WO2019068296A1

WO2019068296A1 - Pumice device for psoriasis

Info

Publication number: WO2019068296A1
Application number: PCT/DK2018/050242
Authority: WO
Inventors: Flemming Licht
Original assignee: Unigroup Aps
Priority date: 2017-10-03
Filing date: 2018-10-01
Publication date: 2019-04-11
Also published as: EP3691753A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for the alleviation of symptoms of psoriasis. In particular, it concerns a soft material, such as a sponge, having a surface at least partly covered with or comprising pumice for the topical treatment of psoriasis.

Description

Pumice Device for Psoriasis

The present invention relates to a device for the alleviation of symptoms of psoriasis. In particular, it concerns a soft material, such as a sponge, having a surface, wherein said sponge is at least partly covered with and/or comprises pumice, for the topical treatment of psoriasis.

Technical Background

The patent US 3,383,280 relates to a dermatological abradant stick-type applicator, which purportedly is useful in treating skin blemishes. The applicator comprises a solid wax matrix containing an antibacterial and an abradant.

Summary of the invention

It has been possible to develop a device which may be used for abrading skin affected by psoriasis. A device is provided which upon use surprisingly suppresses the production of psoriasis scales and itching associated with psoriasis. In particular, it has been possible to provide a device which does not scar the skin. As opposed to the technical background, it has surprisingly been possible to provide a device which may be used without any additional pharmaceutical or cosmetical substances, i.e. a device of the present invention may be used as a stand-alone device, without the need of pharmaceutical or cosmetical substances.

A device of the invention surprisingly exhibits a negative Koebner effect in preliminary experiments. Psoriasis is not spread upon use of the device. Further, use of the device does not provoke bleeding. This is the case upon use of e.g. conventional sand paper.

Psoriasis is often associated with deficiencies in different vitamins and minerals. The present invention may provide a device further comprising vitamins and/or minerals which help in the treatment, prophylaxis and/or amelioration of psoriasis or symptoms associated with psoriasis and/or dry skin.

The present invention may provide a device wherein said device only requires a small volume under storage and transport and then expands, e.g. upon soaking in water, right before use. This makes storage and transport of the device easier.

According to an aspect, the invention concerns a device according to claim 1.

According to another aspect, the invention concerns a use of the device for the treatment, prophylaxis and/or amelioration of psoriasis or symptoms associated with psoriasis and/or dry skin. Detailed Disclosure

According to different embodiments of the invention, the invention concerns the embodiments presented in the claims.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device for the treatment, prophylaxis and/or amelioration of psoriasis or symptoms associated with psoriasis; said device comprising a body having a surface, wherein at least part of said surface comprises, consists of and/or is covered with an abrasive material. According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, said device comprising a body having a surface, wherein part of said surface is removable, resulting in the appearance of a new, fresh surface. The outer part of the device comprising at least part of the surface may be removed during normal use due to wear and/or tear, or it may be removed deliberately between uses, in order to present a new, fresh surface to be used. This may provide a device which may be used for a longer period of time.

An abrasive material may contain particles, for example, quartz sand, almond bran, polyethylene, aluminium trioxide, ground fruit cores (walnut or apricot shells), salt crystals, jojoba leaves, ground sepia shells, pumice, zeolites, and silicon dioxide.

An abrasive material may contain abrasive fibres, such as natural or synthetic fibres which have abrasive properties as a result of the nature of their surface, such as hardness or structure, or as a result of their dimensions, such as, for example, hemp, sisal, and coconut fibres.

An abrasive material may contain a mixture of particles and fibres.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material has a Mohs hardness of 4-8.5, preferably 4.5-8, more preferred 5-7.5, preferably 5.5-7, more preferred 6- 6.5.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material has a melting point of 250-4000, preferably 500-3500, more preferred 750-3000, preferably 1000-2500, more preferred 1200-2000, preferably 1400-1800, more preferred 1500-1700, preferably about 1600 °C.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises or consists of an amorphous material.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises or consists of pumice.

