Derms and Conditions

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Zoe Draelos, MD, for an in-depth discussion of 3 practical questions surrounding topical clascoterone, informed by studies Dr Draelos helped conduct. Together, they translate study findings into real-world considerations for using clascoterone as part of combination acne regimens.

The conversation begins with the role of formulation and vehicle design, addressing a common concern in acne management: barrier disruption and application-site irritation. Unlike retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, clascoterone is an androgen receptor inhibitor formulated in a vehicle shown to sustain and slightly increase m...

In this 2025 Year in Review solo episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, reflects on the standout conversations, clinical insights, and new formats that shaped the series over the past year.

Dr Del Rosso opens by highlighting the launch of Tea with Dr. D, a sister vodcast that brings expert discussions to video, incorporating slides and procedural footage. He spotlights an episode with HS expert Lauren Lam, MD, who walks through comprehensive hidradenitis suppurativa management from patient check-in through long-term care. He also reviews Spilling the Tea with Dr. D, a hybrid audio-video mailba...

In this episode of Tea with Dr. D, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Gary Goldenberg, MD, for an in-depth discussion on integrating procedural dermatology, particularly regenerative treatments for hair loss, into a busy private practice. Together, they explore considerations for patient selection and the clinical value these procedures bring to aesthetic and medical dermatology settings.

The conversation begins with an overview of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), including its evolution in the US and the growing body of evidence supporting its role in androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, and scarring alopecia. Dr Goldenberg outlines P...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Pearl Grimes, MD, to discuss the latest understanding and management of vitiligo, a field experiencing significant scientific and therapeutic momentum. With the approval of topical ruxolitinib and multiple oral JAK inhibitors on the horizon, these developments are enabling clinicians to better tailor therapy to the diverse needs of their patients.

They begin with a discussion on setting patient expectations around treatment duration. With vitiligo therapies requiring long-term commitment, Dr Grimes explains that it is a chronic disease requiring ongoing management, whether u...

In this episode of Tea with Dr. D, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, tackles questions submitted by dermatology clinicians across the country, offering evidence-based insights across several challenging clinical topics.

Dr Del Rosso begins with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), highlighting the importance of recognizing comorbidities and lifestyle factors that contribute to disease onset and progression, including smoking and elevated body mass index. He advises a phased management approach: prioritizing symptom control and patient comfort before introducing discussions about weight loss or smoking cessation. Depression, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease are also important comorbidities to address over t...

In this episode of Tea with Dr D, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, and later Lisa Swanson, MD, for a deep look at phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibition in dermatology, with a special focus on topical roflumilast. 

Dr Bunick opens with a primer on the science of PDE4, an enzyme that degrades cyclic AMP (cAMP), an intracellular messenger that regulates anti-inflammatory pathways. In conditions such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis, overactive PDE4 leads to reduced cAMP and amplified inflammation. By “gumming up” PDE4, roflumilast restores a more balanced, anti-inflammatory state. 

H...

In this special Derms and Conditions episode recorded live at Fall Clinical 2025, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by April Armstrong, MD, MPH, and David Cohen, MD, to share highlights and clinical takeaways from this year’s meeting.

Dr Armstrong kicks off with updates in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), noting the field’s rapid progress with 3 FDA-approved therapies (adalimumab, secukinumab, and bimekizumab), emerging 3-year data for bimekizumab, and exciting new agents such as oral povorcitinib and topical ruxolitinib. She shares learnings on the importance of proactive flare management plans and setting realistic patient expectations, particularly regarding scarri...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes David Osborne, PhD, a formulation expert behind several dermatologic topicals, to explore what drives topical performance, using dapsone and roflumilast as case studies.

They begin by challenging long-held vehicle dogma rooted in mid-20th-century corticosteroid training: the idea that ointments always outperform creams or lotions. They note that with newer solubilizers, stabilizers, and vehicles, those rules don’t consistently hold for products approved in the modern era.

They next revisit propylene glycol (PG) as a classic double-edged tool: its ability to di...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with E. James Song, MD, for a discussion on phototherapy and its place in modern dermatology. While phototherapy has long been a safe and effective treatment for various skin disorders, its use has declined due to limited access, inconsistent residency training, and clinician concerns about dosing. They review why these barriers are more logistical than clinical and how newer technologies are making treatment more accessible than ever.

They begin by highlighting one of the most significant advances in phototherapy: home-based narrowband UVB d...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Natasha Mesinkovska, MD, associate professor of Dermatology at UC Irvine, to discuss the multifaceted challenges of alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune condition with complex comorbidities and broad psychosocial implications.

