Search

Background: Striae gravidarum are a common occurrence in pregnancy and many women use a topical product to prevent their development or lessen their appearance if they do develop. There is a lack of evidence on the effectiveness of many of the products used by women. This study arose from challenges in recruitment to a pilot randomised trial (ISRCTN trial registration number:76992326) designed to evaluate the feasibility of a definitive trial to compare a moisturising oil to no treatment in the prevention and reduction in severity of striae gravidarum. The study reported here explored the factors influencing recruitment to that pilot trial.Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was undertaken involving primigravid women attending an Irish maternity hospital. Data were collected by semi-structured telephone interviews over a four-week period and analysed using the framework method of analysis. Fifteen interview transcripts were included in the analysis.Results: Four main themes consisting of twelve categories were identified from the interview data. The themes focused on women's prevention of stretch marks and their choice of anti-stretch mark product, who and what influenced that choice and influences on trial participation. In relation to influences on trial participation, the possibility of being randomised to the non- intervention or control group was a deterrent for many women.Conclusions: The prevention of stretch marks is important to pregnant women, as is their choice of product to prevent them. Offering women the opportunity to be part of a trial that would be of low burden and would test a well-known product may optimise recruitment. However, reluctance to be randomised because of the possibility of being allocated to the non-intervention control group suggests that further work is needed in this field on how best to communicate uncertainty to potential participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Striae distensae are common dermal lesions that progress through two different stages: the striae rubra, which appears to be erythematous, and striae alba, which is characterized by a hypopigmented feature. The clinical characteristics between striae distensae stages and normal skin remain unknown. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics according to stages of striae distensae in terms of their biophysical properties, using objective noninvasive measurements in comparison with adjacent normal skin. Methods: Sixty‐one healthy female subjects with striae distensae were included as follows: 30 with striae rubra and 31 with striae alba on the abdomen and thighs. Hydration of the epidermis and dermis, skin color brightness, and Erythema index were measured. Skin elasticity, roughness, and dermal echo‐density of the skin with striae distensae and adjacent normal skin were also measured. Results: Hydration of the epidermis and dermis showed no significant difference between the skin with striae distensae and normal skin. Brightness of skin with striae alba and normal skin was significantly higher than that of skin with striae rubra. Erythema index of skin with striae rubra was significantly higher than that of skin with striae alba and normal skin. Skin with striae rubra and striae alba had a rougher surface than normal skin. Elasticity and dermal echo‐density were significantly lower in striae distensae skin. Conclusions: Striae rubra and striae alba had similar biophysical properties in terms of skin hydration, elasticity, roughness, and dermal density. Moreover, striae distensae have less elasticity, more roughness, and lower dermal density than normal skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Striae distensae are dermal scars with a linear atrophic depression. The exact origin of striae distensae remains unrevealed, but low expression of collagen and fibronectin genes in the affected tissue was found. Several treatment modalities have been proposed, yet no consistent modality is available. Aim of the work: To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of carboxytherapy vs platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in treatment of stretch marks. Patients and methods: This study included 20 patients with striae alba. Every patient received treatment in the form of PRP injection in their right side (group A) and carboxytherapy session in their left side (group B) every 3‐4 weeks for 4 sessions. Skin biopsies were taken before and after treatment, and they were subjected to fibronectin immunohistochemical stain. Results: There was a significant improvement in striae alba in both groups after than before treatment. There was no significant difference between both groups as regards either percentage of improvement, response (grading scale), or patient satisfaction. The fibronectin‐stained area was significantly higher in both groups after than before treatment, and it was significantly higher after treatment in group (B) than group (A). Conclusions: Both methods were safe and effective with minimal side effects. There was no significant difference between both methods of treatments. This was confirmed histopathologically by fibronectin expression which is found to be low in striae and increased significantly after treatment. But fibronectin expression was higher in group (B) than (A). