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Adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide 2.5%: a novel combination for treatment of acne vulgaris.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Topical products commonly used to treat acne include retinoids and antimicrobials, due to their effects on different components of pathogenesis. Accordingly, a fixed combination of adapalene 0.1% and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) 2.5% was developed (EpiduoTM, Galderma) and was approved by the US FDA in December 2008 for the treatment of acne. The superior efficacy of this combination was demonstrated in 2 large randomized controlled trials. This paper reviews the evidence for efficacy and tolerability of the combination of the retinoid adapalene 0.1% and BPO 2.5%, a once-daily gel formulation for the treatment of acne. PM...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - July 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Tan JK Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Methyl Aminolevulinate-PDT for Actinic Keratoses and Superficial Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Methyl aminolevulinate-hydrochloride cream (Metvix(R) [in Canada] and Metvixia(R) [in the US], Galderma) in combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT) provides an effective treatment option for actinic keratoses (AKs), superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC), and Bowen's disease (BD). Good clinical outcomes have been reported in the literature. Complete responses (CRs) in AK range from 69% to 93% at 3 months. In sBCC, reported CR rates were from 85% to 93% at 3 months and almost on par with cryosurgery at 60 months (75% vs. 74%). In BD, CR rates were 93% at 3 months and 68% at 2 years. Current evidence has shown that ...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - July 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Ortiz-Policarpio B, Lui H Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Prevention of infrared-a radiation mediated detrimental effects in human skin.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Photoaging and skin damage that is caused by solar radiation is well known. We have recently learned that within the solar spectrum this damage not only results from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, but also from longer wavelengths, in particular near infrared radiation. Accordingly, infrared radiation (IR) has been shown to alter the collagen equilibrium of the dermal extracellular matrix in at least 2 ways: (1) by leading to an increased expression of the collagen degrading enzyme matrixmetalloproteinase-1 while (2) decreasing the de novo synthesis of the collagen itself. Infrared-A (IRA) radiation exposure, therefore, in...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - June 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Schroeder P, Calles C, Krutmann J Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Safety, Efficacy & Recurrence Rates of Imiquimod Cream 5% for Treatment of Anogenital Warts.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Safety, Efficacy & Recurrence Rates of Imiquimod Cream 5% for Treatment of Anogenital Warts. Skin Therapy Lett. 2009 Jun;14(5):1-3 Authors: Diamantis ML, Bartlett BL, Tyring SK Imiquimod 5% cream (AldaraTM, Graceway Pharmaceuticals) is an immune response modifier used for the topical treatment of anogenital warts in non-HIV-infected patients. Several randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that imiquimod 5% cream is a safe and efficacious treatment. Current data regarding efficacy shows that complete clearance of warts occurred in up to 50% of patients treated with imiquimod 5% cream applied once-dai...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - June 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Diamantis ML, Bartlett BL, Tyring SK Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Use of tacrolimus ointment in vitiligo alone or in combination therapy.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Current treatments for vitiligo are largely unsatisfactory. Topical corticosteroids and phototherapy (narrow-band UVB and psoralen+UVA) are the most prescribed, however, these therapies are often not effective and have important side-effect, especially when used for a long time. Many studies have reported the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus ointment in adults and children with vitiligo, particularly when located on the head and neck. Successful treatment is possible when it is combined with other therapies, such as narrow-band UVB, microphototherapy, helium-neon laser, or narrow-band excimer laser. PMID: 19585060...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - May 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Berti S, Buggiani G, Lotti T Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Treatments for scalp psoriasis with emphasis on calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate gel (xamiol(r)).Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Scalp psoriasis occurs in 50%-75% of patients with plaque psoriasis. It may be the only area of the body affected, or it may be associated with disease elsewhere, including psoriatic arthritis. Most cases are treated topically, usually with steroids and/or calcipotriol. In 2008, Health Canada and the US FDA approved a stable, once-daily 2-compound gel containing calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate (Xamiol(R), LEO Pharma; Taclonex Scalp(R), Warner Chilcott). This once-daily therapy improves patient quality of life with a quick onset of action and greater efficacy than monotherapy with either ingredient or twice ...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - May 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Guenther LC Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Treatments for pityriasis rosea.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Pityriasis rosea is a common skin disorder in children and young adults. It is a self-limiting disease with symptoms that are typically mild and tolerable. Consequently, the best treatment remains the one followed so far by generations of dermatologists: reassuring the patient and letting the condition go away on its own. However, there are times when treatment is recommended. In this paper, we review the available treatments for this skin disease. PMID: 19585058 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - March 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Drago F, Rebora A Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

