International Journal of Research in Dermatology

A bibliometric analysis of the 50 most cited articles on impetigo: research trends and scholarly impact

2026-02-21T08:35:53+0530

Impetigo is a common bacterial skin infection that primarily affects children, although it can occur in individuals of all ages. Despite its widespread prevalence and significant public health impact, a comprehensive evaluation of the most influential research on impetigo is lacking. This study aims to identify the 50 most-cited publications on impetigo and analyze trends in authorship, institutional contributions, study designs, and collaborative networks. A total of 2,126 articles were retrieved from Web of Science, of which 1,596 met the inclusion criteria. Subsequently, the articles were sorted in descending order based on citation count. Data extracted from each article included the title, authors, citation counts, study design, funding sources, and institutional collaborations. The years of publication varied from 1965 to 2019. The research output is largely driven by institutions in Australia, Japan, and the USA, with the University of Melbourne and Keio University being major contributors, and Steer. being the most frequently listed author, contributing to 8 highly cited articles. About 30–35% of the studies’ objectives centered on the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of bacterial skin infections, 20–25% on disease burden and epidemiology, and 20–25% focused on antimicrobial resistance and treatment methods. This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of the most influential research on impetigo, highlighting key authors, institutions, and publication trends.

Ectopic hidradenitis suppurativa on the forearm following a workout challenge: a case report

2026-02-21T08:35:51+0530

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) typically affects intertriginous areas. Ectopic HS in uncommon locations is rare, often misdiagnosed, and poorly recognized in clinical practice. A 39-year-old African American woman with established Hurley stage III HS in typical locations (axillae, groin, buttocks) presented with a four-week history of a painful lesion on her left forearm. Her HS had been well-controlled on bimekizumab therapy. The ectopic lesion developed following a "plank challenge" workout, appearing at the pressure point where her forearm contacted the ground during planks, suggesting mechanical trauma as the triggering factor. This case represents ectopic HS, occurring in a patient with pre-existing typical HS. The forearm lesion likely resulted from the Koebner phenomenon, where repetitive mechanical trauma and friction led to ectopic HS development. Environmental factors such as secondhand smoke exposure may have contributed to pathogenesis. The lesion responded well to topical medications and intralesional steroid injections. Mechanical trauma can trigger ectopic HS through the Koebner phenomenon in patients with established disease. Physicians should maintain high suspicion for ectopic HS when patients with known HS develop new lesions in atypical locations following trauma or repetitive friction.

Disseminated verruca vulgaris in an immunocompetent individual: an exception to the rule

2026-02-21T08:35:56+0530

Verruca or viral warts affect nearly 10% of the global population and are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, with more than 200 subtypes recognized to date. These lesions commonly involve the skin and mucous membranes and are transmitted through direct or indirect contact. Verruca plana, also known as flat warts, are typically smooth, flat-topped, reddish-brown or skin-coloured papules that often appear on the face, neck, and dorsal aspects of the hands. They are more frequent in children and young adults. While in most cases, verruca plana are self-limiting, disseminated or extensive presentations are uncommon and may indicate an underlying immune defect. Such widespread involvement warrants evaluation for immunosuppression due to conditions such as HIV infection, prolonged corticosteroid therapy, or other immunodeficiency disorders. Here, we present a case of disseminated verruca plana and outline the systematic clinical and laboratory approach undertaken to rule out any underlying immunocompromised state.

Tinea capitis occurring in adults – a report of two cases with atypical presentation

2026-02-21T08:35:45+0530

Tinea capitis (TC) is a dermatophytic infection affecting the scalp hair and skin. It occurs primarily in children between 3 and 14 years of age, but it might affect any age group. Herein, we report 2 cases of adult tinea capitis who presented with atypical clinical features like pustules, crusted scaly plaques and non-scarring alopecia. Various investigations including potassium hydroxide (KOH) mount, dermoscopy, histopathological examination, hemogram, serum biochemistry and viral screening were conducted. Based on clinicopathological correlation both the cases were diagnosed as Tinea capitis. The patient received treatment with oral Griseofulvin along with topical luliconazole cream resulting in complete resolution of lesions.