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of carboxytherapy in the treatment of striae distensae. Additionally, discomfort and side effects associated with the treatment were assessed. Materials and methods: This study involved 15 women aged 22‐40 years. They underwent 3 sessions of carboxytherapy at one‐week intervals. Treatment was performed in skin area within stretch marks located on stomach, buttocks, and thighs. Cutometric probe was used to evaluate skin elasticity. Four measurements were performed—immediately before each treatment and one month after the last session. Photographic documentation was made before and after a series of treatment to perform clinical evaluation of changes in skin condition. Results: Statistical analysis of results obtained with the use of Cutometer (R2 and R8 parameters) demonstrated that carboxytherapy significantly improved skin elasticity within stretch marks (P < .05). The analysis of photographic documentation revealed 58% improvement in stretch mark visibility. The width and length of stretch marks decreased, and their color became more like the natural color of the skin. Carboxytherapy is associated with moderate pain/discomfort. The occurrence of hematoma is the main side effect of this procedure. Conclusions: Carboxytherapy seems to be an effective method of reducing stretch marks. This procedure is safe, and it can be performed without the risk of complications. Moreover, it does not require special postoperative convalescence. Photographic documentation is a method of assessment of aesthetic procedures effectiveness, which is complementary to other objective methods (eg, the use of MPA probes). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Striae have been reported to be one of the most common skin changes and a commonly encountered esthetic problem. Objectives: To analyze risk factors of striae not associated with pregnancy and verify if body build and composition influence striae distensae (SD) occurrence and visibility. Methods: Eighty female students (40 with striae (the mean age 23.9 years, SD 2.05 years) and 40 without these lesions (24.7 years, SD 6.2 years)) were included in the study. The subjects were asked to fill out a questionnaire including questions concerning risk factors of SD. Body build and composition were examined using Tanita SC‐331S Body Composition Analyzer. Results: Women without striae more often reported a history of intended weight loss (P <.0001), less frequently had a history of contraceptives intake (P <.001) and more often their family history of striae was negative or unknown (P =.01). Multivariate analysis including body build and composition parameters indicated BMI as risk factor of SD (P =.021; OR =1.155, 95% CI 1.006; 1.325). Conclusions: History of contraceptives intake and a family history of striae are risk factors of SD occurrence, while weight loss can reduce the risk of these lesions. BMI appeared to be the risk factor of striae visibility, especially in abdomen, but not on the buttocks. Further clinical researches are needed to examine the pathophysiology of this condition and to inform patients about the possibility to reduce the risk of striae occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Striae gravidarum is a common skin problem of considerable cosmetic concern for many pregnant women. Various risk factors associated with the development of striae have been reported, with conflicting results. Objectives: To analyze the risk factors of striae gravidarum in Chinese primiparous women and to provide evidence relevant to the prevention of this condition. Methods: Singleton primiparous pregnant women who were hospitalized for delivery were included, and relevant data were collected. Independent risk factors associated with striae gravidarum in women with and those without striae gravidarum were identified using logistic regression. Results: Among 213 singleton primiparous pregnant women, 125 had striae gravidarum, yielding a prevalence of up to 58.9%. There was a significant variation (P < 0.05, odds ratio >1) between the striae gravidarum and non-striae gravidarum groups in terms of several factors, including younger maternal age, weight gain during pregnancy, body mass index gain, uterine height, abdominal girth, and positive family history. Factors such as maternal height, birth weight, systemic disease, skin type, and neonatal gender did not significantly differ between the 2 groups. Conclusion: This study showed that the independent risk factors for striae gravidarum in primiparous women were younger maternal age, weight gain during pregnancy, body mass index gain, uterine height, abdominal girth, and a positive family history. The severity of striae gravidarum was associated with weight gain during pregnancy, body mass index gain, abdominal girth, and timing of the onset of striae gravidarum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between striae gravidarum (SG) score and abdominal scar characteristics together with intraperitoneal adhesion (IPA) grades of patients who were hospitalized