New and existing therapeutic options for hand eczema.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This article will review the new and existing treatments that are available for this common dermatologic problem. PMID: 19585057 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - March 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Robertson L Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Rosacea and its topical management.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Many options exist for the treatment of rosacea, including topical and systemic therapies, laser and light-based therapies, and surgical procedures. A classification system for rosacea identifies 4 subtypes (i.e., erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous, and ocular), which may help guide therapeutic decision-making. The goals of therapy include reduction of papules, pustules, erythema, physical discomfort, and an improvement in quality of life. Standard topical treatment agents include metronidazole, azelaic acid, and sodium sulfacetamide-sulfur. Second line therapies include benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, ...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - February 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Gooderham M Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Many Common Drugs in Dermatology are Light, Temperature, or Moisture-Sensitive.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Photosensitivity is defined as responsiveness to light exposure. For many common dermatologic drugs, proper storage conditions are essential for maintaining drug activity. Degradation and loss of activity can occur with exposure to light, temperature, and/ or moisture. For example, ketoconazole degrades after 24 hours of light exposure. In this article storage guidelines for common dermatology drugs are provided. We suspect that drug degradation is common due to improper storage and that improved patient instruction regarding storage will reduce degradation and alleviate some of the danger associated with improper stor...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - January 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Langner MD, Maibach HI Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Onychomycosis: therapy directed by morphology and mycology.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Onychomycosis is one of the most common nail disorders. Despite recent therapeutic advances with the introduction of effective systemic agents and transungual drug delivery systems, the incidence of onychomycosis is increasing. This is of concern, as the morbidity related to this infection also increases as our population ages with associated conditions, such as diabetes and immunosuppression from illness and medical therapy. Rational and effective treatment plans are needed. PMID: 19214354 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - January 1, 2009 Category: Dermatology Authors: Barber K, Barber J Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

The role of cosmeceuticals in antiaging therapy.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
As baby boomers get older, they have shown an increasing interest in maintaining a youthful appearance. As a result, there has been a corresponding increase in topical antiaging formulations, which are commonly referred to as cosmeceuticals. These products come with a seemingly limitless number of key active ingredients and claims of reducing the signs of aging and/or maintaining a youthful appearance. This paper reviews the more common cosmeceutical ingredients. PMID: 19145383 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - December 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Rivers JK Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