While pumice is preferred other abrasive materials may be used. Particularly preferred are abrasive materials with abrasive properties similar or identical to the pumice used in the present application.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the fraction of said abrasive material which passes through a 300 micron sieve is 0-100, preferably 5-95, more preferred 10-90, preferably 15-85, more preferred 20-80, preferably 25-75, more preferred 30-70, preferably 35-65, more preferred 40-60, preferably 45-55 more preferred about 50 % by weight of the total amount of abrasive material.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the fraction of said abrasive material which passes through a 400 micron sieve is 50-100, preferably 70-99.5, more preferred 80- 99, preferably 90-98.5 more preferred about 98 % by weight of the total amount of abrasive material. According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the fraction of said abrasive material which passes through a 200 micron sieve is 0-50, preferably 0.5-30, more preferred 1-20, preferably 1.5-10 more preferred about 2 % by weight of the total amount of abrasive material. According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises 10-100, preferably 20-98, more preferred 30-95, preferably 40-90, more preferred 50-86, preferably 60-83, more preferred 65-80, preferably 70-78, more preferred 72-76, preferably about 74 weight% Si0₂.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-100, preferably 2-80, more preferred 4-60, preferably 6-40, more preferred 8-30, preferably 10-20, more preferred about 12 weight% Al₂0₃.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-50, preferably 1-30, more preferred 2-20, preferably 3-10, more preferred 3.5-5, preferably about 4 weight% K₂0.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-50, preferably 1-30, more preferred 2-20, preferably 3-10, more preferred 3.5-5, preferably about 4 weight% Na₂0.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-50, preferably 0.2-30, more preferred 0.4-20, preferably 0.6-10, more preferred 0.8-6, preferably 1-4, more preferred 1.2-2, preferably about 1 weight% Fe₂0₃.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material has a loss on ignition of 0-50, preferably 1-30, more preferred 2-20, preferably 3-10, more preferred 3.5-5, preferably about 4 weight%.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said body comprises or consists of a soft material, allowing said body to adapt its shape to curves and crevices of the body of a patient.

Devices for the removal of skin for the purposes of the present specification may be sponges, woven or nonwoven textiles supplied with abrasive particles, textiles containing abrasive fibres or particles, such as wash gloves with or without coconut or hemp fibres, sea cucumber skeleton (luffa), konjac {Amorphophallus konjac) and coarsely woven textiles.

The term "sponge" may in general refer to either of the two different groups defined below:

1. A member of the phylum Porifera, being a multicellular parazoan organism that has a body full of pores and channels allowing water to circulate through them, consisting of jelly-like mesohyl sandwiched between two thin layers of cells.

2. An item consisting of a soft, porous material that may find use as a cleaning aid. Sponges are especially good at absorbing water and water-based solutions.

Within the present disclosure, the term "sponge" refers to the second of these groups, namely an item consisting of a soft, porous material that may find use as a cleaning aid. Sponges are especially good at absorbing water and water-based solutions.

The term "natural sponge" may in general refer to either of the two different groups defined below: 1. Any product made of the skeletons of sea sponges in the phylum Porifera. These products are made up of a material called spongin. Spongin is a collagen protein which creates a fibrous structure for the organism.

2. Any sponge made of a natural and/or naturally occurring material.

Within the present disclosure, the term "natural sponge" refers to the second of these groups, namely any sponge made of a natural and/or naturally occurring material.

Sponges may be natural or artificial. Natural sponges are, for example, konjac sponges, coral sponges or pumice sponges. Artificial sponges are, for example, large-pored viscose sponges, velour sponges, polyester sponges or polyether sponges. They have a mostly irregular cell structure and pores of varying size. They are flexible and elastic.

A konjac sponge is a sponge manufactured of Amorphophallus konjac.

A konjac sponge is a sponge manufactured of Amorphophallus konjac and/or calcium hydroxide and/or oxide calcium.

