Yearly STL Archives: 2010

Atopic dermatitis (AD), or eczema, is a common, chronic, relapsing, genetically determined inflammatory skin disorder. This article discusses the role of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) as a factor to consider.

This article reviews the various subtypes of rosacea, their clinical presentations, and the considerations in choosing the optimal therapeutic options. The importance of tailored treatment is discussed as well as topical therapies.

Head lice infestation is a common problem for children in Canada. Diagnosis, and treatment are discussed as well as the problem of heritable resistance, and alternate treatments.

Psoriasis and eczema can at times be recalcitrant to conservative topical treatment. This article focuses on corticosteroid strength and their appropriate uses for various presentations.

Eczema is a chronic relapsing dermatitis and, as such, it is imperative to maintain the hydration and barrier function of the skin in these patients with daily moisturizer use. This article discusses TEWL, ceramide and urea based moisturizers, and other ways to maintain barrier function.

Update on drugs, approval dates, and comments. Drospirenone /ethinyl estradiol /levomefolate calcium + levomefolate calcium tablets (Beyaz™), Imiquimod 5% cream are covered.

This article discusses the role of S. aureus, on atopic dermatitis. Taking a proactive approach to treatment, and control S. aureus may have benefits for the management of inflammation.

In this article, the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and the role of weakened skin barrier and inflammation is discussed in detail. Potential treatment and management strategies that address this problem, and the benefits of this approach are highlighted.

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most widely used topical agents for acne. This article discusses the anti-inflammatory and comedolytic effects of benzoyl peroxide.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive aged women. This article will review the treatments for acne due to androgen excess in PCOS women.

Head lice infestations (Pediculosis capitis) are a worldwide problem with prevalence estimates typically ranging between 1-3% in elementary school aged children. Although this obligate parasite is a nuisance, infestation does not pose a health risk.

October 2010: Update on drugs, approval dates, and comments. Velaglucerase alfa (VPRIV®), and recent news with Health Canada.

Nanotechnology applies the unique properties of matter on the nanoscale (1000 nm and smaller) for the purposeful design of new materials. Dermatology is already one of the leading beneficiaries of nanotechnology.

The term “atopy” was first coined by Cooke and Coca in 1923, derived from the Greek word atopos, which means out of place and denotes an immune reaction that is “strange or eccentric”. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, waxing and waning, often symmetric inflammatory eruption that is characterized by pruritus and xerosis.

Psychocutaneous disorders involve a unique and somewhat difficult patient population. This paper describes an effective interpersonal approach and appropriate drug therapy for patients with delusional disorders and dermatitis artefacta.

Update on drugs, approval dates, and comments. Velaglucerase alfa (VPRIV®) and Health Canada labelling changes for isopropyl myristate 50% rinse (Resultz®, Nycomed) to include the treatment of lice in children =2 years of age are covered.

The elderly in North America is the fastest growing segment of the population and their most common skin complaint is pruritus. This article outlines the therapeutic challenges with this population.

Nanotechnology is a relatively new branch of engineering that is making rapid inroads in medicine and dermatology. This article summarizes some of the recent and anticipated advances in nanotechnology for dermatology. In part II, the author addresses the chief concerns of nanotechnology.

For decades, skin care has primarily been considered to be the domain of women, but recently, an increasing number of men are involved. This article delves into similarities and differences in gender as it relates to skincare, and the complexities of skincare for men.

Update on drugs, approval dates, and comments. Belimumab (Benlysta®), Adapalene 0.1% gel, Antiseborrheic compound (K301/Kaprolac®) are covered.

Chemotherapy-induced hair loss occurs with an estimated incidence of 65%. This article discusses hair loss, topical minoxidil, scalp cooling and chemotherapy induced hair loss.

Solid organ transplant recipients have an increased incidence of skin cancer, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality post-transplantation. This article studies systemic retinoids, and other chemopreventative agents for high risk patients.

Actinic keratoses (AKs), or solar keratoses, are pre-malignant cutaneous lesions that predominantly manifest in sun-exposed areas. They are one of the most common skin conditions seen by dermatologists, preceded only by acne vulgaris and dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, waxing and waning, often symmetric inflammatory eruption that is characterized by pruritus and xerosis. This article discusses the role of creams in normalizing the barrier function early, and preventing inflammation processes from starting.

Actinic keratoses (AKs), or solar keratoses, are pre-malignant cutaneous lesions that predominantly manifest in sun-exposed areas. This article covers treatment regimens, sun protection, and the role that physicians play in improving patient awareness.

Tobacco smoking is a serious and preventable health hazard that can cause or exacerbate a number of diseases and shorten life expectancy. This article delves into the role of smoking as an etiologic factor in the development of skin disease.

Hand dermatitis (HD) is a common skin disorder affecting individuals of all ages. This article discusses diagnostics, individualizing treatments, lifestyle modifications, and outcomes.

Key to the management of photodermatoses is photoprotection, which includes seeking shade; wearing wide brimmed hats, and sunglasses; and applying sunscreens. This article discusses sunscreens, sun protection, UVA, UVB, and its role in managing various skin conditions.

Update on CD56-binding monoclonal antibody (huN901) + maytansinoid cytotoxic agent (DM1) IMGN901, Small molecule oxychlorine compound (Microcyn® Skin and Wound HydroGel), Antifungal agent (K101/Kaprolac®).

Update on drugs, approval dates, and comments. Imiquimod 3.75% cream (Zyclara™), Adapalene 0.1% lotion (Differin®), Polidocanol injection (Asclera®) are covered.

An actinic keratosis is a pre-malignant cutaneous lesion that frequently manifests in sun-exposed areas of the skin as a small, rough, scaly erythematous papule. Therapy choices are guided by efficacy, adverse effects, cosmetic results, and patient compliance.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a recurrent, usually mild, skin disorder with typical clinical manifestations. This article will review the available treatments for this common dermatologic problem.

Update on drugs, approval dates, and comments. Collagenase clostridium histolyticum (XIAFLEX™), HPV quadrivalent recombinant vaccine (Gardasil®), Velaglucerase alfa (VPRIV™), Agalsidase alfa (REPLAGAL®), Adalimumab (Humira®) are covered.

In order to achieve complete protection against the cumulative detrimental effects from sun exposure, topical strategies must shield against the range of solar wavelengths that can damage the skin. Existing examples of infrared-protective active agents include mitochondrially targeted antioxidants.

Biologic agents were introduced during the past decade as a new class of treatments for chronic psoriasis. This review will discuss data from clinical trials that have provided new insights into the efficacy, safety, and cost effectiveness of alefacept as a treatment for psoriasis.

Update on Hyaluronic acid dermal filler + 0.3% lidocaine JUVÉDERM® XC, Hyaluronic acid dermal filler + 0.3% lidocaine RESTYLANE®-L PERLANE®-L, and news on labeling changes regarding possible hepatic effects of diclofenac sodium topical gel 1% (Voltaren® Gel).

Today, more than 10% of the Western population has at least 1 tattoo, with prevalence of up to one-fourth in the cohort younger than 30 years of age. This article provides an overview of applicable laser systems and therapeutic strategies for optimized tattoo removal.

A review of studies, reviewing association between a high-glycemic-load diet, hormonal mediators, and acne risk.

Update on Imiquimod 3.75% Cream Zyclara™, Acyclovir + Hydrocortisone Cream Xerclear®/Lipsovir®, as well as drug news on Titanium dioxide (TiO2).