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The article presents the discussion on Mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) being characterized by chronic subepithelial blistering of the mucosal surfaces. Topics include circulating autoantibodies binding to the epidermal basement membrane resulting in inflammation and weakening of adhesion; and developing dysphagia and painful erosions of the gingival mucosa.

Purpose: To document a clinically relevant position of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in dentate patients and identify patient factors associated with IAN position. Materials and Methods: The investigators used a cross-sectional study design and a study sample of subjects who had a radiographically identifiable IAN canal and at least 1 mandibular first molar was enrolled. Predictor variables were age, gender, and race. Outcome variables were the linear distances between the buccal aspect of the IAN canal and the outer buccal cortical margin of the mandible, and the superior aspect of the IAN canal and the alveolar crest. Appropriate uni-, bi-, and multivariate statistics were computed. Results: The study sample was composed of 50 patients with a mean age of 42 years, 42.0% were male, and 73.2% were white. On average, the buccal aspect of the canal was 4.9 mm from the buccal cortical margin of the mandible. The superior aspect of the IAN canal was 17.4 mm inferior from the alveolar crest. Age and race were statistically associated with IAN position relative to the buccal cortical mandibular margin (P < .05). None of the demographic variables were associated with vertical position. Conclusions: The IAN canal was 4.9 mm and 17.4 mm from the buccal and superior cortical surfaces of the mandible, respectively. The bucco-lingual IAN canal position was associated with age and race. Older patients and white patients, on average, have less distance between the buccal aspect of the canal and the buccal mandibular border. To minimize the risk of IAN injury, these variables should be considered when planning mandibular osteotomies or using monocortical plates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This case report describes a patient who developed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after receiving courses of two investigational biologic agents and cyclosporine followed by more than four years of subcutaneous efalizumab for the treatment of extensive chronic plaque psoriasis. Three years later, the patient remains free of lymphoma and his psoriasis is well controlled with thrice-weekly narrow-band ultraviolet phototherapy. This case emphasizes the importance of continued long-term post-marketing safety surveillance and the early reporting of all possible serious side effects, including cancers, related to the use of any newly available product. In particular, surveillance should focus on the immunomodulating biologic agents in order to identify possible dangerous sequelae.

Vulvovaginal lichen planus is a chronic condition characterized by complex mucocutaneous findings. Patients may be asymptomatic or may have severe pain and itching. Findings vary from erythema, erosions, and white striae to severe scarring. Goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms and to minimize potential scarring. A multidisciplinary approach is advised for patients with widespread involvement to maximize treatment success (dermatologists, gynecologists, dentists, physical therapists, ophthalmologists, gastroenterologists, urologists, neurologists, anesthesiologists, psychologists, and psychiatrists)., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)