In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Diego Ruiz Dasilva, MD, dermatologist at Forefront Dermatology and assistant professor at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Together, they discuss Dr Dasilva’s recent publications and his journey in building a collaborative research career focused on real-world clinical insights.To begin, Dr Dasilva shares the inspiration behind his <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://skin.dermsquared.com/skin/article/view/2646">recent publication</a> that evaluated oral JAK inhibitors in elderly patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Motivated by the positive feedback from older patients and the perception that JAKs are underutilized due to safety concerns, he conducted a multicenter retrospective study that found strong efficacy and a reassuring safety profile in patients aged 65 to 96.Next, the discussion turns to nemolizumab, an IL-31 receptor antagonist recently approved for prurigo nodularis and atopic dermatitis. Dr Dasilva highlights a patient case that prompted a broader series: a patient with cancer experiencing recalcitrant itch who saw complete resolution within days of starting nemolizumab. Across 10 cases, 8 showed a rapid and marked itch response, with no adverse events or ocular surface issues.Finally, they review a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://jcadonline.com/oral-jaki-inhibitor-atopic-dermatitis/">case report on palmoplantar psoriasis</a> treated with topical roflumilast 0.3% cream. Used initially as a bridge to systemic therapy, the patient achieved unexpectedly robust results with the topical alone, avoiding the need for a biologic. Dr Dasilva notes the importance of keeping nonsteroidal topicals in mind, especially for steroid-sparing strategies.Tune in to the full episode for more real-world data and case-based insights to help manage complex dermatologic conditions.

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Diego Ruiz DaSilva, MD, dermatologist at Forefront Dermatology and assistant professor at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Together, they discuss Dr DaSilva’s recent publications and his journey in building a collaborative research career focused on real-world clinical insights.To begin, Dr DaSilva shares the inspiration behind his <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://skin.dermsquared.com/skin/article/view/2646">recent publication</a> that evaluated oral JAK inhibitors in elderly patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Motivated by the positive feedback from older patients and the perception that JAKs are underutilized due to safety concerns, he conducted a multicenter retrospective study that found strong efficacy and a reassuring safety profile in patients aged 65 to 96.Next, the discussion turns to nemolizumab, an IL-31 receptor antagonist recently approved for prurigo nodularis and atopic dermatitis. Dr DaSilva highlights a patient case that prompted a broader series: a patient with cancer experiencing recalcitrant itch who saw complete resolution within days of starting nemolizumab. Across 10 cases, 8 showed a rapid and marked itch response, with no adverse events or ocular surface issues.Finally, they review a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://jcadonline.com/oral-jaki-inhibitor-atopic-dermatitis/">case report on palmoplantar psoriasis</a> treated with topical roflumilast 0.3% cream. Used initially as a bridge to systemic therapy, the patient achieved unexpectedly robust results with the topical alone, avoiding the need for a biologic. Dr DaSilva notes the importance of keeping nonsteroidal topicals in mind, especially for steroid-sparing strategies.Tune in to the full episode for more real-world data and case-based insights to help manage complex dermatologic conditions.

Diego Ruiz Dasilva, MD, FAAD

dermsquared-derms-conditions-podcast-thumbs.png

Young Guns in Dermatology 1: Conquer Challenges with Collaboration

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Cheri Frey, MD, residency program director and director of cosmetic dermatology at Howard University, to discuss the clinical nuances of facial hyperpigmentation, with a special focus on melasma and the emerging role of Thiamidol.Dr Frey begins by breaking down how she categorizes facial hyperpigmentation that isn't tied to a structural lesion. She explains how the distribution, hue, and depth of pigment—epidermal, dermal, or mixed—guide diagnosis and treatment. They revisit traditional therapies like hydroquinone and oral tranexamic acid, highlighting their ongoing roles in management, while noting concerns around cytotoxicity, ochronosis, and overuse.The conversation then turns to Thiamidol, a novel topical agent recently introduced in the US as a potent and selective human tyrosinase inhibitor, unlike many legacy agents developed using mushroom tyrosinase models. Dr Frey shares data showing the superiority of Thiamidol over 2% hydroquinone and comparable efficacy to 4%, with excellent tolerability and quality-of-life benefits. Clinical applications span melasma, acne-induced postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, solar lentigines, and laser-associated hyperpigmentation.Dr Frey also discusses an exciting new study where Thiamidol replaced hydroquinone in triple-combination creams, yielding similar efficacy with improved tolerability, offering new options for patients seeking long-term, safer treatments.Tune in to the full episode to hear how Dr Frey approaches hyperpigmentation with precision and pragmatism, and how Thiamidol may be poised to reshape the treatment landscape.