for second cesarean delivery. Methods: A total of 145 consecutive women undergoing scheduled cesarean section (CS) in a tertiary level maternity hospital between November 2013 and January 2014 were included in the study. All women had transverse suprapubic skin incision due to the previous CS and none of them had a history of vaginal delivery. Patients were classified according to the SG status, as women with no SG: Group-1(n=53), mild SG: Group-2(n=27) and severe SG: Group 3(n=65). Groups were compared between themselves with regard to various sociodemographic properties, cesarean scar characteristics and IPA scores. Results: No significant difference in the length, width and color of the scar was detected among groups. While flat scar was the most prominent form of scar, the elevated scar was significantly more frequent in Group-1 compared to other groups (p=0.009). IPA grades were 0 or 1 in 77.3% of Group-1, 81.3% of Group-2 and 76% of Group-3. There was no significant difference in IPA scores between groups (p=0.884). After combining CS scar characteristics (flat, depressed and elevated) and SG status [SG (+) or SG (-)], we found no significant difference between the groups in terms of IPA severity. Conclusion: Striae gravidarum (SG) was found to be associated with scar characteristics, but not associated with the severity of intraperitoneal adhesion (IPA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Striae distensae (SD) are a common dermatologic problem that plagues many people. Although there are many therapeutic modalities have been used to treat SD, effective method has been disappointing for striae Alba. Aims: To evaluate the clinical and histopathologic efficacy and safety of the 2940‐nm erbium yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) ablative fractional laser (AFL) with recombinant bovine basic fibroblast growth factor (rb‐bFGF) and light‐emitting diode‐red light (LED‐RL) for the treatment of striae alba. Patients and methods: Thirty volunteers with striae distensae alba were enrolled. The subjects completed treatments with the 2940‐nm Er:YAG AFL 6 times at 4‐week intervals. Following this treatment, the subjects were required to spray rb‐BFGF for 1 week at home. They then received LED‐RL once every 7 days for three sessions between the two laser treatments. Two independent investigators evaluated clinical improvement at pretreatment and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post‐treatment, patients also provided self‐assessments of clinical improvement. Two biopsies were obtained from two subjects, both of the same sites of striae alba, one before the first treatment and one 6 months after the last session. Results: All 30 subjects demonstrated clinical improvement after treatment. Skin biopsies after treatment showed an increase in epidermal thickness, dermal thickness, and collagen and elastin density when compared to that at the baseline. Conclusions: The combination of the 2940‐nm Er:YAG laser with rb‐bFGF and LED‐RL for the treatment of striae alba was a safe and effective approach for improving the appearance of striae alba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Striae gravidarum is a form of scarring on the skin observed during pregnancy and can cause serious cosmetic problems. Striae gravidarum may be influenced by hormonal changes, although the etiology is not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether body mass index ( BMI) and serum collagenase-2 levels in pregnant women are related to the development of striae gravidarum. Methods Thirty pregnant women with striae, 30 pregnant women without striae, and 32 health controls were enrolled in the study. Results BMI and serum collagenase-2 levels were measured in the participants. Conclusion Pregnant women with striae gravidarum had increased serum collagenase-2 and BMI levels when compared to pregnant women without striae gravidarum and healthy controls ( P < 0.05). The increase in serum collagenase-2 levels was related to the development of striae gravidarum alone, or secondary to BMI increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the incidence of postoperative posterior capsular striae (PCS) and its influence on posterior capsular opacification (PCO) in patients implanted with two types of lens material.Setting: Tertiary eye care center in central rural India.Study Design: A prospective, observational, nonrandomized study.Materials and Methods: The study included 1247 patients having age-related cataract scheduled for removal by phacoemulsification technique and implantation of hydrophilic or hydrophobic intraocular lens (IOL). Demographic profile, nuclear grading, axial length, and IOL power were noted. Details of PCS were noted on the 1st postoperative day in patients with clear cornea. Postoperative follow-up was ensured to study the status of PCS and development of PCO.Results: The overall incidence of PCS was 19.8% (247 out of 1247 eyes). Out of 1247 patients, 641 patients (51.4%) had hydrophilic IOL implantation and 201 eyes had PCS (31.4%) and 606 patients (48.6%) had hydrophobic IOL implantation and 46 eyes had PCS (7.6%), P = 0.04. Three and more striae were seen in 119 eyes (119/641, 