Abstract The effectiveness of sun protection depends directly on the photo-protective product employed, the way it is used and the amount applied. Many studies report that sunscreens are often applied incorrectly, at amounts much lower than those recommended for the sun protection factor (SPF) specified on the label. When not used properly, the effectiveness of the product against sun exposure damage is reduced. Currently, sunscreens are available in a variety of different formulations and types, such as stick (bar), aerosol, cream, lotion, oil, tanning formulations and makeup. However, developing an effective stable photo-protective formula that can be correctly applied regardless of type poses a challenge, as effectiveness is dependent on several factors. Factors influencing effectiveness include sun exposure conditions (direct or indirect), level of protection (SPF), amount of product applied, maximum exposure period before reapplication, product type (spray, lotion, etc.), layer thickness required, coverage, and ability to spread and permeate into the skin. Studies comparing the effectiveness of different forms of sunscreens, the amount of product applied by consumers and SPF and UVA protection determined by validated methodologies, are lacking. Therefore, the objective of this study was to review the available literature on the topic and discuss the effectiveness of sunscreen formulations and factors influencing sun protection. This review was carried out on the scientific databases MEDLINE, PubMed and Scielo. Of the many publications retrieved, thirty-nine articles most relevant for this review were selected.

Abstract Background: Isotretinoin is a synthetic retinoid, derived from vitamin A, with multiple mechanisms of action and highly effective in the treatment of acne, despite common adverse events, manageable and dose-dependent. Dose-independent teratogenicity is the most serious. Therefore, off-label prescriptions require strict criteria. Objective: To communicate the experience and recommendation of Brazilian dermatologists on oral use of the drug in dermatology. Methods: Eight experts from five universities were appointed by the Brazilian Society of Dermatology to develop a consensus on indications for this drug. Through the adapted DELPHI methodology, relevant elements were listed and an extensive analysis of the literature was carried out. The consensus was defined with the approval of at least 70% of the experts. Results: With 100% approval from the authors, there was no doubt about the efficacy of oral isotretinoin in the treatment of acne, including as an adjunct in the correction of scars. Common and manageable common adverse events are mucocutaneous in nature. Others, such as growth retardation, abnormal healing, depression, and inflammatory bowel disease have been thoroughly investigated, and there is no evidence of a causal association; they are rare, individual, and should not contraindicate the use of the drug. Regarding unapproved indications, it may represent an option in cases of refractory rosacea, severe seborrheic dermatitis, stabilization of field cancerization with advanced photoaging and, although incipient, frontal fibrosing alopecia. For keratinization disorders, acitretin performs better. In the opinion of the authors, indications for purely esthetic purposes or oil control are not recommended, particularly for women of childbearing age. Conclusions: Approved and non-approved indications, efficacy and adverse effects of oral isotretinoin in dermatology were presented and critically evaluated.

Abstract Background: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, relatively more frequent in women over 30 with a low phototype and proven genetic predisposition. Although its etiology is unknown and possibly multifactorial, the immunological abnormality, associated with neurovascular dysregulation and triggering factors, are important elements in its pathophysiology, which lead to the main changes of inflammation, vasodilation, and angiogenesis that are responsible for the clinical manifestations. Despite the lack of cure, numerous therapeutic options are available for the different clinical presentations of the disease, with satisfactory responses. Objective: To reach a consensus, with recommendations from experts, on the therapeutic management of rosacea suitable to the Brazilian setting. Methods: The study was conducted by five specialized dermatologists from university centers, representatives of the different Brazilian regions, with experience in rosacea, who were appointed by the Brazilian Society of Dermatology. Based on the adapted DELPHI methodology, the experts contributed through an updated bibliographic review of the scientific evidence, combined with personal experiences. Results: The group of experts reached a consensus on the relevant aspects in the therapeutic management of rosacea, providing information on epidemiology, pathophysiology, triggering factors, clinical condition, classification, quality of life, and comorbidities. Consensus was defined as approval by at least 90% of the panel. Conclusion: Despite the impossibility of cure, there are several therapeutic alternatives specific to each patient that provide excellent results, with chances of total improvement and long periods of remission, promoting a positive impact on quality of life. This consensus provides detailed guidance for clinical practice and therapeutic decisions in rosacea.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Acne needs to be treated early to prevent negative psychosocial impacts. In severe or moderate forms, which tend to leave scars, oral isotretinoin is the first-line therapy. However, concern about its adverse events, especially in developed countries, delays effective treatment. In contrast, isotretinoin is widely prescribed in Brazilian private clinics. OBJECTIVES: To describe the use of isotretinoin for treating acne in a Brazilian public hospital, and to analyze whether its prescription is effective or belated. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective cohort study in a public hospital. METHODS: Clinical and therapeutic data were obtained from the medical records of patients who were undergoing or had undergone acne treatment with isotretinoin in this hospital’s general dermatology outpatient clinic over the last seven years, up to April 2018. RESULTS: 1526 medical records from patients with acne were analyzed. Isotretinoin was prescribed for 279 patients (18.28%) with mild (1.19%), moderate (57.37%), severe (35.85%) or conglobata (5.57%) forms of acne vulgaris. Sequelae of acne were present at the start of most of these patients’ treatment. An initial daily dose of 20 mg was usually prescribed. The average initial dose/weight ratio was 0.33 mg/kg/day. The average total dose/weight ratio was 127.61 mg/kg. There were only a few cases of laboratory abnormalities. CONCLUSION: Sequelae of acne at the onset of treatment reveal delayed indication of isotretinoin, which can have negative psychosocial impacts on quality of life. Isotretinoin should be indicated early to prevent this. Its use is supported by its lack of laboratory alterations and controllable adverse events.