The conversation begins with the stigma of hair loss and the importance of addressing the patient’s emotional well-being. Dr Mesinkovska highlights her approach: asking simple but direct questions about how patients are coping and connecting them with mental health resources when needed.

Comorbidities and workup are also addressed, with Dr M...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Patti Farris, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University, for a timely conversation on photoprotection and sunscreen. As new concerns surface among patients, they provide an up-to-date perspective on UV exposure, formulation science, and patient counseling.

Dr Farris explains the critical role of UVA radiation, which penetrates deeper into the dermis than UVB and is a major driver of photoaging and skin cancer risk. Unlike UVB, UVA is harder to block because many chemical filters only partially cover this spectrum. She a...

In this new installment of Tea with Dr D, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Karan Lal, DO, to examine 3 complex cases where clinical reasoning required moving beyond conventional pathways. This episode features visually impactful case images that bring the discussion to life.

The first case centers on an elderly patient on PD-L1 immunotherapy who developed erosive plaques on the head and neck. Dr Lal reviews the diagnostic challenges of atypical presentations, the limitations of standard treatments, and his decision to carefully introduce a JAK inhibitor with oncology support, illustrating the importance of balancing...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Dallas/Fort Worth–based dermatologist Todd Plott, MD, for an in-depth discussion on the first extended-release formulation of minocycline approved for rosacea.

The conversation begins with a historical look at tetracyclines, tracing back to tetracycline in 1953, doxycycline in 1968, and minocycline in 1971. While traditionally used as broad-spectrum antibiotics, these agents have shown efficacy in rosacea primarily due to their anti-inflammatory activity rather than antimicrobial effects.

They review head-to-head clinical data showing that extended-release minocycline, commercially available as Emrosi, significantly reduced inflammatory lesions and...

Index of Suspicion is the Friend of the Clinician: Great Cases from the Northeast

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Erik Domingues, MD, a dermatologist in Fall River, MA, to review 3 cases where cutaneous presentations led to unexpected findings or required creative treatment approaches.

The first case involves a 74-year-old man with diffuse granuloma annulare (GA). Although biopsy confirmed GA, the widespread involvement raised concern for an underlying condition. When standard therapy failed, Dr Domingues noted a cervical mass that proved to be an...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes April Armstrong, MD, MPH, Professor and Chief of Dermatology at UCLA, to discuss chronic hand eczema (CHE) and the introduction of the first FDA-approved treatment developed specifically for this condition.

The conversation begins with a review of CHE as a distinct clinical entity, highlighting its subtypes: irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, atopic hand eczema, and the less common protein contact dermatitis. They highlight occupational exposures and daily “wet work” that increase risk, while Dr Del Rosso notes the challenge of overlapping subtypes in re...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Andy Blauvelt, MD, to explore the mechanism, efficacy, and safety of deucravacitinib, the first FDA-approved tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor for psoriasis.

Dr Blauvelt begins by explaining how TYK2 inhibition differs from traditional JAK inhibition by targeting a more selective signaling pathway downstream of cytokine receptors. Unlike JAK1, JAK2, or JAK3, TYK2 is involved in a narrower range of cytokines, which may explain its distinct safety profile.

Dr Del Rosso and Dr Blauvelt also clarify why deucravacitinib lacks the boxed w...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes David Altman, MD, dermatologist at Midwest Center of Dermatology in Warren, MI, to review recent case studies that highlight unexpected presentations, treatment responses, and immune system interplay in dermatology.

The first case focuses on a 34-year-old patient with severe, recalcitrant Hailey-Hailey disease. After multiple failed therapies, including antibiotics, corticosteroids, apremilast, and low-dose naltrexone, she achieved near-complete clearance within 12 weeks on dupilumab. Drs Altman and Del Rosso share their thoughts on why a drug targeting type 2 inflammation might be effective in a condition traditionally co...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, speaks with Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, dermatologist and director of the Skin of Color division at the University of Miami, about the shifting dynamics of skin care among younger generations and how dermatologists can meet this growing demand for evidence-based “prejuvenation” strategies.

The discussion begins with reflections on how skin care priorities have shifted from basic sun protection and moisturization to a more proactive, appearance-driven approach, especially among Gen Z. While this interest is largely aesthetic, Drs Del Rosso and Woolery-Lloyd point out that it also...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Jason Hawkes, MD, Chief Scientific Officer at Oregon Medical Research Center, to explore the role of dupilumab in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a condition historically managed outside dermatology.