IL-12/IL-23 Inhibitors: The Advantages and Disadvantages of this Novel Approach for the Treatment of Psoriasis.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease that is mediated, in part by the body's T-cell inflammatory response mechanisms. Further insight into the pathogenesis of the disease and the role of various cytokines, particularly interleukin(IL)-12 and IL-23, has led to advances in the treatment of this disease. A relatively new class of drugs that inhibit these interleukins is being developed and studied. Current data regarding the efficacy of these agents show they may have the potential to become the new clinical gold standard for biologic therapy to treat psoriasis. PMID: 19145382 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - December 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Bartlett BL, Moody MN, Tyring SK Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Antioxidants used in skin care formulations.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The formation of free radicals is a widely accepted pivotal mechanism leading to skin aging. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons that can directly damage various cellular structural membranes, lipids, proteins, and DNA. The damaging effects of these reactive oxygen species are induced internally during normal metabolism and externally through various oxidative stresses. The production of free radicals increases with age, while the endogenous defense mechanisms that counter them decrease. This imbalance leads to the progressive damage of cellular structures, and thus, results in accelerat...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - September 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Bogdan Allemann I, Baumann L Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Current concepts in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) still remains nonspecific and is based primarily on empirical data. The goals of therapy include the management of pain and functional impairment by suppressing inflammatory responses, as well as reducing the frequency of recurrences or avoiding the onset of new aphthae. For common forms of RAS, standard topical treatment options that provide symptomatic relief include analgesics, anesthetics, antiseptics, anti-inflammatory agents, steroids, sucralfate, tetracycline suspension, and silver nitrate. Dietary modifications may also support therapeutic measures. In resist...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - September 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Altenburg A, Zouboulis CC Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Update on sunscreens.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This article will review some of the recent advances in photoprotection, including the development of sunscreen formulations offering higher and broader protection against solar radiation. PMID: 18806906 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - July 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Bissonnette R Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Botulinum Toxin Products Overview.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The tremendous success of botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX(R), Allergan Inc.) in the cosmetic arena has acted as a stimulus for the development of other neurotoxins. After more than 2 decades of use, BOTOX(R) has become synonymous with wrinkle reduction and is considered to be the one of the most common non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed worldwide. Because of its vast popularity among patients seeking non-invasive methods to achieve facial rejuvenation, physicians from diverse specialties have integrated botulinum toxin injections into their existing practices. Herein, we present an overview of botulinum toxin pro...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - July 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Carruthers A, Carruthers J Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Novel topical drug delivery systems and their potential use in acne vulgaris.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
A vast spectrum of topical anti-acne agents has emerged in response to new insights that have been gained through the understanding of disease pathophysiology and the need for clinicians to adopt an individualized therapeutic approach. Because topical agents are most commonly used for acne management, this article reviews some novel vehicle delivery advances that are poised to further enhance the efficacy of topical acne formulations, and/or offer the possibility of simplified dosing regimens that may improve treatment outcomes. PMID: 18648713 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - June 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Taglietti M, Hawkins CN, Rao J Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

The a-B-C-ds of sensible sun protection.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This article briefly reviews the pseudo-controversy , as well as the data supporting a revision of the recommendations for vitamin D supplementation. It concludes with a suggested message for patients, many of whom are understandably confused by recent media coverage of the topic. PMID: 18648712 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - June 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Gilchrest BA Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

