One study looked at the challenges and controversy in determining UV exposure as a risk factor for cutaneous melanoma in skin of colour
Incidence and factors associated with acne among transgender patients receiving masculinising hormone therapy
The authors of this study asked the question: ‘What are the epidemiologic characteristics associated with acne development in transgender individuals receiving masculinising hormone therapy?’.
To conduct this study, the authors included 988 transgender patients who had commenced masculinising hormone therapy between January 2014 and December 2017 in this study.
Data for this study was attained using electronic health records from a community health centre.
The authors used the International statistical classification of diseases, tenth revision, clinical modification to define acne. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were also collected.
Throughout this study, the authors noted that acne was common among transgender patients receiving masculinising hormone therapy, and it was noted that there was a 31.1% acne prevalence and a 2-year incidence proportion of 25.1%.
In conclusion, the authors stated that acne is common among transgender patients on masculinising hormone therapy, and the prevalence increased from 6.3% to 31.1% following the commencement of masculinising hormone therapy. Patients aged 18–21 years appear to be most likely to develop acne.
» Air pollutants are believed to prompt or aggravate various skin conditions, including ageing, inflammatory diseases, acne, hair loss and skin cancers «
The impact of air pollution on skin and related disorders: a comprehensive review
Due to skin being the body's largest organ, it is frequently exposed to harmful compounds that exist in the environment.
The authors of this article reviewed recent studies showing the link between air pollutants and skin diseases, along with related mechanisms.
Many studies have demonstrated that exposure to high concentrations of many environmental factors, such as ultraviolet radiation, outdoor air pollutants, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, heavy metals and gaseous pollutants can all have an impact and interrupt the skin's natural barrier function.
The authors noted that, as well as the intensity of the pollutants, the length of exposure may also be a contributing factor.
Air pollutants are believed to prompt or aggravate various skin conditions, including ageing, inflammatory diseases (atopic dermatitis, cellulitis and psoriasis), acne, hair loss and skin cancers (predominantly melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma) through various mechanisms. The authors concluded that the damaging effect on the skin's barrier appears to be closely connected to the increased production of reactive oxygen species and induction of oxidative stress, activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor and inflammatory cytokines.
Challenges and controversy in determining UV exposure as a risk factor for cutaneous melanoma in skin of colour
Although there is a lower prevalence rate of melanoma in people of colour compared to the white population, there is a higher morbidity and mortality rate, which is evidenced by more advanced stage at diagnosis and lower 5-year survival rates. The authors stated that this disparity persists in all racial minority groups with localised melanoma and increasingly in Hispanic patients.
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly high intermittent exposure in childhood, is a significant environmental risk factor for melanoma in fair-skinned people.
It is noted that, in people with skin of colour, melanomas are commonly found in sun-protected locations, such as acral, subungual and mucosal surfaces, and the risk factor of UV exposure is much less clear.
In conclusion, it is highlighted that there is a knowledge gap that needs to be addressed to identify and stratify risk factors for melanoma in this population. Further study is needed to inform meaningful recommendations regarding melanoma prevention, screening and treatment to improve outcomes in this population.
Simvastatin in vitiligo: an update with recent review of the literature
Patients who are experiencing vitiligo will often seek out medical attention to address this condition, as it lessens their quality of life and results in substantial morbidity.
There are various topical and systemic therapies available that can help to target the immunological aspect of this disease, but the results are often insufficient and there is still no complete cure.
The authors have noted that, more recently, simvastatin is being used and evaluated for vitiligo management because of its multimodal action, availability and low cost. The multimodal actions that have been proposed range from anti-inflammatory to immunomodulatory properties, which may benefit vitiligo patients therapeutically. The authors evaluated the role of simvastatin as a new therapeutic agent for vitiligo, as well as completing relevant reviews of the literature.
In conclusion, the authors noted that although in vitro and animal studies show a favourable therapeutic profile, there is no significant improvement in human subjects.
The authors also stated that the current available evidence does not support the use of oral simvastatin in vitiligo. They suggested that a higher dose may be effective, but cannot be used because of the risk of serious adverse effects.
The authors recommended that a more in-depth study should be conducted with this drug to conclusively evaluate its use in treating vitiligo, especially as an adjuvant in progressive and recalcitrant cases.