Advertisement

Advertisement

Case Studies

A Lump on the Foot

A Lump on the Foot

Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP,1 Jeffrey Law and Lindsey Chow, 2

1Family physician with a focused practice designation in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Institute for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.
2Third year medical students from the University of Western Ontario.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is an angioproliferative tumour that requires infection by Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). It most commonly affects elderly men of Mediterranean/Eastern European backgrounds and HIV-infected patients. KS presents clinically as lesions on the skin, but may also arise in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and lymph nodes. There is no definitive cure for KS; therapeutic goals are to decrease the size of the lesions, prevent progression and improve function. Management depends on the type of KS, extent of disease and overall health of the patient. Observation is acceptable if the patient is asymptomatic; HAART is often sufficient to control lesions in HIV-infected patients. Cryotherapy and local excision can be used to treat solitary symptomatic lesions. Radiation therapy can be used for advanced and extended KS and in those patients for whom surgery is contraindicated. Intra-lesional injection of interferon alpha-2a or chemotherapeutic agents like vincristine have been reported to be effective in treating nodular KS lesions, but may be associated with inflammation and discomfort. Systemic chemotherapy such as pegylated liposomal doxorubicin is indicated when KS is widespread or rapidly progressive. The prognosis for KS is generally great with most patients dying from unrelated causes.
Key Words: Kaposi's Sarcoma, HHV-8, HIV/ AIDS.

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim MAINPRO-M2 Credits for this unaccredited educational program.

www.cfpc.ca/Mainpro_M2

You can take quizzes without subscribing; however, your results will not be stored. Subscribers will have access to their quiz results for future reference.

Kaposi’s sarcoma is a common tumour affecting HIV-infected patients. Classic Kaposi’s sarcoma most commonly affects elderly men of Mediteranean/Eastern European background.
Environmental and genetic factors are believed to predispose patients to Kaposi’s sarcoma. KS requires the infection of HHV-8. Chronic immune-suppression contributes to KS development.
KS presents with red/purple macules, plaques and nodules on the skin. Lesions may also arise in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract and lungs. Lesions affecting lymph nodes cause lymphedema. Consider KS in an HIV-infected patient who presents with erythematous and/or violaceous nodules or plaques.
Management of KS depends on the type of KS, extent and location of lesions and overall health of the individual. Observation is sufficient for asymptomatic patients. For patients with EKS, HAART is recommended and may be the only therapy needed.
Local control of KS lesions can be achieved through cryotherapy, local excision, intra-lesional injection of chemotherapeutic agents or radiation therapy.
Distant spread of KS can be controlled through systemic chemotherapy.
To have access to full article that these tools were developed for, please subscribe. The cost to subscribe is $80 USD per year and you will gain full access to all the premium content on www.healthplexus.net, an educational portal, that hosts 1000s of clinical reviews, case studies, educational visual aids and more as well as within the mobile app.

A Pruritic Rash

A Pruritic Rash

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Mammary Paget disease (PD) is a less common form of breast cancer which involves the nipple-areola complex and occurs almost exclusively in females. Erythema, skin thickening, pruritus, burning sensation, inversion of the nipple, ulceration, serosanguineous nipple discharge are common clinical symptoms. Approximately 1-4% of female breast carcinoma are associated with PD of the nipple-areola complex. A biopsy including the dermal and subcutaneous tissue should be performed on all suspicious lesions of the nipple-areola complex for accurate diagnosis. The first line treatment of mammary PD is mastectomy (radical or modified) and lymph node clearance for patients with a palpable mass and underlying invasive breast carcinoma. The prognosis of mammary PD is determined by the disease stage and is similar to that of other types of breast cancer.
Key Words: Mammary Paget disease, breast cancer, nipple-areola complex, metastasis.

A Recurrent Painful Rash

A Recurrent Painful Rash

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Herpes simplex viruses (HSVs) are DNA viruses that present as vesicles in clusters on an erythematous base. Infection occurs when close contact between an individual without antibodies against the virus and a person shedding the virus takes place. Most HSV infections are self-limited. Lesions tend to reappear at or near the same location of the initial site of infection. Systemic symptoms such as fever, malaise and acute toxicity may appear, especially in primary infection. A viral culture from the skin vesicles can identify up to 80 to 90% of untreated infection early in the course. Antiviral treatments aim at shortening the disease course and preventing viral dissemination and transmission. Treatments are most effective when they are administered at the first sign of symptom onset.

A Strange Looking Rash That Does Not Respond to Topical Corticosteroids

A Strange Looking Rash That Does Not Respond to Topical Corticosteroids

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Tinea incognito is a superficial dermatophyte infection in which the clinical appearance of the symptoms has been altered by inappropriate treatments, such as topical corticosteroids.
Dermatophyte infection may result from contact with infected humans, animals, or inanimate objects. An erythematous, pruritic, annular and scaly plaque is characteristic of a symptomatic infection. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) examination of skin scrapings is usually diagnostic. If topical corticosteroids have been applied recently, the amount of surface scales may be reduced and may lead to false negative results. Topical therapy is the first line treatment for localized infections. Systemic antifungals should be used in extensive condition, immunosuppression, resistance to topical antifungal therapy.