The role of the dermatologist in identification and treatment of the early stages of psoriatic arthritis.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is essential for preventing disease progression and joint destruction. The majority of patients develop PsA years after the onset of their skin disease. Therefore, dermatologists are in a strategic position to make the diagnosis of PsA, and either manage it or refer the patient to a rheumatologist in order to prevent the potentially irreversible destruction of the affected joints. We will review the presentation and temporal relationship of psoriasis and PsA, the diagnosis, classification, and management, in addition to the role of the dermatologist in the early detection of...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - May 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Landells I, Maccallum C, Khraishi M Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Systemic and Light Therapies for the Management of Childhood Psoriasis: Part II.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The choice of treatment for psoriasis in children, as in adults, is determined by disease acuity, morphology, distribution, severity, and the presence of comorbidities, such as psoriatic arthropathy. Fortunately, most patients present with mild disease that responds adequately to topical medications. A minor subset of children will present with severe, rapidly evolving disease that requires more aggressive interventions. Advanced medical treatment with systemic and phototherapy is challenging and primarily anecdotal, as these modalities are neither well-studied nor approved for use in children. Part II of this 2-part s...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - May 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Cordoro KM Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Advances in Pemphigus Therapy.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The pemphigus variants represent a group of potentially life-threatening autoimmune mucocutaneous blistering diseases. Though systemic corticosteroids have dramatically reduced the rate of disease mortality, current therapeutic options are limited by their toxicity profiles. Advancements in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of pemphigus have translated into the development of novel therapies. However, few treatments have been subject to randomized controlled trials to firmly establish therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we focus on the new and emerging therapies in the management of p...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - April 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Prajapati V, Mydlarski PR Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Topical Therapy for the Management of Childhood Psoriasis: Part I.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Psoriasis represents a potentially life-altering disease that can profoundly impact physical, emotional and social functioning, and overall quality of life. The majority of cases are mild and managed adequately with topical medications. A minor subset of children present with severe, rapidly evolving disease that requires systemic therapy. The choice of treatment in children, as in adults, is determined by disease acuity, morphology, distribution, severity and the presence of comorbidities such as psoriatic arthropathy. Practical considerations such as ease of use, patient acceptability, accessibility, risk to benefit ...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - April 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Cordoro KM Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Drug treatments for skin disease introduced in 2007.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: A comprehensive list of drug treatments for skin disease including: Adapalene Gel 0.3% (Differin(R)), Drospirenone/ Ethinyl Estradiol (Yaz(R)), Tretinoin 0.05% Gel (Anthralin(R)), Daptomycin for Injection (CUBICIN(R)), Retapamulin Ointment 1% (Altabax(R)), Tinidazole Tablets (Tindamax(R)), Ciclopirox Topical Solution 8%, Ketoconazole 2% Foam (Extina(R)), Terbinafine Hydrochloride (Lamisil(R)), Desloratadine (Aerius(R)/ Azomyr(R)/ Neoclarityn(R)), Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride (Xyzal(R)), Loratadine Dry Syrup 1% (Claritin(R)) and many other treatments introduced in 2007. PMID: 18373042 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - March 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

An Update on New and Emerging Options for the Treatment of Vitiligo.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Vitiligo is an acquired leukoderma that results from the loss of epidermal melanocytes, and is characterized by macules and patches of depigmented skin. With a relatively high rate of prevalence, vitiligo occurs in localized, generalized, or segmental patterns; it can run a rapidly progressive course or remain stationary. The pathogenesis of vitiligo is not yet fully understood, but the autoimmune hypothesis is the most commonly accepted one, based on which, many treatment modalities have been described. Although many therapeutic options exist and new modalities are still emerging, treatment challenges persist, as not ...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - March 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Mahmoud BH, Hexsel CL, Hamzavi IH Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Novel Agents for Intractable Itch.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
There exists a multitude of medical conditions that cause intractable itch, or pruritus. The successful management of this symptom depends explicitly on establishing the underlying cause. Studies have shown that drugs not traditionally used in the treatment of cutaneous disorders, such as opiate receptor antagonists, antidepressants, and antiepileptics, can provide symptomatic relief of intractable itch. These novel antipruritic agents will be explored in this review. PMID: 18357364 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - February 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Lynde CB, Kraft JN, Lynde CW Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Psoriasis as the Marker of Underlying Systemic Disease.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Psoriasis is associated with comorbidities that include metabolic syndrome and increased cardiovascular risk. These conditions share etiologic features and health consequences that directly correlate with the severity of psoriatic disease. This disease, in both its skin and joint manifestations, may represent a relevant healthcare issue as an indicator of a broader, underlying disorder of systemic inflammation, and warrants more comprehensive study and multidisciplinary collaboration on its pathophysiology, epidemiology, and treatment in relation to its comorbid conditions. PMID: 18357363 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - February 1, 2008 Category: Dermatology Authors: Kourosh AS, Miner A, Menter A Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Treatment of Hand and Foot Psoriasis with Emphasis on Efalizumab.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Optimal acne therapy must take into account not only acne type and severity, but also the impact of this skin disorder on the patients quality of life. Several validated instruments have been used to measure quality of life in acne patients. By using these instruments, acne patients have been shown to experience levels of social, psychological and emotional distress similar to those reported in patients with asthma, epilepsy and diabetes. Several studies have demonstrated that the disability caused by acne can be mitigated by effective therapy. PMID: 18227954 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - December 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Zip C Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Efficacy of Lasers and PDT for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Acne vulgaris can represent a therapeutic challenge in terms of managing ongoing symptoms and preventing scar formation. While the copious variations of available treatments address milder forms of the disease, until recently, therapies for resistant or moderate-to-severe forms were limited to systemic agents that were accompanied by potentially severe side-effects. With the addition of lasers, light sources, and aminolevulinic acid-photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) therapies, dermatologists may now have viable new alternatives for treating all grades of acne severity that circumvent the negative side-effects associated w...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - December 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Gold MH Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Treatment of Hand and Foot Psoriasis with Emphasis on Efalizumab.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Hand and foot psoriasis is a chronic and debilitating disease that manifests as plaque-type or pustular-type lesions. Although the palms and soles represent only 2% of the total body surface area, psoriasis of these regions may lead to physical dysfunctions that can greatly impair dexterity, mobility, and the quality of life of affected individuals. Deregulation of T-lymphocyte-mediated immune response is important in the pathophysiology of psoriasis. Efalizumab (Raptiva(R), Genentech) is an anti-CD11a monoclonal antibody that disrupts the interaction between T cells and antigen-presenting cells, thereby inhibiting var...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - November 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Kircik L Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