The term "textiles" refer to, but is not necessarily limited to, wipes, nonwovens, felt, knits, wovens, pads, but also cords, strings, ropes and threads.

A foam is a substance that is formed by trapping pockets of gas in a liquid or solid. In most foams, the volume of gas is large, with thin films of liquid or solid separating the regions of gas. Foams are examples of dispersed media. The term "foam" may also refer to anything that is analogous to such a foam, such as quantum foam, polyurethane foam (foam rubber), XPS foam, Polystyrene, phenolic, or many other manufactured foams.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns the device, wherein the body comprises or consists of a sponge or foam, preferably a sponge.

Sponges are commonly made from e.g. Amorphophallus konjac, cellulose wood fibers or foamed plastic polymers. Some natural sponges are still sold, but most are now used either as body or facial sponges (bath sponges) or as tools for sponge painting. Bath sponges help cleanse the skin by scraping away the dead skin and washing away dirt.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge expands upon soaking in water.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge expands with 1- 100, preferably 5-90, more preferred 10-80, preferably 15-75, more preferred 20-70, preferably 25- 65, more preferred 25-60, preferably 30-60, more preferred 40-60% upon soaking in water.

Three other categories of widely available synthetic sponges are low-density polyether (known as the rainbow packs of non-absorbent sponges), PVA (a highly absorbent material), and polyester.

A polyether sponge has a low density and the tensile force is not strong. This type of sponge is generally used in packaging, toys, clothing and home furnishing.

A PVA Sponge, also referred to as Polyvinyl Alcohol (formalized) Sponge, is a high tech plastic sponge that has many of the same properties and qualities of a natural sea sponge. Static-free and lint-free, PVA Sponge is hydrophilic with porosities from 55% to 95%. The surfaces of each sponge can be engineered for specific applications - from very smooth pores to large open pores like sea sponges. All deliver an exceptionally high volume and speed of absorption, holding many times the volume of liquid compared to a natural sea sponge. Additionally the sponge is highly resistant against strong acid, strong alkaline, heat and hot water. Elasticity and tensile properties provide durability and help safe application without giving any harmful effects. On the microscopic level, a PVA sponge consists interconnected hollow cells and 90% of its volume is air.

Polyester sponges are subdivided into a variety of types, some of which are reticulated (artificially broken-in) for ease of use. One type, double-blown polyester, has high water-retention ability approaching or equaling that of PVA sponges, but with visible pores and more diverse uses.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge is an artificial sponge or a natural sponge.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge is a natural sponge.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge is an artificial sponge.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is selected among a konjac sponge, a cellulose wood fiber sponge, a foamed plastic polymer sponge, a low- density polyether sponge, a PVA sponge, a polyester sponge, or a mixture of any of these.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge is made from a material selected among Amorphophallus konjac, konjac glucomannan, cellulose, melamine, animal, and loofa.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, further comprising calcium hydroxide and/or oxide calcium

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein the sponge comprises at least one material selected among Amorphophallus Konjac, calcium hydroxide and oxide calcium.

According to US 2,609,347 a PVA sponge with interconnected pores may be made by reacting polyvinyl alcohol and formaldehyde. The procedure further includes providing an aqueous solution of formaldehyde, polyvinyl alcohol containing less than 10% residual hydrolyzable material in the molecule, an acid catalyst, in which the acid functional group is inorganic and have a dissociation constant of at least 10^"2 as well as a froth-stabilizing wetting agent, which is soluble in and substantially stable in the resulting solution.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is made by reacting polyvinyl alcohol, preferably in the form of a solution containing less than 10% residual hydrolyzable material in the molecule, with formaldehyde, preferably in an aqueous solution.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is a PVA sponge made by utilizing an acid catalyst, preferably comprising an inorganic acid functional group with a dissociation constant of at least 10^"2. According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is a PVA sponge made in a solution comprising a froth-stabilizing wetting agent, which preferably is soluble and substantially stable in the said solution.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is made from a material selected among cellulose, melamine, animal, and loofa.

