Tretinoin vs. other topical therapies for photoaging
A review published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology assessed data regarding the efficacy of tretinoin versus other topical therapies for skin photoaging. A total of 25 studies were included in the analysis. The results showed that other topical therapies had variable efficacy but were less irritating and showed better tolerability than tretinoin among patients.
There are some data to support the efficacy of retinoid precursors, including retinaldehyde, pro-retinal nanoparticles, and conjugated alpha-hydroxy acid and retinoid (AHA-ret), according to the study authors. For those who cannot tolerate tretinoin, these agents can be considered a second-line option.
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Dupilumab treatment of bullous pemphigoid — Hoping for approval on the double
Although there are only two currently approved dermatologic indications for dupilumab (atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis), off-label uses have skyrocketed since its introduction in 2017. Wherever eosinophils are present, a therapeutic report of dupilumab’s effectiveness is sure to follow (bullous pemphigoid, eosinophilic annular erythema, Kimura disease, etc.). Case reports and retrospective studies have demonstrated dupilumab’s efficacy in treating bullous pemphigoid (BP). Preliminary data from a prospective trial confirms dupilumab’s therapeutic value. Perhaps approval of dupilumab for BP is on the horizon. Keep reading!
DermWorld Coding Consult: What to know about coding dermatology encounters after the Public Health Emergency (PHE) and beyond
The PHE, declared in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, brought significant changes to health care, including dermatology, particularly in coding and billing practices. Medicare has announced that it will continue to cover audio-video and, under specific conditions, audio-only telemedicine E/M services. This includes reimbursing for teledermatology encounters rendered to Medicare beneficiaries when reported using the standard office/outpatient E/M code set (99202 – 99215). These services, delivered via synchronous (real-time) two-way communication technology, will remain covered through March 31, 2025. Learn more about the permanent and temporary shifts that will impact coding compliance in 2025 and beyond.
Treatment with low-dose naltrexone in patients with lichen planus of the nails
A case series published in JAMA Dermatology evaluated the effectiveness of low-dose naltrexone (3 mg/day) in treating adults with nail lichen planus. The patients received treatment for two to 11 months and underwent in-person follow-up evaluations. A total of four patients showed clinical improvement, with an overall 35% reduction in the nail lichen planus severity index. Two patients with severe disease achieved a reduction to mild disease severity. No adverse events were reported, and none of the patients discontinued treatment from side effects.
Nail experts discuss how to diagnose common — and not-so-common — nail disorders. Read more.
CGRP inhibitors may reduce acne, rosacea rates
According to a study published in JAMA Dermatology, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitors — a group of drugs commonly used to treat migraines — were associated with decreased rates of acne and rosacea compared with drugs that did not inhibit CGRP and those that did so indirectly. Over a one-year period, migraine patients treated with monoclonal antibodies that inhibit CGRP had significantly lower rates of acne (HR 0.71) and rosacea (HR 0.53) than those treated with triptans. Likewise, CGRP inhibition was associated with substantially decreased rates of acne (HR 0.82) and rosacea (HR 0.65) when compared with patients using topiramate. Given that CGRP-mediated neurogenic inflammation may contribute to acne and rosacea development, CGRP inhibition could represent a novel treatment modality for these conditions, the study authors noted.
AADA educates employers on impact of skin conditions
The AADA is working to increase awareness among employers of the impact skin conditions have on employee health, productivity, and costs. Most recently, the AADA presented a webinar for employers with the Midwest Business Group on Health (MBGH), a non-profit association comprised of more than 150 companies.
The webinar “Skin Cancer, Psoriasis, & Atopic Dermatitis: When a Spot or Rash is More than a Spot or Rash” was hosted by David Harvey, MD, FAAD, Patient Access and Payer Relations Committee member. He presented a clinical update on dermatologic diseases and promoted early diagnosis and appropriate treatment by a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Harvey also provided guidance on benefit plan design in support of dermatologist-led prevention and treatment.
In addition to the webinar, the MBGH will roll out two new action briefs developed by an AADA/MBGH employer workgroup with recommendations for employers on benefits coverage for skin cancer, and psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
AAD offers disaster relief loans to members affected by Los Angeles wildfires
The AAD is deeply saddened by the devastation Los Angeles has faced over the past week. Our sympathy is with those who have suffered losses due to the wildfires there.
The AAD is offering disaster relief loans to members in good standing affected by the wildfires to cover damages to property that is not covered by insurance. Our thoughts are with the people of Los Angeles during this difficult time.
The American Academy of Dermatology is a non-profit professional organization and does not endorse companies or products. Advertising helps support our mission.