The Dermatology Dispensing Debate.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The in-office dispensing of topical skin care products by dermatologists is a source of frequent debate. Guidelines for proper dispensing have been penned by various medical organizations, yet the controversy continues. With the increasing number of physician-dispensed lines available for sale, combined with mounting medical financial issues, the ongoing debate surrounding inoffice dispensing will continue. PMID: 18087657 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - November 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Draelos ZD Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Dermal Fillers: Ever-Expanding Options For Esthetic Use.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This article will focus on the most popular, time-tested, and innovative fillers available today. PMID: 18026676 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - October 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Sapijaszko MJ Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Dermatological Management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This article will focus on three specific topics: eosinophilic folliculitis, psoriasis, and cutaneous mycoses. Their unique presentations in HIV and treatments are discussed. PMID: 18026675 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - October 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Bartlett BL, Khambaty M, Mendoza N, Tremaine AM, Gewirtzman A, Tyring SK, Tyring SK Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

New Developments in Hormonal Therapy for Acne.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Oral contraceptives (OCs) are a valuable option for the treatment of women with acne. The use of OCs can be considered across the spectrum of acne disease severity in women. In Canada, three preparations are approved for mild-to-moderate acne, and a fourth is indicated for severe acne. These formulations contain estrogen in the form of ethinyl estradiol and a progestin. In Canada, the most recently approved OC is ethinyl estradiol 0.03mg and drospirenone 3mg (Yasmin(R), Bayer). With the accumulating evidence on the efficacy and safety of drospirenone-containing hormonal preparations, this formulation provides dermatolo...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - September 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Tan JK Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Rituximab: A B-Cell Depletion Therapy for Dermatologic Disease.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Rituximab (Rituxan(R), Genentech/ Biogen Idec) is a genetically engineered chimeric murine/human monoclonal antibody directed against CD20, a B lymphocyte-specific antigen. Initially approved for the treatment of relapsed or refractory low-grade or follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), rituximab has been increasingly used to treat a variety of immune-mediated and autoimmune diseases. While anecdotal case reports recommend its "off-label" use in dermatology, randomized clinical trials are required to firmly establish the safety and efficacy of this emerging biologic therapy. PMID: 17762903 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - August 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Prajapati V, Mydlarski PR Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Cutaneous Reactions to Anticancer Agents Targeting the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor: A Dermatology-Oncology Perspective.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is often overexpressed or dysregulated in solid tumors. Targeting the EGFR-mediated signaling pathway has become routine practice in the treatment of lung, pancreatic, head and neck, and colon carcinomas. Available agents with selected activity towards the EGFR include low molecular weight tyrosine kinase inhibitors, e.g., erlotinib (Tarceva(R), Genentech BioOncology/ OSI Pharmaceuticals/ F. Hoffmann-La Roche) and monoclonal antibodies, such as cetuximab (Erbitux(R), Bristol-Myers Squibb/ ImClone Systems/ Merck) and panitumumab (Vectibix(R), Amgen). Their use is anticipated t...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - August 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Lacouture ME, Melosky BL Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Drug treatments for skin disease introduced in 2006.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Drug Treatments for Skin Disease Introduced in 2006. PMID: 17551663 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - June 17, 2007 Category: Dermatology Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Calcipotriol and Betamethasone Dipropionate for the Treatment of Psoriasis: A 52-Week Study.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Psoriasis is a common skin disease affecting 1%-3% of the world's population with significant impacts on quality of life. There is a great need for therapies that are efficacious and safe, not only for the short-term, but also for long-term management. Dovobet(R)/ Daivobet(R)/ Taclonex(R) is a product combining two molecules, calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate, that may offer psoriatic patients with an option for maintenance therapy. The efficacy and safety of this combined formulation when used over a 4-week period is well documented. A recent publication in the British Journal of Dermatology discusses the sa...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - June 17, 2007 Category: Dermatology Authors: Toole JW Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Rejuvenation of the lip with injectables.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