Viscose is an alkaline solution of alkali cellulose xanthogenate which can be mixed with a pore- forming material and reinforcing fibers to produce cellulose sponges according to US 2,914,493.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is made from a mixture of viscose, a pore-forming material and reinforcing fibers.

Pore-forming materials are salt crystals such as sodium sulfate decahydrate or other substances which melt or dissolve easily. The pore-forming substance may be selected as to size and shape so as to produce a texture very similar to natural sponges. Ordinarily the sodium sulfate decahydrate crystals are present in the sponge-forming material in an amount about 50-90% by weight thereof, although the amount may vary considerably.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is from a mixture containing sulfate decahydrate as a pore-forming material, preferably in a concentration of 50-90% by weight.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is from a mixture containing reinforcing fibers such as jute, hackled flax or hemp, rayon, cotton, and polyester fibers. According to US 2,914,493 the total fiber content may amount to 0.5-3.0% of the total sponge forming mixture. Larger contents of reinforcing fibers tend to make a stronger sponge at the expense of absorbent ability. Below 0.5% fiber content the strength of the sponge decreases.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is from a mixture with a fiber content of 0.5-3.0% of the total sponge forming mixture.

According to US 2,914,493 a very strong sponge having greatly improved wear resistance without at the same time losing its water absorption qualities is produced when about 5-30% of the reinforcing fiber consists of polyester fibers. When less than 5% by weight of the fibers in the artificial sponge consist of polyester fibers, the artificial sponge shows little improvement in resiliency and resistance over known sponges. On the other hand, when more than 30% by weight of the fibers in the artificial sponge consist of polyester fibers, the desired sponge properties are not proportionally enhanced.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said sponge is from a mixture containing reinforcing fibers, wherein 5-30% of the reinforcing fibers consist of polyester fibers.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said device further comprises at least one mineral or vitamin.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said device further comprises at least one compound selected from the group consisting of sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, copper, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin Bl, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, pantothenate, niacin, fatty acids, folic acid, dietary fibers and amino acids.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said body has a

hemispherical, semicircular, circular, elliptic, rectangular or quadratic cross section.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said body has a rounded upper part and a flat bottom part.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said body has a longest longitudinal length of 2-25, preferably 3-20, more preferred 5-15, preferably about 10 cm. This embodiment provides a size which is easy to handle with one hand.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein at least part of said device comprises, consists of and/or is covered with an abrasive material.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material is adhered or bond to said body with an adhesive or where said abrasive material is incorporated in the sponge.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material is adhered or bond to said body with an adhesive.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said abrasive material is incorporated in the sponge.

Adhesive is used in the literature about glue, cement, mucilage, or paste, and is any substance which may be applied to one surface, or both surfaces, of two separate items that binds them together and resists their separation.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive is a paste. Paste is used here about a soft, smooth, and plastic material or preparation.

The paste preferably allows mixing with abrasive particles or fibers. After mixing, the paste mixture may be applied to the body of the device providing a cover of paste mixture of a few millimeters, such as 3 mm.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive is selected among thermosetting, thermoplastic, elastomeric and alloy adhesives.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive is selected among elastomeric and alloy adhesives.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises or is selected among the group consisting of Cyanoacrylates, Epoxy, Polyester, Polyimide, Urea- formaldehyde, Polybenzimidazole, Melamine-formaldehyde, Acrylic, Resorcinol, Acrylic acid diester, Resorcinol-phenol-formaldehyde, Cellulose acetate, Polyvinyl acetals, Cellulose acetate butyrate, Polyvinyl alcohol, Cellulose nitrate, Polyamide, Polyvinyl acetate, Polyvinyl chloride, Phenoxy,

Polyvinylidene chloride, Natural rubber, Styrene-butadiene rubber, Reclaimed rubber, Polyurethane, Butyl rubber, Polysulfide, Polyisobutylene, Silicone, Nitrile rubber, Neoprene, Epoxy-phenolic, Neoprene-phenolic, Epoxy-polysulfide, Vinyl-phenolic, Epoxy-nylon, Polyvinyl acetal-phenolic, and Nitrile-phenolic.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises or is selected among the group consisting of Natural rubber, Styrene-butadiene rubber, Reclaimed rubber, Polyurethane, Butyl rubber, Polysulfide, Polyisobutylene, Silicone, Nitrile rubber, Neoprene, Epoxy- phenolic, Neoprene-phenolic, Epoxy-polysulfide, Vinyl-phenolic, Epoxy-nylon, Polyvinyl acetal- phenolic, and Nitrile-phenolic.