Cheri Frey, MD

Improving Treatment of Facial Hyperpigmentation: What You Need To Know

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by a world expert in pigmentation, Seemal R. Desai, MD, founder of Innovative Dermatology in Dallas, Texas, for a timely, clinically focused discussion on vitiligo.Dr Desai begins by outlining how to identify unstable vitiligo at the first visit, a crucial step that guides treatment decisions. He describes hallmark features of instability, including trichrome lesions, confetti-like depigmentation, inflammatory borders, pruritus, and signs of Koebnerization—and emphasizes that even one unstable lesion should prompt systemic stabilization. Vitiligo flares can occur unpredictably, even in previously stable patients.The conversation also explores common comorbidities, including autoimmune thyroid disease, diabetes mellitus, and alopecia areata. Dr Desai shares his standard lab workup at the initial visit, which includes thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, thyroid peroxidase antibody, and vitamin D. They discuss when to repeat testing and how to interpret elevated thyroid antibody titers in asymptomatic patients. The pair also touches on psychosocial impact, especially among children and adolescents, and strategies to create space for emotional check-ins during clinical visits.In the second half of the episode, Dr Desai shares practical insights on using topical ruxolitinib cream 1.5% for nonsegmental vitiligo. Dr Del Rosso and Dr Desai discuss treatment duration, counseling around delayed response, and why BID application is critical for success. They also address combining ruxolitinib with phototherapy, tailoring treatment based on location and follicular density, and how to support patients who may feel discouraged by early speckled repigmentation. Boxed warning concerns are also reviewed, with a focus on safety and real-world reassurance for patients using topical formulations.Dr Desai closes with an essential message: patients with vitiligo deserve more than a one-line treatment plan. Hope, education, and long-term partnership are key—and new therapeutic options are on the horizon.

Seemal R. Desai, MD

Patience, Persistence, and Positivity: A New Era in Vitiligo Treatment

In this special mailbag episode of Derms and Conditions, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, takes on your questions from the field, offering expert guidance and real-world tips on some of the most common challenges in dermatology today.Dr Del Rosso begins by tackling common challenges with oral apremilast for psoriasis, sharing strategies to manage gastrointestinal side effects and improve patient adherence. He provides tips on starter packs, meal timing, and even reducing caffeine intake to minimize nausea and cramping during therapy initiation.Next, he discusses the evaluation of alopecia areata severity and how to determine eligibility for oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, including baricitinib and ritlecitinib. Dr Del Rosso outlines a practical approach to scalp assessment using SALT scores, explains how psychosocial impact and eyebrow/eyelash loss can upgrade severity, and reviews important safety considerations for JAK inhibitor therapy. He also previews a recently FDA-approved third option: deuruxolitinib. &nbsp;Finally, Dr Del Rosso covers the newly FDA-approved modified-release oral minocycline 40 mg capsule formulation for rosacea, highlighting its anti-inflammatory benefits and superior efficacy compared with subantimicrobial-dose doxycycline in a head-to-head controlled-study evaluation. He explains its mechanism of action, favorable safety profile, and how it fits into the modern rosacea treatment landscape.Tune in for a fast-paced roundup of pearls, pitfalls, and pro tips that can make all the difference in your day-to-day dermatology practice.

Mailbag #2: Your Questions Answered

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q. Del Rosso is joined by Dr Adelaide Hebert, Chief of Pediatric Dermatology at McGovern School of Medicine and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas. Back by popular demand, Dr Hebert shares her clinical experience managing pediatric atopic dermatitis—particularly in patients who are treatment resistant, injection-averse, or fearful of topical steroids.The conversation begins with a discussion of therapeutic decision-making for new patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. Dr Hebert emphasizes the importance of listening closely to both the child and their caregivers to identify emotional barriers, needle phobia, steroid concerns, and gaps in previous care. She explains why patient-centered care requires flexible strategies, and how once-daily, steroid-free topical agents are often more acceptable to families than systemic options or injectable biologics.Dr Del Rosso and Dr Hebert focus on topical tapinarof, an aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist approved for atopic dermatitis down to 2 years of age. Dr Hebert walks through the advantages of its once-daily use, its natural compound origin, and favorable safety profile, particularly for young children and anxious parents. She shares several compelling cases, including a 3-year-old with 85% body surface area involvement who responded dramatically in a clinical trial, and a 7-year-old girl with longstanding disease and prior cyclosporine exposure who found relief with tapinarof.Together, the clinicians explore practical pearls for real-world use, including how to apply the cream properly, whether to moisturize before or after, how to avoid waste, and when to reintroduce the medication after a flare. Dr Hebert highlights that many of her patients, and their families, experience life-changing improvements in sleep, school participation, and self-esteem, underscoring the broader impact of effective topical treatment.The episode closes with a reminder that personalized care, consistent moisturization, and confidence in the safety of non-steroidal options like tapinarof can help families navigate treatment with less stress—and better results.

