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VIDEO – Survey: Isolation, rejection is real for acne patients
WASHINGTON – Acne patients are telling the truth when they describe feeling isolated, rejected, and stigmatized – and now there are data to prove it.
Dr. Alexa B. Kimball, professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, Boston, found that almost 70% of people surveyed believe that those with acne are unattractive and hesitate to be seen with them. Her survey of 56 people also found that they harbor fears that acne is infectious and can be transmitted, that it’s caused by poor hygiene and diet.
“The widespread misconceptions about acne contribute to negative perceptions, which can affect patients’ quality of life and social interaction,” Dr. Kimball said. “When our patients describe these feelings, they are describing their real, day-to-day life experiences.”
See more of her comments on treating patients with acne in this video.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
WASHINGTON – Acne patients are telling the truth when they describe feeling isolated, rejected, and stigmatized – and now there are data to prove it.
Dr. Alexa B. Kimball, professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, Boston, found that almost 70% of people surveyed believe that those with acne are unattractive and hesitate to be seen with them. Her survey of 56 people also found that they harbor fears that acne is infectious and can be transmitted, that it’s caused by poor hygiene and diet.
“The widespread misconceptions about acne contribute to negative perceptions, which can affect patients’ quality of life and social interaction,” Dr. Kimball said. “When our patients describe these feelings, they are describing their real, day-to-day life experiences.”
See more of her comments on treating patients with acne in this video.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
WASHINGTON – Acne patients are telling the truth when they describe feeling isolated, rejected, and stigmatized – and now there are data to prove it.
Dr. Alexa B. Kimball, professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, Boston, found that almost 70% of people surveyed believe that those with acne are unattractive and hesitate to be seen with them. Her survey of 56 people also found that they harbor fears that acne is infectious and can be transmitted, that it’s caused by poor hygiene and diet.
“The widespread misconceptions about acne contribute to negative perceptions, which can affect patients’ quality of life and social interaction,” Dr. Kimball said. “When our patients describe these feelings, they are describing their real, day-to-day life experiences.”
See more of her comments on treating patients with acne in this video.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
AT AAD 16
Vaccine for Treating Genital Herpes Reduced Viral Shedding at 6 Months
WASHINGTON – Research is honing in on the best dose for a therapeutic vaccine shown to reduce shedding of herpes simplex virus 2 in subjects with genital herpes infections, based on results presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The vaccine could prove an alternative to antiviral therapy for infected patients.
In a phase II study of 310 HSV-2 infected adults, the subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months, reported Dr. Zeena Nawas, a researcher at the Center for Clinical Studies in Houston.
The vaccine, GEN 003 (Genocea) is an HSV-2 protein subunit vaccine consisting of two recombinant T-cell antigens: internal fragment of the immediate early (IE) protein ICP and glycoprotein D. The vaccine had a “profound and durable” effect on viral shedding and could become “the first therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes,” Dr. Nawas said.
Previously, Dr. Nawas and her colleagues demonstrated GEN 003 was associated with significant reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding. The new phase II data indicates a best dose combination of antigen and adjuvant for a vaccine candidate for future trials.
For the dose-finding study, seven cohorts were derived from 310 adults with symptomatic genital herpes. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 30 mcg or 60 mcg each of the recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4, plus 25, 50, or 75 mcg of the Matrix M-2 adjuvant; one cohort received a placebo vaccine.
At 6 months after immunization, genital HSV-2 shedding was significantly reduced compared to baseline values in all vaccine groups who received 60 mcg of HSV-2 antigens. The highest reduction at 58% (P less than .0001) was observed in group given the 60/75 mcg dose. With the exception of the group given the 30/25 mcg dose, all study groups had a reduction from baseline measures in genital lesions that ranged from 43% to 69% (P less than .0001).
In response to a question from session comoderator Dr. Andrew Blauvelt, president of the Oregon Medical Research Center, Dr. Nawas said that the placebo group did not have any reduction in viral shedding, making the reductions in viral shedding “clinically and statistically significant. If we have less shedding, that means that the risk of transmission is way less.”Data used to determine the clinically significant correlation between shedding and transmission were derived frompreviously reported dataon antiviral therapies. Few participants across the cohort reported adverse events, according to Dr. Nawas. Myalgia, fatigue, and erythema at the injection site were the most common adverse events. The details of the studyare available at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
WASHINGTON – Research is honing in on the best dose for a therapeutic vaccine shown to reduce shedding of herpes simplex virus 2 in subjects with genital herpes infections, based on results presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The vaccine could prove an alternative to antiviral therapy for infected patients.
In a phase II study of 310 HSV-2 infected adults, the subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months, reported Dr. Zeena Nawas, a researcher at the Center for Clinical Studies in Houston.
The vaccine, GEN 003 (Genocea) is an HSV-2 protein subunit vaccine consisting of two recombinant T-cell antigens: internal fragment of the immediate early (IE) protein ICP and glycoprotein D. The vaccine had a “profound and durable” effect on viral shedding and could become “the first therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes,” Dr. Nawas said.
Previously, Dr. Nawas and her colleagues demonstrated GEN 003 was associated with significant reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding. The new phase II data indicates a best dose combination of antigen and adjuvant for a vaccine candidate for future trials.
For the dose-finding study, seven cohorts were derived from 310 adults with symptomatic genital herpes. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 30 mcg or 60 mcg each of the recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4, plus 25, 50, or 75 mcg of the Matrix M-2 adjuvant; one cohort received a placebo vaccine.
At 6 months after immunization, genital HSV-2 shedding was significantly reduced compared to baseline values in all vaccine groups who received 60 mcg of HSV-2 antigens. The highest reduction at 58% (P less than .0001) was observed in group given the 60/75 mcg dose. With the exception of the group given the 30/25 mcg dose, all study groups had a reduction from baseline measures in genital lesions that ranged from 43% to 69% (P less than .0001).