Epidermization of lip in an adolescent: clinical appearance and dermoscopic correlation

2026-02-21T08:35:43+0530

Epidermization of lip is described as presence of a smooth, steep, leukokeratotic plaque over the lower vermilion border, blending evenly into the distal skin surface. It is a disorder of cosmetic concern. A 14-year-old girl patient came to the OPD with complaints of asymptomatic white patch on the upper lip since 1 year. A white plaque of 0.5*0.75 cm size was seen on the upper lip extending beyond the vermilion border of the lip. Dermoscopy showed multiple white to yellow dots coalescing with each other. Electrocautery was done under topical anaesthesia. The case is being reported to emphasise to highlight the role of dermoscopy as a simple, non-invasive tool that aids in confirming the diagnosis, establishing the benign nature of the lesion and providing reassurance to the patient.

A rare manifestation of scarlet fever with a staphylococcal abscess

2026-02-21T08:35:35+0530

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection distinguished by a growing fever and a rapid rash, usually accompanied by pharyngitis, and can give rise to severe ramifications. We report a case of scarlet fever characterized by a sandpaper rash and strawberry tongue, accompanied by an atypical gluteal abscess. Streptococcus pyogenes had been isolated from a throat swab, whereas Staphylococcus aureus was recovered from a gluteal abscess at the assessment. The patient exhibited improvement with suitable treatment, devoid of adverse effects.

Crateriform and ulcerated lesions of nodular lepromatous leprosy masquerading as histoid Hansen’s disease

2026-02-21T08:35:34+0530

Nodular lepromatous leprosy (LL) classically presents with diffuse infiltration, nodules, and plaques. However, unusual morphologies may lead to diagnostic confusion, particularly with histoid Hansen’s disease. We report a rare presentation of nodular lepromatous leprosy manifesting as crateriform and ulcerated papules and plaques, clinically simulating histoid leprosy. Detailed clinical evaluation, histopathology, and slit-skin smear examination aided in establishing the correct diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of recognizing atypical cutaneous manifestations of leprosy to avoid misclassification and ensure appropriate management.

Erythema nodosum leprosum masquerading as Sweet’s syndrome: a case report

2026-02-21T08:35:40+0530

Leprosy is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting skin and nerves. Over time the progression of leprosy may be disrupted by acute inflammatory episodes known as lepra reactions. Type 2 leprosy reactions also known as erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL), are characterized by painful red nodules on the skin, along with symptoms like fever, joint pain, malaise, and systemic complications. There have been reports of unusual clinical presentations of this condition such as bullous, pustular, ulceration, erythema multiforme‑like reaction, livedo reticularis, and Sweet’s syndrome (SS)‑like presentation. The pathogenesis of sweet’s-like ENL is still uncertain. It is believed that in SS a complex interaction of various cytokines leading to buildup of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the target tissues, which trggers an abnormal immune response to certain antigens. These findings may help explain the occurrence of such unusual lepra reactions. In this case, we describe an uncommon instance of type 2 lepra reaction in a 28-year-old man who had no prior diagnosis of leprosy. The condition presented similarly to SS‑like reaction and was diagnosed by slit skin smear and histopathological examination.

Comparative in vitro evaluation of anti-inflammatory properties of selenium disulfide and ketoconazole-based topical formulations

2026-02-21T08:35:48+0530

Background: Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff are chronic inflammatory scalp disorders associated with cytokine- mediated immune responses and impaired barrier function.

Methods: This in vitro study compared the anti- inflammatory efficacy of two topical formulations—Selsun S (1% selenium disulfide + 3% salicylic acid) and a comparator (2% ketoconazole + 2% salicylic acid)—using THP-1 monocytic cells. Both formulations significantly suppressed TNF-α production (IC₅₀ <0.03 mg/ml), with the comparator (2% ketoconazole + 2% salicylic acid) exhibiting higher cytotoxicity.

