Box counting serial image index (BCSI) versus point counting serial image index (PCSI) in scoring melasma: A comparative, non-interventional validation study Papishetty Prathyusha, Jabeen Nihaa, Rangappa Vinutha, PSS Ranugha, N Srilakshmi, Shastry Veeranna, Garehatty Rudrappa Kanthraj Indian Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprology, 2026 Background Point counting serial image index (PCSI) is a scoring method used to assess the area and severity of melasma. Double tracing and the inability to assess scattered pigmentation are its limitations. Objectives To propose modifications to PCSI, the Box counting serial image index (BCSI) was compared and validated with PCSI. Methods In BCSI, a preset grid was placed, and serial images were captured. One speck of pigmentation was counted as one box. The area involved and time taken were recorded by the principal investigator and coinvestigator using BCSI and PCSI methods, respectively. The intensity of the pigmentation was recorded on a scale of 0-5. Melasma score = Area x Intensity of pigmentation. The difference in the total scores and time taken were analysed. Results A significant decrease (p<0.0003) in the total scores between baseline and first follow-up and baseline and second follow-up was observed in both methods. Similar to PCSI, BCSI was found to be sensitive to changes over time with treatment (p<0.0003). These p values were recalculated using Bonferroni corrections. The mean time taken by PCSI was significantly higher than BCSI (p < 0.0003). Limitations Grid placement over bony prominences and interference of facial hair. Conclusion BCSI overcomes the limitations of PCSI by directly capturing images and it is easy and rapid.
IADVL SIG pediatric dermatology (academy) recommendations on Hemangioma of Infancy (HOI) MinuJ Chiramel, BhumeshK Katakam, Ram Gulati, Mrinal Gupta, Malathi Munisamy, PS S. Ranugha, KA Seetharam Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2023 Hemangioma of infancy (HOI) is a benign vascular proliferation. Though resolution is the norm, potential complications make an accurate diagnosis and early management of importance. The Indian association of dermatologists, venereologists and leprologists (IADVL) special interest group (SIG) paediatric dermatology in association with IADVL academy did an extensive analysis of the literature on the clinical features, diagnosis, and management of HOI published between 2010 and 2021. Online meetings were conducted from February 2021 to March 2022 to reach a consensus on these recommendations which are made from an Indian perspective.
IADVL SIG pediatric dermatology (Academy) recommendations on childhood alopecia areata Biswanath Behera, BhumeshK Katakam, PS S Ranugha, Neerja Puri, TNarayana Rao, Ram Gulati, KA Seetharam Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2022 Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by nonscarring alopecia. In contrast to adult onset AA, the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and therapy of childhood AA are less explored. This study aims at providing recommendations for the management of childhood AA. The special interest group (SIG) in pediatric dermatology under the Indian Association of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy (IADVL) conducted online meetings from February 2021 to September 2021, intending to identify the critical aspects in the diagnosis and treatment of AA. The classification, diagnosis, and tools for assessment of disease activity of childhood AA have been described in this study, along with recommendations for topical and systemic therapy, including newer therapeutic options.
Melanogenesis Markers Expression in Premature Graying of Hair: A Cross-Sectional Study Ranugha PSS, Subbarao V. Madhunapantula, Jayadev B. Betkerur, Venugopal R. Bovilla, Veeranna Shastry Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2022 <b><i>Background:</i></b> Studies on mice and aging human hair follicles provide compelling evidence that graying of hair results from premature differentiation of melanocyte stem cells in the niche/bulge. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> The aim of this study was to analyze whether differentiation of melanocyte stem cells is responsible for premature graying of hair (PGH). <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Twenty-five patients with PGH (<i>n</i> = 25) attending the dermatology department were recruited. Five unpigmented and 5 pigmented hairs were obtained per patient by separating individual follicles after 1 mm punch biopsies. The hairs were dissected at a distance of 2 mm from the bulb to separate the stem cells (upper segment – US) from the melanocytes (lower segment – LS). RNA was extracted from hair follicle US and LS, and expression of GP100, tyrosinase (TYR), and tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TYRP1) genes was quantified using Qiagen one-step RT-PCR kit. <b><i>Results:</i></b> We found melanogenesis gene expression in both temporary (US) and permanent (LS) segments of unpigmented and pigmented hair follicles. When compared between the US and LS of white hair, the expression of TYR and GP100 was much higher in US than LS, suggestive of melanogenesis in the bulge. Similarly, when compared between white and black US, the expression of all 3 genes was higher in white US than black US, although not statistically significant. <b><i>Limitations:</i></b> Low samples size and lack of data pertaining to the expression of genes at protein level are the limitations of current study. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Even though this pilot study data yielded key information about the expression of GP100, TYR, and TYRP-1 at the mRNA level, further studies quantifying the expression of these genes at protein level are needed to provide additional clues to further address the results in detail.