In response to a question from session comoderator Dr. Andrew Blauvelt, president of the Oregon Medical Research Center, Dr. Nawas said that the placebo group did not have any reduction in viral shedding, making the reductions in viral shedding “clinically and statistically significant. If we have less shedding, that means that the risk of transmission is way less.”Data used to determine the clinically significant correlation between shedding and transmission were derived frompreviously reported dataon antiviral therapies. Few participants across the cohort reported adverse events, according to Dr. Nawas. Myalgia, fatigue, and erythema at the injection site were the most common adverse events. The details of the studyare available at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
WASHINGTON – Research is honing in on the best dose for a therapeutic vaccine shown to reduce shedding of herpes simplex virus 2 in subjects with genital herpes infections, based on results presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The vaccine could prove an alternative to antiviral therapy for infected patients.
In a phase II study of 310 HSV-2 infected adults, the subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months, reported Dr. Zeena Nawas, a researcher at the Center for Clinical Studies in Houston.
The vaccine, GEN 003 (Genocea) is an HSV-2 protein subunit vaccine consisting of two recombinant T-cell antigens: internal fragment of the immediate early (IE) protein ICP and glycoprotein D. The vaccine had a “profound and durable” effect on viral shedding and could become “the first therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes,” Dr. Nawas said.
Previously, Dr. Nawas and her colleagues demonstrated GEN 003 was associated with significant reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding. The new phase II data indicates a best dose combination of antigen and adjuvant for a vaccine candidate for future trials.
For the dose-finding study, seven cohorts were derived from 310 adults with symptomatic genital herpes. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 30 mcg or 60 mcg each of the recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4, plus 25, 50, or 75 mcg of the Matrix M-2 adjuvant; one cohort received a placebo vaccine.
At 6 months after immunization, genital HSV-2 shedding was significantly reduced compared to baseline values in all vaccine groups who received 60 mcg of HSV-2 antigens. The highest reduction at 58% (P less than .0001) was observed in group given the 60/75 mcg dose. With the exception of the group given the 30/25 mcg dose, all study groups had a reduction from baseline measures in genital lesions that ranged from 43% to 69% (P less than .0001).
In response to a question from session comoderator Dr. Andrew Blauvelt, president of the Oregon Medical Research Center, Dr. Nawas said that the placebo group did not have any reduction in viral shedding, making the reductions in viral shedding “clinically and statistically significant. If we have less shedding, that means that the risk of transmission is way less.”Data used to determine the clinically significant correlation between shedding and transmission were derived frompreviously reported dataon antiviral therapies. Few participants across the cohort reported adverse events, according to Dr. Nawas. Myalgia, fatigue, and erythema at the injection site were the most common adverse events. The details of the studyare available at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
AT AAD 2016
Vaccine for treating genital herpes reduced viral shedding at 6 months
WASHINGTON – Research is honing in on the best dose for a therapeutic vaccine shown to reduce shedding of herpes simplex virus 2 in subjects with genital herpes infections, based on results presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The vaccine could prove an alternative to antiviral therapy for infected patients.
In a phase II study of 310 HSV-2 infected adults, the subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months, reported Dr. Zeena Nawas, a researcher at the Center for Clinical Studies in Houston.
The vaccine, GEN 003 (Genocea) is an HSV-2 protein subunit vaccine consisting of two recombinant T-cell antigens: internal fragment of the immediate early (IE) protein ICP and glycoprotein D. The vaccine had a “profound and durable” effect on viral shedding and could become “the first therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes,” Dr. Nawas said.
Previously, Dr. Nawas and her colleagues demonstrated GEN 003 was associated with significant reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding. The new phase II data indicates a best dose combination of antigen and adjuvant for a vaccine candidate for future trials.
For the dose-finding study, seven cohorts were derived from 310 adults with symptomatic genital herpes. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 30 mcg or 60 mcg each of the recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4, plus 25, 50, or 75 mcg of the Matrix M-2 adjuvant; one cohort received a placebo vaccine.
At 6 months after immunization, genital HSV-2 shedding was significantly reduced compared to baseline values in all vaccine groups who received 60 mcg of HSV-2 antigens. The highest reduction at 58% (P less than .0001) was observed in group given the 60/75 mcg dose. With the exception of the group given the 30/25 mcg dose, all study groups had a reduction from baseline measures in genital lesions that ranged from 43% to 69% (P less than .0001).
In response to a question from session comoderator Dr. Andrew Blauvelt, president of the Oregon Medical Research Center, Dr. Nawas said that the placebo group did not have any reduction in viral shedding, making the reductions in viral shedding “clinically and statistically significant. If we have less shedding, that means that the risk of transmission is way less.”Data used to determine the clinically significant correlation between shedding and transmission were derived frompreviously reported dataon antiviral therapies. Few participants across the cohort reported adverse events, according to Dr. Nawas. Myalgia, fatigue, and erythema at the injection site were the most common adverse events. The details of the studyare available at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
On Twitter @whitneymcknight
WASHINGTON – Research is honing in on the best dose for a therapeutic vaccine shown to reduce shedding of herpes simplex virus 2 in subjects with genital herpes infections, based on results presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The vaccine could prove an alternative to antiviral therapy for infected patients.
In a phase II study of 310 HSV-2 infected adults, the subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months, reported Dr. Zeena Nawas, a researcher at the Center for Clinical Studies in Houston.
The vaccine, GEN 003 (Genocea) is an HSV-2 protein subunit vaccine consisting of two recombinant T-cell antigens: internal fragment of the immediate early (IE) protein ICP and glycoprotein D. The vaccine had a “profound and durable” effect on viral shedding and could become “the first therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes,” Dr. Nawas said.
Previously, Dr. Nawas and her colleagues demonstrated GEN 003 was associated with significant reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding. The new phase II data indicates a best dose combination of antigen and adjuvant for a vaccine candidate for future trials.
For the dose-finding study, seven cohorts were derived from 310 adults with symptomatic genital herpes. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 30 mcg or 60 mcg each of the recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4, plus 25, 50, or 75 mcg of the Matrix M-2 adjuvant; one cohort received a placebo vaccine.