As the range of soft tissue augmentation products proliferates, most will be used (with varying degrees of success) to shape and augment the lip. The range of outcomes for this indication depends on the skill of the injector, the anatomy of the patient and the intrinsic properties of the product. Permutations of these interacting factors are infinite and it is the range of combinations that is responsible for the complexity (and fascination) of lip rejuvenation with injectable products. Based on personal experience, the perfect lip is the one that "wows" the patient and makes them happy with the procedure. Individualiz...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - April 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology News Authors: Beer KR Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

A review of biologic treatments for psoriasis with emphasis on infliximab.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Moderate-to-severe psoriasis is known to affect millions of people around the globe. This chronic disease substantially impacts patients by impairing their quality of life, causing psychosocial distress, and creating an ongoing financial burden. The biologics are the newest and most effective therapeutic weapon in the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that can significantly alter the course of the disease in a relatively short period of time. There is a need to review the recommended treatment guidelines for moderate- to-severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis as the perception and dema...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - April 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology News Authors: Pirzada S, Tomi Z, Gulliver W Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

An Algorithm for the Reconstruction of Complex Facial Defects.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Dermatologic surgeons are often faced with the repair of complex facial defects following Mohs micrographic surgery. While the size or absence of critical tissue layers may be daunting, the reconstruction of these complex defects follow similar principles to those for the closure of smaller, simpler defects. There are several issues specific to these closures including whether to delay closure in order to allow wound contraction, thus decreasing the size of the wound. Yet, if the defect is adjacent to a fixed anatomic structure, this may not be an option. The tumescent technique allows for effective anesthesia over lar...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - March 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology News Authors: Gladstone HB, Stewart D Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Systemic Therapy for Rosacea.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Rosacea is a common condition that affects people of all races. In addition to the visible aspects of this disease, it can have a psychosocial impact that must be evaluated when considering the treatment options. More aggressive and innovative uses of existing oral agents have resulted in novel therapeutic approaches, which can provide long-term therapy and sustained remission. PMID: 17393050 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - March 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology News Authors: Baldwin HE Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

IVIG for the Treatment of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been proposed as a treatment for toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). A number of retrospective and prospective studies have been conducted, with varying levels of evidence for the efficacy of IVIG. Recent publications provide opposing conclusions. A multi-center, comparative, long-term analysis needs to be conducted to determine the role of IVIG in the management of patients with SJS/TEN. PMID: 17361314 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - February 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology News Authors: Mittmann N, Chan BC, Knowles S, Shear NH Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Management and Treatment of Pruritus.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Pruritus, or itch, is a common sensation that causes a person to want to scratch. It is a complex process that may negatively impact quality of life and commonly occurs with skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis and urticaria. It could also be a symptom related to an underlying disease process such as cholestasis or hyperthyroidism, or simply be caused by dry skin, especially in the cold, winter months. Therapy is often aimed at eliminating the underlying cause first, followed by the management of the itchy sensation. Treatment may include prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, herbal remedies, hydroth...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - February 1, 2007 Category: Dermatology News Authors: Lovell P, Vender RB Tags: Skin Therapy Lett Source Type: journals

