Pediatric Dermatology

Dr. Ehrlich says that the frequency of sensitization to fragrance allergens is seen in 1 percent to 2 percent of the general population and in eight to 15 of contact dermatitis patients.

National report - Congress surprised healthcare industry experts by its last-minute vote to halt the 5 percent Medicare payment cuts scheduled for Jan. 1.

No court is going to expect Dr. Surgery to force his patient to stay in the office.

Copenhagen, Denmark - A new study suggests that people who suffer burn injuries are not at heightened risk of developing skin cancers.

Auckland, New Zealand ? A University of Auckland study conducted by researchers who have studied the link between teens with acne and those who have suicidal thoughts suggests that all young people seeking treatment for acne should be screened for depression.

London - According to a recent British study, cutaneous abnormalities are more common among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) than in patients with noninflammatory diseases.

Graz, Austria - A recently published study says that marathoners may be subject to an increased risk of getting skin cancer.

Taking a kinder, gentler approach to facial cleansing can help to avoid some self-inflicted woes.

An inflammatory skin disease shared by the likes of Princess Di, Bill Clinton and W.C.Fields, rosacea can start innocently with a flush on your cheeks that seems to last just a little too long. You may notice it after working out, eating spicy foods or even sipping a glass of red wine.

Treatment with a topical corticosteroid under Saran Wrap occlusion ... is dramatically effective in achieving rapid resolution of severe asteatosis.

National report - The Food and Drug Administration's plans for 2007 and beyond include greater attention to postmarket risks and more timely reviews of medical devices, including those used for plastic and reconstructive surgery, spokesmen say.

Q What is the best way to remove false eyelashes without damaging the natural eyelashes?

It's doubtful the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) could have picked a better spokeswoman for its recently launched PSA campaign to educate teens about the risks of indoor tanning.

And, says the AAD, a 2005 study shows that regular exposure to tanning beds significantly elevates a person's risk for developing melanoma.

Although benzoyl peroxide has been available for consumer use for three decades without any major reported side effects, we add a few comments regarding the safety of benzoyl peroxide at this time.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Leon Kircik is replying to a clarification from Chester Valley Pharmaceuticals that ran in our November issue on an article in the October issue, "Vehicles often drive treatment of difficult ailments." Atopiclair is Chester Valley Pharmaceutical's product. While Dr. Kircik was not the author of the article (he was interviewed by Senior Staff Correspondent John Jesitus) he did see the article before it went to press for his approval, as is Dermatology Times' standard practice with clinical articles.

In his Guest Commentary "Managing rosacea; practitioners discuss trends" (September 2006), Dr. William Baum presents his findings after moderating advisory panels across the country consisting of specialists talking about the many facets of rosacea.

Bochum, Germany-Results of a recent study conducted at Ruhr University here suggest that the corticosteroid betamethasone is more effective for treatment of intertriginous psoriasis than is pimecrolimus or calcipotriol.

Washington-The federal government's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommended that Americans aged 60 and above get anti-shingles vaccinations.

The saying "like father, like son" takes on a new twist when you meet the Orentreich family. Norman Orentreich, M.D., is the patriarch of a dermatology practice that includes his son and daughter.

Toronto - Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) may cause necrotizing fasciitis, especially in areas where community acquired MRSA is prevalent, researchers say.

On behalf of the American Academy of Dermatology, I would like to respond to a letter to the editor from Michael Franzblau, M.D., regarding the Academy's efforts to restrict access to indoor tanning equipment. ("Cannot fathom AAD/AADA indifference toward indoor tanning regs," September, 2006). The letter's criticisms are not supported by the facts, and I appreciate the opportunity to set the record straight.

National report When it comes to wound healing, scabs are out and wound hydration is in, says Susan H. Weinkle, M.D., a Bradenton, Fla., dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of South Florida, Tampa, Fla.

"Usually, when kids go to the clinic, especially if they're little, they get so many vaccinations that when one takes off their clothes, they think they're getting a shot," explains Papri Sarkar, M.D., a third-year resident in Harvard's dermatology training program. "Also, I try to avoid using gloves unless they're clinically necessary."

When patients miss appointments, what should a practice do?