Highlights of Skin Disease Education Foundation’s 39th Annual Hawaii Dermatology Seminar

Jun
2015
Vol. 34. No. 4

Introduction

The breadth and diversity of dermatology, the speed at which our understanding of skin pathophysiology has improved, and the
introduction of new therapies combine to make this field interesting and challenging. The expanding scope of our specialty also
creates a broad range of educational needs for practicing clinicians.
Skin Disease Education Foundation’s 39th Hawaii Dermatology Seminar offers updates from experts addressing a broad range of
skin diseases, and covers advances in both medical and aesthetic dermatology. The articles in this educational supplement summarize
the highlights of clinical sessions presented during the CME/CE conference by leading experts in the field of dermatology.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors are the cornerstone of treatment for psoriasis, but choice of agent can be confusing.
This supplement includes a comparison of the TNF inhibitors approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for
the treatment of psoriasis. Psoriasis has been linked to an elevated risk of several comorbidities. Can choice of psoriasis therapy
alleviate any of these conditions? Our faculty evaluates how risk or presence of comorbid conditions might inform the choice of
psoriasis therapy, and whether control of psoriasis can alleviate any coexisting conditions.
Accumulating evidence suggests that rosacea, like psoriasis, is a disorder of the immune system – specifically, of innate rather
than adaptive immunity. This CME/CE supplement summarizes those findings. It also reviews studies of new therapies for this
condition, as well as new evidence validating the use of a commonly prescribed agent.
Moving from the face to the feet and from immune disorders to fungal infection, our faculty addresses the diagnosis and therapy
for tinea pedis and toenail onychomycosis. The FDA last year approved two topical therapies developed specifically for toenail
onychomycosis, and in 2013 approved a treatment for interdigital tinea pedis. These highlights summarize the evidence for these
therapies, and also cover other publications about diagnosis and management of these infections.
Acne is a common problem in dermatological practice. Our faculty reviews recent studies addressing topics such as antibiotic
dosing, maintenance therapy, diet, and treatment of acne on the trunk of the body.
In the realm of aesthetic medicine, this educational supplement addresses techniques for reducing the number of sessions
required for tattoo removal and newer lasers that may improve removal of certain types of tattoos.
The broad range of dermatology care and new therapies for skin conditions challenge the busy clinician to remain abreast of the
latest information. We hope that you can apply these updates from our seminar to your clinical practice.