They begin with the immunologic underpinnings of CSU, explaining the role of IL-4 and IL-13 in driving mast cell activation and the role of IL-31 in itch. Since dupilumab blocks these key cytokines, it can disrupt the disease process at multiple levels, from antibody formation to immune cell recruitment.

They discuss t...

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 recent publication 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 concer...

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...

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 pr...

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 el...

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 ident...

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...

In Part Two of the Tea with Dr. D premiere, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, returns with Lauren Lam, MD, a Canadian dermatologist with a keen interest and extensive experience in managing hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). After covering overall considerations and the medical side of HS management in Part One, they shift gears to focus on important physical approaches, including one of the most effective—and often underutilized—surgical interventions: deroofing. 

Dr Lam emphasizes the importance of both medical and surgical interventions in order to provide comprehensive management of this multifaceted disease state. She shares her step-by-step approach for i...

In this premiere episode of Tea with Dr D, Dr James Q Del Rosso welcomes Dr Lauren Lam, a Canadian dermatologist with special interest and strong experience in managing patients affected by hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). They engage in a thoughtful and comprehensive conversation about diagnosing and treating this common yet often elusive skin condition—especially in its early stages—which has been notoriously difficult to treat. Their discussion integrates both medical and surgical approaches to optimize outcomes.

Dr Lam shares how she built an efficient, trust-centered model of care at her Calgary clinic, from using intake tools and...

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.

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 histor...

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...

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.

Dr Cockerell breaks down the fundamentals of trusts, wills, and malpractice insurance in plain

language, highlighting why every physician should care about these topics. Listeners will learn

the...

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.

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

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.

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...

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.

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 delgo...

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.

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 t...

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.

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.

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.

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.

They discuss combatting misinformation, as much of the skin care advice o...

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.

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 a...

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).

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 a...

In this milestone 100th episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso, DO, takes listeners on a year-in-review journey through some of the greatest highlights from 2024. This special solo episode reflects on standout conversations with leading dermatologists and previews exciting plans for 2025.

Dr Del Rosso revisits key insights from some of the most impactful episodes on this 100th Episode of Derms and Conditions Podcasts:

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Brad Glick, DO, dermatologist and residency program director at Larkin Health Center in South Florida, to discuss the complexities of selecting systemic therapies for psoriasis. They share insights on navigating the abundance of treatment options, focusing on patient-centric considerations, with an emphasis on the TYK2 inhibitor deucravacitinib.

They begin by highlighting how treatment selection often depends more on disease location and patient impact than on body surface area alone and discuss the importance of addressing comorbidities, such as metabolic syndrome or i...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes E. James Song, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Frontier Dermatology, to explore the nuances of systemic therapy selection for atopic dermatitis (AD) and offer practical guidance on tailoring treatment plans to optimize outcomes for these patients.

They begin by discussing the importance of considering patient-specific factors, such as contraindications, access, and age, when selecting among the 3 currently available biologics for AD: dupilumab, tralokinumab, and lebrikizumab. While these therapies share many similarities, nuanced differences—such as dupilumab’s approval for younger patients and asthma comor...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Tina Bhutani, MD, CEO and clinical dermatologist at Synergy Dermatology in San Francisco, to explore the evolving role of topical corticosteroids in psoriasis care and their interplay with newer nonsteroidal agents. With the wide array of treatments available today, they highlight the enduring importance of topicals in dermatology practice, even as systemic therapies become increasingly effective.

They begin by highlighting the role of topical corticosteroids as a cornerstone of psoriasis management. Dr Bhutani explains that she often uses high-potency options like clobetasol for t...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso, DO, welcomes David Cotter, MD, a dermatologist in clinical practice and assistant clinical professor at the University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Medicine, to discuss the integral role of patch testing in managing atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), providing practical insights on incorporating patch testing into practice and differentiating between these often-overlapping conditions.

They begin with Dr Cotter highlighting the importance of a holistic approach when evaluating patients with AD and ACD. A thorough history and physical examination, combined with a detailed u...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, invites Peter Lio, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at Northwestern University, to explore the complexities of selecting therapies for atopic dermatitis (AD) with a particular focus on the newly approved IL-13 inhibitor, lebrikizumab. With a growing number of treatment options, Dr Lio and Dr Del Rosso examine how these therapies are enhancing patient management in unique ways.