Treatment of Acne Scarring.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Alam M, Dover JS Acne scarring is common but surprisingly difficult to treat. Scars can involve textural change in the superficial and deep dermis, and can also be associated with erythema, and less often, pigmentary change. In general, treatment of acne scarring is a multistep procedure. First, examination of the patient is necessary to classify the subtypes of scarring that are present. Then, the patient's primary concerns are elicited, and the patient is offered a menu of procedures that may address the various components of the scarring process. It is important to emphasize to the patient that acne scarrin...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - December 23, 2006 Category: Dermatology News Source Type: journals

Trying to keep ahead of lice: a therapeutic challenge.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Malcolm CE, Bergman JN Pediculosis capitis, or head lice, is a world-wide public health concern affecting persons of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is caused by Pediculus humanus capitis, an obligate ectoparasite that lives on human hair and feeds on the blood from the skin. Upon diagnosis, treatment should be initiated, since established infestations with head lice generally do not spontaneously resolve. Chemical pediculicides are currently the standard treatment, however, issues of resistance have made it necessary to explore new alternatives. If an infestation is resistant to these drugs, then t...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - December 23, 2006 Category: Dermatology News Source Type: journals

Fractional Laser Treatment for Pigmentation and Texture Improvement.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Rahman Z, Alam M, Dover JS Fractional laser treatment with the 1,550nm erbium fiber laser (Fraxel Laser, Reliant Technologies) has bridged the gap between the ablative and nonablative laser modalities used to treat the epidermal and dermal signs of skin aging. By targeting water as its chromophore, the laser induces a dense array of microscopic, columnar thermal zones of tissue injury that do not perforate or impair the function of the epidermis. The significant skin remodeling that ensues can be used to treat, with limited downtime, epidermal pigmentation, melasma, and rhytides, as well as textural abnormalit...
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - November 1, 2006 Category: Dermatology News Source Type: journals

Topical Treatments for Melasma and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Lynde CB, Kraft JN, Lynde CW Hyperpigmentation disorders of the skin are common and can be the source of significant psychosocial distress for patients. The most common of these disorders are melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen use and minimizing sun exposure are crucial in all cases. Topical applications are the mainstay of treatment and include phenols, retinoids, corticosteroids, and their combinations. PMID: 17075653 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - November 1, 2006 Category: Dermatology News Source Type: journals

Pigmentary Disorders in Asian Skin: Treatment With Laser and Intense Pulsed Light Sources.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Lin JY, Chan HH The development of selective photothermolysis has enabled removal of targets such as melanin. Both lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) sources have been used in the treatment of pigmented lesions, however careful selection is important to ensure success. This is especially true in darker skinned individuals where the risk of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is high. The advent of the Q-switched laser, IPL, and now fractional photothermolysis (Fraxel, Reliant Technologies) offers a variety of ways to treat epidermal and dermal pigmentary disorders. PMID: 17024294 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - October 8, 2006 Category: Dermatology News Source Type: journals

Dermatological Drug Dosage in the Elderly.Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Authors: Flammiger A, Maibach H The elderly population is increasing and drug dosing requires special considerations for efficacy and decreasing toxicity. This overview provides algorithms for adjusting drug and dosage based on current evidence-based knowledge with emphasis on drugs prescribed in dermatological practice. PMID: 17024293 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Skin Therapy Letter - October 8, 2006 Category: Dermatology News Source Type: journals