Abstract: Acne is a chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory disease with high prevalence among adolescents. By compromising face, thorax and back, with the risk of permanent scars, it has a negative impact on the quality of life. Effective, safe and early treatment is the key to remission, while decreasing the risk of physical and/or emotional sequelae. The Iberian-Latin American Group of Acne Studies joined professionals with expertise and developed a practical therapeutic algorithm, adapted to the reality of Latin American countries, Spain and Portugal. This article intends to disseminate it with an updated review on a rational, safe and effective acne treatment.

Abstract The tretinoin peel, also known as retinoic acid peel, is a superficial peeling often performed in dermatological clinics in Brazil. The first study on this was published in 2001, by Cuce et al., as a treatment option for melasma. Since then, other studies have reported its applicability with reasonable methodology, although without a consistent scientific background and consensus. Topical tretinoin is used for the treatment of various dermatoses such as acne, melasma, scars, skin aging and non-melanoma skin cancer. The identification of retinoids cellular receptors was reported in 1987, but a direct cause-effect relation has not been established. This article reviews studies evaluating the use of topical tretinoin as agent for superficial chemical peel. Most of them have shown benefits in the treatment of melasma and skin aging. A better quality methodology in the study design, considering indication and intervention is indispensable regarding concentration, vehicle and treatment regimen (interval and number of applications). Additionally, more controlled and randomized studies comparing the treatment with tretinoin cream versus its use as a peeling agent, mainly for melasma and photoaging, are necessary.

AbstractType I collagen is the main dermal component, and its evaluation is relevant to quantitative studies in dermatopathology. However, visual gradation (0 to 4+) has low precision and high subjectivity levels. This study aimed to develop and validate a digital morphometric analysis technique to estimate type I collagen levels in the papillary dermis. Four evaluators visually quantified (0 to 4+) the density of type I collagen in 63 images of forearm skin biopsies marked by immunohistochemistry and two evaluators analyzed the same images using digital morphometric techniques (RGB split colors (I) and color deconvolution (II)). Automated type I collagen density estimation in the papillary dermis (two techniques) were correlated with visual evaluations (Spearman's rho coefficients of 0.48 and 0.62 (p<0.01)). With regard to the inter-observer repeatability, the four evaluators who used visual classification had an intraclass correlation coefficient (for absolute agreement) of 0.53, while the other two evaluators who used digital analysis (algorithm II) had an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.97.

BACKGROUND: The gynoidlypodystrophy, known as cellulitis or cellulite, refers to a condition that gives the skin an undulating and uneven appearance, affecting 80-90% of women after puberty. OBJECTIVES: to investigate the efficacy and safety of manual lymphatic drainage for cellulite management. METHODS: this was an open, prospective, intervention study including 20 women aged from 20 to 40 years. Fourteen sessions of manual lymphatic drainage were performed once a week on lower limbs and buttocks. RESULTS: Fifteen women completed the study. A significant improvement on quality of life was observed (p=0.018). A significant reduction (p=0.023), estimated at 0.3±0.8 cm, in hip circumference was found, but no difference was found in thighs circumference (p>0.05). A significant reduction elastic recuperation of skin on buttocks, which means skin elasticity worsening, was observed. All measures obtained by ultrasound images showed no changes (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: manual lymphatic drainage was safe but not effective as an isolated approach for cellulite management. Further randomized, controlled or comparative studies about manual lymphatic drainage for cellulite control, as unique or combined therapeutic modality, are necessary.