The discussion opens with a look at the current "embarrassment of riches" in AD treatments. Dermatologists now have multiple biologic options to choose from, each with d...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Adelaide Hebert, MD, chief of pediatric dermatology at McGovern School of Medicine and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, to discuss the intricacies and challenges of pediatric clinical research.

They begin by noting that past limitations left clinicians with few FDA-approved treatment options for younger patients, often relying on off-label therapies without robust pediatric data. However, legislative changes and incentives, such as patent extensions for drugs studied in pediatric populations, have encouraged pharmaceutical companies to invest in pediatric trials, enabling dermatologists to gai...

In this special live episode of Derms and Conditions, recorded at the Fall Clinical Dermatology 2024 Meeting, host Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes Dr April Armstrong, chief of dermatology at UCLA, to discuss key highlights from the conference. Together, they cover the latest in psoriasis treatments, promising developments for vitiligo, advances in hidradenitis suppurativa, and much more.

The discussion kicks off with psoriasis, where exciting progress in oral TYK2, IL-23, and IL-17A inhibitors is providing potential for effective, safe options for moderate-to-severe cases. For atopic dermatitis, they review the recent approval of lebrikizumab and the real-world ef...

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 recent FDA approval of lebrikizumab, approved for atopic dermatitis (AD) in patients 12 years of age and up who have failed topical treatments like corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors, and its potential impact on treatment strategies.

They begin by explaining the drug's flexibility, with an initial loading dose followed by maintenance dosing that can be extended to once a month for patients who a...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host Dr James Q. Del Rosso welcomes Dr Joel M. Gelfand, Professor of Dermatology and Epidemiology at the University of Pennsylvania, to explore the critical issue of comorbidities in dermatology, with a focus on psoriasis, and address why dermatologists should take an active role in recognizing and addressing these risks.

Dr Gelfand reflects on his early observations of patients with psoriasis and their potential internal health issues, noting how in the past, psoriasis was primarily seen as just a skin condition. However, research and a pivotal article on inflammatory pathways i...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Jason Hawkes, MD, a dermatologist and investigator at the Medical Research Center of Oregon, to discuss tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitors, particularly deucravacitinib, for plaque psoriasis. They explain how deucravacitinib, which targets the TYK2 pathway, differs from other JAK inhibitors by avoiding the "off-target" effects associated with JAK 1, 2, and 3 inhibitors, offering a more selective and safe treatment option.

They begin by discussing the JAK-STAT pathway, with Dr Hawkes noting that while the science behind it was well known, TYK2's role in psoriasis t...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso sits down with Dr Jessica Kaffenberger, an associate professor in dermatology at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, to discuss the latest in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) management. From navigating treatment challenges to addressing patient concerns, Dr Kaffenberger shares valuable insights on bridging older therapies with biologics, early diagnosis, and the importance of mental health and other forms of support to reduce risk factors for progression of HS, such as smoking cessation and weight reduction. 

The discussion begins with a reflection on traditional therapies used for HS, suc...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Del Rosso, DO, speaks with Mark Lebwohl, MD, Dean for Clinical Therapeutics at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, about the role of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, particularly upadacitinib, in treating atopic dermatitis. They provide insights into the benefits of JAK inhibitors compared to monoclonal antibodies, patient selection, and the implications of recent clinical data.

They begin by explaining that while monoclonal antibodies like dupilumab and tralokinumab have been effective for many patients, JAK inhibitors can offer a powerful alternative for those seeking better control of th...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Omar Noor, MD, co-owner of Rao Dermatology in New York, NY, who shares his expertise on integrating nonsteroidal topical therapies into psoriasis treatment. As systemic therapies continue to advance, Dr Noor emphasizes the enduring importance of topical treatments with a focus on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist, tapinarof.

They begin by discussing the role of newer nonsteroidal options for psoriasis like roflumilast and tapinarof, highlighting their benefits in contrast to corticosteroids, which, despite their effectiveness, can carry significant adverse effects. Dr N...

In this episode, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, welcomes Dr Adrian Rodriguez, a dermatologist from Nashville, to discuss the exciting advancements in personalized medicine for psoriasis, particularly focusing on the practical use of a dermal biomedical patch to help clinicians optimize selection of biologics agents for patients with psoriasis. 

Dr Rodriguez emphasizes that we're moving into an era where personalized patient evaluations are playing a greater role in disease management, not to replace the judgment of the clinician, but to assist the clinician during the process of treatment selection. The Mind.Px patch, which is c...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, and guests Michael Cameron, MD, and James Allred, MD, discuss the intersection of GLP-1 agents and dermatology, exploring how these drugs, initially designed for managing type 2 diabetes, are now offering promising benefits for skin conditions associated with obesity.