Results: Selsun S demonstrated greater potency in reducing IL-6 (IC₅₀: 0.033 mg/ml versus 0.041 mg/ml) and IL-8 (IC₅₀: 0.032 mg/ml versus 0.045 mg/ml), likely due to enhanced skin penetration from its higher salicylic acid content.

Conclusions: These findings support Selsun S’s superior anti-inflammatory activity and tolerability, indicating its potential utility in managing inflammatory scalp conditions.

Clinical study to evaluate efficacy and safety of topical balms for headache: a randomized trial

2026-01-20T07:37:15+0530

Background: Topical balms containing natural ingredients are commonly used in complementary therapies for headache. There is a need to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of these balms. Objectives were to assess the efficacy and safety of commercial balms in patients diagnosed with tension type headache as per the ICHD II criteria.

Methods: A randomised, single blind, multi-centre clinical trials were conducted for headache. Adult participants were enrolled at three sites in India (IND [n=31], [n=30] and [n=30]) to study the efficacy of three commercial balms (CT64, CT46 and CT17) by assessing percentage of subjects with meaningful headache relief and pain intensity after application on verbal rating scale (VRS). Effect on headache on a 100-point visual analog score (VAS), use of rescue medications, onset, intensity and duration of action of balm, quality of sleep, quality of pain relief, global assessment of overall effect by physician and patient and global assessment of tolerability of drug were also assessed.

Results: The CT64, CT46 and CT17 groups responded with 93.33%, 90.32% and 86.66% of total meaningful headache relief respectively. There is a significant decrease in headache intensity in CT64 followed by CT46 group on VAS scale. The VRS rating also demonstrated significant reduction in headache within two hours. The balms also demonstrated safe to use on the basis of adverse drug reaction study.

Conclusions: The commercial balms containing 10-15% menthol and 10-25% methyl salicylate can provide significant relief from headache and are safe to use.

A clinico-epidemiological profile of vitiligo in female patients attending a tertiary care centre of North India and its impact on quality of life

2026-01-14T08:37:30+0530

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic acquired depigmenting disorder with significant psychosocial consequences, particularly among female patients due to cosmetic concerns and sociocultural stigma. Data focusing exclusively on females and quality of life from North India remain limited.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology of a tertiary care centre in North India. Ninety female patients with clinically diagnosed vitiligo were enrolled. Demographic and clinical details were recorded. Quality of life was assessed using the dermatology life quality index (DLQI). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests.

Results: The mean age of patients was 29.6±11.2 years. The most common age group affected was 18–30 years (42.2%). Non-segmental vitiligo was the predominant clinical type (75.6%). Facial involvement was observed in 51.1% of patients. The mean DLQI score was 10.8±4.6, indicating moderate to severe impairment of quality of life. Higher DLQI scores were significantly associated with younger age, facial involvement and unmarried status.

Conclusions: Vitiligo has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of female patients, particularly younger women and those with visible lesions. A holistic management approach addressing both clinical and psychosocial aspects is essential.

Association between serum lipid profile and erectile dysfunction in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

2026-02-21T08:35:42+0530

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major global health concern, with men affected having a threefold higher risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) than non-diabetic men. The study aims to determine the association between serum lipid profile abnormalities and ED in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods: This cross-sectional study at the Departments of Dermatology and Venereology and Endocrinology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh (March 2019–July 2020) included 382 married men with T2DM. Age, body mass index (BMI), diabetes duration, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and lipid profile were recorded. ED was assessed using the Bengali IIEF-5 and classified as severe, moderate, mild, or no ED. Data were analyzed with statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) v23.0 (t-test, Chi-square; p≤0.05).