At 6 months after immunization, genital HSV-2 shedding was significantly reduced compared to baseline values in all vaccine groups who received 60 mcg of HSV-2 antigens. The highest reduction at 58% (P less than .0001) was observed in group given the 60/75 mcg dose. With the exception of the group given the 30/25 mcg dose, all study groups had a reduction from baseline measures in genital lesions that ranged from 43% to 69% (P less than .0001).
In response to a question from session comoderator Dr. Andrew Blauvelt, president of the Oregon Medical Research Center, Dr. Nawas said that the placebo group did not have any reduction in viral shedding, making the reductions in viral shedding “clinically and statistically significant. If we have less shedding, that means that the risk of transmission is way less.”Data used to determine the clinically significant correlation between shedding and transmission were derived frompreviously reported dataon antiviral therapies. Few participants across the cohort reported adverse events, according to Dr. Nawas. Myalgia, fatigue, and erythema at the injection site were the most common adverse events. The details of the studyare available at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
On Twitter @whitneymcknight
WASHINGTON – Research is honing in on the best dose for a therapeutic vaccine shown to reduce shedding of herpes simplex virus 2 in subjects with genital herpes infections, based on results presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The vaccine could prove an alternative to antiviral therapy for infected patients.
In a phase II study of 310 HSV-2 infected adults, the subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months, reported Dr. Zeena Nawas, a researcher at the Center for Clinical Studies in Houston.
The vaccine, GEN 003 (Genocea) is an HSV-2 protein subunit vaccine consisting of two recombinant T-cell antigens: internal fragment of the immediate early (IE) protein ICP and glycoprotein D. The vaccine had a “profound and durable” effect on viral shedding and could become “the first therapeutic vaccine for genital herpes,” Dr. Nawas said.
Previously, Dr. Nawas and her colleagues demonstrated GEN 003 was associated with significant reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding. The new phase II data indicates a best dose combination of antigen and adjuvant for a vaccine candidate for future trials.
For the dose-finding study, seven cohorts were derived from 310 adults with symptomatic genital herpes. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 30 mcg or 60 mcg each of the recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4, plus 25, 50, or 75 mcg of the Matrix M-2 adjuvant; one cohort received a placebo vaccine.
At 6 months after immunization, genital HSV-2 shedding was significantly reduced compared to baseline values in all vaccine groups who received 60 mcg of HSV-2 antigens. The highest reduction at 58% (P less than .0001) was observed in group given the 60/75 mcg dose. With the exception of the group given the 30/25 mcg dose, all study groups had a reduction from baseline measures in genital lesions that ranged from 43% to 69% (P less than .0001).
In response to a question from session comoderator Dr. Andrew Blauvelt, president of the Oregon Medical Research Center, Dr. Nawas said that the placebo group did not have any reduction in viral shedding, making the reductions in viral shedding “clinically and statistically significant. If we have less shedding, that means that the risk of transmission is way less.”Data used to determine the clinically significant correlation between shedding and transmission were derived frompreviously reported dataon antiviral therapies. Few participants across the cohort reported adverse events, according to Dr. Nawas. Myalgia, fatigue, and erythema at the injection site were the most common adverse events. The details of the studyare available at ClinicalTrials.gov. The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
On Twitter @whitneymcknight
AT AAD 2016
Key clinical point: A therapeutic vaccine reduced herpes virus shedding and was associated with reductions in genital lesions.
Major finding: Subjects who received 60 mcg of recombinant HSV antigens gD and ICP4 and 75 mcg of Matrix M-2 adjuvant had the best response, which was a 58% reduction in viral shedding at 6 months.
Data source: Phase II study of 310 adults with genital herpes infections.
Disclosures: The study is sponsored by Genocea Biosciences, maker of GEN-003.
VIDEO: Expert – Skin signs to watch for in HIV patients
WASHINGTON – While the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy in the United States has markedly reduced the prevalence of cutaneous manifestations of HIV and AIDS, dermatologists still may see patients who present with cutaneous manifestations of undiagnosed infections, including aggressive human papillomavirus infections, according to Dr. Carrie L. Kovarik.
Dr. Kovarik of the department of dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, recommended seeing these patients more frequently – perhaps every month or 2 – to monitor HPV infection and genital warts. Even in patients who now have more robust immune systems, those who were once immunocompromised are at risk of malignant generation of their genital warts.
Dr. Kovarik discusses that, as well as hypersensitivity reactions to some HIV and tuberculosis treatments, in an interview at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
On Twitter @denisefulton
WASHINGTON – While the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy in the United States has markedly reduced the prevalence of cutaneous manifestations of HIV and AIDS, dermatologists still may see patients who present with cutaneous manifestations of undiagnosed infections, including aggressive human papillomavirus infections, according to Dr. Carrie L. Kovarik.
Dr. Kovarik of the department of dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, recommended seeing these patients more frequently – perhaps every month or 2 – to monitor HPV infection and genital warts. Even in patients who now have more robust immune systems, those who were once immunocompromised are at risk of malignant generation of their genital warts.
Dr. Kovarik discusses that, as well as hypersensitivity reactions to some HIV and tuberculosis treatments, in an interview at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
On Twitter @denisefulton
WASHINGTON – While the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy in the United States has markedly reduced the prevalence of cutaneous manifestations of HIV and AIDS, dermatologists still may see patients who present with cutaneous manifestations of undiagnosed infections, including aggressive human papillomavirus infections, according to Dr. Carrie L. Kovarik.
Dr. Kovarik of the department of dermatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, recommended seeing these patients more frequently – perhaps every month or 2 – to monitor HPV infection and genital warts. Even in patients who now have more robust immune systems, those who were once immunocompromised are at risk of malignant generation of their genital warts.