They begin by providing an overview of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agents and their mechanisms of action. These drugs, which include terzepitide (marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound) and semaglutide (available as Ozempic and Wegovy), are GLP-1 receptor agonists that enhance insulin secretion, reduce appetite, and promote weight l...

In this special episode of Derms and Conditions, Charlie Dunn, MD, chief resident at Kansas City University, steps in as the host to interview James Del Rosso, DO, offering a fresh perspective for our listeners. Together, they explore the evolution of dermatologic therapies and the understanding of disease states, providing valuable insights for both early-career dermatologists and seasoned practitioners alike.

They begin with rosacea, with Dr Del Rosso explaining the historical perspective and highlighting a landmark article that classified the condition into subtypes. This classification system, although useful, has led to some confusion over the years. He d...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Clay Cockerell, MD, a practicing dermatopathologist at Cockerell Dermatology in Dallas, TX, whose expertise in dermatopathology and commitment to ongoing education offer listeners practical advice on enhancing patient care and professional fulfillment.

They begin by discussing some common pitfalls that can lead to missed diagnoses. Dr Cockerell emphasizes the importance of proper biopsy techniques, noting issues such as inadequate superficial biopsies that miss diagnostic areas and improper punch biopsies that fail to assess critical features. He also addresses insufficient preset menu o...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, and James Song, MD, FAAD, co-chief medical officer and director of clinical research at Frontier Dermatology in Mill Creek, WA, explore the complexities of clinical decision-making in dermatology. Dr Song shares his insights on maintaining efficiency in a busy private practice, particularly when dealing with challenging medication approvals.

They begin by highlighting the importance of setting patient expectations early and communicating that initial treatment plans are not binding and can be adjusted based on patient feedback and treatment efficacy.

They explore the c...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Alexandra Golant, MD, to discuss taking a holistic approach to diagnosing and managing atopic dermatitis beyond the AAD guidelines, exploring the importance of looking beyond treatment rankings and considering comprehensive patient information.

They begin by discussing the significance of patient history, emphasizing the importance of context clues like family history, seasonal variations in symptoms, and quality of life impacts in forming a comprehensive understanding of the individual.

They also address navigating the challenges of gathering family histories, noting that d...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, is joined by Shawn Kwatra, MD, to discuss an intriguing breakthrough in atopic dermatitis (AD) therapeutics: the OX40/OX40 ligand pathway. As advancements in AD treatment continue to unfold rapidly, this pathway has emerged as a novel target, presenting a promising avenue for achieving long-term relief by targeting upstream inflammatory signals. By normalizing disease processes and potentially inducing longer periods of remission, understanding this pathway may offer a paradigm shift in AD management.

They begin with an overview of the OX40/OX40 ligand pathway, a...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, interviews Faranak Kamangar, MD, and April Armstrong, MD, MPH, about the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in dermatology. They discuss specialized dermatologic models, ethical considerations, and the crucial role of physicians in refining these technologies.

The discussion begins with the host addressing concerns regarding the "authenticity" of AI and how Dr Kamangar developed a strong interest in AI, stemming from her engineering background and interest in health technology, particularly in the development of language-learning models. She explains the significance of ChatGPT opening the door p...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, engages in a comprehensive discussion with Jason Hawkes, MD, MS, FAAD, a medical dermatologist in Rocklin, CA, on chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). They discuss CSU’s position in the spectrum of urticarial conditions, explore differential diagnoses and treatment strategies, and offer a wealth of valuable insights into this complex disease.

They begin by defining urticaria as a collection of conditions, explaining that this is often not well-delineated in textbooks or literature. Dr Hawkes categorizes urticaria into acute and chronic types, with chronic further divided into ch...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, interviews Naiem Issa, MD, PhD, FAAD, a dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon practicing at Forefront Dermatology in Vienna, VA, to discuss innovative approaches to treating challenging conditions. From exploring groundbreaking treatments for vitiligo to the mechanisms behind systemic responses in inflammatory diseases, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of art and science in dermatology.

The conversation begins with a focus on a novel combination treatment for a challenging disease state: vitiligo. Dr Issa explores the potential of combining topical ruxolitinib with microneedling to p...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Jennifer Hsiao, MD, associate professor of clinical dermatology at Keck Medicine of University of Southern California, to discuss the multifaceted world of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). From addressing diagnostic obstacles to understanding comorbidities, this episode guides clinicians through the many complexities of HS management.