Adelaide Hebert, MD

Nonsteroidal Topical Rx for AD: From Study Room to Clinic Room

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes esteemed dermatologist Dr Henry Lim from Michigan. Together, they explore the evolving science behind photoprotection, the importance of advances in sunscreen formulations and ingredients, and the clinical relevance of sunscreen formulations that both protect against and repair photodamage.Dr Lim provides an update on comprehensive photoprotection that includes ultraviolet radiation coverage, recognizes the growing role of visible light protection, and incorporates ingredients with antioxidant activity. He also explains where mineral sunscreens can be particularly helpful in clinical practice.A major part of the discussion highlights the progression of science supporting DNA repair through the use of liposomes containing photolyases. These enzymes have been shown to repair cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers—mutagenic DNA lesions induced by UVA and UVB exposure. Incorporating photolyases into sunscreen formulations has been associated with reduced actinic keratosis formation and enhanced skin protection.Dr Del Rosso shares his insights on ISDIN's Eryfotona Actinica and Eryfotona Ageless, two mineral sunscreens that include photolyase-containing liposomes, also known as DNA Repairsomes®, to enhance natural DNA repair processes. Each product contains additional active ingredients offering distinct benefits for specific patient needs. Dr Del Rosso and Dr Lim discuss how these formulations fit into both preventive and reparative strategies, particularly for patients with a history of actinic damage or elevated risk for nonmelanoma skin cancers. The conversation then covers the value of broad-spectrum protection, lightweight formulations, and patient education to encourage consistent use. Dr Lim offers practical pearls on counseling patients, improving sunscreen adherence, and integrating these strategies into everyday dermatologic care.They also touch on the importance of photoprotection in skin of color, emphasizing the need for inclusive clinical research and personalized recommendations. Dr Lim reinforces the importance of year-round sun protection, even for individuals who perceive themselves to be at lower risk.The episode wraps up with forward-looking insights into the future of photoprotection, including emerging technologies and formulation innovations that may reshape dermatologic sun care. From thoughtful commentary to evidence-based guidance, tune in for the latest in photoprotection—just in time for summer.

Henry Lim, MD

Optimized Photoprotection in 2025: Combining Protection & Correction for Photodamage 

In this first mailbag edition of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q. Del Rosso flies solo to answer your questions—submitted by clinicians across the country. From potassium monitoring to topical field therapy, it’s a rapid-fire round of guidance grounded in the latest literature, clinical experience, and practical wisdom.Dr Del Rosso kicks things off with the ever-popular question: Do I really need to monitor blood potassium in healthy patients on spironolactone for acne? He breaks down current guideline perspectives, red flags for high-risk populations, and his own reasoning for when and why he orders labs.Next, he walks through the expanding world of topical nonsteroidal agents for atopic dermatitis, including:<ul><li>Ruxolitinib 1.5% cream (Opzelura) – FDA-approved for mild to moderate AD in patients ≥12 years old and also for vitiligo; Dr Del Rosso discusses addresses black box warnings, despite low systemic absorption in most real-world scenarios.</li><li>Roflumilast 0.15% cream (Zoryve) – Approved down to 6 years of age, well-tolerated with itch reduction data to back it.</li><li>Tapinarof 1% cream (VTAMA) – Approved down to 2 years of age and used effectively in moderate-to-severe disease with favorable skin tolerability.</li></ul>He explains why these newer agents may be preferred over topical corticosteroids for sensitive areas like the face. In response to questions about actinic keratoses, Dr Del Rosso dives into tirbanibulin 1% ointment (Klisyri), a microtubule inhibitor used once daily for five days. While FDA-approved for face and scalp field treatment up to 100 cm², he shares how he’s successfully using it off-label for forearms and hands, sometimes in combination with cryotherapy.The episode closes with a discussion of oral antibiotic safety in acne, including:<ul><li>Why TMP-SMX (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) works—but must be used selectively due to rare but serious adverse events (TEN, pulmonary toxicity)</li><li>Why azithromycin is not optimal for acne and only used selectively.</li><li>And why mandatory lab monitoring for oral tetracyclines like doxycycline or minocycline isn’t recommended routinely—but clinical vigilance is.</li></ul>With insights on everything from lab work to lid margins, this is one episode you’ll want to bookmark, replay, and pass along to your dermatology colleagues.