According to "Adhesives Technology Handbook" (2nd Edition, Ed. Sina Ebnesajjad) adhesives may be classified from a number of points. Adhesives are either produced from a natural source such as starch glue or, as is the case with the majority of consumptions, they are synthesized from basic hydrocarbons. The synthetic group consists of thermoplastic and thermosetting adhesives, both of which follow the definitions used in plastics for thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers.

Adhesives may inter alia be classified by chemical composition as thermosetting, thermoplastic, elastomeric, or combinations of these types (alloys). The following adhesives are mentioned as examples of thermosetting adhesives: Cyanoacrylates, Epoxy, Polyester, Polyimide, Urea- formaldehyde, Polybenzimidazole, Melamine-formaldehyde, Acrylic, Resorcinol, Acrylic acid diester, and Resorcinol-phenol-formaldehyde. The following adhesives are mentioned as examples of thermoplastic adhesives: Cellulose acetate, Polyvinyl acetals, Cellulose acetate butyrate, Polyvinyl alcohol, Cellulose nitrate, Polyamide, Polyvinyl acetate, Acrylic, Polyvinyl chloride, Phenoxy, and Polyvinylidene chloride. The following adhesives are mentioned as examples of elastomeric adhesives: Natural rubber, Styrene-butadiene rubber, Reclaimed rubber, Polyurethane, Butyl rubber, Polysulfide, Polyisobutylene, Silicone, Nitrile rubber, and Neoprene. The following adhesives are mentioned as examples of alloy adhesives: Epoxy-phenolic, Neoprene-phenolic, Epoxy-polysulfide, Vinyl-phenolic, Epoxy-nylon, Polyvinyl acetal-phenolic, and Nitrile-phenolic.

According to embodiments of the present invention, such adhesives may be used for the present invention. In particular elastomeric adhesives or adhesive alloys are preferred.

Adhesives can be subdivided by their form such as liquid, powder, film, or paste. Paste adhesives have high viscosities to allow application on vertical surfaces with little tendency to sag or drip. These bodied adhesives can serve as gap fillers and sealants.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive is a paste adhesive.

Further examples of adhesives may be found in references such as "Handbook of Adhesives and Sealants" (Edward M. Petrie) and "Handbook of Adhesive Technology" (Second Edition, Ed. by A. Pizzi).

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive has a natural or synthetic source of origin.

Adhesives may contain a number of components in addition to the adhesive materials. A hardener is a substance added to an adhesive to promote the curing reaction by taking part through catalysis or cross-linking. According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises a hardener.

Solvents are sometimes used to reduce the viscosity of the adhesive to enhance its spreadability. Often a mixture of solvents is used to achieve the desired processability characteristics such as controlled solvent evaporation and removal. This can be accomplished by combining solvents with variable volatilities.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises a solvent.

Diluents are liquid ingredients added to an adhesive to reduce the concentration of the binder component. Diluents are added principally to lower the viscosity and to modify the processing conditions of some adhesives. Reactive diluents do not evaporate, as would solvents. They react with the binder during the cure cycle and are incorporated in the cured adhesive.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises a diluents.

Fillers are relatively neutral substances added to the adhesive to improve its working properties, strength, permanence, or other qualities. Fillers are also intended to reduce materials costs.

