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Progressive hemifacial atrophy is a rare, unilateral, atrophic craniofacial form of morphea involving the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, fat, muscle, and even bone. We report a case of a child having progressive hemifacial atrophy, presented with rapidly progressive neurological symptoms and associated radiological manifestations. In this case of hemifacial atrophy, the sensitivity of MRI in detecting intracranial lesions is demonstrated. Recommendations for imaging these patients are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, drugs targeting cytokines and their receptors have been researched and developed. These agents act on molecular targets at the subcellular level. The Janus Kinases family is a group of receptor-associated signaling molecules which are essential to the signal cascade originating from Type 1 and Type 2 cytokine receptors. Janus kinase inhibitors, also known as Jakinibs/JAK inhibitors, are molecules developed against this class of kinases. Initially developed for use in different inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatological problems, JAK inhibitors are emerging as new agents in dermatology. Although biologics have proved to be effective and safe in various disorders, not all patients respond to this therapy. Jakinibs are also being seen as an alternative oral therapy for such patients. This article will review the basic principles of mode of action, efficacy and safety of JAK inhibitors in autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis, alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis and vitiligo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of 1064nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of Nevus of Ota. Methods This study was conducted in Department of Dermatology, Unit-II, KEMU/Mayo Hospital, Lahore. A total of 100 patients of nevus of Ota (both unilateral and bilateral) with Fitzpatrick skin type III to V were included in this study. Baseline photographs and Pigment area and Severity Index (PSI) score was recorded. All patients were treated with 1064nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser at fluence of 500-600 V and frequency of 5Hz. A total of 10 sessions at 2 weeks interval were given. Final assessment was done at 4 weeks after last session. Improvement was measured in terms of percentage reduction in baseline PSI score. Results Mean age of the patients was 24.35±5.70 years. There were 15.0% males and 85.0% females. Majority of the patients had duration of lesion > 15 years. Most of the patients presented with skin type IV. 52.0% patients showed more than 50% clinical improvement. Improvement was higher in females (56%) and in patients with skin type III (50%) and IV (60%). Stratification with regards to age and duration of lesion showed no statistically significant difference. Conclusion Fifty two % of patients of nevus of Ota treated with 1064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser showed more than 50% improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Lichen planus is a chronic T-cell-mediated inflammatory disorder, where inflammation produces lipid metabolism disturbances and is therefore linked to increase in cardiovascular (CV) risk due to dyslipidemia. Increased reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxides have also been implicated in its pathogenesis. Objective To determine the frequency of dyslipidemia in patients with lichen planus. Methods In this cross sectional study 96 clinically diagnosed cases of lichen planus were included. Presence or absence of dyslipidemia was decided by the recorded parameters i.e. fasting lipid profile. Results Mean age of the patients was 37.07±11.22 year. There were 47 males (49.0%) and 49 females (51.0%). Dyslipidemia was recorded in 38 patients (39.6%). Stratification with regard to age, gender, BMI, duration of disease and history of treatment was carried out. Conclusion Lichen planus was significantly associated with an increased risk of dyslipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]