Facial dermatoses induced by face masks: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of masks for infection control was common around the world.
Following the publication of several cross-sectional studies, a direct link has been shown between the use of facial masks and various facial dermatoses. To carry out this study, the authors carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of all the published studies which were conducted to evaluate this association, as well as the possible risk factors for facial dermatoses.
The authors searched sites such as MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register for observational studies. They found a total of 37 studies with a total of 29557 participants.
The results showed that there was a prevalence of facial dermatoses in 55% of the participants.
Symptoms that were very commonly reported were acne, facial dermatitis, itch and pressure injuries. The duration of mask-wearing was the most significant risk factor for facial dermatoses development.
In conclusion, the authors determined that facial dermatoses linked with mask wear are extremely common. There was also an association with the duration of use. Correct and personalised treatment is important to improve results for these affected patients.
Menopause, skin and common dermatoses. Part 1: hair disorders
Menopause typically takes place between the ages of 45 and 55 years and is associated with declining oestrogen levels due to ovarian follicle depletion.
It is well-evidenced that menopause has a direct impact on the cardiovascular system and bone density. The authors noted that additional research is needed to determine the effect on the skin and hair.
In this initial part of a four-part review, the authors assessed how menopause affects hair. To carry out this study, the authors carried out a literature review on dermatology and hair in menopause.
It is known that both androgens and oestrogens are associated with regulating the hair cycle, and a decline in anagen hairs is seen in postmenopausal women.
The results showed that female pattern hair loss and frontal fibrosing alopecia have both been linked with the perimenopausal and postmenopausal states. Menopause and the change in hormone levels clearly influence the hair cycle and common hair conditions.
In conclusion, the authors noted that further research is needed to grasp the therapeutic targets and function of hormonal therapy.
Evaluation of 24 protocols for the production of platelet-rich fibrin
The objective of this study was to assess a total of 24 protocols used for platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) production via horizontal centrifugation. The authors aimed to better understand cell separation following protocols using various times and speeds.
All 24 protocols were assessed using a recent method to quantify cells in PRF. For this study, a total of 960 complete blood counts were examined. Both solid- and liquid-based PRF protocols were investigated following the 24 protocols.
The results showed that the platelets could be more easily collected in the upper four layers when compared to leukocytes due to their lower cellular density. The protocol time seemed to have a larger influence on the final cell layer separation when compared to the impact of speed.
Protocols of greater than 8 minutes at 400g resulted in no leukocyte accumulation in the upper PRF layers, while those at or below 200g were unable to efficiently amass platelets/leukocytes.
The authors found that the ideal centrifugation speed and time for solid PRF was between 400g and 700g for 8 minutes. They highlighted that variability in patient baseline platelet/leukocyte/erythrocyte counts (hematocrit) significantly affected cell layer separation. This finding was more pronounced at lower centrifugation speeds.
Within the investigated ranges, a protocol of 700g for 8 minutes produced the highest yield of platelets/leukocytes evenly dispersed throughout the upper PRF layers.
Draping in dermatology: a patient's perspective
In the Canadian healthcare system, patient dignity is a core component. However, at times, challenges can be met when trying to preserve patient dignity in clinical settings where total body skin examination (TBSE) is required for sufficient assessment and making a diagnosis.
The aim of this study was to look at TBSE draping practices in dermatology settings, as there are no standards of practice. The authors also wanted to explore patient experiences of draping practices.
To carry out this study, the authors conducted a cross-sectional study using a paper survey in dermatology hospital clinics over 6 months with 150 patients.
The results showed that draping was deemed to be important by over 50% of the patients who were surveyed. The patients who suggested that draping very much affected their levels of comfort had a mean age of 52 and were female. The authors also found that patients who reported that any assessed factor affected their comfort during a TBSE were also younger, which indicated that younger female patients were more likely to have concerns regarding comfort than male patients.
In conclusion, the study showed that most of the patients believed draping to be very important. The authors noted that the significance of satisfactory draping practices is to preserve patient privacy and dignity. They also noted that this was particularly important in regard to younger female patients, as it makes sure that they feel as comfortable as possible. The authors stated that it would be beneficial for further research to focus on how these patient comfort factors can be included in medical education.