Considerable changes can be made in the properties of an adhesive by selective use of fillers. Fillers are used to modify adhesives to govern such properties as thermal expansion, electrical and thermal conductivity, shrinkage, and heat resistance.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises a filler.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive comprises additives such as plasticizers, accelerators, inhibitors, retarders, tackifiers, thickeners, film formers, antioxidants, antifungal agents, and/or surfactants.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive and said abrasive material are intimately mixed, preferably before application to said body.

A device according to the present invention is obtainable by mixing an adhesive with abrasive material, and applying the mixture to a body.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a device, wherein said adhesive constitute a layer with a thickness of 0.1-50, preferably 0.2-30, more preferred 0.5-20, preferably 1-10, more preferred 1.5-5, preferably 2-4, more preferred about 3 mm.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns a use of a device of the invention for the treatment, prophylaxis and/or amelioration of psoriasis or symptoms associated with psoriasis.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns the use, wherein said use is topical use.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns the use on a site selected among the group consisting of Armpits, Elbows, Feet, Groin, Hands, Knees, Lower back, Most of the body, Nails, Scalp, Skin folds around the genitals and buttocks, Thighs, Trunk, Under the breasts, behind and inside the ears, and Upper arms.

According to an embodiment, the invention concerns the use, wherein the psoriasis is selected among the group consisting of Erythrodermic Psoriasis, Guttate Psoriasis, Inverse Psoriasis, Nail Psoriasis, Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Pustular Psoriasis.

According to an embodiment an abrasive material, such as pumice, according to the invention, may be used incorporated in a foam, a creme, a shampoo, or a similar composition, for the treatment or prophylaxis of an indication mentioned in the present application, in particular psoriasis.

Figures

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a device (10) according to the invention. The device comprises a body (12), wherein a part (14) of the surface of the body is covered with pumice particles.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a device (10) according to the invention. The device comprises a body (12) having a round upper part and a flat bottom part, wherein a part (14) of the surface of the body comprises pumice particles.

Fig. 3 shows a plot of the particle size distribution showing the cumulative percentage passing by weight versus micron.

All cited references are incorporated by reference.

The accompanying Figures and Examples are provided to explain rather than limit the present invention. It will be clear to the person skilled in the art that aspects, embodiments and claims of the present invention may be combined.

Unless otherwise mentioned, all percentages are in weight/weight. Unless otherwise mentioned, all measurements are conducted under standard conditions (ambient temperature and pressure). Example 1

A mixture was made of pumice and a paste of a polymer dispersion. The paste is a ready-mixed waterproofing material based on polymer dispersion. It is usually used as a sealing membrane. In the present example it is used as an adhesive.

The pumice had a Mohs hardness of 6-6.5, and a melting point of about 1600°C, and carries the trade name NMP-16 from Richard Baker Harrison ltd. According to the product description, pumice is a light weight natural alumina silicate of volcanic origin, light grey in colour. The pumice is further described as an inert, pozzalanic, foamed material exhibiting high mechanical strength and low density.

A chemical analysis of the pumice showed: Si0₂ 74.13%

Al₂0₃ 11.8%

Fe₂0₃ 1.39%

MgO 0.02%

CaO 0.32%

Na₂0 3.50%

K₂0 4.33%

MnO 0.05%

Ti0₂ 0.08%

Loss on ignition 4.28%

Table 1

A typical gradation analysis of the pumice powder type NMP-16:

Table 2

A plot of the particle size distribution showing the cumulative percentage passing by weight versus micron, indicates that about 50% by weight would pass a sieve size of 300 microns.

An oblong sponge with a cylindrical cross section was covered, on one of the surfaces having a cylindrical shape, with a 3 mm thick layer of the mixture of pumice and paste. The mixture of pumice and paste was allowed to cure. After curing, the sponge was used efficaciously topically on spots of skin affected by psoriasis for the alleviation of the symptoms of psoriasis, without the application of additional pharmaceutical substances topically. Surprisingly, this use left no scars and removed scales without itching.

