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Biomedical subjects

Thomas Helm

Publications and source records attributed to Thomas Helm.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

Basic immunology: a primer.

This article is intended to bring practicing physicians up to date on the current state of knowledge regarding the basic components and processes of the immune system. It discusses the role of the immune system and the importance of self-tolerance and describes the main cellular and noncellular entities involved in the immune response. It also details immune processes such as the lymphocyte selection process leading to self tolerance; antigen processing and presentation; cell signaling, activation, and co-stimulation; and the actions of cytokines and other signaling molecules.

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Successful treatment of extramammary Paget's disease with imiquimod.

Extramammary Paget's Disease (EMPD) is an uncommon neoplasm found in the genital, anorectal, or axillary area. Surgical excision is considered the standard treatment, although possible loss of tissue function and disease recurrence are seen. Other treatment modalities such as radiotherapy, topical chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy are associated with varying degrees of effectiveness, but the search for an effective, safe treatment with minimal side effects proves to be challenging. We report a case where complete clinical and histological resolution of non-invasive EMPD of the penis was achieved with minimal adverse effects after six weeks of imiquimod (Aldara) application. As an immune system modifier that stimulates cytokine and interferon production, imiquimod may be a useful alternative or adjuvant in the treatment of EMPD.

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