18.6%) in hydrophilic group and 4 eyes (4/606, 0.66%) in hydrophobic group. Sixty-two eyes (62/201, 30.9%) in hydrophilic group with multiple PCS were reported with persistent striae after 6 months of surgery. Two eyes in hydrophobic group had persistent striae even after 3 years of follow-up. Evaluation of PCO score of the hydrophilic group was 0.6 whereas of the hydrophobic group was 0.1 (P = 0.04). Ten patients of the hydrophilic group only required neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (ND: YAG) laser capsulotomy.Conclusion: The incidence of PCS was higher in hydrophilic than hydrophobic IOLs. Multiple PCS persisting in patients beyond 6 months after operation should be followed up for early development of PCO, particularly in patients implanted with hydrophilic IOL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Striae distensae, commonly known as stretch marks, are benign skin lesions associated with considerable cosmetic morbidity. Despite considerable investigations into their origins, the pathogenesis of striae distensae remains unknown. Currently, there is no treatment which consistently improves the appearance of striae. With a high incidence and unsatisfactory treatments, stretch marks remain an important target of research for an optimum consensus of treatment. The aim of present article is to appraise the readers with various newer treatment options in the management of this difficult condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wound healing is an incredibly complex biological process that often results in thickened collagen-enriched healed tissue called scar. Cutaneous scars lack many functional structures of the skin such as hair follicles, sweat glands, and papillae. The absence of these structures contributes to a number of the long-term morbidities of wound healing, including loss of function for tissues, increased risk of re-injury, and aesthetic complications. Scar formation is a pervasive factor in our daily lives; however, in the case of serious traumatic injury, scars can create long-lasting complications due to contraction and poor tissue remodeling. Within this report we target the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a key mediator of TGFβ pro-fibrotic response in cutaneous wound healing, with controlled local delivery of RNA interference. Through this work we describe both a thorough in vitro analysis of nanolayer coated sutures for the controlled delivery of siRNA and its application to improve scar outcomes in a third-degree burn induced scar model in rats. We demonstrate that the knockdown of CTGF significantly altered the local expression of αSMA, TIMP1, and Col1a1, which are known to play roles in scar formation. The knockdown of CTGF within the healing burn wounds resulted in improved tissue remodeling, reduced scar contraction, and the regeneration of papillary structures within the healing tissue. This work adds support to a number of previous reports that indicate CTGF as a potential therapeutic target for fibrosis. Additionally, we believe that the controlled local delivery of siRNA from ultrathin polymer coatings described within this work is a promising approach in RNA interference that could be applied in developing improved cancer therapies, regenerative medicine, and fundamental scientific research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Striae are acommonchange during pregnancy, leaving striae in various body parts after delivery, which mostwomen find unpleasant. They create a big aesthetic concern for most women. Although striae do not endanger the mother and the fetus, theymaycause a desire to scratch the region leading to small wounds, induce stress over beauty, decrease self-confidence, and create psychological disorders. They may try various treatments and often refer to dermatology clinics and receive long-term treatments; these time-consuming and costly behaviors and may affect their quality of life. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of life in Iranian postpartum women with and without striae gravidarum. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 145 women who had referred to health centers of Mashhad to receive post-delivery health care six weeks after delivery during year 2013. Multi-stage sampling was applied to select the participants. The tools used were demographic, SF-36 quality of life, Skindex29, Atwal and Fitzpatrick classification questionnaires. Data were analyzed using the SPSS V.11.5 software. Results: The subjects' mean age was 26.3 ± 5.7. Mann-Whitney test showed there was a significant difference between mean of Skindex29 and its dimensions (P < 0.001), general life quality (P < 0.001) in women with and without striae. Mann-Whitney test showed no significant difference between mean general quality of life dimension, except physical function in women with and without striae (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The results showed that striae lead to reduced quality of general life and reduced skin quality index in women postpartum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Striae are the most frequently occurring pathology of connective tissue during