What are risk factors for frontal fibrosing alopecia?
According to a study published in JAAD, frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) was associated with formalin hair straightening and regular use of nonprescription facial soap and moisturizers. FFA was not significantly associated with sunscreen use.
Regular use of antiresidue or clarifying shampoo had a negative association with FFA, which the authors believe may reinforce the possibility of an exogenous particle that triggers FFA.
The multicenter case-control study recruited patients from 11 medical centers in Brazil. A total of 451 adult patients with a clinical diagnosis of FFA were matched to 451 control patients with nonscarring alopecia who received care at the same centers. Participants completed questionnaires that captured demographic information, environmental exposures, diet, and hair and skin care.
It is not your imagination — undoubtedly you have made the diagnosis of frontal fibrosing alopecia more frequently in recent years. FFA is considered a subtype of lichen planopilaris based on the identical histology of a lymphocytic cicatricial alopecia localizing near the infundibulum and isthmus (at the hair bulge). Read more in DermWorld Insights and Inquiries.
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: We’re in hot water! Vibrio vulnificus infections are heading north.
Vibrio vulnificus infections are potentially fatal infections. Because of the warming climate, these cases may be coming to a hospital near you. Dermatologists must recognize the predisposing factors of Vv infection, and the cutaneous manifestations related to direct cutaneous infection and/or sepsis. Keep reading!
Vaccine distribution begins: When can you and your staff get your shots?
With the first FDA Emergency Use Authorization for a COVID-19 vaccine last week, and another anticipated soon, dermatologists are wondering when they and their practice staff can roll up their sleeves for their shots. The CDC recommends that health care personnel should be the first to receive the vaccine, as outlined in an AAD document that summarizes plans for vaccine distribution. However, each state is ultimately empowered to determine its vaccination plan. The CDC is tracking state-level distribution decisions on its website.
Anti-kickback statute implications for company-speaker programs
The HHS Office of the Inspector General has issued a “Special Fraud Alert” that parties involved in speaker programs, including the drug or device company that organizes the event or pays remuneration associated with the program, any health care professional who is paid to speak, and any health care professional attendees who receive remuneration from the company, may be subject to increased scrutiny. However, so as not to discourage “meaningful” training and education, the OIG has issued “safe harbor” regulations. Read more in DermWorld.
Information blocking rule: What does it mean?
Congress passed the 21st Century Cures Act in 2016, and one of the law’s provisions is making the blocking of health information illegal. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) released their respective final rules implementing provisions of the 21st Century Cures Act. Dermatologists — and other “actors” — must comply with the information blocking rule by April 5, 2021.
Under HIPAA, covered entities can share protected health information for treatment, payment, or operations, but it was not required. Under the information blocking rule, health care providers must share protected health information to other covered entities and other entities as directed by the patient. The information blocking rule also lays out a set of exceptions (such as protecting patient privacy) where it is considered OK to not share information.
Academy seeks statements on proposed bylaws amendments
The American Academy of Dermatology is seeking statements regarding the proposed bylaws amendments that will be presented to membership for a vote on the spring 2021 election ballot. Eligible voting members may submit up to three statements in support of and in opposition to the proposed bylaws. Review the amendments and submit your statements by Jan. 18, 2021.
FDA shares voluntary topical drug product recall
The FDA announced a voluntary nationwide recall by drug manufacturer MPM Medical for Regenecare HA Topical Anesthetic Hydrogel after two complaints were filed related to visible contamination later identified as the bacteria Burkholderia cepecia (B. cepacia). According to the FDA, the drug product is an OTC topical application that contains 2% lidocaine and is used topically for temporary relief of pain and itching associated with minor burns, sunburn, minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or minor skin irritations. Regenecare HA Hydrogel contaminated with B. cepacia may result in local skin infections, which could lead to more severe health conditions. Learn more about this recall.
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