Non-venereal genital dermatoses and their impact on quality of life—A cross-sectional study N. Vinay, P. S. S. Ranugha, Jayadev B. Betkerur, Veeranna Shastry, P. K. Ashwini Indian Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprology, 2022 Background: Lesions on the external genitalia could be venereal or non-venereal. Non-venereal genital dermatoses are common and may cause considerable anxiety to patients, particularly if noticed after sexual intercourse. However, this aspect has not been studied much till now. Objectives: Our study proposes to describe the profile of non-venereal genital dermatoses and determine their impact on quality of life both social and sexual, using the dermatology life quality index questionnaire. Methods: We recruited patients aged 18 years and above, who were diagnosed to have non-venereal genital dermatoses during the study period. A detailed history was obtained and clinical examination done with relevant investigations when necessary. The dermatology life quality index was assessed and graded in all patients using Finlay dermatology life quality index questionnaire. Results: A total of 293 patients with non-venereal genital dermatoses were seen and 25 different dermatoses were observed. Men 242(82.6%) outnumbered women. The commonest age group affected was 31–50 years 144(50%). Chronic inflammatory dermatoses 135(41.6%) constituted the majority of cases. Scrotal dermatitis 46(15.7%), lichen simplex chronicus 37(12.6%), vitiligo 31(10.6%) were seen most frequently. In the study group, 111(37.9%) patients had moderate and 133(45.4%) had large impact on the quality of life. Erectile dysfunction was seen in 48(19.8%) men and 9(3.7%) had premature ejaculation. A significant effect on dermatology life quality index was found with increasing age (P = 0.007), positive marital status (P = 0.006), history of unprotected sex (P < 0.001), history of recurrences (P = 0.002) and venereophobia. (P = 0.008). Limitations: The number of women in the study group was less compared to men and we could not ascertain the type of sexual dysfunction in them. Conclusion: Non-venereal genital dermatoses are common, more so among men. They have a significant impact on the quality of life of the individual. Recognizing and addressing this problem will help in managing these patients effectively.
Recommendations for Pediatric Dermatology Practice during COVID-19 Pandemic BhumeshK Katakam, Ram Gulati, PS. S. Ranugha, Mrinal Gupta, TNarayana Rao, Maitreyee Panda, Malathi Munisamy, MinuJ Chiramel, Neerja Puri, Sandeep Gupta, Biswanath Behera, Garima Dabas Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2021 The current scenario of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in a huge disease burden worldwide affecting people across all age groups. Although children get infected by coronavirus, they are less commonly affected. Only 2% of cases are being reported among patients aged less than 20 years of age and childhood cases constitute around 1–5% of them. Moreover, they are less likely to be seriously affected when compared to adults, with more than 90% of them being either asymptomatic or having mild to moderate disease. This could be attributed to less exposure or sensitivity to COVID-19, varying immune response mechanisms, differences in the expression/function of the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 receptors or higher antibody levels to viruses owing to exposures to multiple respiratory infections, protective role of measles and BCG vaccine, and few associated comorbidities. However, children with certain underlying medical conditions like cardiac or respiratory disease, diabetes, immunodeficiency disorders, cancer or on immunosuppressants may be at a higher risk for developing severe disease.