pregnancy. According to the statistical data, 70-90% of women suffer from striae gravidarum. Aim: To assess effectiveness of topical products and massage used by pregnant women in striae gravidarum prophylaxis. Material and methods: The questionnaire study was conducted among 299 women who were maximum 6 months after delivery at term. The questionnaire included questions concerning age, occurrence of striae gravidarum during pregnancy, their location, week of gestation when the lesions appeared and used striae prophylaxis as well as its effectiveness in respondents' opinion. Results: Analysis of the correlation between striae gravidarum occurrence and use of different types of cosmetics showed that this kind of prophylaxis is effective when applied at least twice a day (63.7% vs. 77.6%). No correlation between the type of cosmetics and presence of striae was observed (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Use of prophylactic measures like skin emollients and oils with the appropriate frequency significantly reduces the risk of striae gravidarum occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Striae Distensae ( SD) or stretch marks are manifestations of epidermal atrophy that occurs after tissue tearing due to rapid growth or over-stretching and are characterized by distinct microstructural features. The objective of this in vivo study was to investigate the biophysical properties of SD lesions, including skin barrier function, skin surface hydration, mechanical properties, and chromophore concentrations, compared to normal adjacent skin. Methods Non-invasive methods were used on 29 volunteers with SD to characterize: (i) visual appearance (visual assessment and clinical imaging), (ii) skin barrier function by measuring transepidermal water loss, (iii) skin surface hydration using corneometry (skin capacitance), (iv) mechanical properties measuring skin elasticity under vacuum and surface propagation of a sonic wave, (v) the presence of erythema and pigmentation using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and (vi) the levels of interleukin-1α on the skin surface. Results No difference was observed in skin barrier function and a slight difference in skin hydration between the striae and adjacent uninvolved skin. Viscoelasticity measurements showed that SD lesions were significantly less firm, less elastic, and less deformable than normal skin ( P < 0.05). Mechanical anisotropy was increased in SD compared to normal skin, reflecting the skin surface anisotropy reported previously. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy showed no differences in the apparent hemoglobin concentrations between SD and control. Skin pigmentation and light scattering values were significantly lower in SD ( P < 0.001) compared to adjacent skin and there was no correlation between them indicating independent causes: lower melanin production for pigmentation and altered collagen fiber structure in the dermis for light scattering. Conclusions Based on these results, the distinct microstructural features characterizing SD lesions are accompanied by changes in the mechanical and optical properties. These changes however do not seem to affect the skin barrier and moisturization properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The significant increase in the popularity of breast augmentation surgeries has led to an increase in the number and types of complications; among these is the postoperative occurrence of Striae Distensae (SD). The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence of SD and describing its occurrence in association with age, breast implant volume, history of SD, history of pregnancies and breastfeeding, body mass index (BMI), changes in postoperative weight, smoking habits, and use of oral contraceptives. Methods: A cohort study was conducted and the patient data from a specific social group that underwent augmentation mammaplasty with silicone breast implants in a private clinic was analyzed. Results: 563 patients entered the cohort, while 538 completed the study. The SD incidence was 7.06%. The risk was almost the double at 22–28 years of age and triple in women of 21 years of age or less. The women who did not use oral contraceptives were 2.59 times more likely of developing SD. A higher incidence of SD was observed among those with normal or low BMI values, smokers, and in those who had implants larger than 300 ml. Conclusions: Young age, larger implant volumes, smoking, and normal or low BMI values were the risk factors responsible for the development of SD; while using oral contraceptives was found to be a protective factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Stretch marks or striae distensae (SD) are characterized by epidermal atrophy following repeated over-stretching of the skin tissue. The objective of this study was to investigate the skin texture and microstructure of SD lesions compared to those of normal adjacent skin in vivo using non-invasive methods. Methods A population of 26 women and 3 men with SD were examined after giving written informed consent. Following clinical grading, skin replicas were collected, confocal microscopy was performed on SD lesions and