Molecular identification of Fusarium species in onychomycoses

BACKGROUND: Fusarium species are isolated from about 3% of onychomycoses in the Swiss native population. On the basis of macroscopic characters and microscopic examination of the cultures, identification of Fusarium often remains difficult or uncertain because of variations from one isolate to another and overlapping characteristics between species. OBJECTIVE: To obtain information about the prevailing species of Fusarium collected from onychomycoses. METHODS: An analysis of the Fusarium specimens isolated in the Department of Dermatology at the University Hospital of Lausanne was conducted during a 2-year period (71 isolates). A 311-bp fragment of the gene encoding 28S rDNA was amplified by PCR and sequenced. DNA sequences were compared to those available for reference strains. RESULTS: Fusarium oxysporum was the most frequently isolated species, accounting for 54% of the isolates. F. proliferatum and 4 taxons belonging to the F. solani species complex were identified with an appreciable frequency ranging from 4 to 14%. CONCLUSION: The Fusarium species identified were the same as those known to cause disseminated fusariosis in immunocompromised patients. The presence of these Fusarium species in onychomycoses warrants that careful attention should be paid to abnormal nails before beginning immunosuppressive treatments in patients.     

阿莫洛芬外用治疗甲真菌病的临床研究进展

概述目前临床治疗甲真菌病的常用药物,并重点介绍新型抗真菌剂阿莫洛芬的作用机理、临床实验结果以及应用、疗效和安全性等方面的研究进展,为临床科学有效地治疗甲真菌病提供依据。     

New and emerging treatments for photoaging

It is easy to become too busy treating the sequelae of photoaging, actinic keratoses, and skin cancers to discuss prevention adequately with patients. With children, sun-protective measures and sunscreen information should be the main therapeutic intervention. In any young adult with an actinic keratosis or skin cancer, topical and resurfacing treatments should be considered. In older patients with fragile skin and solar purpura, reversal of photodamage can have a positive effect on daily functioning.