Discolouration of the Tongue

Discolouration of the Tongue

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Hairy tongue, or known as lingua villosa, is a result of hypertrophy, elongation, and defective desquamation of the filiform papillae of the tongue. This condition may present in a variety of colors depending on the specific etiology. Etiologies of hairy tongue include poor oral hygiene, lack of mechanical stimulation and debridement of the tongue, the use of medications (especially broad-spectrum antibiotics), and therapeutic radiation of the head and the neck. This condition is also commonly seen in people having high consumption in coffee and tea, heavy use of tobacco, individuals addicted to drugs, patients who are HIV positive, and intravenous drug users. In most cases, non-pharmacologic interventions are used for the management of hairy tongue. Treatment involves brushing the tongue with a toothbrush or using a commercially available tongue scraper to retard the growth or to remove elongated filiform papillae. If Candida albicans is present, topical antifungal medications are used for patients who are symptomatic.
Key Words:
Hairy tongue, Lingua villosa, Glossopyrosis, Halitosis.

A Strange Looking Toenail

A Strange Looking Toenail

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Green nail syndrome is a paronychia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The affected toenail may show discoloration that ranges from greenish-yellow, greenish-brown, and greenish-black. Differential diagnosis includes other conditions causing nail plate discolouration such as subungual hematoma, malignant melanoma or infections by other pathogens including Aspergillus, Candida, and Proteus. Gram stain and culture of the subungual scrapings confirm the diagnosis of suspected pseudomonas aeruginoa infection. Topical antibiotics, such as bacitracin, silver sulfadiazine, or gentamicin, applied 2 to 4 times daily will treat most patients within 1 to 4 months. Oral ciprofloxacin for 2 to 3 weeks has been successful in treating patents who fail topical therapies.

Something is Wrong with Her Back

Something is Wrong with Her Back

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Erythema ab igne (EAI) is a localized hypermelanosis with erythema in a reticulated pattern. It is triggered from repeated exposure to heat and infrared radiation. Actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma have been reported in patients after chronic exposure to infrared radiation. EAI is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms. If the diagnosis is uncertain, a skin biopsy may be performed. Early in the disease process, elimination of the heat source may lead to complete resolution of the symptoms.

An Unusual Facial Rash

An Unusual Facial Rash

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Kaposi varicelliform eruption (KVE) is an infection of a dermatosis by pathogens such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, HSV-2, coxsackievirus A16, or vaccinia virus. KVE begins as a sudden eruption of painful and crusted or hemorrhagic vesicles, pustules, or erosions in areas of a preexisting dermatosis. Transmission occurs through contact with an infected individual or by dissemination of primary or recurrent herpes. Viral cultures of fresh vesicular fluid or direct observation of infected cells scraped from ulcerated lesions by direct fluorescent antibody staining are the most reliable diagnostic tests for KVE. Antivirals, such as acyclovir and valacyclovir, are used in the treatment of KVE.

A Non-Healing Facial Lesion

A Non-Healing Facial Lesion

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of non-melanoma skin cancer that arises from basal cells found in the lower layer of the epidermis. It is the most common type of skin cancer in humans, but they rarely metastasize. If BCC is left untreated and progresses, it may lead to significant morbidity and cosmetic disgurement. In nearly all cases, the recommended treatment modality for BCC is surgery. Small and superficial BCC may respond to local immune-modulating therapies. For tumors that are more difficult to treat or those in which tissue preservation is essential, Mohs micrographic surgery should be considered. Radiation therapy can be used for advanced and extended BCC and in those patients for whom surgery is contraindicated. Photodynamic therapy is usually used as an adjunct in BCCs with poorly defined border, in cases which oculoplastic surgery will be extensive or difficult, or in recurrent BCCs with tissue atrophy or scar formation. Oral vismodegib has been approved for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced basal cell carcinoma who are not candidates for surgery or radiation and for those with metastatic disease. The prognosis for BCC is generally great with 100% survival rate for localized cases.
Keywords: Basal cell carcinoma, Nonmelanoma skin cancer, Hedgehog intracellular signalling pathway, Imiquimod 5% cream, 5-Fluorouracil 5% cream.

A Moustache for a Good Cause

A Moustache for a Good Cause

Members of the College of Family Physicians of Canada may claim one non-certified credit per hour for this non-certified educational program.

Mainpro+® Overview
Teaser: 

Francesca Cheung, MD CCFP, is a family physician with a special interest in dermatology. She received the Diploma in Practical Dermatology from the Department of Dermatology at Cardiff University in Wales, UK. She is practising at the Lynde Centre for Dermatology in Markham, Ontario and works closely with Dr. Charles Lynde, MD FRCPC, an experienced dermatologist. In addition to providing direct patient care, she acts as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical studies involving psoriasis, onychomycosis, and acne.

Abstract
Impetigo is a gram-positive bacterial infection of the superficial layers of the epidermis. There are two forms of impetigo: bullous and nonbullous. Diagnosis of impetigo is usually based solely on the history and clinical presentation. Culture and sensitivity results can help the physician choose appropriate antibiotic therapy. Treatment of impetigo typically involves local wound care, along with antibiotic therapy, either topical alone or in conjunction with systemic therapy. For mild or localized cases, topical mupirocin or topical fusidic acid applied 2 to 3 times daily for 7 to 10 days are adequate treatment. Systemic antibiotics are indicated for widespread, complicated, or severe cases associated with systemic manifestations of impetigo. Beta-lactam antibiotics remain an appropriate initial empiric choice, with coverage against both Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. For patients with recurrent impetigo or Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriers, topical mupirocin cream or ointment can be applied inside the nostrils 3 times daily for 5 days each month to reduce colonization in the nose.
Keywords: Impetigo, Staphylococcus aureus, Group A beta hemolytic streptococci Bullous impetigo, Nonbullous impetigo.