Mailbag #1: Your Questions Answered

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host Dr James Del Rosso speaks with Dr Linda Stein Gold, Director of Dermatology at Henry Ford Health, to unpack one of dermatology’s most frustrating and multifactorial conditions: chronic hand eczema.They explore why chronic hand eczema isn’t a single disease but a spectrum of overlapping etiologies—ranging from atopic dermatitis and irritant or allergic contact dermatitis to more elusive triggers. Dr Stein Gold shares practical strategies for teasing out potential causes, discusses some potential limitations of patch testing, and highlights the importance of patient history and thorough skin assessment.The conversation also covers current treatment approaches, from topical corticosteroids to systemic therapies, and introduces delgocitinib cream, a pan-JAK inhibitor under FDA review, as a unique and valuable nonsteroidal option. Drs Stein Gold and Del Rosso explain how its broad immunomodulatory action may help address the condition’s diverse inflammatory pathways while remaining well tolerated, even on fissured skin.Whether you're managing stubborn cases or looking for updates on investigational therapies, this episode offers practice-ready recommendations for clinicians and a reminder not to overlook the emotional toll of hand eczema on patients’ daily lives.

Linda Stein Gold, MD

Wrapping Our HANDS Around Managing Chronic Hand Eczema

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q Del Rosso is joined by Dr April Armstrong, Chair of Dermatology at UCLA, for a thorough discussion of oral therapies for plaque psoriasis—what’s new, what still works, and how to choose the right treatment for the right patient.They kick off with a practical discussion on older systemic options like methotrexate and cyclosporine, including when these tried-and-true agents still have a place in modern practice. From there, Dr Armstrong walks through the evolving role of apremilast, particularly in hard-to-treat variants like palmoplantar pustulosis and in patients with milder disease who prefer oral options. The pair then take listeners through the clinical data behind deucravacitinib, a selective TYK2 inhibitor, highlighting its strong efficacy, minimal lab monitoring, and newly released five-year safety results.The conversation also covers real-world patient selection, payer considerations, and how clinicians can use guidelines to support access to newer therapies. Whether you’re looking to refine your psoriasis treatment strategy or better counsel patients on long-term safety, this episode delivers practical pearls you can use in clinic tomorrow.

April W. Armstrong, MD, MPH

Oral Therapy for Psoriasis: Valuable Insights from April in April!

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q. Del Rosso shifts gears from clinical dermatology to something equally important but rarely discussed—legal and financial planning. He’s joined by his longtime friend and dermatopathologist, Dr Clay Cockerell, who also happens to be a licensed attorney with a passion for educating physicians about estate planning.Packed with practical insights, humor, and a few personal anecdotes, this episode offers a must-hear legal primer for dermatology professionals at any career stage.&nbsp;

Clay Cockerell, MD

Whom Do You Trust? Learn More About Trusts & Wills

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes back his longtime friend and pediatric dermatology expert, Dr Lisa Swanson. Together, they explore the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for pediatric atopic dermatitis, with a focus on newly approved non-steroidal topical therapies.&nbsp;

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes back his longtime friend and pediatric dermatology expert, Dr Lisa Swanson. Together, they explore the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for pediatric atopic dermatitis, with a focus on newly approved non-steroidal topical therapies.&nbsp;Dr Swanson shares her insights on tapinarof 1% cream, now FDA-approved for patients as young as two years old, and topical roflumilast 0.15% cream, approved down to age six. The duo discusses how aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonism makes tapinarof effective in both atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, likening its action to a “SNOO” that adjusts to soothe inflammation.&nbsp;They also dive into data from the ADORING 1 and ADORING 2 phase 3 trials, highlighting tapinarof’s rapid reduction in itch and its positive impact on sleep—critical outcomes for both children and their parents. Dr Swanson offers real-world anecdotes about the sleep-depriving toll of pediatric eczema and how effective therapies can restore rest for the entire family.&nbsp;The conversation touches on skin of color considerations, including how atopic dermatitis may present differently and why diverse representation in clinical trials is essential. Dr Swanson underscores the importance of tactile assessments and shares practical pearls for evaluating eczema severity across skin types.&nbsp;Finally, they explore safety and tolerability, emphasizing tapinarof’s low risk of systemic absorption, even in young children prone to thumb-sucking or hand-to-mouth behavior.&nbsp;Tune in for clinical pearls, new treatment insights, and a few laughs between two dermatology BFFs.