Facial involvement in Indian psoriatic patients and its association with disease severity and metabolic syndrome: A cross-sectional study P. S. S. Ranugha, Priya Bishnoi, Laxmisha Chandrashekar Indian Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprology, 2021 Background: Face was often thought to be spared in psoriasis possibly due to the protective effect of sebum and low-dose ambient ultraviolet radiation exposure. Some have suggested that facial involvement is common and indicates disease severity. There is a paucity of data on this, particularly from India. Psoriatics have a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome, and patients with severe disease are at greater risk. Objective: A study of the frequency and type of facial involvement in Indian psoriatic patients and its association with disease severity and metabolic syndrome. Methods: A total of 250 consecutive psoriatic patients were screened and these yielded 188 patients with facial involvement. Facial psoriatics were divided into peripherofacial, centrofacial and mixed facial types. Disease severity was assessed using whole body, scalp, facial psoriasis area severity index scores and nail area psoriasis severity index scores. Patients were evaluated for the presence of metabolic syndrome using NCEP-III criteria. All parameters were compared both between facial and nonfacial psoriatics and between cases with different types of face involvement. Results: The mean age (P = 0.04) and age of onset of disease (P = 0.02) was lower and median whole-body psoriasis area severity index score was higher in psoriatics with facial involvement (P < 0.001) than those without. No significant association was found between facial involvement and metabolic syndrome. Mixed facial was the commonest type of facial involvement and there was a significant association of mixed facial involvement with increased total body psoriasis area severity index scores (P < 0.001). Limitations: Dietary habits, physical activity level, family history of diabetes and obesity were not enquired for in our patients. Centrofacial cases were too few in number, hence statistical comparisons are not relevant. Conclusion: Facial involvement in psoriatics is associated with severe disease but not metabolic syndrome. Mixed facial type might be considered a marker of overall psoriasis disease severity in the Indian population.
Segmental Zoster Paresis of Lower Thoracic Segment Presenting as Pseudohernia—A Report of Three Cases Veeranna Shastry, P.S.S Ranugha, R Vinutha, S Pratheeksha Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 2021 Segmental zoster paresis is characterized by focal motor weakness affecting the myotome corresponding to the dermatomal distribution of the rash. Clinically, it presents as pseudohernia when it involves abdominal wall muscles. We report three cases of segmental zoster paresis presenting as pseudohernia of abdominal wall. All patients developed asymptomatic bulge in anterolateral side of abdomen between 10 and 15 days after appearance of vesicles. All patients developed post-herpetic neuralgia. One patient developed pseudo-obstruction of colon due to visceral involvement. Segmental zoster paresis of lower thoracic spinal segment often goes unnoticed due to its asymptomatic nature.
Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization and strain concordance in patients with community associated Staphylococcal primary pyoderma - A cross-sectional study Journal of Pakistan Association of Dermatologists, 2020
Geometric Melasma Area Patterns (Gmaps) Can be Used for Teledermatology Practice Without Inter-Observer Variation: A Comparative Non-Interventional Validation Study by … P Papishetty, V Rangappa, PSS Ranugha, N Srilakshmi, SB Ashwini, ... Clinical Dermatology Review 10 (2), 98-102 , 2026 2026
Box counting serial image index (BCSI) versus point counting serial image index (PCSI) in scoring melasma: A comparative, non-interventional validation study P Prathyusha, J Nihaa, R Vinutha, PSS Ranugha, N Srilakshmi, ... Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology 92 (2), 212 , 2026 2026