They begin by exploring the diagnostic hurdles associated with HS, with Dr Hsiao sharing insights to help clinicians navigate through potential misdiagnoses. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing subtle indicators of the disease and thinking outside the box w...

In this 2-part special edition of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, sits down with David Light, cofounder and president of Valisure, and Christopher Bunick, associate professor of dermatology and translational medicine at Yale University and medical and dermatologic advisor for Valisure, to shed light on Valisure’s recent Citizen Petition to the US Food and Drug Administration regarding findings of high levels of benzene in benzoyl peroxide-containing products.

In Part 1, Dr Del Rosso interviews David Light, cofounder and president of Valisure, an independent quality assurance company that aims to address a critical gap in t...

In this 2-part special edition of Derms and Conditions, host James Q Del Rosso, DO, sits down with David Light, cofounder and president of Valisure, and Christopher Bunick, associate professor of dermatology and translational medicine at Yale University and medical and dermatologic advisor for Valisure, to shed light on Valisure’s recent Citizen Petition to the US Food and Drug Administration regarding findings of high levels of benzene in benzoyl peroxide-containing products.

In Part 1, Dr Del Rosso interviews David Light, cofounder and president of Valisure, an independent quality assurance company that aims to address a critical gap in t...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, interviews Cory Rubin, MD, dermatologist and owner of the Michigan Dermatology Institute, about the business side of running a practice, with specific focus on the buy-and-bill model.

Dr Rubin shares some of the challenges he has faced and explains the value of buy-and-bill for dermatologists, particularly in complex cases where medications may not be easily accessible through traditional pharmacies. They cover suitable medications, such as biologics for psoriasis, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and other conditions, as well as the financial benefits, clinical advantages, and p...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, interviews pediatric dermatologist Lisa Swanson, MD, live at Winter Clinical Miami 2024 to review conference highlights and discuss diagnosing and treating molluscum contagiosum, herpes labialis in the adolescent population, and newer and emerging therapies for chronic skin diseases like atopic dermatitis and acne.

Dr Swanson discusses the recent FDA approval of cantharidin and berdazimer gel for molluscum contagiosum and the challenges of diagnosing single lesions. She highlights the importance of providing accurate information to schools and daycares about the contagiousness of the virus and t...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, interviews April Armstrong, MD, MPH, a professor and Chief of Dermatology at UCLA, about the development of tapinarof, a novel nonsteroidal topical treatment for psoriasis. 

They begin by discussing Dr Armstrong’s history of professional interest in psoriasis. The conversation then moves to focus solely on tapinarof, a topical cream that works by modulating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). 

Dr Armstrong explains the unique mechanism of action of tapinarof and its effects on Th17 cytokines, antioxidant activity, and skin barrier function. She...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, is joined by April Armstrong, MD, MPH, and David Cohen, MD, MPH, live at Winter Clinical Hawaii 2024 to review highlights from the conference. 

They cover a diverse slate of topics, including the 2023 allergen of the year (lanolin), notable advancements in psoriasis treatment including topicals and biologics, updates on diagnostic tools for melanoma, and clinical pearls for treating actinic keratosis with combinations of cryosurgery, topical field therapy, and PDT. The group reviews guidelines for atopic dermatitis and effective therapies like omalizumab and oral antihistamines fo...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Andy Blauvelt, MD, joins James Q. Del Rosso, DO, to discuss IL-17 inhibition, with a focus on bimekizumab as a treatment for psoriasis. Bimekizumab is unique for inhibiting both IL-17A and IL-17F, demonstrating higher efficacy and a favorable safety profile. Dr Blauvelt highlights the drug's mechanism of action and covers its approval process, global use, and notable data. He emphasizes its efficacy in achieving Psoriasis Area Severity Index 100 (PASI 100) clearance.

The pair discusses bimekizumab’s dosing schedule, with an induction dosing period of once a month for 16 weeks fo...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, our host, Dr James Q. Del Rosso, reflects on the past year of podcasting, offering a rich summary of key dermatologic topics discussed throughout 2023. 

To start, the episode delves into highlights from an interview with Dr Shane Chapman, who specializes in skin cancer. Dr Chapman shares insights into nonsurgical options for treating nonmelanoma skin cancer, focusing on strategies for cases of squamous cell carcinoma and nodular basal cell carcinoma that may not be amenable to surgical treatment for a variety of reasons.

Next, Dr Del Rosso features an e...