BACKGROUND:Acne is a common disease in adolescents, but there are no epidemiological data for acne in Brazil.OBJECTIVES:To estimate the prevalence and degree of acne in adolescents from Sao Paulo and study socio-demographic factors, family history and lifestyle, associated with the disease.METHODS:Cross-sectional study with 452 adolescents aged between 10 and 17 (mean=13.3 years), students from elementary and high school, examined by 3 independent evaluators.RESULTS:62.4% were female, 85.8% white and 6.4% were aged 14. The prevalence was 96.0% and increased with age - all students over 14 had acne. The most prevalent form of acne was comedonal (61.1%), followed by mild (30.6%) and moderate (7.6%) papular-pustular, which affected mostly the face (97.5%). About half of the adolescents reported family history for acne in mother or father, and 20.6% reported previous treatment for acne. There was a higher chance of presenting non-comedonal acne with increased age (p<0.001). DISCUSSION: The prevalence of acne in adolescents varies widely due to the clinical features and diagnostic methods used. Adolescents whose brothers/sisters had acne (OR=1.7-p=0.027) and those over 13 (OR=8.3-p<0.001), were more likely to have non-comedonal acne.CONCLUSION:This study showed high prevalence of acne in adolescents from Sao Paulo, predominantly the comedonal form on the face, with a higher chance of presenting non-comedonal acne with increased age.

Os autores relatam o caso de uma paciente com tuberculose ganglionar e lesões cutâneas clinicamente sugestivas de tubercúlide pápulo-necrótica, porém com histopatologia compatível com granuloma anular perfurante, e que apresentaram melhora após tratamento para a tuberculose. Trata-se, possivelmente, de um dos primeiros relatos da associação de granuloma anular perfurante com tuberculose, salientando a importância desta entidade no diagnóstico diferencial da tubercúlide pápulo-necrótica e levantando a possibilidade da mesma ser considerada, também, uma variante de tubercúlide.

A case is reported of a patient presenting lymph node tuberculosis and cutaneous lesions resembling papulonecrotic tuberculid, but histologically compatible with perforating granuloma annulare and which responded satisfactorily to antituberculous therapy. This is probably one of the first reports of the association of perforating granuloma annulare and tuberculosis, and it is important therefore to highlight the relevance of this disorder in the differential diagnosis of papulonecrotic tuberculid and to raise the hypothesis that this entity should also be considered to be a variant of tuberculid.

Cosmiatria é uma sub-especialidade em grande crescimento. Estudos em ciência básica de alta qualidade têm sido publicados; ao contrário, existem poucos estudos clínicos duplo-cegos, randomizados e controlados, que constituem o maior instrumento para medicina baseada em evidência nessa área. A pesquisa clínica é essencial para a descoberta de novos conhecimentos, melhora das bases científicas, solução de desafios e boa prática clínica. Para ser um pesquisador bem sucedido, os princípios básicos são interesse, disponibilidade, persistência e honestidade. É essencial aprender como escrever um protocolo de pesquisa e conhecer as regras regulatórias nacionais e internacionais. Um protocolo de pesquisa clínica completo deve incluir questão, fundamentos, objetivos, metodologia (desenho, descrição das variáveis, tamanho da amostra, randomização, critérios de inclusão e exclusão, intervenção, parâmetros de eficácia e segurança e análise estatística), termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido, ficha clínica e referências. A aprovação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa e a declaração do financiamento são imprescindíveis. A publicação de resultados positivos ou negativos deve ser um comprometimento dos autores.

Cosmetic Dermatology is a growing subspecialty. High-quality basic science studies have been published; however, few double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trials, which are the major instrument for evidence-based medicine, have been conducted in this area. Clinical research is essential for the discovery of new knowledge, improvement of scientific basis, resolution of challenges, and good clinical practice. Some basic principles for a successful researcher include interest, availability, persistence, and honesty. It is essential to learn how to write a protocol research and to know the international and national regulatory rules. A complete clinical trial protocol should include question, background, objectives, methodology (design, variable description, sample size, randomization, inclusion and exclusion criteria, intervention, efficacy and safety measures, and statistical analysis), consent form, clinical research form, and references. Institutional ethical review board approval and financial support disclosure are necessary. Publication of positive or negative results should be an authors' commitment.