healthy neighboring skin. Skin surface texture parameters were calculated using 3D image analysis of the skin replicas and epidermal and dermal microstructure were evaluated by analysis of the confocal images. In a parallel study, histological analysis was performed on 6 skin biopsies taken from abdominal reduction surgeries in areas where skin exhibited SD. Results Analysis of the skin surface texture showed that the SD area was more anisotropic and with higher skin roughness than the adjacent skin in terms of directions of skin microglyphics. Confocal microscopy demonstrated that SD were characterized by shallower dermal papillae ( P < 0.05) and that dermal papillae height inversely correlated to the intensity of collagen alignment on the SD sites ( P < 0.05). The histology findings confirmed the in vivo confocal microscopy findings. Conclusions The skin structure of SD is qualitatively and quantitatively different compared to healthy skin. Altered skin relief reflects structural modifications in the dermis. Flattening of the dermal-epidermal junction maybe functionally related to the observed collagen fiber alignment. Observations by non-invasive methods were in line with the histological findings and therefore relevant in studies assessing the efficacy of SD treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cesarean scar defects (CSDs) that can be visualized using transvaginal ultrasonography (TVUS) may cause prolonged menstruation, irregular genital bleeding, and secondary infertility; surgical repair is sometimes necessary. We present a case of CSD, with dehiscence of the uterine incision, which was managed using wound lavage. A 38-year-old woman (gravida 4, para 4) had delivered her third and fourth children by cesarean section. Upon the resumption of menstruation, 9 months after her second cesarean section, she demonstrated prolonged menstruation and the presence of a menstrual fistula due to dehiscence of the cesarean section incision from the myometrium to the serosa. We treated the defect by lavaging with a physiological saline solution. After lavaging the wound 3 times, spontaneous healing of the dehiscent muscle layer was successfully achieved. The treatment was complication-free and the healing of the muscle layer has been maintained for more than 8 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consecutive matching striae (CMS) numeric criteria for firearm and toolmark identifications have been widely accepted by forensic examiners, although there have been questions concerning its observer subjectivity and limited statistical support. In this paper, based on signal processing and extraction, a model for the automatic and objective counting of CMS is proposed. The position and shape information of the striae on the bullet land is represented by a feature profile, which is used for determining the CMS number automatically. Rapid counting of CMS number provides a basis for ballistics correlations with large databases and further statistical and probability analysis. Experimental results in this report using bullets fired from ten consecutively manufactured barrels support this developed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of patients with unsatisfactory results after a breast augmentation surgery with silicone implants is presented in this report. The aim is to identify the most frequent problems and to offer alternatives for their solution. From an universal group of 230 patients with aesthetic breast augmentation surgery done from 2004 to 2009, a selective group of 15 patients is presented; out of these, 12 had a surgical procedure done for the first time by another medical team and 3 done by the first author of this paper. After medical evaluation 13 patients had a secondary breast augmentation surgery in order to correct the problems with satisfactory results one year postoperative. Nevertheless, 2 patients had breast stretch marks as first problem in the postoperative period which does not have a definitive solution by now. The possible reasons of the problems are: inadequate or not indicated line of access in 60%; implant size was excessive in 12 patients (80%), out of these, 10 patients requested implants with smaller size and 2 did not agree to get new implants; 2 patients (13.3%) suffered implant rupture before the first postoperative year and 1 patient had rupture after 25 years of the surgical procedure; in 12 patients (80%) there was asymptomatic capsular contracture grade I and II and grade III in 3 patients (20%). There was no information about the manufacturer of the implants in 6 patients (40%) and 10 patients (66%) did not have any information about the importance of having a certificate of guarantee on the implants. We conclude that there is a lack of unified criteria to face the secondary problems after breast augmentation surgery using silicone implants, therefore it is necessary to encourage scientific studies by universities, professional societies and governmental agencies in order to quantify sequels, classify them and offer alternatives for their solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earlobe absence may be due to congenital, oncologic or traumatic causes. This