Hypopigmented lesions admixed with verrucous papules in a child with epidermolytic verrucous epidermal nevus S Singh, PSS Ranugha, K Garehatty Rudrappa, V Basavaraj BMJ Case Reports 19 (1), e268586 , 2026 2026
Association of Clinical Factors, IL4, and IL17 Levels with the Development of Postherpetic Neuralgia: A Prospective Study Among Patients with Herpes Zoster from India B Shreelakshmi, SPS Ranugha, A Prashant, GR Kanthraj Indian Dermatology Online Journal 16 (6), 902-909 , 2025 2025
Direct Area Measurement by Preset Grid Method in Plaque Psoriasis Using Patient Sent Images (Teledermatology) and In-Person Consultation for Follow up Care: A Comparative, Non … YA Anisha, K Anushka, PSS Ranugha, SG Chethana, GR Kanthraj Indian Journal of Dermatology 70 (6), 382-385 , 2025 2025
Prevalence of polysensitivity in allergic contact dermatitis: A five-year retrospective study C Aradita, S Sahana, PSS Ranugha, GR Kanthraj Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 1-3 , 2025 2025
Efficacy of rituximab in refractory autoimmune bullous skin disorders R Kumar, S Prasad, H Kumar, R PSS Internet Journal of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology 13 (1) , 2025 2025
Pigmented basal cell carcinoma mimicking nodular melanoma M Purushottama, SB Ashwini, PSS Ranugha, V Basavaraj BMJ Case Reports CP 17 (9), e261362 , 2024 2024
Three-part scoring system (tripartite) for teledermatology versus International Contact Dermatitis Research Group criteria to interpret patch test readings: A comparative … K Jasly, S Goyal, PK Ashwini, GR Kanthraj, SG Chethana, S Ranugha Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology 90 (5), 575-580 , 2024 2024 Citations: 3
The Role of Dermoscopy and Teledermatology in a Case of Erythema Ab Igne Coexisting with Acute Radiation Dermatitis BS Lakshmi, SB Ashwini, PSS Ranugha, GR Kanthraj Indian Journal of Dermatology 69 (4), 357-359 , 2024 2024
Atypical rare presentations of cutaneous tuberculosis: A report of two cases S Srihari, PSS Ranugha, V Shastry, JB Betkerur Clinical Dermatology Review 8 (2), 138-141 , 2024 2024 Citations: 1
Tinea with Irritant Contact Dermatitis—A Series of 15 Clinically Challenging Cases A Rajagopal, SB Ashwini, PSS Ranugha, GR Kanthraj Indian Dermatology Online Journal 14 (6), 906-907 , 2023 2023 Citations: 1
Severity grading of dermatological emergencies based on comorbidities and systemic involvement: An observational study A Kedia, PSS Ranugha, GS Chethana, GR Kanthraj Archives of Dermatological Research 315 (8), 2333-2338 , 2023 2023 Citations: 7
Unilateral pretibial myxedema showing complete resolution with intralesional steroids S Kalam, PSS Ranugha, GR Kanthraj, V Basavaraj Indian Journal of Dermatology 68 (5), 582-583 , 2023 2023 Citations: 1
Scalp dermatoses: the patterns and impact on quality of life S Kalam, J Betkerur, PSS Ranugha, V Shastry Journal of Pakistan Association of Dermatologists 33 (3), 964-971 , 2023 2023 Citations: 3
IADVL SIG Pediatric Dermatology (Academy) Recommendations on Hemangioma of Infancy (HOI) BK Katakam, MJ Chiramel, R Gulati, M Gupta, M Munisamy, ... Indian Dermatology Online Journal 14 (2), 172-186 , 2023 2023 Citations: 1
IADVL SIG Pediatric Dermatology (Academy) recommendations on childhood alopecia areata BK Katakam, B Behera, PSS Ranugha, N Puri, TN Rao, R Gulati, ... Indian Dermatology Online Journal 13 (6), 710-720 , 2022 2022 Citations: 7
Melanogenesis markers expression in premature graying of hair: a cross-sectional study R Pss, SV Madhunapantula, JB Betkerur, VR Bovilla, V Shastry Skin Pharmacology and Physiology 35 (3), 180-186 , 2022 2022 Citations: 6
Non-venereal genital dermatoses and their impact on quality of life—A cross-sectional study N Vinay, PSS Ranugha, JB Betkerur, V Shastry, PK Ashwini Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology 88 (3), 354-359 , 2022 2022 Citations: 22
Long standing untreated multifocal cutaneous tuberculosis with development of breast carcinoma S Srihari, PSS Ranugha, V Shastry, JB Betkerur Journal of Postgraduate Medicine 68 (2), 115-116 , 2022 2022 Citations: 2
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
Phenotypic and dermatological manifestations in Down Syndrome R Sureshbabu, R Kumari, S Ranugha, R Sathyamoorthy, ... Dermatology online journal 17 (2) , 2011 2011 Citations: 63