Dr. Kovarik discusses that, as well as hypersensitivity reactions to some HIV and tuberculosis treatments, in an interview at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
On Twitter @denisefulton
AT AAD 16
Uncontrolled hidradenitis suppurativa costs the health care system
WASHINGTON – One in four hidradenitis suppurativa patients saw their disease become more severe, requiring significantly more health care resources and driving up health care spending.
Dr. Alexa Boer Kimball, professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, Boston, and her colleagues reviewed commercial claims in the OptumHealth Reporting and Insights Database from 1998 through early 2014, identifying 1,314 adult patients treated for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). About a quarter of these patients (323) experienced an increase in the severity of their disease, represented by an inpatient or emergency department visit or skin surgery performed on the same day as a dermatologic diagnosis. Their findings were presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
“Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa use a substantial level of health care resources, especially given their relatively young age,” Dr. Kimball said in an interview. “The results of this study suggest that if we can implement effective therapies that prevent patients from progressive disease, we may not only be able to improve their outcomes but also meaningfully reduce costs to the health care system.”
Patients who progressed to a more severe form of HS had significantly more outpatient visits (incidence rate ratio, 1.35), as well as inpatient visits (IRR, 2.48), emergency department visits (IRR, 1.71), and other medical service visits (IRR, 1.81), compared with those whose disease did not progress (all, P less than .001).
The most common indicators of disease progression included skin surgery (62%) and the initiation of a strong pain reliever (34%), Dr. Kimball noted.
Health care costs for patients whose disease progressed was $5,052 higher than were costs for those whose disease did not progress. Cost increases were driven mainly by higher outpatient costs and high inpatient costs (for both, P less than .05). Differences in pharmacy costs were not statistically significant.
“To date, no guidelines are available in the United States for the management of hidradenitis suppurativa and, until very recently, there was no treatment approved in the U.S.,” Dr. Kimball and her colleagues said.
Adalimumab gained Food and Drug Administration approval for moderate to severe HS in 2015.
On Twitter @denisefulton
WASHINGTON – One in four hidradenitis suppurativa patients saw their disease become more severe, requiring significantly more health care resources and driving up health care spending.
Dr. Alexa Boer Kimball, professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, Boston, and her colleagues reviewed commercial claims in the OptumHealth Reporting and Insights Database from 1998 through early 2014, identifying 1,314 adult patients treated for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). About a quarter of these patients (323) experienced an increase in the severity of their disease, represented by an inpatient or emergency department visit or skin surgery performed on the same day as a dermatologic diagnosis. Their findings were presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
“Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa use a substantial level of health care resources, especially given their relatively young age,” Dr. Kimball said in an interview. “The results of this study suggest that if we can implement effective therapies that prevent patients from progressive disease, we may not only be able to improve their outcomes but also meaningfully reduce costs to the health care system.”
Patients who progressed to a more severe form of HS had significantly more outpatient visits (incidence rate ratio, 1.35), as well as inpatient visits (IRR, 2.48), emergency department visits (IRR, 1.71), and other medical service visits (IRR, 1.81), compared with those whose disease did not progress (all, P less than .001).
The most common indicators of disease progression included skin surgery (62%) and the initiation of a strong pain reliever (34%), Dr. Kimball noted.
Health care costs for patients whose disease progressed was $5,052 higher than were costs for those whose disease did not progress. Cost increases were driven mainly by higher outpatient costs and high inpatient costs (for both, P less than .05). Differences in pharmacy costs were not statistically significant.
“To date, no guidelines are available in the United States for the management of hidradenitis suppurativa and, until very recently, there was no treatment approved in the U.S.,” Dr. Kimball and her colleagues said.
Adalimumab gained Food and Drug Administration approval for moderate to severe HS in 2015.
On Twitter @denisefulton
WASHINGTON – One in four hidradenitis suppurativa patients saw their disease become more severe, requiring significantly more health care resources and driving up health care spending.
Dr. Alexa Boer Kimball, professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, Boston, and her colleagues reviewed commercial claims in the OptumHealth Reporting and Insights Database from 1998 through early 2014, identifying 1,314 adult patients treated for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). About a quarter of these patients (323) experienced an increase in the severity of their disease, represented by an inpatient or emergency department visit or skin surgery performed on the same day as a dermatologic diagnosis. Their findings were presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
“Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa use a substantial level of health care resources, especially given their relatively young age,” Dr. Kimball said in an interview. “The results of this study suggest that if we can implement effective therapies that prevent patients from progressive disease, we may not only be able to improve their outcomes but also meaningfully reduce costs to the health care system.”
Patients who progressed to a more severe form of HS had significantly more outpatient visits (incidence rate ratio, 1.35), as well as inpatient visits (IRR, 2.48), emergency department visits (IRR, 1.71), and other medical service visits (IRR, 1.81), compared with those whose disease did not progress (all, P less than .001).
The most common indicators of disease progression included skin surgery (62%) and the initiation of a strong pain reliever (34%), Dr. Kimball noted.
Health care costs for patients whose disease progressed was $5,052 higher than were costs for those whose disease did not progress. Cost increases were driven mainly by higher outpatient costs and high inpatient costs (for both, P less than .05). Differences in pharmacy costs were not statistically significant.
“To date, no guidelines are available in the United States for the management of hidradenitis suppurativa and, until very recently, there was no treatment approved in the U.S.,” Dr. Kimball and her colleagues said.
Adalimumab gained Food and Drug Administration approval for moderate to severe HS in 2015.
On Twitter @denisefulton
AT AAD 2016
Key clinical point: Effective therapies that prevent patients with hidradenitis suppurativa from progressive disease may improve outcomes while reducing health care costs.
Major finding: Costs for patients whose HS progressed was $5,052 higher than those whose disease did not.
Data source: Review of commercial claims database identifying 1,314 adults with HS.
Disclosures: The study was supported by AbbVie. Dr. Kimball disclosed financial relationships with AbbVie, Janssen, Novartis, and Amgen, and one of her colleagues is an AbbVie employee.
VIDEO: Shingles Under 50? Look for HIV Infection
WASHINGTON – Shingles is a common disorder for patients with an HIV infection, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. In these patients, it can assume a complicated presentation, even appearing concomitantly with other dermatologic diseases.
