European Journal of Dermatology最新文献

Systemic antifungals such as terbinafine and itraconazole are often limited by drug interactions and side effects in the treatment of onychomycosis. We tested a new topical solution to address the clinical need for safer and more effective topical therapies. The solution (containing urea, lactic acid, ethoxydiglycol, decylene glycol, and polyquaternium-7) was applied twice daily for six months in a single-arm, open-label trial, enrolling 50 adult subjects with clinically diagnosed distal lateral subungual onychomycosis. Outcomes included a blinded investigator assessment, mycological evaluation (KOH microscopy and culture), and patient self-assessment of efficacy and usability. Nail growth (mm) was monitored. Complete cure was defined as negative mycological results and resolution of clinical signs. Adverse events were assessed for safety. Forty patients completed the study. At three months, 32/40 of participants (80%) achieved negative mycological results; blinded assessments at this time showed moderate improvement in 24/40 (60%) and excellent improvement in 12/40 (30%) of patients. At six months, the complete cure rate was 50%, (20/40), and 42.5% (17/40) showed significant clinical improvement. Investigators rated the treatment positively in 90.0% (36/40) of cases. Four patients developed mild periungual erythema due to improper application, which spontaneously resolved without discontinuation. This topical "barrier-effect" treatment was associated with improvements in nail appearance and fungal resolution after only 12 weeks, with further benefit at six months, and was safe, well tolerated, and easy to use. Also, concomitant use with systemic antifungals may be possible subject to further studies.

Hair ageing is a multifactorial process involving progressive deterioration of hair follicle structure and function, leading to reduced density, diameter, and overall hair quality. Inspired by advances in longevity science, the emerging concept of hair longevity shifts focus from reactive treatment of visible hair loss to proactive preservation of follicular health. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of non-scarring alopecia, illustrates hair ageing through mechanisms including follicular miniaturization, microinflammation, oxidative stress, and intrinsic cellular senescence. Despite the prevalence and psychological burden of age-related hair thinning, especially among women, preventive approaches remain underdeveloped. An analysis of 102 articles published between 2003 and October 2025 synthesized by an international expert working group and a comprehensive literature analysis allowed to establish a conceptual framework for hair longevity. The proposed model identifies nine hallmarks of hair ageing, grouped into structural, metabolic, and signalling dysfunctions influenced by genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Building on this framework, this work proposes an integrative approach to AGA management that incorporates pharmacological treatments, cosmetic formulations, nutritional supplementation, medical devices, and lifestyle-based strategies. Emphasizing prevention as well as treatment, the concept of hair longevity introduces opportunities for earlier intervention, improved patient education, and development of innovative, multi-targeted formulations to support lifelong scalp and hair health.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) or pattern hair loss is a non-scarring hair condition defined by gradually reduced, miniaturized hair follicles. It is a multifactorial disorder primarily triggered by dysregulation of the hair cycle due to alterations between the crosstalk of numerous cell subpopulations. To provide a focus on existing and novel management options, preceded by a short overview of the current knowledge about AGA. A group of international experts in AGA analysed 85 literature sources about AGA (retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar and published between 2000 and 2025) and discuss current and novel treatment options. Recent research evidenced that targeting the hair follicle and the surrounding tissue, rather than solely relying on solutions offered by minoxidil, finasteride, or other products, provides a safe and highly beneficial improvement of AGA. The authors underscore the significant scientific value and crucial role of advanced dermocosmetics with proven clinical efficacy in the long-term management of AGA, in addition to pharmacological active ingredients or other treatment options. These innovations offer compelling early intervention strategies, potentially delaying reliance on lifelong pharmaceutical regimens and optimizing the overall patient journey and quality of life. In addition to current treatment options of AGA, novel topical non-pharmacological therapeutic options are available, helping to safely and efficiently treat this multifactorial hair condition.

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a rare, severely pruritic chronic skin disease, which seriously reduces patients' quality of life. PN prevalence in Belgium is unknown. To investigate PN prevalence, patient profile, diagnosis, and treatment strategies in Belgium. These insights will better support patient identification and treatments choice to address their specific needs. An anonymous questionnaire was sent to 800 dermatologists for data collection; 65 dermatologists (8%) completed the survey. Also, a search query in the electronic medical records system of a Belgian university hospital was performed. Based on this study, estimated PN prevalence in Belgium is in the range of 0.04-0.09%. PN was most common in women between the ages of 50 and 70 with multiple comorbidities, most importantly atopy and psychological/psychiatric comorbidities. However, few PN patients were treated by a psychologist/psychiatrist. PN is mainly managed with topical therapies (hydration, topical steroids, and calcineurin inhibitors). Of PN patients in Belgium, 61% are severely affected (IGA-CNPG score: 3-4) and received additional systemic treatment (at the time of the survey: antihistamines, methotrexate, cyclosporine, and gabapentin/pregabalin). Treatment of PN is often challenging due to chronicity and frequently associated comorbidities, which limit medical treatment options. In this context, screening for comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus and kidney disease, is important for patient management. Also, the presence of psychological or psychiatric problems should be assessed, and if necessary, referred to specialized treatment. Education of other medical specialists (e.g. general practitioners, nephrologists or internal medicine/endocrinologists) can foster early identification and a more holistic approach to these multimorbid patients.