In episode 67 of Derms and Conditions, our host, Dr James Q. Del Rosso, sits down again with Dr Jeff Donovan, a board-certified dermatologist who practices in Whistler, Canada, with his dermatology clinic dedicated solely to the management of hair disorders, for part two of their discussion on alopecia areata and other hair loss conditions.

Dr Donovan begins the discussion by addressing autoimmune thyroid disease associated with alopecia areata and the appropriate laboratory interpretation and monitoring for these patients. He discusses the comprehensive baseline laboratory tests he collects before initiating JAK inhibitor treatment as well as how he...

In episode 66 of Derms and Conditions, our host, Dr James Q. Del Rosso, sits down with Dr Jeff Donovan, a board-certified dermatologist who practices in Whistler, Canada, with his dermatology clinic dedicated only to management of hair disorders. In part one of this series, they discuss how to approach patients with alopecia areata.

Dr Donovan starts by discussing conditions that can mimic alopecia areata and when a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis, prompting him to share his suggestions on biopsy caliber, appropriate sites for biopsy, and utilizing the right pathologist to review the sample.<...

In episode 65 of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q Del Rosso, DO, chats with Ted Rosen, MD, Professor of Dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine and Chief of Dermatology Service at Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, to discuss new developments in psoriasis treatment.

They begin by discussing the current psoriasis treatment landscape and the perception that with effective biologics now on the market, there are no longer any unmet needs in psoriasis treatment. They reflect on the importance of having a variety of treatment options with differing mechanisms of action, which can address variability...

In Episode 64 of Derms and Conditions, our host, Dr James Q. Del Rosso sits down with Dr

Shane Chapman, Chair of the Department of Dermatology at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical

Center, to discuss nonsurgical approaches to treating nonmelanoma skin cancer. 

Dr. Chapman begins by discussing topical treatment options for nonmelanoma skin cancer for

patients who are not candidates for surgery. He comments on the use of intralesional

chemotherapy for keratoacanthomas or squamous cell carcinomas in poorly healing areas or

when multiple lesions are present, compares the benefits of 5...

In Episode 63 of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Adam Friedman, MD, to discuss some important topics in dermatology, including a comprehensive resource for portraying skin conditions and his research findings relating to sensitive skin.

Dr Friedman begins by describing his atlas project, created to address a gap in dermatology in the limited way textbooks and atlases portray skin conditions. The Full Spectrum of Dermatology: A Diverse and Inclusive Atlas is a comprehensive resource that depicts dermatologic conditions across the full spectrum of skin tones to help dermatology professionals visualize the...

In this episode of Derms and Conditions, Dr. Jim Del Rosso and Dr. Gary Goldenberg discuss some of the highlights from the meeting. These include recent FDA approvals such as bimekizumab for psoriasis and the triple topical combination for acne vulgaris, the newer nonsteroidal topical agents, tapinarof and roflumilast, and their relevant clinical use, the significance of narrow-spectrum oral antibiotic therapy with sarecycline as compared to other oral tetracycline with regard to antibiotic resistance, and physical devices such as laser systems used to treat acne vulgaris. 

In episode 61 of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, presents a self-made episode where he clarifies key points on many therapies relevant to every-day clinical

practice. First, he discusses topical alpha-agonist therapy for persistent facial erythema (PFE) of rosacea. Long-term data shows that daily use of either topical oxymetazoline or

brimonidine appears to “reset” (lower) the baseline level of PFE in patients with rosacea. 

Next, he talks about sub-antibiotic dosing of doxycycline and how its anti-inflammatory properties, including support of the dermal matrix, can be used for t...

In episode 60 of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Cheri Frye, MD, the residency program director of dermatology at Howard University. The 2 discuss how to address skin care with patients and key products that should be incorporated into a skin care routine for specific skin types and populations.

Dr Del Rosso begins by asking Dr Frye about her approach to advising the general patient on their skin care. She notes that interest in skin care has grown tremendously, and dermatologists are rightfully being increasingly viewed as the foremost skin care...

In Episode 59 of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, continues his conversation with Christopher Bunick, MD, PhD, an associate professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine who performs specialized research on novel treatments and therapies. After discussing sarecycline for acne in part 1, the two switch gears to monoclonal antibodies. 

Dr Bunick begins by discussing dupilumab, an IL-4 and IL-13 blocker with significant clinical efficacy and a favorable safety profile in treating atopic dermatitis (AD). He states that in a network meta-analysis, upadacitinib and abrocitinib were shown to be more effective at t...

