News

Blood vessels in face transplant recipients reorganize themselves, according to study findings that could expand the medical community’s understanding of biologic changes that occur following such transplants.

Excessive scarring, particularly hypertrophic scars, can be treated effectively with currently available laser treatments, results of a recent study suggest.

Smartphone applications (apps) have become very popular in mainstream medicine and dermatology. Though the use of apps can and should not replace clinical judgment or physician interaction, smartphone apps can be practical and helpful in facilitating dermatologic care on both sides of the physician-patient spectrum.

Patient compliance to suggested therapy, whether topic or oral, remains the major obstacle in achieving good treatment outcomes in dermatology. Establishing trust with the patient, choosing a treatment plan that the patient likes, and scheduling the follow-up visit soon after first presentation are all key steps the physician can take in helping to improve patient compliance and further, treatment outcomes.

A newly launched diagnostic test by Myriad Genetics can differentiate malignant melanoma from benign skin lesions.

We now have three neurotoxins in our marketplace. Do you feel that these neurotoxins differ, and if so, how? An expert panel addresses the topic at the 2013 Vegas Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology meeting.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam, BTG International) for the treatment of varicose veins.

A dilute bleach solution may be an effective way to treat certain inflammatory skin conditions, according to a new study.

According to an opinion piece published in JAMA Dermatology, when considering the appropriate ages for aesthetic procedures, the question isn’t so much, “What age is too young” as it is, “What age is too old?”

A recent study has determined that some academic journals use social media such as Facebook and Twitter to greatly increase their exposure to a wider audience.

A topical gel, Valchlor (mechlorethamine, Actelion), is now available in the United States for patients with stage 1A and 1B mycosis fungoides-type cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

A new study suggests that by using high-density foam mattresses, nursing homes may not have to turn residents every two hours to prevent pressure ulcers, a practice that has been used for more than 50 years.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved luliconazole (Luzu Cream, 1 percent, Valeant Pharmaceuticals) for the two-week, once-daily treatment of interdigital tinea pedis, tinea cruris, and tinea corporis, caused by the organisms Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum, in patients ages 18 and older.

A new study suggests that laser technology combined with a new topical therapy is effective in treating angiofibromas, characteristically seen in patients with tuberous sclerosis.

A brief, online skin cancer course improved the diagnostic skills of primary care physicians, without impacting dermatology referrals, a recent study suggests.

Lawsuits related to laser procedures performed by non-physicians are on the rise - particularly those performed outside a traditional medical setting.

The acne medication Clindagel (clindamycin phosphate 1 percent) topical gel is now owned by Onset Dermatologics, according to a news release.

Researchers have identified a functional biomarker that can predict whether BRAF-mutant melanomas respond to drugs targeting the gene. The finding could help guide treatment of patients with these cancers.

A new study of twins demonstrates how smoking causes premature aging of the face, causing more wrinkles around the lips and sagging under the eyes.

The sun protection factor (SPF) is not the only measure that should be guiding the formulation of new sunscreens, according to the senior manager, worldwide regulatory affairs, L’Oreal Research and Innovation, Paris.

Many dermatologists have seen the phenomenon, but can’t explain it. It starts when a psoriasis patient undergoes knee joint replacement surgery or has an accident resulting in skin denervation. Amazingly, the skin disease disappears on the treated or injured knee.

Dr. Skin is a nationally known academic researcher. Because of his expertise he is commonly asked for expert testimony in a large number of medical malpractice cases. He recently testified and was asked about his background. He stated that he was a well-known dermatologist who lectures all over the world. This was true.

Although the symptoms of acne and rosacea are well established, clear and definitive etiologies of these conditions have largely been unknown. Recent research, however, has shed new light into the pathophysiology of these conditions, paving the way for more targeted therapies.

Physicians offering rejuvenation treatments to patients in their 50s frequently overlook the lateral temporal-cheek fat pad, says Timothy M. Greco, M.D., an expert in the aging face.

The key to addressing midfacial descent and overall fat loss in patients in their 60s and 70s is staging treatments appropriately and matching patient expectations, according to experts who offered solutions at Cosmetic Boot Camp, held here.

Cancers and precancers of the oral mucosa are notoriously challenging to treat and, according to one expert, a heightened vigilance spanning different specialties remains key in reducing the morbidity and mortality in patients.

Dermatologists are best positioned to treat and educate patients whose tattoos, piercings and other body adornments are causing problems, an expert says.

How do we age? That was the weighty question to kick off a presentation by Barbara A. Gilchrest, M.D., Boston University School of Medicine, who presented at MauiDerm earlier this year.

Except in limited instances, an expert says, topical therapies for medical management of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) work best as adjuncts to surgery.

In preparing and organizing presentations, an expert says, keeping the content fresh and tightly edited helps both audience and speaker.