Example 2

A mixture was made of pumice and konjac. The mixture was poured into a mold and allowed to solidify into a hardened texture followed by alkali heat solidification to complete the hardening process. The mixture was placed in a tank of water to slowly cool down. Afterwards, the mixture was subjected to repeated cycles of freeze drying and thawing yielding the konjac sponges. The konjac sponges were washed and sterilized.

A chemical analysis of the pumice showed the same as described under Example 1.

The obtained konjac sponges were suitable for topical use in the treatment of skin affected by psoriasis for the alleviation of the symptoms of psoriasis, without the application of additional pharmaceutical substances topically.

Claims

1. A device (10) for the treatment, prophylaxis and/or amelioration of psoriasis or symptoms associated with psoriasis;

said device comprising a body (12) having a surface, wherein at least part (14) of said surface comprises, consists of and/or is covered with an abrasive material.

2. The device (10) according to claim 1, wherein said abrasive material has a Mohs hardness of 4-8.5, preferably 4.5-8, more preferred 5-7.5, preferably 5.5-7, more preferred 6-6.5.

3. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material has a melting point of 250-4000, preferably 500-3500, more preferred 750-3000, preferably 1000-2500, more preferred 1200-2000, preferably 1400-1800, more preferred 1500-1700, preferably about 1600 °C.

4. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises or consists of an amorphous material.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises or consists of pumice.

6. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fraction of said

abrasive material which passes through a 300 micron sieve is 0-100, preferably 5-95, more preferred 10-90, preferably 15-85, more preferred 20-80, preferably 25-75, more preferred 30-70, preferably 35-65, more preferred 40-60, preferably 45-55 more preferred about 50 % by weight of the total amount of abrasive material.

7. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fraction of said

abrasive material which passes through a 400 micron sieve is 50-100, preferably 70-99.5, more preferred 80-99, preferably 90-98.5 more preferred about 98 % by weight of the total amount of abrasive material.

8. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fraction of said

abrasive material which passes through a 200 micron sieve is 0-50, preferably 0.5-30, more preferred 1-20, preferably 1.5-10 more preferred about 2 % by weight of the total amount of abrasive material.

9. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises 10-100, preferably 20-98, more preferred 30-95, preferably 40-90, more preferred 50-86, preferably 60-83, more preferred 65-80, preferably 70-78, more preferred 72-76, preferably about 74 weight% Si0₂.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-100, preferably 2-80, more preferred 4-60, preferably 6-40, more preferred 8- preferably 10-20, more preferred about 12 weight% Al₂0₃.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-50, preferably 1-30, more preferred 2-20, preferably 3-10, more preferred 3.5-5, preferably about 4 weight% K₂0.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-50, preferably 1-30, more preferred 2-20, preferably 3-10, more preferred 3 preferably about 4 weight% Na₂0.

13. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material comprises 0-50, preferably 0.2-30, more preferred 0.4-20, preferably 0.6-10, more preferred 0.8-6, preferably 1-4, more preferred 1.2-2, preferably about 1 weight% Fe₂0₃.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material ha a loss on ignition of 0-50, preferably 1-30, more preferred 2-20, preferably 3-10, more preferred 3.5-5, preferably about 4 weight%.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said body comprises or consists of a soft material, allowing said body to adapt its shape to curves and crevices of th body of a patient.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said body comprises or consists of a sponge or foam, preferably a sponge.

17. The device (10) according to claim 16, wherein said sponge is an artificial or natural sponge.

18. The device (10) according to claim 16-17, wherein said sponge is a natural sponge.

19. The device (10) according to a any of the claims 16-18, wherein said sponge is selected

among a konjac sponge, cellulose wood fiber sponge, a foamed plastic polymer sponge, a low-density polyether sponge, a PVA sponge, a polyester sponge, or a mixture of any of th

20. The device (10) according to any of the claims 16-19, wherein said sponge comprises a

material selected among Amorphophallus konjac, konjac glucomannan, cellulose, melamine, animal, and loofa.

