due to joint involvement have not been well elucidated until now. In this narrative review we will try to provide answers to these queries.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, debilitating skin disease of the apocrine glands. Bibliographic search revealed few studies concerning the association between HS and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To assess this link, we performed a systematic review of the current knowledge through a careful analysis of the relevant and authoritative medical literature in the field. Results showed that people with HIV are particularly susceptible to developing HS with the characteristic involvement of atypical sites, such as face or thighs, due to HIV-related immunosuppression. Based on the pathogenesis of both conditions and according to our review, we suggest that HIV screening should be routinely performed in suspected cases while monitoring and integrated approach in management are mandatory in the management of HIV-positive patients with HS.
Morbihan Syndrome is an uncommon condition characterized by the slow appearance of erythema and solid edema on the upper portion of the face. The disease is considered an end-stage complication of rosacea's recurrent episodes of vascular dilation and inflammation or a complication of acne vulgaris. The disease is often insidious to diagnose and challenging to treat. We report a paradigmatic case of unilateral Morbihan Syndrome induced by use of full-face CPAP masks for OSAS in a patient with rosacea. OSAS could play a role in the development of rosacea symptoms. Our aim is to remark the importance of a careful, prolonged follow-up in order to optimize patient's management and to improve the adherence to therapy.