A síndrome do ovário policístico (SOP) é uma das endocrinopatias mais freqüentes nas mulheres em idade reprodutiva. Caracteriza-se por morbidade elevada devido aos aspectos estéticos e por repercussões metabólicas importantes. Embora a sua patogênese permaneça incompletamente conhecida, acredita-se numa desordem multigênica complexa, incluindo anormalidades no eixo hipotálamohipofisário, esteroidogênese e resistência insulínica. Os achados principais para o diagnóstico são: hiperandrogenismo, anovulação crônica e ovários policísticos à ultrassonografia. As manifestações dermatológicas do hiperandrogenismo incluem: hirsutismo, acne, seborréia, alopecia e, em casos mais graves, sinais de virilização. Existe considerável heterogeneidade nos achados clínicos e também pode haver variação na mesma paciente com o passar do tempo. O tratamento visa reduzir as manifestações do hiperandrogenismo, restaurar os ciclos ovulatórios regulares e corrigir a síndrome metabólica. Este artigo apresenta revisão da fisiopatologia, diagnóstico e tratamento da síndrome do ovário policístico. Enfatiza-se a importância do diagnóstico e tratamento precoces no intuito de prevenir as complicações metabólicas e a repercussão emocional que afeta a qualidade de vida das pacientes.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (POS) is one of the most common endocrine abnormalities affecting women of reproductive age. It is a cause of significant social embarrassment and emotional distress. The pathogenesis of the disease is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be a complex multigenic disorder, including abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, steroidogenesis, and insulin resistance. The main diagnostic findings of the syndrome are: hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology seen on ultrasound. Hyperandrogenism is generally manifested as hirsutism, acne, seborrhea, androgenic alopecia and, in severe cases, signs of virilization. Treatment may improve the clinical manifestations of excess androgen production, normalize menses and ameliorate metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications. This article reviews the diagnosis, clinical manifestations, metabolic complications, and treatment of the syndrome. Early diagnosis and the consequent early treatment may prevent metabolic complications and emotional distress that negatively impact the patients' quality of life.

FUNDAMENTO: Siringoma é tumor anexial benigno do ducto sudoríparo écrino cujo tratamento é realizado por diversas modalidades cirúrgicas com resultados variáveis. OBJETIVO: 1. Relatar a experiência no tratamento cirúrgico de siringomas periorbitários mediante excisão com a tesoura oftalmológica de Castroviejo, seguida pela cicatrização por segunda intenção. 2. Apresentar revisão da literatura com enfoque no aspecto terapêutico. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Em 68 meses foram tratados 38 pacientes com siringomas periorbitários. Realizada a exérese cirúrgica com tesoura oftalmológica de Castroviejo seguida pela cicatrização por segunda intenção. Realizadas avaliações sete, 30 e 90 dias após a cirurgia. O seguimento variou entre três e 62 meses, com média de 33 meses. RESULTADOS: Dos 38 pacientes tratados, 63,1% tiveram resultado ótimo, 31,6% bom e 5,3% regular. A única complicação imediata observada foi edema, e as tardias foram: hipocromia (12 casos), cicatriz deprimida (um caso) e hipertrófica (um caso). Não ocorreram recidivas no período observado. CONCLUSÕES: O tratamento dos siringomas periorbitários mediante exérese cirúrgica com tesoura oftalmológica de Castroviejo, seguida pela cicatrização por segunda intenção, constitui procedimento ambulatorial de baixo custo e fácil execução. Proporciona resultados satisfatórios, sem recidivas, apesar da possibilidade de ocorrer hipocromia transitória.

BACKGROUND: Syringomas are benign adnexal tumors from intraepidermal eccrine ducts, treated by diverse surgical modalities with variable results. OBJECTIVES: 1. To report our experience in surgical treatment of multiple periorbital syringomas excised by Castroviejo scissors followed by healing by secondary intention. 2. To present a literature review with emphasis on therapeutic aspects. MATERIAL AND METHOD: During 68 months we treated 38 cases of periorbital syringoma. All of them were submitted to surgical excision using Castroviejo scissors, followed by healing by secondary intention. Evaluation was done 7, 30 and 90 days after surgery. The mean follow-up period was 33 months, ranging from 3 to 62 months. RESULTS: The results were excellent in 24 patients (63.1%), good in 12 patients (31.6%) and regular in two patients (5.3%). The only immediate complication observed was edema; late complications were hypochromia (12 patients), depressed scar (one patient) and hypertrophic scar (one patient). Recurrences were not observed during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded from our results that excision of periorbital syringomas by Castroviejo scissors followed by healing by secondary intention is a low cost, straightforward outpatient procedure. Results are good, with no recurrences, although transient hypochromia may occur.