Therapeutic Treatment For Atopic Dermatitis

Topical vitamin B12--a new therapeutic approach in atopic dermatitis-evaluation of efficacy and tolerability in a randomized placebo-controlled multicentre clinical trial.

Vitamin B(12) is an effective scavenger of nitric oxide (NO). As the experimental application of a NO synthase inhibitor, N omega-nitro-L-arginine, led to a clear decrease in pruritus and erythema in atopic dermatitis, it would be reasonable to assume a comparable effect of vitamin B(12).

The efficacy and tolerability of a new vitamin B(12) cream as a possible alternative to current therapies was examined. METHODS: A prospective, randomized and placebo-controlled phase III multicentre trial, involving 49 patients was conducted. For the treatment duration of 8 weeks, each patient applied twice daily (in the morning and evening) the vitamin B(12)-containing active preparation to the affected skin areas of one side of the body and the placebo preparation to the contralateral side according to the randomization scheme.

On the body side treated with the vitamin B(12) cream, the modified Six Area Six Sign Atopic Dermatitis score dropped to a significantly greater extent than on the placebo-treated body side (for the investigational drug 55.34 +/- 5.74 SEM, for placebo 28.87 +/- 4.86 SEM, P < 0.001). At the conclusion of the study, the investigator and patients awarded mostly a 'good' or 'very good' rating to the active drug (58% and 59%, respectively) and a 'moderate' or 'poor' rating to the placebo (89% and 87%, respectively).

Topical vitamin B(12) is a new therapeutic approach in atopic dermatitis. These results document a significant superiority of vitamin B(12) cream in comparison with placebo with regard to the reduction of the extent and severity of atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, the treatment was very well tolerated and involved only very low safety risks for the patients.

The Perioral Dermatitis Picture

Perioral dermatitis is a rash composed of tiny red bumps that are primarily around the mouth, but can also be seen around the nose and on other areas of the face.

II. Causes:
Perioral dermatitis is a disease that occurs mostly in young and middle-aged women.
Perioral dermatitis can be caused by prolonged therapy with topical corticosteroids (hydrocortisones).
The contraceptive pill, cosmetic usage and emotional stress can worsen perioral dermatitis.
Toothpaste containing lauryl sulfate may cause perioral dermatitis.
The affected area is often worsened by sunlight and almost always by wind, heat, chlorinated pool water and even by washing with hot water.
If you have this condition, premenstrual flare ups are common.

III. Treatment:
The first step in treating perioral dermatitis is to discontinue all topical corticosteroids.
Toothpaste without lauryl sulfate can be purchased from Squigle, Inc. toll free at 877-718-0718.
Oral tetracyclines four times a day for about three weeks is a successful source of treatment. Minocin and doxycycline are also effective treatments.
There is no medicine that you can apply directly to the skin which will help perioral dermatitis.

The Keratosis Pilaris Picture

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin disorder. Although it isn't serious, it can be frustrating because it's difficult to treat.
Keratosis pilaris occurs most often in children. It results from the buildup of a protein called keratin in the openings of hair follicles in the skin. This produces small, rough patches — usually on the arms, thighs and face. The exact cause isn't known, but it may be associated with eczema.
Keratosis pilaris typically causes no pain or itching. Treatment is directed at softening the keratin deposits in the skin and may include medicated creams containing urea or lactic acid. Even with treatment, this condition tends to remain for years. If associated with eczema, keratosis pilaris may improve with treatment of the underlying eczema.
Summer weather and swimming in clorinated pools may improve the condition in some.

The Picture of Hand Eczema

Hand eczema often results from a combination of causes, including genetic makeup, injury, contact with irritants and allergy. It is frequently caused or aggravated by work, when it is known as occupational dermatitis. Hand dermatitis is particularly common in industries involving cleaning, catering, metalwork, hairdressing, healthcare and mechanical work.Hand dermatitis varies in severity. It may affect the backs of the hands, the palms or both sites. Often it starts as a mild intermittent complaint, but it can become increasingly severe and persistent. The affected skin initially becomes red and dry, then progresses to itchy bumps and fluid-filled blisters, scaling, cracking, weeping and swelling. Bacterial infection can result in pustules, crusting and pain. Longstanding dermatitis at the ends of the fingers may result in deformed nails. Hand dermatitis can spread to affect other sites, particularly the forearms and feet.