A 68-year-old male presented to the dermatology department with a primary complaint of a tumorous formation measuring 1.5×1.5 cm and protruding above the surrounding skin. The lesion exhibited a central hyperpigmented nodule and visible telangiectasias. It involved multiple nasal cosmetic subunits, extending across the right inferior dorsum nasi onto the inferior portion of the right lateral nasal sidewall and bordering the right ala and nasal tip. Based on the clinical presentation, nodular basal cell carcinoma was suspected and surgical excision under local anesthesia was recommended. [...]
Dear Editor, Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the ABCC6 gene, resulting in progressive calcification and fragmentation of elastic fibres involving the skin, retina, and cardiovascular system. Cutaneous manifestations classically consist of yellowish papules and plaques affecting flexural areas, particularly the lateral neck and axillae, although cutaneous findings may occasionally be subtle. Ocular involvement is characterised by angioid streaks, representing breaks in Bruch’s membrane that may predispose to choroidal neovascularisation (CNV), retinal haemorrhage, and progressive visual impairment. [...]
Dear Editor, Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting 0.5-1% of the population, characterized by progressive melanocyte loss and depigmented macules. Non-segmental vitiligo (NSV) is the most common subtype, typically involving the face and acral areas, with relevant psychosocial impact. Conventional therapies frequently provide delayed or incomplete responses. Recently, topical Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, such as ruxolitinib 1.5% cream, have shown promise in promoting repigmentation. [...]
This brief report presents findings from a nationwide behavioral diagnostic study examining atopic dermatitis (AD) management across Italian dermatology centers. Using the COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation), the study analyzed care pathways, decision-making dynamics, and organizational structures. Through interviews, workshops, and patient journey mapping, the research identified key behavioral and structural barriers and enabling factors. Gaps were observed in referral systems, disease awareness, multidisciplinary coordination, psychological support, and treatment accessibility. These behavioral diagnostics provided insights into the actions to be taken that can inform the planning of future interventions. These results highlight the urgent need for better strategies to improve AD care and patient outcomes in Italy.
Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition that results in hair loss, significantly impacting quality of life. As TikTok emerges as a major platform for health-related information, concerns about the spread of misinformation have arisen. This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the quality, reliability, and understandability of “most liked” AA-related TikTok videos. Videos were categorized as healthcare providers (HP) or non-healthcare providers (NHP). Two reviewers independently assessed the videos, using validated tools – Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for audiovisual content (PEMAT A/V), modified DISCERN (mDISCERN), Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI), Global Quality Scale (GQS), and AloCheck, a study-specific content-coverage tool. Among 93 included videos, only 26% were created by HPs, who scored significantly higher across all quality metrics: mDISCERN (3.0 vs. 1.5, p<0.01), GQS (3.5 vs. 1.5, p<0.01), VIQI (13.75 vs. 11.0, p<0.01), and PEMAT A/V (≥10: 66.7% vs. 26.1%, p<0.01). HPs focused on clinical aspects (87.5% vs. 40.6%, p<0.01), whereas NHPs emphasized psychological aspects, such as body image (37.5% vs. 63.8%, p=0.02). Findings reveal a gap between quality and user engagement, highlighting the risk that lower-quality information reaches a wide audience. Bridging this gap is essential to support the delivery of high-quality, reliable, and engaging health information to the public.