deformity sometimes constitutes an obvious facial deformity that warrants surgical correction. There are several techniques for reconstructing the earlobe, however, most of them require more than a one-stage operation, may leave scars on the cheek or the preauricular or postauricular regions and sometimes require complementary skin grafts. It is difficult to reconstruct the natural and three-dimensional structure of the earlobe. In our practice we use a new type of local flap, with transposition and rotation techniques, based in a bilobed shape flap design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Striae gravidarum is a physiological skin change that many pregnant women experience during pregnancy. The striae are often accompanied by a reddish purple color during pregnancy, and then lose pigmentation and become atrophic in the long term after pregnancy. Striae gravidarum seems to be undesirable to many pregnant women. However, the impact of striae gravidarum on pregnant women who experience it has not been clarified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of striae gravidarum on the generic and dermatology-specific quality of life (QOL) of pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at three private clinics in a typical urban area in Japan. We recruited 447 pregnant women at 36 weeks of gestation; One hundred and ninety-nine pregnant women at 36 weeks of gestation participated in the study and 179, consisting of 94 primiparae and 85 multiparae, were analyzed. We used and assessed Davey's score for striae gravidarum, World Health Organization Quality of Life assessment questionnaire for generic QOL, and Skindex-29 for dermatology-specific QOL. Results: The prevalence of striae gravidarum was 39.1% (27.7% in primiparae, and 51.8% in multiparae). Although there were no differences in generic QOL scores between the presence and absence of striae gravidarum and with their severity, the whole group of pregnant women and the multiparae group showed significant differences in scores on emotion of Skindex-29 between the presence and absence of striae gravidarum (p = 0.012 and p = 0.011). Pregnant women with severe striae gravidarum showed significantly higher scores on emotion of Skindex-29 compared with those with absent or mild striae gravidarum (p < 0.001 and p = 0.005). Conclusions: There was no difference in generic QOL of pregnant women between the presence and absence of striae gravidarum, although the occurrence and severity of striae gravidarum influenced their dermatology-specific QOL. Multiparae women were especially impaired by striae gravidarum and it is considered important to prevent or reduce the severity of striae gravidarum of the multiparae group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Striae gravidarum is one of the cutaneous physiological changes during pregnancy with a high prevalence. This study was done to evaluate the effect of olive oil on prevention of striae gravidarum. Materials and Methods: In a randomized controlled clinical trial, 100 nulliparous women referring to Tehran health ceatens were gone under investigation during 2009. Those whome had the inclusion criteria were divided to experimental group (using olive oil) and control group. The questionnaire was completed via interview and observation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-Square test. Results: Moderate striae gravidarum was seen 32% and 22% in intervention and conrtol groups, respectively. Severe striae gravidarum was 6% and 14% in intervention and control groups, respectively, but this diference was not significant. Conclusion: This study showed that olive oil did not demonstrate to have any role in reducing of stria gravidarum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many local and systemic side-effects of topical corticosteroids. To the best of our Knowledge, Hidradenitis Supportive (HS) due to topical corticosteroids has not been reported previously. We report a 39-year old, male patient who started himself a topical corticosteroid Pander Plus cream because of itching, scaly lesions over groins and buttocks since 6 months. After 4 months of topical treatment, he developed pus discharging sinuses over both groins and buttocks. Based on patient history, clinical and laboratory findings and the exclusion of other diagnoses, HS points out the use of topical corticosteroids. The case well highlights this unusual condition and represents the first case reported in India to our best of the knowledge. Having performed thorough literature search I would like to discuss in this report the evidence for this relation and stress the importance of appropriate usage of topical corticosteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author discusses the need for improved evidence in the use of lasers for striae management. The author argues that clinical and histological improvement with increased elastin fibers and collagen should be demonstrated by the use of lasers in targeting the lesion's components. The author concludes the absence of high-quality and double-blind randomized controlled trial affirming creams and laser/light devices' use in preventing and treating striae distensae.