Lisa Swanson, MD

Atopic Dermatitis in Kids: Non-Steroidal Advances with Dr. Lisa Swanson

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host Dr James Q. Del Rosso returns from the 2025 Winter Clinical Dermatology Conference – Miami® with a deep dive into some of the standout posters presented at the meeting.

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host Dr James Q. Del Rosso returns from the 2025 Winter Clinical Dermatology Conference – Miami® with a deep dive into some of the standout posters presented at the meeting.&nbsp;Dr Del Rosso begins the review with new insights on topical clascoterone 1% cream and its impact on the skin barrier, tolerability, and sebum reduction. He explores recent studies showing that clascoterone does not compromise the permeability barrier or increase transepidermal water loss—key considerations for its use alongside other acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids.&nbsp;The analysis shifts to a comparative study on a triple combination acne therapy featuring clindamycin 1.2%, adapalene 0.15%, and benzoyl peroxide 3.1%, which demonstrated superior efficacy over dual-combination formulations. Dr Del Rosso breaks down early activity data, inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesion reductions, and how polymeric emulsion technology enhances both efficacy and tolerability.&nbsp;He also highlights new data on topical roflumilast for atopic dermatitis in younger patients (ages 2-5) and explores the recent FDA approval of tapinarof 1% cream for atopic dermatitis down to age two. Posters on itch and sleep improvements in pediatric patients, as well as efficacy in skin of color, provide valuable clinical insights.&nbsp;Tune in for this rapid-fire breakdown of key posters, packed with data-driven takeaways to enhance your dermatology practice.

Poster Power: A Review of Selected Highlights from WCM25

In this special live episode of Derms and Conditions, recorded at the 2025 Winter Clinical Dermatology Conference - Hawaii®, host Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes Dr April Armstrong, chief of dermatology at UCLA, and Dr David Cohen, dermatologist at NYU Langone, to break down the key takeaways from this year’s meeting.

In this special live episode of Derms and Conditions, recorded at the 2025 Winter Clinical Dermatology Conference - Hawaii®, host Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes Dr April Armstrong, chief of dermatology at UCLA, and Dr David Cohen, dermatologist at NYU Langone, to break down the key takeaways from this year’s meeting.&nbsp;The discussion kicks off with chronic hand eczema, a condition that can be difficult to diagnose and treat due to its multiple causes. Dr Cohen highlights emerging data on new treatment options, including dupilumab, topical JAK inhibitors like ruxolitinib, and upcoming therapies like delgocitinib. They explore whether these newer therapies could be effective across different causes of hand eczema, even when an allergen isn’t clearly identified.&nbsp;Dr Armstrong then shifts the conversation to the next frontier in psoriasis treatment, including new oral therapies that are pushing efficacy to higher levels. They discuss IL-23 receptor antagonists, IL-17 inhibitors, and TNF inhibitors in development, as well as 5-year safety and efficacy data for deucravacitinib, which shows no long-term need for routine monitoring. The group also tackles the evolving treatment landscape for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), where combination therapy is emerging as a key strategy. Dr Armstrong shares insights into guidance from the HS Foundation and the potential of pairing JAK inhibitors with IL-17 or TNF inhibitors for refractory cases.&nbsp;They wrap up with practical pearls from the conference, including extended terbinafine treatment durations for fungal infections, pediatric biologic use around live vaccines, and the latest treatment options for molluscum contagiosum.&nbsp;Tune in to this information-packed episode for expert insights and clinical updates straight from Winter Clinical 2025!

April Armstrong, MD, MPH

David Cohen, MD, MPH

Highlights from Winter Clinical Hawaii 2025: Recorded Live on The Big Island

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Lawrence Green, MD, clinical professor at George Washington University and practicing dermatologist, to discuss the evolving landscape of hyperhidrosis and the latest FDA-approved therapy, sofpironium bromide gel.

