Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is an uncommon dermatosis occasionally reported in association with an underlying malignancy. We report a 61-year-old woman in whom PRP preceded the diagnosis of bronchogenic carcinoma by approximately 11 months. The clinical picture in this case included atypical cutaneous signs and mucous membrane involvement. Curative treatment of the malignancy with radiotherapy led to resolution of the mucocutaneous changes within months. A presentation of PRP, particularly if atypical, or in an older patient, should prompt consideration of an associated internal malignancy.
The Support Scheme for Rural Specialists project is a federally funded initiative aimed at reducing professional isolation among rural medical specialists. The Australasian College of Dermatologists became involved in this project in July 2003. We report the results of a survey designed to collect demographic data and establish a technology option for remote delivery of metropolitan clinical meetings. These are a major component of continuing professional development activity among metropolitan colleagues. An interactive compact disk format was developed, containing recorded footage and presentation slides from meetings, which replicated attendance as closely as possible. Following distribution to rural dermatologists, continuing professional development points were awarded for viewing and appraising the 'virtual' meeting on compact disk. Evaluation of the technology found a statistically significant increase in continuing professional development involvement. The success of this project has led to its expansion, refinement and continuation in 2004.
A 7-year-old boy presented with a 5-year history of dystrophic calcification manifesting as solitary nodules on the plantar aspect of both heels. Microscopic examination showed hyperkeratosis and psoriasiform hyperplasia overlying an area of dystrophic calcification. Multiple heel-prick tests carried out during the neonatal period to monitor blood glucose levels are the likely causative mechanism.
Idiopathic dermatitis over the site of previous trauma is a recognized but infrequently reported phenomenon that provides a diagnostic dilemma. Careful investigation is needed in order to exclude other rare and/or treatable causes.
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