In an interview, Dr. Kieron S. Leslie of the University of California, San Francisco, discusses what to look for, and some treatment options.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
WASHINGTON – Shingles is a common disorder for patients with an HIV infection, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. In these patients, it can assume a complicated presentation, even appearing concomitantly with other dermatologic diseases.
In an interview, Dr. Kieron S. Leslie of the University of California, San Francisco, discusses what to look for, and some treatment options.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
WASHINGTON – Shingles is a common disorder for patients with an HIV infection, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. In these patients, it can assume a complicated presentation, even appearing concomitantly with other dermatologic diseases.
In an interview, Dr. Kieron S. Leslie of the University of California, San Francisco, discusses what to look for, and some treatment options.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
AT AAD 16
VIDEO: Shingles under 50? Look for HIV infection
WASHINGTON – Shingles is a common disorder for patients with an HIV infection, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. In these patients, it can assume a complicated presentation, even appearing concomitantly with other dermatologic diseases.
In an interview, Dr. Kieron S. Leslie of the University of California, San Francisco, discusses what to look for, and some treatment options.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
WASHINGTON – Shingles is a common disorder for patients with an HIV infection, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. In these patients, it can assume a complicated presentation, even appearing concomitantly with other dermatologic diseases.
In an interview, Dr. Kieron S. Leslie of the University of California, San Francisco, discusses what to look for, and some treatment options.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
WASHINGTON – Shingles is a common disorder for patients with an HIV infection, especially those with highly compromised immune systems. In these patients, it can assume a complicated presentation, even appearing concomitantly with other dermatologic diseases.
In an interview, Dr. Kieron S. Leslie of the University of California, San Francisco, discusses what to look for, and some treatment options.
The video associated with this article is no longer available on this site. Please view all of our videos on the MDedge YouTube channel
AT AAD 16
Guidelines: Combine topical, oral therapy for most effective acne treatment
WASHINGTON – Monotherapy is not recommended in treating moderate-severe acne, and antibiotics should always be coupled with topical therapy, according to the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology.
And although it may be hard – even nearly impossible – to discontinue antibiotics completely, patients should be reevaluated every 3-4 months to determine whether reducing the dosage may be possible while maintaining effectiveness, the document says.
AAD published the guideline on Feb 17. At the academy’s annual meeting, a panel met to discuss its practical application.
Topical therapy
Benzoyl peroxide is a first-line agent that not only effectively fights Propionibacterium acnes, but also discourages the development of antibiotic resistance. Topical antibiotics also decrease P. acnes populations and exert a mild anti-inflammatory effect; however, monotherapy with a topical antibiotic is strongly discouraged. These should be used in combination with another agent such as a retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, azelaic acid, or dapsone. This approach decreases the chance of antibiotic resistance, attacks the acne on several fronts, and provides for a maintenance transition.
Systemic antibiotics
Tetracycline-class antibiotics are still the best option for moderate-severe acne. A Cochrane review found that minocycline and doxycycline are equally effective (Cochrane Skin Group Nov 2011. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD002086.pub2).
The incidence of adverse events associated with each is low, although minocycline may be marginally more troublesome. Low doses seem to be as effective as traditional doses, but pulsed therapy is inadequate. To prevent antibiotic resistance, limit both dose and length of therapy as much as possible. This can best be accomplished by adding a topical agent – either benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid – to the regimen.
“This is critical,” Dr. Jonette E. Keri of the University of Miami said at the meeting. “When antibiotics are eventually discontinued, the retinoid will fulfill the need for maintenance therapy.”
Hormonal agents
Four combination oral contraceptives are Food and Drug Administration–approved for acne treatment. Each of them decreases androgens by interrupting the pathway of testosterone production. There are no data suggesting that one is better than the other; patient preferences and their individual clinical picture should drive choice. Because of the cardiovascular risks associated with these combination OCs, they should not be prescribed for anyone with a personal or family history of clotting disorders or thromboembolic events. Smoking should also be a contraindication.
Oral contraceptives can be tried alone or as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen, including one containing antibiotics. Rifampin and griseofulvin are the only antibiotics known to decrease the contraceptive effect of the medications.
The tincture of time is an important part of this therapy, said Dr. Diane M. Thiboutot, professor of dermatology at Pennsylvania State University, Hershey. “You can’t rush it. It may take three cycles to see any real improvement in acne, and patients should be aware of this.”
Isotretinoin
Oral isotretinoin is a highly effective treatment for severe, recalcitrant acne. It decreases sebum production, acne lesion count, and scarring. Despite concerns about depression and suicidality, isotretinoin treatment can actually improve mood in most patients, said Dr. Megha M. Tollefson of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
“A very well-done Swedish study published in 2010 in BMJ found a slightly increased risk of suicide in the first 6 months after treatment started, but that risk was already rising before treatment started, so it could [be unrelated] to the drug,” she said. “And, in those who got isotretinoin, the [suicide] rate after that was actually decreased, compared to the general population.”
Female patients need education on isotretinoin’s teratogenic potential. After discussions, they should sign the SMART or iPLEDGE agreements about using effective birth control while taking the drug. Unfortunately, Dr. Tollefson said, “We continue to see hundreds of isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies each year.”
A recent study found that up to 30% of women did not comply with the birth control measures they agreed to while taking the drug (J Am Acad Dermatol. 2011 Oct. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.08.034).
The link between isotretinoin and inflammatory bowel disease is not well founded, Dr. Tollefson said. Studies have been contradictory, and most evidence is based on case report and association studies. There is, however, some evidence suggesting an innate connection between acne and inflammatory bowel disease, she noted.
Diet
Emerging evidence suggests that high glycemic diets may be associated with acne, but these studies are small. However, those randomized to a low glycemic index diet showed decreased sebum production and inflammation.
A small case-control study in 2012 suggested a link between milk and acne. AAD makes no recommendation based on this. Milk remains an important source of calcium and vitamin D for Americans, especially children, the panel said.
