Plasmacytoid dendritic cells are part of the dendritic cells family and are a relevant link between innate and adaptive immunity. They are the most potent producers of type 1 interferon, generating antiviral response, stimulating macrophages and dendritic cells and inducing activation and migration of natural killer cells. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells also exert a role as antigen-presenting cells, promote T-lymphocyte responses, immunoregulation, plasma cells differentiation and antibody secretion. Even though plasmacytoid dendritic cells are not usually present in normal skin, their presence is detected in healing processes, viral infections, and inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic diseases. In recent years, the presence of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in several dermatological diseases has been described, enhancing their potential role in the pathogenesis of such conditions. Future studies on the role of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in dermatology may lead to new therapeutic targets.
Recurrent erythema multiforme (REM) is characterized by recurrent outbreaks over time. Most studies show an average of six episodes per year and a mean duration of 6-10 years.There are several described etiological factors such as infections, medications, malignancies, autoimmune diseases, radiation, immunization, and menstruation. 1,2 It is estimated that more than 60% of REM cases are caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. Subclinical HSV reactivations may represent the main trigger in idiopathic cases, since some studies have shown 50-60% positivity for HSV in polymerase chain reaction in skin lesions of REM. Additionally, the successful treatment with antiviral drugs in REM cases corroborates this etiology. 3
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.