Is it lucio phenomenon or necrotic erythema nodosum leprosum? PSS Ranugha, L Chandrashekar, R Kumari, DM Thappa, B Badhe Indian journal of dermatology 58 (2), 160 , 2013 2013 Citations: 49
Antihypertensives in dermatology Part II-Cutaneous adverse reactions to antihypertensives PSS Ranugha, JB Betkerur Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology 84, 137 , 2018 2018 Citations: 25
Acrodermatitis continua of hallopeau evolving into generalised pustular psoriasis PSS Ranugha, R Kumari, DM Thappa Indian journal of dermatology 58 (2), 161 , 2013 2013 Citations: 24
Non-venereal genital dermatoses and their impact on quality of life—A cross-sectional study N Vinay, PSS Ranugha, JB Betkerur, V Shastry, PK Ashwini Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology 88 (3), 354-359 , 2022 2022 Citations: 22
Therapeutic plasma exchange as a crisis option in severe pemphigus vulgaris PSS Ranugha, R Kumari, LB Kartha, S Parameswaran, DM Thappa Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology 78, 508 , 2012 2012 Citations: 18
Acrodermatitis enteropathica: the need for sustained high dose zinc supplementation PSS Ranugha, P Sethi, V Shastry Dermatology Online Journal 24 (12) , 2018 2018 Citations: 17
Epidermolysis bullosa pruriginosa showing good response to low‐dose thalidomide–a report of two cases PSS Ranugha, S Mohanan, L Chandrashekar, D Basu, DM Thappa, ... Dermatologic Therapy 27 (1), 60-63 , 2014 2014 Citations: 16
Association of acanthosis nigricans and insulin resistance in Indian children and youth–a HOMA2-IR based cross-sectional study TM Nithun, PSS Ranugha, JB Betkerur, V Shastry Indian dermatology online journal 10 (3), 272-278 , 2019 2019 Citations: 14
Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta following measles rubella vaccine SP Shastry V, Ranugha PSS, Rangappa V Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 86 (4), 398-400 , 2020 2020 Citations: 13
Appearance of verruca over linear verrucous epidermal nevus–An example of locus minoris resistentiae: A report of three cases PSS Ranugha, JB Betkerur, S Veeranna, V Basavaraj Indian Dermatology Online Journal 9 (5), 334-337 , 2018 2018 Citations: 10
Recommendations for management of childhood psoriasis BK Katakam, M Munisamy, TN Rao, MJ Chiramel, M Panda, S Gupta, ... Indian Dermatology Online Journal 12 (Suppl 1), S71-S85 , 2021 2021 Citations: 8
A novel mutation in SLURP1 in patients with mal de Meleda from the Indian subcontinent RGL Nellen, T Claessens, R Subramaniam, J Betkerur, A Prashanth, ... Journal of Dermatological Science 80 (1), 76-78 , 2015 2015 Citations: 8
Severity grading of dermatological emergencies based on comorbidities and systemic involvement: An observational study A Kedia, PSS Ranugha, GS Chethana, GR Kanthraj Archives of Dermatological Research 315 (8), 2333-2338 , 2023 2023 Citations: 7
IADVL SIG Pediatric Dermatology (Academy) recommendations on childhood alopecia areata BK Katakam, B Behera, PSS Ranugha, N Puri, TN Rao, R Gulati, ... Indian Dermatology Online Journal 13 (6), 710-720 , 2022 2022 Citations: 7
Melanogenesis markers expression in premature graying of hair: a cross-sectional study R Pss, SV Madhunapantula, JB Betkerur, VR Bovilla, V Shastry Skin Pharmacology and Physiology 35 (3), 180-186 , 2022 2022 Citations: 6
Antihypertensives in dermatology Part I-Uses of antihypertensives in dermatology PSS Ranugha, JB Betkerur Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology 84, 6 , 2018 2018 Citations: 6
A novel mutation in LAMA3A gene in a child with laryngo-onycho-cutaneous syndrome from the Indian subcontinent P Ranugha, V Shastry Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology 86, 555 , 2020 2020 Citations: 5
Three-part scoring system (tripartite) for teledermatology versus International Contact Dermatitis Research Group criteria to interpret patch test readings: A comparative … K Jasly, S Goyal, PK Ashwini, GR Kanthraj, SG Chethana, S Ranugha Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology 90 (5), 575-580 , 2024 2024 Citations: 3
Scalp dermatoses: the patterns and impact on quality of life S Kalam, J Betkerur, PSS Ranugha, V Shastry Journal of Pakistan Association of Dermatologists 33 (3), 964-971 , 2023 2023 Citations: 3
