Factors associated with relapse after isotretinoin treatment
A study published in JAMA Dermatology explored the characteristics and factors associated with relapse after isotretinoin treatment for acne. A cohort study with nearly 20,000 patients found that 22.5% had acne relapse and 8.2% tried isotretinoin a second time. Female sex was significantly associated with increased rates of acne relapse, and the cumulative dosage was associated with a decreased rate of acne relapse.
The daily dose was not associated with decreased risk of acne relapse or isotretinoin retrial among those with conventional and high cumulative dosages. Higher cumulative dosage was associated with decreased rates of retrial among patients with low (<120 mg/kg) and conventional (120-220 mg/kg), but not high (>220 mg/kg) cumulative dosage.
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Fixating on doxycycline-induced fixed drug eruptions
Happening upon a letter to the editor titled “Doxycycline-induced fixed drug eruption: The new epidemic?” gave me pause. Doxycycline causing a fixed drug eruption (FDE) is unsurprising, but an epidemic? Really? How many thousands of doxycycline prescriptions have I written in 45 years of practice? I have seen many patients with FDEs but am hard-pressed to recall any that I attributed to doxycycline.If there is a genuine increase in doxycycline-induced FDEs, we need to understand why. Is it the doxycycline itself? Can it be due to an adulterant added in the manufacturing process? Another reason?Keep reading!
Can tattoos increase risk of skin cancer?
A study published in BMC Public Health explored the potential association between tattoo ink exposure and development of certain types of cancers, especially skin cancer and lymphoma. According to the study, tattoos appear to increase a person’s risk of skin cancer between 33% and 62%. Tattoos larger than the palm of a hand more than double a person’s risk of skin cancer and nearly triple their risk of lymphoma.
What regulatory changes are needed to improve safety and reduce complications of permanent makeup? Read more.
Methotrexate gel in combination with microneedling vs. cryotherapy for the treatment of cutaneous warts
An article published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology investigated the efficacy and safety of topical methotrexate (MTX) hydrogel 1% combined with microneedling compared to traditional cryotherapy for the treatment of cutaneous warts. Sixty-eight patients with common or plantar warts were divided into two treatment groups — group A received MTX gel combined with microneedling and group B received cryotherapy.
[Therapeutic use of the HPV vaccine shows promise as a treatment for stubborn warts. Read more.]
All patients were followed up for three months after finishing treatment to detect any recurrence. The complete resolution of warts was higher in group B (65%) than in group A (53%); however, the difference between both groups in clinical response did not reach statistical significance. There was no statistically significant difference for pain and erythema between groups A and B. The rates of blistering and hypopigmentation were significantly higher in group B than in group A. No recurrence was found in either group during the three-month follow-up period.
Remedies for warts abound, but high-quality studies are lacking. Read more.
Authors of a study published in the Archives of Dermatological Research explored the off-label dermatologic applications of the JAK1 inhibitor upadacitinib. The review identified two randomized controlled trials evaluating upadacitinib’s efficacy in hidradenitis suppurativa and vitiligo. Both trials demonstrated promising improvements in clinical outcomes, though some results were not statistically significant. Additionally, case reports and series highlight its efficacy in alopecia areata and lichen planus. According to the authors, the findings suggest upadacitinib may be a viable option for refractory dermatologic conditions.
Recent advances in vitiligo treatment and research open doors for physicians and patients. Read more.
AADA offers support for CLIA lab director application issues
The AADA continues to advocate for revisions to CLIA laboratory director requirements to ensure board-certified dermatologists by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) or the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology (AOBD) are appropriately recognized.
As we continue advocating, we understand that some members may be experiencing issues with the lab director application process under the current rules. If your application has been denied or delayed, or if you encounter any obstacles during the process, please contact us at regulatory@aad.org. The Academy will coordinate directly with CMS to help ensure your application receives appropriate review and to assist in resolving any issues.
Advertisement
The American Academy of Dermatology is a non-profit professional organization and does not endorse companies or products. Advertising helps support our mission.