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Lawrence Green, MD, clinical professor at George Washington University and practicing dermatologist, to discuss the evolving landscape of hyperhidrosis and the latest FDA-approved therapy, sofpironium bromide gel.&nbsp;Dr Green highlights that an estimated 16 million people in the US experience clinical hyperhidrosis, with axillary hyperhidrosis being the most frequently reported. However, a significant challenge is patient reluctance to discuss symptoms, often due to embarrassment or frustration with ineffective or irritating treatments. Dr Green suggests raising awareness through social media, office signage, and intake forms to help identify more patients needing care.&nbsp;The discussion then shifts to treatment options, including botulinum toxin, devices such as the Brella SweatControl Patch and the energy-based miraDry, and pharmacologic therapies.&nbsp;They explore anticholinergic treatments in depth, explaining how sofpironium bromide gel differs from traditional glycopyrrolate wipes. While glycopyrrolate wipes can be messy, highly saturated, and prone to causing systemic absorption from contact with the hands, sofpironium bromide gel is applied via an applicator in a metered dose, reducing unintended exposure and improving application precision. Unlike glycopyrrolate, which affects muscarinic M1 receptors found throughout the body, sofpironium targets muscarinic M3 receptors, which are more specific to sweat glands, reducing the likelihood of systemic side effects.&nbsp;They next review clinical trial methodologies for hyperhidrosis, including the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Measure and gravimetric sweat production assessments, noting that they favor patient-reported outcomes over objective sweat measurements, as perceived symptom relief is the most important assessment for this condition.&nbsp;Tune in to the full episode to hear expert insights on identifying and treating hyperhidrosis with new and emerging therapies that improve both efficacy and the patient experience.

Lawrence Green, MD

“Don’t Sweat It,” You Say? With Once a Day, There Is a Way!

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Ron Vender, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at McMaster University, to discuss practical strategies for psoriasis treatment and the management of chronic hand dermatitis.

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Ron Vender, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at McMaster University, to discuss practical strategies for psoriasis treatment and the management of chronic hand dermatitis.&nbsp;They begin with Dr Vender sharing his 90/70/40 rule, a numeric approach to evaluating biologic efficacy in psoriasis. He explains that across biologic agents, PASI75 responses typically reach 90%, PASI90 responses reach 70%, and PASI100 responses about 40%, providing a useful benchmark for evaluating treatment success. With many biologics showing similar efficacy and strong safety profiles, this method can help guide selection.&nbsp;They also discuss how comorbidities impact biologic choices, with Dr Vender noting he avoids TNF inhibitors in patients with multiple sclerosis, latent tuberculosis, malignancy, or hepatitis, though they remain a preferred option for women of childbearing potential. He advises caution when using IL-17 inhibitors in patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease. While tuberculosis screening remains routine, he questions its necessity for anti-IL-17 and IL-23 inhibitors, given their lack of association with latent TB reactivation.&nbsp;The discussion then moves to chronic hand dermatitis, with Dr Vender stressing thorough history-taking, including identifying occupational exposures, and diagnostic testing, including patch testing and scrapings. He highlights alitretinoin, an oral retinoid specifically approved for chronic hand dermatitis, as an effective and well-tolerated treatment option. They conclude with a discussion on protective measures for chronic hand dermatitis, including hypoallergenic gloves, cotton liners, and emollient barrier creams.&nbsp;Tune in to the full episode to hear expert insights on optimizing psoriasis treatment and managing chronic hand dermatitis in clinical practice.

Ron vender, MD

How to Streamline Study Data to Improve Selection of Therapy for Patients

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, James Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Dustin Portela, DO, a private practice dermatologist in Boise, ID, and well-known social media presence, to discuss the challenges and responsibilities of dermatologists engaging online while maintaining professional integrity.

