White soft paraffin solid

Xerosis cutis (dry skin) is a common and burdensome symptom of atopic dermatitis (AD). Topical emollients restore skin hydration and barrier function through the physicochemical properties of their nonactive constituents (e.g., glycerol, urea, lactic acid, liquid paraffin, petrolatum) and represent the mainstay of basic therapy for xerosis cutis associated with AD. Newer "emollients plus" containing active ingredients may expand the treatment options available to patients with AD; however, we believe that basic emollients remain an important strategy for the long-term management of xerosis cutis. To that end, this article aims to review the clinical value of basic emollients for treating xerosis cutis in AD. We performed a series of literature searches to identify clinical studies of basic emollients containing one or more of the following ingredients: almond and coconut oils, amino acids, chondroitin, dexpanthenol, glucose, glycerol, glycosaminoglycans, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, lanolin, olive oil, paraffin, petrolatum, phospholipids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, pyroglutamic acid, squalene, triglycerides, urea, vegetable oils, and vitamin E. From these searches, the authors identified articles of interest that described the efficacy of basic emollients for the treatment of xerosis cutis associated with AD. Studies included in our review varied widely in terms of sample size, study design, interventions, and endpoints but collectively showed that most basic emollient formulations are safe and effective at improving objective and subjective measures of xerosis cutis. These studies also demonstrated the importance of ongoing emollient therapy to avoid xerosis relapse and the additive benefits of emollients that combine ingredients with complementary biophysical properties (e.g., glycerol with its humectant effect plus petrolatum with its occludent effect). Overall, the current body of literature reinforces the role of basic emollients as effective and accessible treatment options for the long-term management of xerosis cutis in patients with AD.

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Background/objectivesBeeswax, a complex natural secretion primarily derived from Apis mellifera and Apis cerana, has evolved from an ancient remedy into a multifunctional excipient and bioactive material in modern pharmaceutical sciences. This review evaluates its physicochemical properties, pharmaceutical applications, and emerging biomedical potential, while addressing current quality and regulatory challenges.MethodsA narrative review was conducted by analyzing literature on the chemical composition, functional properties, conventional uses, advanced drug delivery applications, pharmacological activities, and quality control of beeswax, emphasizing structural characteristics, formulation roles, and integration into innovative delivery technologies.ResultsBeeswax is a lipid-based matrix composed of over 300 constituents, including wax esters, hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids, conferring thermoplasticity, biocompatibility, and structural stability. Traditionally, it functions as a stiffening agent, viscosity modifier, and emulsion stabilizer in topical formulations, forming an occlusive barrier that enhances skin hydration. In advanced systems, it serves as a solid lipid matrix in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), microspheres, and 3D-printed tablets, enabling controlled drug release and improved bioavailability of lipophilic compounds. It also exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing activities, while beeswax-derived policosanols show potential cardiovascular and gastroprotective benefits. However, concerns regarding paraffin adulteration and pesticide contamination highlight the need for stringent analytical and regulatory oversight.ConclusionsWith rigorous quality control and sustainable sourcing, beeswax remains a versatile, eco-friendly material bridging traditional medicine and advanced pharmaceutical innovation.

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Trichoepithelioma is a rare benign follicular adnexal neoplasm with hair follicle differentiation, most commonly occurring on the face. Malignant transformation is exceptionally uncommon, with fewer than 10 cases reported in the literature, all arising in patients with multiple familial trichoepitheliomas. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of malignant transformation of a giant solitary trichoepithelioma with extensive craniofacial invasion. We report the case of a 52-year-old man who presented with a rapidly progressive ulcerative lesion over the right side of the face, associated with restricted ocular movements and diminished vision. He had undergone excision of a similar lesion at the same site two years earlier, which was histopathologically diagnosed as trichoepithelioma. Radiological imaging demonstrated a locally aggressive soft-tissue mass with extension into the orbit, adjacent musculature, and underlying facial bones. Histopathological examination revealed infiltrative nests and cords of basaloid tumour cells within a desmoplastic stroma, with perineural, muscle, and bone invasion, consistent with malignant transformation of trichoepithelioma. The patient underwent radical craniofacial resection with histologically negative margins followed by reconstruction. He remains disease-free at 30 months, with serial clinical examinations every three months and contrast-enhanced computed tomography every six months. This case highlights the importance of considering malignant transformation in recurrent or rapidly enlarging trichoepitheliomas and signifies the role of complete surgical excision and long-term surveillance.

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Malignant gastrointestinal neuroectodermal tumor (M-GNET), also known as clear cell sarcoma-like tumor of the gastrointestinal tract (CCSLTGT) or clear cell sarcoma-like tumor of the gastrointestinal tract with osteoclast-like giant cells, is a rare malignant tumor that typically arises in the gastrointestinal tract. It demonstrates primitive neural or neuroectodermal differentiation but lacks melanocytic features. M-GNET is closely related to clear cell sarcoma of soft tissue (CCSST), sharing highly overlapping morphological features and molecular genetic characteristics, particularly EWSR1-ATF1 gene fusion and, more rarely, EWSR1-CREB1 gene fusion. Most M-GNETs occur in the lower gastrointestinal tract, while only a few cases have been reported in the upper gastrointestinal tract and outside the digestive tract. We present the primary M-GNET in the pancreas, confirmed by molecular fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) detection of EWSR1-ATF1 gene fusion. This article will summarize the clinicopathological features and differential diagnosis and review the relevant literature.

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