Dr. Tollefson had no financial disclosures. Dr. Keri said she has been a consultant for Hoffmann-LaRoche.
WASHINGTON – Monotherapy is not recommended in treating moderate-severe acne, and antibiotics should always be coupled with topical therapy, according to the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology.
And although it may be hard – even nearly impossible – to discontinue antibiotics completely, patients should be reevaluated every 3-4 months to determine whether reducing the dosage may be possible while maintaining effectiveness, the document says.
AAD published the guideline on Feb 17. At the academy’s annual meeting, a panel met to discuss its practical application.
Topical therapy
Benzoyl peroxide is a first-line agent that not only effectively fights Propionibacterium acnes, but also discourages the development of antibiotic resistance. Topical antibiotics also decrease P. acnes populations and exert a mild anti-inflammatory effect; however, monotherapy with a topical antibiotic is strongly discouraged. These should be used in combination with another agent such as a retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, azelaic acid, or dapsone. This approach decreases the chance of antibiotic resistance, attacks the acne on several fronts, and provides for a maintenance transition.
Systemic antibiotics
Tetracycline-class antibiotics are still the best option for moderate-severe acne. A Cochrane review found that minocycline and doxycycline are equally effective (Cochrane Skin Group Nov 2011. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD002086.pub2).
The incidence of adverse events associated with each is low, although minocycline may be marginally more troublesome. Low doses seem to be as effective as traditional doses, but pulsed therapy is inadequate. To prevent antibiotic resistance, limit both dose and length of therapy as much as possible. This can best be accomplished by adding a topical agent – either benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid – to the regimen.
“This is critical,” Dr. Jonette E. Keri of the University of Miami said at the meeting. “When antibiotics are eventually discontinued, the retinoid will fulfill the need for maintenance therapy.”
Hormonal agents
Four combination oral contraceptives are Food and Drug Administration–approved for acne treatment. Each of them decreases androgens by interrupting the pathway of testosterone production. There are no data suggesting that one is better than the other; patient preferences and their individual clinical picture should drive choice. Because of the cardiovascular risks associated with these combination OCs, they should not be prescribed for anyone with a personal or family history of clotting disorders or thromboembolic events. Smoking should also be a contraindication.
Oral contraceptives can be tried alone or as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen, including one containing antibiotics. Rifampin and griseofulvin are the only antibiotics known to decrease the contraceptive effect of the medications.
The tincture of time is an important part of this therapy, said Dr. Diane M. Thiboutot, professor of dermatology at Pennsylvania State University, Hershey. “You can’t rush it. It may take three cycles to see any real improvement in acne, and patients should be aware of this.”
Isotretinoin
Oral isotretinoin is a highly effective treatment for severe, recalcitrant acne. It decreases sebum production, acne lesion count, and scarring. Despite concerns about depression and suicidality, isotretinoin treatment can actually improve mood in most patients, said Dr. Megha M. Tollefson of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
“A very well-done Swedish study published in 2010 in BMJ found a slightly increased risk of suicide in the first 6 months after treatment started, but that risk was already rising before treatment started, so it could [be unrelated] to the drug,” she said. “And, in those who got isotretinoin, the [suicide] rate after that was actually decreased, compared to the general population.”
Female patients need education on isotretinoin’s teratogenic potential. After discussions, they should sign the SMART or iPLEDGE agreements about using effective birth control while taking the drug. Unfortunately, Dr. Tollefson said, “We continue to see hundreds of isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies each year.”
A recent study found that up to 30% of women did not comply with the birth control measures they agreed to while taking the drug (J Am Acad Dermatol. 2011 Oct. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.08.034).
The link between isotretinoin and inflammatory bowel disease is not well founded, Dr. Tollefson said. Studies have been contradictory, and most evidence is based on case report and association studies. There is, however, some evidence suggesting an innate connection between acne and inflammatory bowel disease, she noted.
Diet
Emerging evidence suggests that high glycemic diets may be associated with acne, but these studies are small. However, those randomized to a low glycemic index diet showed decreased sebum production and inflammation.
A small case-control study in 2012 suggested a link between milk and acne. AAD makes no recommendation based on this. Milk remains an important source of calcium and vitamin D for Americans, especially children, the panel said.
Dr. Tollefson had no financial disclosures. Dr. Keri said she has been a consultant for Hoffmann-LaRoche.
WASHINGTON – Monotherapy is not recommended in treating moderate-severe acne, and antibiotics should always be coupled with topical therapy, according to the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology.
And although it may be hard – even nearly impossible – to discontinue antibiotics completely, patients should be reevaluated every 3-4 months to determine whether reducing the dosage may be possible while maintaining effectiveness, the document says.
AAD published the guideline on Feb 17. At the academy’s annual meeting, a panel met to discuss its practical application.
Topical therapy
Benzoyl peroxide is a first-line agent that not only effectively fights Propionibacterium acnes, but also discourages the development of antibiotic resistance. Topical antibiotics also decrease P. acnes populations and exert a mild anti-inflammatory effect; however, monotherapy with a topical antibiotic is strongly discouraged. These should be used in combination with another agent such as a retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, azelaic acid, or dapsone. This approach decreases the chance of antibiotic resistance, attacks the acne on several fronts, and provides for a maintenance transition.
Systemic antibiotics
Tetracycline-class antibiotics are still the best option for moderate-severe acne. A Cochrane review found that minocycline and doxycycline are equally effective (Cochrane Skin Group Nov 2011. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD002086.pub2).
The incidence of adverse events associated with each is low, although minocycline may be marginally more troublesome. Low doses seem to be as effective as traditional doses, but pulsed therapy is inadequate. To prevent antibiotic resistance, limit both dose and length of therapy as much as possible. This can best be accomplished by adding a topical agent – either benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid – to the regimen.
“This is critical,” Dr. Jonette E. Keri of the University of Miami said at the meeting. “When antibiotics are eventually discontinued, the retinoid will fulfill the need for maintenance therapy.”
