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benign

Keratosis Pilaris

Teaser: 

Bianca Te, BSc,1Joseph M. Lam, MD, FRCPC,2

1Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.2 Department of Pediatrics, Department of Dermatology and Skin Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common, benign skin condition that primarily affects children and adolescents. It is characterized by small follicular papules resembling “chicken skin” or goosebumps, most often on extensor surfaces of the proximal upper and lower extremities. The exact cause of KP is unclear, however it is believed to follow an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern and may be associated with a mutation in filaggrin, a protein involved in maintaining the skin barrier. This ultimately results in excessive keratin production and deposition surrounding hair follicles. Diagnosis is typically based on the patient’s history and clinical presentation. KP is most often asymptomatic and tends to improve with age. However, treatment is aimed at enhancing cosmetic appearance or relieving mild pruritus. Management includes optimizing skin moisturization and using topical keratolytic agents, though other options such as topical retinoids and laser therapy may also be effective.
Key Words: Keratosis pilaris, keratolytic agents, asymptomatic, benign.

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Keratosis pilaris presents as numerous small follicular papules resembling “chicken skin” or goosebumps, most often on extensor surfaces of the proximal upper and lower extremities.
Keratosis pilaris is a benign skin condition that often improves with age.
Management of keratosis pilaris is aimed at reducing symptoms such as pruritus and improving cosmetic appearance. Keratolytic agents such as lactic acid or salicylic acid creams are most commonly used for treatment.
Keratosis pilaris is the result of excess keratin production that deposits around the hair follicle, however the exact pathogenesis is not fully understood.
Diagnosis of keratosis pilaris is made on history and physical exam. Dermoscopy and biopsy are not often required, but can be used if other conditions are suspected.
Patients should understand that keratosis pilaris is benign and that there is no cure. It is important to provide reassurance that the condition often improves with age, however some topical treatments may be able to help improve cosmetic appearance.
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Related Terms: Dermatology, Keratosis pilaris, keratolytic agents, asymptomatic, benign
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Common Lumps and Bumps in Children: A Colour-coded Differential

Common Lumps and Bumps in Children: A Colour-coded Differential

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Teaser: 

Shahana Nathwani, BHK, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.
Joseph M Lam, MD, FRCP(C), Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Member, Department of Dermatology and Skin Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.

Abstract
Many conditions present as 'lumps and bumps' in the pediatric population. Some follow a benign course and can be safely observed with parental education and reassurance. Others require definitive therapy or carry the potential for serious complications. Understanding and recognizing the different lesions will help guide the care, counseling and management of patients with these common 'lumps and bumps'. This review presents and categorizes common pediatric cutaneous lesions according to colours as a tool to help the general practitioner recognize and remember these lesions.
Keywords: benign; pediatric; tumours; vascular; hemangioma; nevus.

Related Terms: Dermatology, benign, vascular, pediatric, hemangioma, nevus, tumours

The Efficacy and Safety of Tamsulosin for the Medical Treatment of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

The Efficacy and Safety of Tamsulosin for the Medical Treatment of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

Teaser: 

Levent Ozdal, MD, Research Fellow, Department of Urology, McGill University, Montreal, QC.
Simon Tanguay, MD, FRCS(C), Associate Professor, Department of Urology, McGill University, Montreal, QC.

Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common benign neoplasm in aging men. Although microscopic evidence of BPH occurs in 80% of men who are at least 80 years old, clinical enlargement of the gland only occurs in half of all men in this age group. Furthermore, symptomatic disease only develops in about half of men with clinically enlarged prostate glands.1

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) of BPH can be obstructive or irritative in nature. Most symptoms occur and progress slowly in aging men. The treatment of BPH is usually indicated once patients develop either moderate or severe symptoms, or in the presence of complications due to bladder obstruction. Complications of BPH due to chronic obstruction include recurrent urinary tract infection, bladder stones, incontinence, gross hematuria, urinary retention or renal failure.

The aim of BPH treatment should include improving or eradicating symptoms, reversing the complications of the disease and preventing additional sequelae. Treatment is typically based on the severity of symptoms and patient preference.

Related Terms: Drug Safety, benign, hyperplasia, prostate, Tamsulosin, treatment