Family Practice

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This article discusses an overview of HSV, diagnosis and workup, as well as treatment options for management of genital herpes.

Psoriasis has a greater mental and physical impact than myocardial infarction, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, arthritis, and cancer; only depression had a greater mental impact, and congestive heart failure a greater physical impact.

Personal care in Canada is a $5 billion industry that offers thousands of competing products, many of which make skin care-related claims. Advertisers inundate us with messages about what their products can do for us, but how can we be sure that the products we buy will actually live up to their claims?

For the purposes of this article, the focus will be on the topical treatment of post-adolescent mild to moderate acne. A selection of over-the-counter and prescription based topical treatments are discussed below.

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.

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.

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.

The cosmeceutical industry has undergone phenomenal growth over the past decade. Acquiring a basic knowledge of the major classes of active ingredients that are found in cosmeceuticals will enable healthcare professionals to provide accurate and educational information to consumers.

Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, is a progressive fungal infection of the nails resulting in discoloration, nail plate thickening, and onycholysis. Efinaconazole 10% solution is an effective and convenient topical antifungal treatment for onychomycosis, with toenail mycological cure rates between 53.4% and 55.2% and complete cure rates between 15.2% and 17.8%.

Actinic keratosis, a common cutaneous lesion with the potential to transform into squamous cell carcinoma. Recently, a topical formulation Actikerall, combining 0.5% 5-fluorouracil with 10% salicylic acid (5-FU-SA) has been made commercially available in Canada. We discuss their merits.

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

Medical algorithms are created, yet there is a paucity of information about how such algorithms should be created and the optimal way to develop an excellent algorithm. Well constructed medical algorithms have the potential to improve and standardize medical decisions, enhance adherence to better guidelines and improve patient care.

Topical retinoids are the cornerstone of acne therapy and they can be used across the entire spectrum of acne severity. Selecting the most suitable retinoid formulation, as well as dispensing proper advice in terms of drug application, can improve patient compliance.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory, xerotic and pruritic skin disease of increasing prevalence affecting 15-30% of children and 2-10% of adults. AD and its associated health consequences present significant challenges to patients, particularly children and their families.

Recently updated and revised international guidelines suggest a step-wise approach to the management of chronic spontaneous urticaria. These guidelines suggest that first-line therapy should be second-generation non-impairing, non-sedating H1-antihistamines such as bilastine (BLEXTEN®).

Eczema diagnosis, treatments, and management techniques are discussed. Diagnostic features, treatments both topical and oral, infection control, and a note on calcineurin inhibitors.

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.

Implementing basic proper hair care is essential to maintaining healthy hair. Furthermore, minimizing exposure to chemical agents, inadvisable grooming techniques, and prolonged exposure to environmental elements, will promote healthier hair and avoid unnecessary hair loss.

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.

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.

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.

Patients suffering from scalp psoriasis frequently seek medical care because of the persistent discomfort and social embarrassment caused by the visible flakes that are shed onto clothing. However, the presence of hair makes it challenging to apply medication to the scalp.

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.

The focus of this review is to delve deeper into the use of Biacna® Gel, a fixed-dose clindamycin/tretinoin combination product, for the treatment of acne.

Bilastine has a proven, long-term safety record with use by over 71 million patients in over 104 countries. This article describes the evolution from first generation antihistamines, second generation antihistamines, and where Bilastine comes in.

A new topical retinoid, trifarotene, the first fourth-generation retinoid, is now available in Canada for the treatment of moderate facial and truncal acne.

Condylomata acuminata (genital or venereal warts) pose a significant health concern, especially amongst young adults. External genital warts (EGWs) are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), the same virus that causes the majority of cervical cancers.

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.

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

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory cutaneous disease involving the pilosebaceous unit. This article discusses pathophysiology, sebum production, keratinization, and the role of P.acnes in acne formation.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common cutaneous disorder occurring in at least 3%–5% of the population. We discuss new treatment formulations and protocols.

Psoriasis and eczema, especially atopic eczema, are two of the most common cutaneous conditions seen by family physicians and dermatologists. This article focuses on corticosteroids of varying strengths and their suggested indications.

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.

A fixed combination halobetasol propionate and tazarotene lotion (HP/TAZ) was launched in Canada in 2020, to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. With the use of polymeric emulsion technology, there is uniform distribution of HP and TAZ and excipients on the skin and improved skin moisturization.

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.

Onychomycosis is a common nail disorder for which successful treatment can be clinically challenging. Diagnosis, treatment, and management using various modalities are discussed.

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.

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.

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 (AV) is among the most common dermatological disorders seen by dermatologists. Emerging evidence suggests that acne is associated with epidermal barrier impairments, and this article reviews the role of moisturizing, sun protection, and patient specific skincare advice for acne patients.