Wound Management for Children with Epidermolysis Bullosa
Skin and wound care in epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is specific both to the type of EB and to individual wounds within each child. Availability of dressings and personal preference are…
Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex with Muscular Dystrophy
Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) is an inherited skin disorder characterized by separation of the epidermis from the underlying dermis, with the cleavage plane lying within the basal-cell layer of the…
Genetic Counseling in Epidermolysis Bullosa
This article contains the author’s views on genetic counseling in cases concerning the epidermolysis bullosa syndromes. The provision of genetic counseling entails absolutes such as diagnosis, natural history, treatment, mode…
Prenatal Diagnosis of Epidermolysis Bullosa
One of the most significant benefits of translational research in dermatology has been the development of prenatal diagnosis for couples at risk of recurrence of severe inherited skin diseases. Indeed,…
Molecular Testing in Epidermolysis Bullosa
The development of DNA technology and improved knowledge of the structure and function of the human genome have led to the identification of the causative genes responsible for the different…
Transmission Electron Microscopy for the Diagnosis of Epidermolysis Bullosa
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has long been the best available method for the diagnosis of epidermolysis bullosa. Today, TEM is largely superseded by immunofluorescence microscopy mapping, which is generally more…
Immunofluorescence Mapping for the Diagnosis of Epidermolysis Bullosa
Immunofluorescence mapping is based on the detection of structural proteins of keratinocytes or of the dermo-epidermal junction using specific poly- or monoclonal antibodies. Through this method, the level of split…
How to Take Skin Biopsies for Epidermolysis Bullosa
The definitive diagnosis of inherited epidermolysis bullosa is best made with positive immunofluorescence antigenic mapping, transmission electron microscopy, and epidermolysis bullosa–related monoclonal antibody studies. However, immunofluorescence microscopy is faster and…
Innovative Use of Spironolactone as an Antiandrogen in the Treatment of Female Pattern Hair Loss
Patterned hair loss in men and women, although medically benign, is a common, albeit unwelcome, event that may cause considerable anxiety and concern. Patterned hair loss is progressive and when…
Innovative Therapeutics in Pediatric Dermatology
Although clinical trials for new drugs are often limited in children because of safety concerns or restrictions, new therapies or novel strategies with old drugs have recently expanded dermatologic armamentarium…
