Hazards of Topical Mitotic Blocking Agents

The document discusses the risks associated with the use of topical mitotic blocking agents, such as colchicine and demecolcine, which are used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis and skin cancers. It references a report by Belisario that cites five cases of severe hematopoietic depression from the use of demecolcine ointment, leading to death in three cases, and highlights the similarity in cytotoxic effects between podophyllin and colchicine, with one death reported from the topical use of podophyllin. The document suggests that the hazards of using these topical agents are significant and should be carefully considered. Additionally, the document includes a brief mention of a study on the metabolism of modified fasting, which observed increased telogen hair counts in patients with significant negative nitrogen balance due to rapid weight loss. The study involved over 200 subjects and concluded that hair loss is related to insufficient protein to meet requirements rather than the rapidity of weight loss itself. Hair loss was almost completely eliminated with increased protein intake during fasting, and hair was restored with refeeding.