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Biomedical subjects

W G Phillips

Publications and source records attributed to W G Phillips.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1995

Modulation of the IL-1 cytokine network in keratinocytes by intracellular IL-1 alpha and IL-1 receptor antagonist.

The IL-1 cytokine network in epidermal cells was studied in vitro, using the spontaneously transformed HaCAT human keratinocyte line. Intracellular (ic) IL-1 alpha and IL-1 receptor antagonist protein (IL-1Ra) following cell lysis were readily identified assayed using a capture ELISA; whereas in culture supernatants IL-1Ra was not detected, and IL-1 alpha was present at only very low levels. Confluent cultures of HaCAT cells were shown to provide optimal conditions for the study, since confluence increased the icIL-1Ra:IL-1 alpha ratio to a level as seen in vivo, which was independent of Ca2+ concentration in the culture medium. The IL-1Ra extracted from HaCAT cell lysates was functionally active, as demonstrated in the mouse thymocyte co-proliferation assay which could be blocked using a rabbit anti-IL-1Ra antibody. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta 1) stimulated a dose-dependent increase in HaCAT cell IL-1 alpha without changing IL-1Ra concentration, with a resultant reduction in the icIL-1Ra: IL-1 alpha ratio from 320:1 to 100:1. Similarly, TGF-alpha, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) substantially increased HaCAT cell IL-1 alpha, but had no effect on the IL-1Ra, with a concomitant reduction in the icIL-1Ra:IL-1 alpha ratio. In contrast to their effects on monocytes, IL-4 and IL-10 at biologically active levels had no effect on IL-1 alpha, IL-1Ra or the icIL-1Ra: IL-1 alpha ratio in confluent HaCAT cells. Hydrocortisone reduced IL-1 alpha to below the limit of sensitivity of the ELISA, and induced a small increase in IL-1Ra of questionable biological significance. Thus, regulation of the IL-1 cytokine network in keratinocytes involves modulation of icIL-1 alpha rather than of icIL-1Ra levels, and is markedly different from that noted in monocytes.

Calcium↗
PubMed1994

Adult Still's disease.

Adult Still's disease (ASD) is a rare disorder of unknown aetiology, characterized by an evanescent, erythematous, maculopapular rash, fever, arthralgia, and a variety of systemic features. We report a case which illustrates the typical features of ASD, and manifests the hitherto unreported complication of diffuse cutaneous mucinosis.

Female↗
PubMed1994

Captopril-induced lichenoid eruption.

The case of a patient who developed remarkably extensive tumid nodules and plaques in a cobblestone pattern on the extensor aspects of the limbs is reported as a late presentation of captopril-induced lichenoid eruption. The severity and chronicity of our patient's symptoms and signs reflected delay in reaching the diagnosis.

Aged↗
PubMed1994

Flame figures in bullous pemphigoid.

We report a patient with bullous pemphigoid showing prominent flame figures on skin biopsy. Although flame figures are the histological hallmark of eosinophilic cellulitis, they are occasionally seen in a variety of other dermatoses.

Eosinophils↗
PubMed1993

Orbital oedema: an unusual presentation of Noonan's syndrome.

We report a 52-year-old man who presented with severe chronic bilateral orbital oedema, and dysmorphic features characteristic of Noonan's syndrome. No recognized cause of the orbital oedema was found. This is the first report of late-onset orbital oedema in association with Noonan's syndrome, a condition known to be associated with widespread lymphatic hypoplasia and ectasia.

Chronic Disease↗
PubMed1993

Obesity and weight cycling.

Over 30 million Americans are overweight and in a battle to "slim down." Unfortunately for some, pounds that are lost are soon regained, leading to repeated bouts of "weight cycling." This pattern can have deleterious effects on both the physical and mental health of the individual. One must understand the causes of weight cycling to help guide the patient towards a more sensible and successful lifestyle. Emphasis on exercise, diet, and maintenance of weight loss is vital.

Female↗
PubMed1992

Pruritus. What to do when the itching won't stop.

Pruritus is a common problem that can result from many conditions. Some, such as fungal or parasitic infection, may be fairly obvious. However, others, such as iron deficiency and psychogenic disorder, are more difficult to diagnose. Evaluation must include a thorough inspection of the skin, history taking for drug intake and chemical exposure, and appropriate laboratory testing. The location on the body and characteristics of the itching may point to a cause. In some cases, attention to exacerbating factors (eg, dry skin, coarse fabrics against the skin, dry environmental conditions) and application of topical preparations may be sufficient. Antihistamines are the foundation of oral treatment, and with the advent of second-generation agents, they can be taken with fewer concerns about their sedative effects. Specific conditions of which pruritus is one feature may require specific treatment. For example, in patients undergoing dialysis, activated charcoal, UV light treatment, or heparin therapy may be useful.

Administration, Oral↗