We report our experience with a case of presumptive cesarean scar pregnancy, based on detection of a gestational sac (GS) in early pregnancy at the site of a previous cesarean scar. The GS grew into the uterine cavity as the pregnancy progressed, showing an ultrasound image similar to that of a normal pregnancy. Thus, the pregnancy continued, resulting in a viable birth at 28 weeks of gestation. Cesarean scar pregnancy is classified as myometrial implantation or implantation growth into the uterine cavity. In the latter type, the gestational sac moves upward with increasing gestational weeks and it shows the same ultrasound image as a normal pregnancy. Therefore, the diagnosis must be made in the early pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a 13-year-old boywithmultiple purplish, atrophic, horizontal linear striae in the thoracic area. He reported a growth spurt in the preceding 12months. His past health was unremarkable, and he took nomedications. To our knowledge, physiological striae atrophicae of adolescence where idiopathic striae were restricted to the upper back have rarely been reported. Physiological striae atrophicae of adolescence may, on occasions, be mistaken for child abuse. It is important that child care professionals recognize this condition so that false accusations of child abuse will not be made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Striae gravidarum (stretch marks) are considered the most common connective tissue/skin change in pregnancy. Though not a health issue they can affect women in different ways, for example, cause stress or be an aesthetic or cosmetic concern. Many women use one or more of the commercially available products to try and prevent their development during pregnancy despite the fact that that there is a lack of high-quality evidence to support their use. There is a dearth of studies on the prevention of striae gravidarum and large, robust trials are lacking. Until such time as more products are investigated, much of the knowledge remains anecdotal. This pilot study will evaluate the feasibility of conducting a study to evaluate the effectiveness of a commercially available moisturising oil compared to no treatment for the prevention and reduction in severity of striae gravidarum.Methods: The definitive study will be a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a moisturising oil (commercially available moisturising oil) compared to no treatment for the prevention and reduction in severity of striae gravidarum. This protocol is for a pilot randomised trial to evaluate the feasibility of conducting such a study. The pilot study will be a two-arm, unblinded, pragmatic parallel randomised trial with a 1:1 randomisation ratio between control and intervention groups. Women in the intervention group will be asked to apply a moisturising oil to their abdomen during pregnancy, while women in the control group will not use any treatment. It is proposed to recruit 20 primigravida, who are 12-16 weeks pregnant from an Irish Maternity Hospital, in each arm to assess the feasibility of running such a trial.Discussion: This pilot trial will evaluate the feasibility of conducting the main study to evaluate the effectiveness of a moisturising oil (commercially available moisturising oil) compared to no treatment for the prevention and reduction in severity of striae gravidarum. It will potentially initiate the generation of high-quality evidence to guide women in their choice of anti-stretch mark product.Trial Registration: ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN76992326 . Registered on 14 July 2017. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Striae gravidarum occurs in 50-90% of pregnant women and will never completely disappear. Since, in terms of aesthetics it is a major concern for most women, this study aimed to investigate the effect of apple cider vinegar on striae gravidarum in 20-35 year old women residing in Gonabad Materials and Methods: The present study was a clinical trial on a simple non-randomly selected sample consisting of 23 women with stretch marks (striae), referring to health centers in Gonabad. Apple cider vinegar was massaged into the right half striae twice a day for one month, and washed after air-drying; the left side of the abdomen was used as control. Data was collected using a demographic questionnaire, striae appearance change checklist and imaging camera, and analyzed using SPSS (ver. 20), descriptive statistics, paired t-test, and Wilcoxon test. p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The findings show that, 56.6% of research units approved the treatment. Striae length and width averages in the control side, before and after intervention, were not significantly different (p=0.45), but showed a significant difference in the right side (p<0.001). Conclusion: Topical application of apple cider vinegar can effectively reduce the striae size, therefore, it is recommended as a traditional, safe and non-invasive procedure, although further studies of longer duration in this field are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the case of a 22-year-old male patient with a family history of multiple punched out skin ulcers, bruises, striae and generalized itching which are consistent with the diagnosis of Job syndrome or hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (Hyper IgE). The diagnosis was confirmed after performing physical and laboratory examinations. His condition improved after medications including antibiotics, anti-pruritic Calamine lotion, analgesic and Tetanus prophylaxis.

"Wolf's isotopic response" describes the occurrence of a new skin disorder at the site of another, unrelated and already healed skin disease. In most cases of isotopic response, the initial dermatosis is herpes zoster, herpes simplex, varicella, thrombophlebitis, scrofuloderma and striae distense. The most frequent second dermatoses are granulomatous reactions, particularly granuloma annulare, and lichenoid diseases. Various etiological reasons including viral, immunologic, neural and vascular have been put forth. We report here a case in which the second disease was herpes zoster that appeared over the same dermatomes of pre-existing segmental vitiligo. The occurrence of vitiligo as first and herpes zoster as second disease in the "Wolf's isotopic response" has not, to the best of our knowledge, been reported previously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides an answer to a question related to the prevention by local anesthesia of stretch marks.

An abstract of the article "The use of a Foley balloon catheter as an adjuvant in treating Caesarean scar ( CSP) and cervical pregnancies ( CxP)" by I.E. Timor-Tritsch and colleagues is presented.

A letter to the editor about a case report of a 30-year-old male patient with multiple coetaneous striae is presented.