Family Practice

Physicians will be particularly reassured if the suggested guidelines are supported by scientific evidence. This new Canadian clinical guideline for the treatment of acne was developed taking into account new data published up to March 2015, as well as expert opinion and clinical experience.

Mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) is often controlled by behavioral measures such as skincare and avoidance of triggers in addition to topical treatments such as topical corticosteroids (TCS), topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCI), and crisaborole, a phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor (PDE4-I).

Hair loss is a common dermatological problem that affects a large segment of the population both physically and psychologically. This article focuses on androgenetic alopecia (AGA) or male pattern hair loss, as well as the common treatments, Minoxidil and other topical treatments.

For most patients, antiperspirants containing aluminium salts are the first-line treatments. Other therapeutic options, especially for those with hyperhidrosis, include botulinum toxin injection, systemic anticholinergics, iontophoresis and surgery.

This article review the newer vehicles which include gel, foam, and spray preparations. The newer topical delivery agents have the potential to limit the progression of cutaneous disorders requiring oral systemic therapy, which can expose the patient to greater risk for adverse side-effects.

Chemical exfoliation has been used for decades to reverse the signs of aging skin and provide a cosmetic benefit. This article reviews various peeling methods and strengths, and their therapeutic potential.

There are benefits and risks to sunlight exposure of the skin. This article covers a variety of topics, including the effects of UVA and UVB, vitamin D, skin tone, skin cancer risk, and SPF.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recently released its recommendations for the use of the quadrivalent vaccine, which include: For use in females 9-26 years of age. The recommendations for the use of the bivalent vaccine will be available following its approval in Canada.

A group of dermatologists with extensive experience in managing pediatric and adult patients with atopic dermatitis developed practical recommendations for the management of atopic dermatitis based on expert consensus opinion and the best available medical evidence.

The new generation of sunscreens serve an important role in overall skin protection from the sun. However, they should be used in conjunction with other sun protection measures such as sun protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

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.

Acne vulgaris is a multifactorial disease characterized by different types of lesions at various stages of development. The most frequently used therapeutic agents for acne are topical. This article focuses on the role of vehicles and advancements in this area.

Patients often seek natural approaches to treating skin disease. Colloidal oatmeal has been used for decades to improve atopic dermatitis and soothe other pruritic and xerotic dermatologic conditions.

This paper examines the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis, the skin barrier, and the role that ceramides can play in therapy.

When prescribing brodalumab, or any other biologic agent, physicians should screen patients for psychiatric comorbidities. Assessment of risk versus benefit, and having an honest conversation with patients regarding the label, will help provide better patient care for both physical and mental health.

There are currently no laboratory tests to diagnose rosacea; it remains a clinical diagnosis. The actual pathophysiology and etiology of rosacea also remain unclear; however, quite recently the spectrum of rosacea has been classified and standardized.

Hand Dermatitis can have a significant impact on quality of life. It may interfere with activities both at work and in the home and can be associated with social and psychological distress. This article provides helpful practical guidance for the general practitioner in the management of patients with Hand Dermatitis.

This article delves into new development and research into cosmeceuticals, their potential role, and the importance of educating patients on realistic expectations. Various potential benefits are discussed using an evidence based vantage.

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a prevalent skin condition that warrants 5.2 million office visits in the US each year. Various treatments for AK, both local and field therapy, and their appropriate use are discussed in this article.

The multifactorial nature of acne vulgaris often requires a combination of topical and/or oral agents for successful management. Common challenges of this multipronged approach include the potential development of skin irritation, which results in nonadherence, as well as concern over bacterial resistance.

Hirsutism can cause embarrassment and lead to anxiety and depression. There are a limited number of treatments available that vary in efficacy, degree of discomfort and cost. It is very important to make sure that the patient is aware of all the available treatment modalities, since no one method is effective for all patients or body locations, and results from therapy may not always be satisfactory.

Hand dermatitis (HD) is a common skin disorder affecting individuals of all ages. This article looks into the challenges associated with therapy, side-effects of commonly used treatments, and long-term management plans for HD.

Truncal acne refers to AV affecting the chest and/or back, a common presentation in acne patients. This article offers guidance in clinical differentiation of truncal acne from other acneiform diseases and provides management recommendations.

Diagnosis of onychomycosis can only be established with a positive culture or observation of fungus in the nail clippings. Consideration should be given to cost and possible complications before starting treatment. Recurrent disease is a problem even after a complete cure.

Adherence to topical treatment for psoriasis remains a challenge as the daily application creates a significant treatment burden. New topical therapeutic options need to offer a combination of higher efficacy and better patient acceptability, including...

A summary of the most comprehensive and up to date guideline for treating non-melanoma skin cancer in Canada. Background, primary prevention, actinic keratosis, managing basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, are covered.

Explore two case studies of plaque psoriasis, treatment challenges, and novel therapeutic options, including topical roflumilast 0.3% cream. Learn how targeting PDE4 can improve psoriasis management, offering a non-steroidal, effective, and convenient solution for patients with different severities.

Acne vulgaris is a common disorder of the pilosebaceous follicle with multiple pathogenic factors. Topics like antibiotic treatment, antibiotic resistant, topical agents, are covered.

This article reviews HSV infections around the lips (herpes labialis), and clinical trial data of a new formulation of topical 5% acyclovir with 1% hydrocortisone cream (Xerese®).

Biologics are one of the more effective and relatively safe options for long-term control of psoriasis. They have reduced the time needed to clear the signs of chronic disease, and are effective in maintaining a disease-free state for longer durations. Biologics can safely be used with other treatment modalities (i.e., methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin and hydroxyurea).

Acne vulgaris is a disease of the pilosebaceous follicle characterized by non-inflammatory (open and closed comedones) and inflammatory lesions. Its pathogenesis is multifactorial - the interplay of hormonal, bacterial, and immunological (inflammatory) factors results in the formation of acne lesions.

Novel uses of old medications and new formulations of systemic medications have broadened the therapeutic armamentarium for treating rosacea patients. It is of primary importance to offer patients safe and effective therapies for this chronic and incurable condition, improving both the clinical and psychosocial consequences of rosacea.

The skin has evolved to protect us from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. Sunscreens were first developed to prevent sunburns by blocking UVB; they allowed us to prolong our time in the sun, but that resulted in increased exposure to UVA.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It has a relapsing course characterized by flare-ups of acute eczema on a background of chronically dry skin. The association of atopic dermatitis (AD) with asthma and allergic rhinitis is referred to as the atopic triad.

A recently published clinical pathway for Toe Onychomycosis is used as the basis for the management strategy presented here, and follows a pathway reflective of the therapeutic options available in Canada.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing, pruritic, inflammatory condition involving the skin which can have a significant impact on the quality of life. This article will guide the family practitioner on how to manage adults with moderate-to-severe AD and when to refer for specialist management.

External genital warts (EGW) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It is likely the most frequent STI in both Canada and the US. Treatment options and vaccination is discussed.

TCIs have an important place in the therapeutic armamentarium for AD. They are approved as second line agents for individuals >2 years of age, and have a good safety profile when used short-term or intermittently long-term.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or non-dermatophyte molds. Here we discuss using topical Efinaconazole in the management of toenail onychomycosis.

This article will deal with the diagnosis and treatment of common eruptions on the feet.