21. The device (10) according to any of the claims 16-20, further comprising calcium hydroxide and/or oxide calcium

The device (10) according to any of the claims 16-21, wherein said sponge expands upon soaking in water.

The device (10) according to claim 22, wherein said sponge expands with 1-100, preferably 5- 90, more preferred 10-80, preferably 15-75, more preferred 20-70, preferably 25-65, more preferred 25-60, preferably 30-60, more preferred 40-60% upon soaking in water.

24. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one mineral or vitamin.

The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one compound selected from the group consisting of sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, copper, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin Bl, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, pantothenate, niacin, fatty acids, folic acid, dietary fibers and amino acids.

26. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said body has a hemispherical, semicircular, circular, elliptic, rectangular or quadratic cross section.

27. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said device has a rounded upper part and a flat bottom part.

28. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said body has a longest longitudinal length of 2-25, preferably 3-20, more preferred 5-15, preferably about 10 cm.

29. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of said device comprises, consists of and/or is covered with an abrasive material.

30. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said abrasive material is adhered or bond to said body with an adhesive.

31. The device (10) according to claim 30, wherein said adhesive is a paste.

32. The device (10) according to claim 30 or 31, wherein said adhesive is selected among

thermosetting, thermoplastic, elastomeric and alloy adhesives.

The device (10) according to any of the claim 30 - 32, wherein said adhesive is selected among elastomeric and alloy adhesives.

34. The device (10) according to any of the claim 30 - 33, wherein said adhesive comprises or is selected among the group consisting of Cyanoacrylates, Epoxy, Polyester, Polyimide, Urea- formaldehyde, Polybenzimidazole, Melamine-formaldehyde, Acrylic, Resorcinol, Acrylic acid diester, Resorcinol-phenol-formaldehyde, Cellulose acetate, Polyvinyl acetals, Cellulose acetate butyrate, Polyvinyl alcohol, Cellulose nitrate, Polyamide, Polyvinyl acetate, Polyvinyl chloride, Phenoxy, Polyvinylidene chloride, Natural rubber, Styrene-butadiene rubber, Reclaimed rubber, Polyurethane, Butyl rubber, Polysulfide, Polyisobutylene, Silicone, Nitrile rubber, Neoprene, Epoxy-phenolic, Neoprene-phenolic, Epoxy-polysulfide, Vinyl-phenolic, Epoxy-nylon, Polyvinyl acetal-phenolic, and Nitrile-phenolic. The device (10) according to any of the claim 30 - 34, wherein said adhesive comprises or is selected among the group consisting of Natural rubber, Styrene-butadiene rubber,

Reclaimed rubber, Polyurethane, Butyl rubber, Polysulfide, Polyisobutylene, Silicone, Nitrile rubber, Neoprene, Epoxy-phenolic, Neoprene-phenolic, Epoxy-polysulfide, Vinyl-phenolic, Epoxy-nylon, Polyvinyl acetal-phenolic, and Nitrile-phenolic.

36. The device (10) according to claim 30 or 35, wherein said adhesive and said abrasive material are intimately mixed, preferably before application to said body.

The device (10) according to any of the claim 30 - 36, wherein said adhesive constitute a layer with a thickness of 0.1-50, preferably 0.2-30, more preferred 0.5-20, preferably 1-10, more preferred 1.5-5, preferably 2-4, more preferred about 3 mm.

38. A use of the device according to any of the preceding claims for the treatment, prophylaxis and/or amelioration of psoriasis or symptoms associated with psoriasis.

39. The use according to claim 38, wherein said use is topical use.

The use according to claim 38 - 39, for use on a site selected among the group consisting of Armpits, Elbows, Feet, Groin, Hands, Knees, Lower back, Most of the body, Nails, Scalp, Skin folds around the genitals and buttocks, Thighs, Trunk, Under the breasts, and Upper arms.

The use according to claim 38 - 40, wherein the psoriasis is selected among the group consisting of Erythrodermic Psoriasis, Guttate Psoriasis, Inverse Psoriasis, Nail Psoriasis, Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Pustular Psoriasis.