Hormonal agents
Four combination oral contraceptives are Food and Drug Administration–approved for acne treatment. Each of them decreases androgens by interrupting the pathway of testosterone production. There are no data suggesting that one is better than the other; patient preferences and their individual clinical picture should drive choice. Because of the cardiovascular risks associated with these combination OCs, they should not be prescribed for anyone with a personal or family history of clotting disorders or thromboembolic events. Smoking should also be a contraindication.
Oral contraceptives can be tried alone or as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen, including one containing antibiotics. Rifampin and griseofulvin are the only antibiotics known to decrease the contraceptive effect of the medications.
The tincture of time is an important part of this therapy, said Dr. Diane M. Thiboutot, professor of dermatology at Pennsylvania State University, Hershey. “You can’t rush it. It may take three cycles to see any real improvement in acne, and patients should be aware of this.”
Isotretinoin
Oral isotretinoin is a highly effective treatment for severe, recalcitrant acne. It decreases sebum production, acne lesion count, and scarring. Despite concerns about depression and suicidality, isotretinoin treatment can actually improve mood in most patients, said Dr. Megha M. Tollefson of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
“A very well-done Swedish study published in 2010 in BMJ found a slightly increased risk of suicide in the first 6 months after treatment started, but that risk was already rising before treatment started, so it could [be unrelated] to the drug,” she said. “And, in those who got isotretinoin, the [suicide] rate after that was actually decreased, compared to the general population.”
Female patients need education on isotretinoin’s teratogenic potential. After discussions, they should sign the SMART or iPLEDGE agreements about using effective birth control while taking the drug. Unfortunately, Dr. Tollefson said, “We continue to see hundreds of isotretinoin-exposed pregnancies each year.”
A recent study found that up to 30% of women did not comply with the birth control measures they agreed to while taking the drug (J Am Acad Dermatol. 2011 Oct. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.08.034).
The link between isotretinoin and inflammatory bowel disease is not well founded, Dr. Tollefson said. Studies have been contradictory, and most evidence is based on case report and association studies. There is, however, some evidence suggesting an innate connection between acne and inflammatory bowel disease, she noted.
Diet
Emerging evidence suggests that high glycemic diets may be associated with acne, but these studies are small. However, those randomized to a low glycemic index diet showed decreased sebum production and inflammation.
A small case-control study in 2012 suggested a link between milk and acne. AAD makes no recommendation based on this. Milk remains an important source of calcium and vitamin D for Americans, especially children, the panel said.
Dr. Tollefson had no financial disclosures. Dr. Keri said she has been a consultant for Hoffmann-LaRoche.
AT AAD 2016
AAD Annual Meeting: Make the most of your experience
Three Dermatology News editorial advisers provide their recommendations on how to get the most out of the 74th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, March 4-8, in Washington, D.C.
Bring comfortable shoes, check the weather, vote, and enjoy
Dr. Brett Coldiron, a past-president of the AAD, who is in private practice in Cincinnati, recommends comfortable shoes. “The distance you have to walk is astounding, and the timelines can be tight.”
“Map out where you need to be,” he added. Smartphone aficionados will want to download the meeting app while old-school navigators can use the program book to get a handle on the layout of the convention center and headquarters hotel.
“It’s no fun to race across the convention center and arrive at a meeting room that is overcrowded and have to sit on the floor. I always look for seats up front and in the middle – and don’t hesitate to ask someone to pick up their stuff from the seat next to them.”
Dr. Coldiron pointed out that the weather in Washington in March can be brutal ... or beautiful ... or even feature buckets full of rain, so he also suggested checking the area’s extended weather forecast.
“As far as actual content, it is a wonderful educational smorgasbord. Enjoy yourself,” he said. “Make an effort to attend the speeches and the plenary session. I urge you to review the candidates’ material and vote. These elections are usually decided by only a few hundred votes, so your vote really does count.”
Narrow your information focus
Dr. Adam Friedman of the department of dermatology at George Washington University, Washington, said that with more than 375 sessions at the annual meeting, selecting which programs to attend can be overwhelming.
His advice: “Pick two to three specific topics or skills you want to expand upon or develop and go after sessions pertaining to them. Don’t spread yourself too thin.”
For residents, Dr. Friedman, the director of GWU’s residency program, referred to the multiple professional development and board prep courses available at the meeting.
“At this stage in one’s career, it's important to acquire practical tips from contract negotiation to speaker training, as many of these skills are lacking during residency training. Whether you are preparing for the in-training exam or the boards, programs such as Board Blitz (Symposium S033, Sunday at 1 p.m.) and Board Prep for Residents (Course 005, Friday at 9 a.m.) will help you along the way.”
Want to stay on the cutting edge? Consider attending the multiple “hot topics” sessions scheduled throughout the meeting, with a general overview session to be held on Friday (Symposium 018, at 1 p.m.). There are also multiple “new and emerging” sessions, such as New Emerging Therapies (Symposium 011, also Friday at 1 p.m.), that will provide “a look down the road as to what is up and coming.”
What about catching up on the key research published in the last year? Dr. Friedman said, “Check out ‘Highlights from JAAD’ (Focus Session 075, Sunday at 4:30 p.m.), during which editor-in-chief Dr. Bruce Thiers cherry picks his favorite papers of the year. Not to be missed!”
Difficult to treat diseases
Dr. Lily Talakoub, who is in private practice in McLean, Va., recommended the many wonderful talks on difficult-to-treat diseases, “with insights on pearls and new advances in treatments – scarring alopecias, vitiligo, and melasma, just to name a few.”
“These talks are my personal refreshers on topics that always pose patient treatment difficulties. Despite the scarcity of treatment options for these diseases, I will be looking for discussions on newer advances in alternative treatments,” she said.
Three Dermatology News editorial advisers provide their recommendations on how to get the most out of the 74th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, March 4-8, in Washington, D.C.
