Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a reactive non-infectious inflammatory dermatosis falling under the spectrum of the neutrophilic dermatoses. There are several subtypes, with 'classical PG' as the most common form in approximately 85% cases. This presents as an extremely painful erythematous lesion which rapidly progresses to a blistered or necrotic ulcer. There is often a ragged undermined edge with a violaceous/ erythematous border. The lower legs are most frequently affected although PG can present at any body site. Other subtypes include bullous, vegetative, pustular, peristomal and superficial granulomatous variants. The differential diagnosis includes all other causes of cutaneous ulceration as there are no definitive laboratory or histopathological criteria for PG. Underlying systemic conditions are found in up to 50% of cases and thus clinicians should investigate thoroughly for such conditions once a diagnosis of PG has been made. Treatment of PG remains largely anecdotal, with no national or international guidelines, and is selected according to severity and rate of progression. Despite being a well-recognised condition, there is often a failure to make an early diagnosis of PG. This diagnosis should be actively considered when assessing ulcers, as prompt treatment may avoid the complications of prolonged systemic therapy, delayed wound healing and scarring.

This study presents a strong case for dermatologists to continue to provide the lead in diagnosis of skin lesions, and in selection and execution of dermatological surgical procedures.

Pretibial epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a rare form of localized dystrophic EB, characterized by recurrent blistering and scarring plaques occurring predominantly in the pretibial area. In most cases, nail dystrophy, especially of the toenails, is also present. Often there are no clinical abnormalities at birth, and the disorder may only appear after several years. We report a patient who developed symptoms in his fifth decade. Genetic testing identified compound heterozygosity for two pathogenic mutations in the COL7A1 gene. This case highlights a rare variant of mechanobullous disease, and stresses the importance of molecular screening in establishing a correct diagnosis. Precisely why the disorder specifically localizes to the shins or why it may only become apparent in later life is not known.

We originally reported four patients with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in the British Journal of Dermatology in 2003, and now present an update of their outcome. All four patients (three females and one male) presented within a six month period at our institution, and had received gadolinium contrast agents prior to disease onset. Two patients with functioning renal transplants had limited cutaneous disease, two patients maintained on haemodialysis had more severe disease and died one year after disease onset. Gadolinium deposition was demonstrated in lesional skin of one patient using electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy.

This case and pilot study shows that BerEP4 expression is common in these selected sweat apparatus tumors, and staining may be strongly so. This observation should be borne in mind in clinical practice.