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, James Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Dustin Portela, DO, a private practice dermatologist in Boise, ID, and well-known social media presence, to discuss the challenges and responsibilities of dermatologists engaging online while maintaining professional integrity.&nbsp;Dr Portela shares how he unintentionally became an influencer, initially using social media to market his new practice without a budget. His following grew as he provided accurate, engaging, and evidence-based dermatologic education, evolving into a broader platform for both patients and clinicians.&nbsp;They discuss combatting misinformation, as much of the skin care advice online comes from nonmedical sources. Dr Portela emphasizes that his goal is to provide science-backed, accessible information, mirroring the guidance he offers in the clinic. He recommends the AAD website, DermNet, and YouTube’s certified health professionals as trusted resources and uses AI tools like ChatGPT to simplify patient education, though he stresses the importance of reviewing content for accuracy before sharing.&nbsp;They also address legal considerations, with Dr Portela advising dermatologists to avoid direct medical advice online and instead keep recommendations general and educational. He cautions that malpractice policies typically do not cover social media activity, making it crucial to understand liability risks.&nbsp;Finally, they discuss brand partnerships, with Dr Portela emphasizing authenticity and trust. He only endorses products he has personally used and recommended in practice, ensuring his audience receives honest, unbiased information.&nbsp;Tune in to the full episode for insights on navigating social media responsibly, protecting credibility, and effectively leveraging online platforms for dermatologic education.

Dustin Portela, DO

Dermatology & Social Media: Tips on Engaging with Accuracy and Integrity

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Michael Payette, MD, a dermatologist in private practice at Central Connecticut Dermatology, to discuss practical approaches to managing hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Dr Payette shares his experience establishing a dedicated HS clinic and provides insights into addressing diagnostic delays, patient education, and emerging treatments.

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Michael Payette, MD, a dermatologist in private practice at Central Connecticut Dermatology, to discuss practical approaches to managing hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Dr Payette shares his experience establishing a dedicated HS clinic and provides insights into addressing diagnostic delays, patient education, and emerging treatments.&nbsp;They begin by discussing the importance of outreach and education to raise awareness of HS among non-dermatology health care providers, such as OB-GYNs and urgent care practitioners, highlighting how early referral and intervention can prevent long-term complications such as scarring and sinus tract formation.&nbsp;They then explore the role of GLP-1 therapies and biologics in HS treatment. Dr Payette shares his multimodal approach, explaining how GLP-1s address an underlying cause of inflammation while biologics target active inflammation. He outlines practical tips for managing insurance approvals and counseling patients on the benefits and potential side effects of these therapies.&nbsp;The episode also covers strategies for discussing lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and smoking cessation, while being sensitive to patient challenges. Dr Payette notes that combining weight reduction with biologics can often yield good outcomes, helping patients achieve better disease control and remission.&nbsp;Tune in to the full episode to learn how a systematic, patient-centered approach to HS management can improve outcomes for this challenging condition.

Michael Payette, MD

Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Can You Move the Needle to Achieve Better Outcomes?

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Mona Shahriari, MD, associate director of clinical trials at Central CT Dermatology and assistant clinical professor at Yale University, to discuss the challenges of treating pregnant and breastfeeding patients, particularly those with atopic dermatitis (AD).

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Mona Shahriari, MD, associate director of clinical trials at Central CT Dermatology and assistant clinical professor at Yale University, to discuss the challenges of treating pregnant and breastfeeding patients, particularly those with atopic dermatitis (AD).&nbsp;The conversation addresses a crucial yet often unclear topic for dermatologists: balancing safety and efficacy when managing AD in patients during pregnancy and lactation. Dr Shahriari emphasizes the importance of addressing uncontrolled inflammation, which can have potential consequences for both the mother and baby, such as premature birth and maternal sleep disruption. She shares insights into the physiological changes during pregnancy, including the shift from a Th1 to a Th2 immune state, and how this can impact conditions like AD and psoriasis.&nbsp;The discussion highlights the limited data available for systemic treatments in this population, as pregnant women are excluded from clinical trials. Despite this, therapies like dupilumab and cyclosporine are discussed for their safety profiles, with dupilumab often considered when patients need effective control with minimal risk. Dr Shahriari also addresses strategies to involve partners in treatment decisions, ensuring patients feel supported and informed.&nbsp;Drs Del Rosso and Shahriari emphasize the importance of open communication with patients, managing risk tolerance, and understanding the nuances of systemic treatment in pregnancy and lactation. Dr Shahriari shares real-world cases, including the use of dupilumab in a pregnant patient with severe AD and counseling a patient with psoriasis who unintentionally administered a biologic injection during the first trimester.&nbsp;Tune in to the full episode for practical guidance on navigating these complex cases and balancing patient care with available evidence. This episode is a must-listen for dermatologists managing pregnant or breastfeeding patients with inflammatory skin conditions.

Mailbag #2: Your Questions Answered

Subscribe at

More from this series

Related CME