Bring comfortable shoes, check the weather, vote, and enjoy
Dr. Brett Coldiron, a past-president of the AAD, who is in private practice in Cincinnati, recommends comfortable shoes. “The distance you have to walk is astounding, and the timelines can be tight.”
“Map out where you need to be,” he added. Smartphone aficionados will want to download the meeting app while old-school navigators can use the program book to get a handle on the layout of the convention center and headquarters hotel.
“It’s no fun to race across the convention center and arrive at a meeting room that is overcrowded and have to sit on the floor. I always look for seats up front and in the middle – and don’t hesitate to ask someone to pick up their stuff from the seat next to them.”
Dr. Coldiron pointed out that the weather in Washington in March can be brutal ... or beautiful ... or even feature buckets full of rain, so he also suggested checking the area’s extended weather forecast.
“As far as actual content, it is a wonderful educational smorgasbord. Enjoy yourself,” he said. “Make an effort to attend the speeches and the plenary session. I urge you to review the candidates’ material and vote. These elections are usually decided by only a few hundred votes, so your vote really does count.”
Narrow your information focus
Dr. Adam Friedman of the department of dermatology at George Washington University, Washington, said that with more than 375 sessions at the annual meeting, selecting which programs to attend can be overwhelming.
His advice: “Pick two to three specific topics or skills you want to expand upon or develop and go after sessions pertaining to them. Don’t spread yourself too thin.”
For residents, Dr. Friedman, the director of GWU’s residency program, referred to the multiple professional development and board prep courses available at the meeting.
“At this stage in one’s career, it's important to acquire practical tips from contract negotiation to speaker training, as many of these skills are lacking during residency training. Whether you are preparing for the in-training exam or the boards, programs such as Board Blitz (Symposium S033, Sunday at 1 p.m.) and Board Prep for Residents (Course 005, Friday at 9 a.m.) will help you along the way.”
Want to stay on the cutting edge? Consider attending the multiple “hot topics” sessions scheduled throughout the meeting, with a general overview session to be held on Friday (Symposium 018, at 1 p.m.). There are also multiple “new and emerging” sessions, such as New Emerging Therapies (Symposium 011, also Friday at 1 p.m.), that will provide “a look down the road as to what is up and coming.”
What about catching up on the key research published in the last year? Dr. Friedman said, “Check out ‘Highlights from JAAD’ (Focus Session 075, Sunday at 4:30 p.m.), during which editor-in-chief Dr. Bruce Thiers cherry picks his favorite papers of the year. Not to be missed!”
Difficult to treat diseases
Dr. Lily Talakoub, who is in private practice in McLean, Va., recommended the many wonderful talks on difficult-to-treat diseases, “with insights on pearls and new advances in treatments – scarring alopecias, vitiligo, and melasma, just to name a few.”
“These talks are my personal refreshers on topics that always pose patient treatment difficulties. Despite the scarcity of treatment options for these diseases, I will be looking for discussions on newer advances in alternative treatments,” she said.
Three Dermatology News editorial advisers provide their recommendations on how to get the most out of the 74th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, March 4-8, in Washington, D.C.
Bring comfortable shoes, check the weather, vote, and enjoy
Dr. Brett Coldiron, a past-president of the AAD, who is in private practice in Cincinnati, recommends comfortable shoes. “The distance you have to walk is astounding, and the timelines can be tight.”
“Map out where you need to be,” he added. Smartphone aficionados will want to download the meeting app while old-school navigators can use the program book to get a handle on the layout of the convention center and headquarters hotel.
“It’s no fun to race across the convention center and arrive at a meeting room that is overcrowded and have to sit on the floor. I always look for seats up front and in the middle – and don’t hesitate to ask someone to pick up their stuff from the seat next to them.”
Dr. Coldiron pointed out that the weather in Washington in March can be brutal ... or beautiful ... or even feature buckets full of rain, so he also suggested checking the area’s extended weather forecast.
“As far as actual content, it is a wonderful educational smorgasbord. Enjoy yourself,” he said. “Make an effort to attend the speeches and the plenary session. I urge you to review the candidates’ material and vote. These elections are usually decided by only a few hundred votes, so your vote really does count.”
Narrow your information focus
Dr. Adam Friedman of the department of dermatology at George Washington University, Washington, said that with more than 375 sessions at the annual meeting, selecting which programs to attend can be overwhelming.
His advice: “Pick two to three specific topics or skills you want to expand upon or develop and go after sessions pertaining to them. Don’t spread yourself too thin.”
For residents, Dr. Friedman, the director of GWU’s residency program, referred to the multiple professional development and board prep courses available at the meeting.
“At this stage in one’s career, it's important to acquire practical tips from contract negotiation to speaker training, as many of these skills are lacking during residency training. Whether you are preparing for the in-training exam or the boards, programs such as Board Blitz (Symposium S033, Sunday at 1 p.m.) and Board Prep for Residents (Course 005, Friday at 9 a.m.) will help you along the way.”
Want to stay on the cutting edge? Consider attending the multiple “hot topics” sessions scheduled throughout the meeting, with a general overview session to be held on Friday (Symposium 018, at 1 p.m.). There are also multiple “new and emerging” sessions, such as New Emerging Therapies (Symposium 011, also Friday at 1 p.m.), that will provide “a look down the road as to what is up and coming.”
What about catching up on the key research published in the last year? Dr. Friedman said, “Check out ‘Highlights from JAAD’ (Focus Session 075, Sunday at 4:30 p.m.), during which editor-in-chief Dr. Bruce Thiers cherry picks his favorite papers of the year. Not to be missed!”
Difficult to treat diseases
Dr. Lily Talakoub, who is in private practice in McLean, Va., recommended the many wonderful talks on difficult-to-treat diseases, “with insights on pearls and new advances in treatments – scarring alopecias, vitiligo, and melasma, just to name a few.”
“These talks are my personal refreshers on topics that always pose patient treatment difficulties. Despite the scarcity of treatment options for these diseases, I will be looking for discussions on newer advances in alternative treatments,” she said.
