No abstract

T cell defect and anergy to contact sensitizers are characteristic of the depressed cell-mediated immunity in epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV). In this disease the generalized infection with human papilloma viruses is associated with a high risk of skin cancers. Langerhans cell density was studied quantitatively in lesions and noninvolved epidermis of EV using OKT6 and anti-HLA-DR monoclonal antibodies with indirect immunofluorescence technique. No significant changes were found in apparently normal skin suggesting no primary defect of Langerhans cells in EV. A marked decrease in Langerhans cell number per unit of epidermal volume could be observed in EV lesions. This additional reduction of immunological surveillance at sites of potentially oncogenic human papilloma virus infection may contribute to the increased risk of malignant transformation in EV lesions.

The paper deals with the medical application of diode-lasers. A short review of medical therapies is presented, taking into account the wavelength applied, continuous wave (cw) or pulsed regimes, and their therapeutic effects. Special attention was paid to the laryngological application of a pulsed diode laser with wavelength 810 nm, and dermatologic applications of a 975 nm laser working at cw and pulsed mode. The efficacy of the laser procedures and a comparison of the pulsed and cw regimes is presented and discussed.

This paper presents a newly developed dermatological laser (with a central wavelength 975 nm) for application in therapies requiring deep penetration of tissue, e.g., cutaneous (dermal) neurofibroma (von Recklinghausen disease) and hemangiomas. This laser can work either in pulses or continues wave mode. Laser radiation is transmitted toward the application region by optical fiber with a diameter of 0.6 mm. The compact design of the laser facilitates its transport and increases the comfort of use.

An increased use of multiple flaps applied to single reconstructive problems is encouraged. Removal of a basal cell carcinoma involving the medial canthus and adjacent lateral nasal root skin resulted in significant defect. When a glabellar "fan" flap failed to provide adequate tissue for canthal reconstruction without undue distortion, a preplanned medial cheek rotation flap followed sequentially in the repair process. The basic principles of an O-to-Z flap reconstruction were therefore fulfilled by conjoining two different flap design applications.