Journal Digest: March 5

Indian Journal of Dermatology: Global Scientific Overview of Dermatology Related to COVID-19: A Bibliometric Analysis

Cabanillas-Lazo et al examined the bibliometric indicators of publications researching the connection between dermatology and COVID-19 with the goal of providing insights into research trends and contributions up to 2021. With over 500 million confirmed cases worldwide, COVID-19 has shown diverse manifestations, including dermatological symptoms. Despite previous bibliometric analyses focusing on various aspects of the disease, a comprehensive examination of dermatological implications was lacking, according to the authors. After analyzing 1448 papers, Cabanillas-Lazo et al identified Torello Lotti as the most published author with 17 papers and Harvard University as the leading institution in terms of publication output. The study findings highlight the evolving interest and contributions in dermatology amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Cabanillas-Lazo et al.

Dermatologic Surgery: Topical Treatment of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ and the Impact of Clinical Risk Factors and Positive Histologic Margins at the Time of Diagnosis

Calley et al investigated the efficacy of topical 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and imiquimod in treating cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ (cSCCis) with positive histologic margins. The study authors analyzed 215 patients and found that 5-FU is effective, especially in smaller lesions, while imiquimod shows a higher risk of recurrence. Larger lesions at diagnosis correlate with increased recurrence likelihood. The study authors agreed that 5-FU is suitable for cSCCis, but noted caution is necessary with larger lesions. The author’s findings also suggest reevaluating the use of imiquimod for cSCCis treatment. Calley et al also noted that their study does not support the use of imiquimod for cSCCis.

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology & Venerology: Modelling of Patient Journey in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: Increasing Awareness and Education by Shorten Patients' Disease Journey in Germany

Maurer et al’s study addressed the challenges in treating chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). The study authors analyzed patient journeys in Germany and found significant delays in diagnosis and treatment, leading to patient dissatisfaction and prolonged suffering. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and mathematical modeling, the study authors identified obstacles and proposed interventions to improve patient care. Simulation results suggested that combining awareness campaigns, physician training programs, and disease management programs can significantly reduce patient journey duration and enhance disease control. According to the study authors, their findings highlight the importance of understanding patient pathways and implementing comprehensive interventions to optimize care for chronic conditions such as CSU.

Lasers in Surgery and Medicine: Needle-Free Electronically-Controlled Jet Injector Treatment With Bleomycin and Lidocaine is Effective and Well-Tolerated in Patients With Recalcitrant Keloids

Bekkers et al evaluated the effectiveness, tolerability, and patient satisfaction of treating recalcitrant keloids with intralesional bleomycin and lidocaine administered via a needle-free electronically-controlled pneumatic jet-injector (EPI). Keloids are often resistant to standard treatments like corticosteroid injections due to pain and recurrence issues. The study, conducted at Erasmus University Medical Center in the Netherlands, assessed 15 patients with extensive keloid histories. The study results showed significant improvement in keloid quality scores, lower pain levels compared to conventional needles, and high patient satisfaction. Although promising according to the study authors, further research is needed for broader implementation and understanding of this treatment approach.

What new studies have you published? Share with us by emailing DTEditor@mmhgroup.com.