Results: Among 382 men with type 2 diabetes, 158 (41.4%) had ED. Those with ED were older (48.7 versus 44.3 years), had higher BMI (26.5 versus 25.9 kg/m²), higher HbA1c (8.21 versus 7.95), and longer diabetes duration (7.14 versus 5.95 years; all p ≤ 0.05). ED severity was severe 10.2%, moderate 13.4%, and mild 17.8%. Triglycerides were higher (225.1 versus 200.8 mg/dl, p<0.001) and LDL-C slightly lower (131.97 versus 136.02 mg/dl, p=0.025), with no differences in total cholesterol or HDL-C.

Conclusion: Elevated triglycerides and slightly lower LDL-C are associated with erectile dysfunction in men with T2DM, highlighting the role of lipid abnormalities in its development.

The impact of senescent skin on senile mind

2026-02-21T08:35:37+0530

Background: With an improvement in medical services and increased life expectancy, in both developed and developing nations, the geriatric population is increasing, with the cutaneous dermatoses. Although these dermatological diseases are gaining more attention, their mental health is lagging far behind. This study is being conducted to identify the common geriatric dermatoses and also their effect on quality-of-life. The aims of this study are to study the pattern and frequency of dermatoses in patients aged 60 years and above and to assess the effect of it on their quality-of-life.

Methods: In total 60 patients aged 60years and above presenting to dermatology out-patient department were recruited. Socio-demographic details, presence of co-morbidities and dermatological complaints were recorded on a data collection form. Skin diseases were categorized into 7 categories for statistical analysis. For assessing the effect of dermatoses on quality-of-life of participants, dermatology life quality index was administered.

Results: 60 patients were evaluated, 64.3% were male and 35.7% were females. Mean age of patients was 67.60±6.236, 35% patients had one or more co-morbidities. Papulosquamous disorders were the commonest dermatoses seen in 31.3% patients, followed by infections and infestations in 30%. Around 20% patients had moderate to large effect on quality-of-life.

Conclusions: Skin changes are amongst the most visible signs of aging. Furthermore, the basic fact of looking old has negative effect on quality of life. The special needs of elderly population must be looked into by making appropriate changes in the national health policies.

Ross syndrome: a case series of five patients

2026-02-21T08:35:39+0530

Ross syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, is characterized by the combination of three primary features: segmental anhidrosis, tonic pupils, and areflexia. The exact aetiology remains unclear, but it involves dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, specifically affecting the sympathetic pathways. Patients often experience reduced sweating, particularly in specific body regions, alongside pupillary abnormalities and diminished reflex responses. Due to its rarity, further research is needed to understand its pathophysiology, optimize treatment strategies, and improve patient outcomes. In our case series of five patients, a diagnosis of 'complete' Ross syndrome was made for two patients, while the remaining patients were diagnosed with 'incomplete' Ross syndrome. The rarity of Ross syndrome underscores the importance of detailed clinical reporting, as it may lead to improved patient care and outcomes.

A drug utilization study to evaluate the prescribing pattern of clotrimazole dusting powder in dermatophytosis

2026-02-21T08:35:31+0530

The drug utilization studies are essential tools for the monitoring various healthcare system. According to the world health organization (WHO), a drug utilization study is "the marketing, distribution, prescription, and drug usage in a society, leading to medical, social, and economic consequences".

Apremilast in comorbidities associated with psoriasis

2026-02-21T08:35:36+0530

Psoriasis (PsO) is a multifactorial inflammatory disorder frequently associated with comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), metabolic syndrome (MetS), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DMII). Several studies have demonstrated a strong correlation between PsO and MetS, suggesting shared inflammatory mechanisms. Chronic inflammation contributes to both conditions, with cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and IL-10 playing central roles. IL-17, in particular, modulates the interface between inflammation and metabolism by influencing glucose homeostasis and adipocyte function. Elevated TNF-α and IL-6 levels, characteristic of PsO, are implicated in insulin resistance, while IL-6 additionally promotes adipose lipolysis and hepatic gluconeogenesis, exacerbating metabolic dysfunction.