Arthur B. Kern

Multiple smallpox vaccinations in the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex.

On the basis of the study here reported, the authors conclude that multiple smallpox vaccinations are of value in the management of patients with recurrent herpes simplex. Of 68 cases reviewed, 52 patients (76.5 per cent) definitely had no subsequent attacks during a lengthy follow-up period; 7 patients were probably cured, and the recurring lesions in the remaining 9 patients were less severe than those preceding therapy with a longer interval between attacks. The specific mechanism for the benefit noted is not fully understood.

Kaposi's Sarcoma (Angioreticulomatosis)

Kaposis sarcoma is a disease which, while not uncommon, is frequently not recognized. An attempt has been made to present the various features of this condition which are of value in establishing its diagnosis. Sixteen cases which have been under our observation are reviewed.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: Review of the literature and report of four cases

Abstract The literature on dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is reviewed. The origin of the tumor is still in doubt, some maintaining that it arises in mammary tissue, some stating that it is of neurogenic origin and others attributing an important role to trauma. Considerable controversy exists in regard to the histopathology of the lesion. It appears to us, as well as to many others, that the important feature is the non-specificity of the histological picture. As in the case of Kaposis sarcoma, the clinical rather than the histopathological aspects are most important for diagnosis. The tumor is locally malignant, recurring after incomplete removal. Despite the fact that there have been reports of fatal metastases, in almost all these cases autopsy proof has been lacking. Four cases of DFSP are reported which showed the characteristic clinical features along with the non-specific histopathology previously described.

ACTH and cortisone in the treatment of keloids.

THE treatment of keloids, particularly old and large ones, has often been unsatisfactory. With the demonstration in recent years of the connective-tissue-inhibiting effect of ACTH and cortisone in ...

Common Misconceptions Concerning the Skin

The common opinion concerning the benign nature of diseases of the skin is erroneous. Many serious systemic diseases have cutaneous manifestations. Numerous misconceptions exist regarding diagnosis and treatment of acne, plant and contact dermatitides, warts, psoriasis, etc. Steroids should be used with caution in managing diseases of the skin.

RHODE ISLAND DERMATOLOGICAL SOCIETY

Melanomata Pathologically Malignant, Clinically Nonmalignant, in a Case of Xeroderma Pigmentosum. Presented byDr. F. Ronchese, Providence. A woman aged 35, with xeroderma pigmentosum since the age of 2 years, was the subject of a paper presented at a meeting of the New England Cancer Society, in Providence, Nov. 6, 1946 ( Rhode Island M. J. 30 :225 [April] 1947). The areas chiefly involved are, as usual, the exposed ones—the face, neck, upper portion of the chest, arms, and, lower legs. The condition, which has become progressively worse in the last 20 years, has nonetheless not prevented normal housework on a farm and marriage, five years ago, thus far childless. An older sister, living in a neighboring city, has a milder form of xeroderma pigmentosum, but with the same pattern of spotty hyperpigmentation on the exposed parts. Many of the lesions were widely surgically excised and diagnosed as malignant