In episode 58 of Derms and Conditions, our host, Dr James Q. Del Rosso, presents a self-made episode where he discusses some clarifications regarding commonly misunderstood therapies in dermatology. Dr Del Rosso begins by discussing the use of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) for papulopustular rosacea and notes that many providers are hesitant to use this treatment given the perceived irritant effects. He notes that the microencapsulated BPO 5% cream (FDA approved EPSOLAY®), specifically formulated to allow for the slow release of the drug in the skin, is the only formulation proven to be efficacious, safe, and tolerable in rosacea. He summarizes a 12...

In episode 57 of Derms and Conditions, our host, James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Christopher Bunick, MD, PHD, an associate professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine who performs specialized dermatologic research utilizing x-ray crystallography and other novel techniques. The 2 discuss research findings surrounding new information on properties that differentiate the activity of antibiotics, with specific data on how narrow spectrum activity with sarecycline differs from the broad-spectrum tetracyclines we use in dermatology. There are new data described by Dr Bunick and his team on how the unique molecular structure of sarecycline targets Cutibacterium acnes...

In episode 56 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Marc Serota, MD, a dermatologist in private practice in Denver who is triple board certified in dermatology, allergy and immunology, and pediatrics and serves as an adjunct faculty at the University of Colorado. The 2 discuss teledermatology and how Dr Serota uses it to increase access to care and develop additional revenue streams.

They begin by recounting how teledermatology became as widespread as it is and its evolution during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though its use has slowed down as people have r...

In episode 55 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Guy Webster, MD, PhD, FAAD, a clinical professor of dermatology at Jefferson Medical College. The 2 discuss new developments in the pathophysiology and management of acne as well as key pearls and pitfalls when using topicals, antibiotics, and isotretinoin.

Dr Del Rosso begins by asking Dr Webster about any major changes to acne dogma over the last few decades. Dr Webster points out that while our knowledge is constantly evolving, our understanding of acne hasn’t changed as drastically as it has fo...

In episode 54 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Raja Sivamani, MD, MS, AP, a board-certified dermatologist who practices at the Pacific Skin Institute and runs the Integrative Dermatology Symposium through LearnSkin. They discuss the concept of integrative dermatology, which involves uniting principles from pharmaceuticals, diet, nutrition, supplements, and probiotics to deliver holistic care.

Dr Del Rosso begins by asking how to learn more about the science and evidence behind specific supplements and diets. Dr Sivamani advises starting with medical literature and evaluating publications with a search of PubMed or e...

In episode 53 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, continues his conversation with Matt Zirwas, MD, a dermatologist in Columbus, Ohio, and founder of the Bexley Dermatology Research Clinic. After reviewing localized eczematous dermatitis in part 1, they switch gears to discuss adults with scattered eczematous dermatitis in part 2.

Dr. Zirwas shares several pearls for differentiating among atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, photosensitive dermatitis, CTCL, and contact dermatitis, and describes a new method for diagnosing scabies. He also discusses when to perform a biopsy and management approaches when the biopsy does not provide a clear answer.

In episode 52 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Darrell Rigel, MD, MS, a Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine and a world leader in research and patient care for melanoma and other skin cancers. The two discuss the current state of sunscreens and how to address the most common questions that patients have in the office.

Patients often wonder if they need to use sunscreen when the UV index is low, if sunscreen is necessary for patients with darker skin tones, what the d...

In episode 51 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Matt Zirwas, MD, a dermatologist in Columbus, Ohio, and founder of the Bexley Dermatology Research Clinic. The two discuss how to approach a patient with an unspecified dermatitis.

Dr. Zirwas begins by recounting his experiences with dermatitis unspecified, also known as non-atopic adult dermatitis, and how he became interested in treating this complex disease. Dr. Del Rosso asks how to differentiate between this disease and other similar diagnoses, prompting Dr. Zirwas to share his method for recognizing the many types of e...

In episode 50 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, continues his conversation with Andrew Blauvelt, MD, MBA, a clinical trials investigator and former President and Owner of the Oregon Medical Research Center. Dr. Blauvelt has conducted almost 200 clinical trials on biologics and JAK inhibitors for the treatment of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. While part 1 of this series focused on psoriasis, part 2 takes a deep dive into new therapies for atopic dermatitis.

Dr. Blauvelt first discusses dupilumab and how this medication blazed the trail for the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis in patients with v...

In episode 49 of Derms and Conditions, James Q. Del Rosso, DO and Mark Lebwohl, MD discussed the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis and the role of cytokines in its management.

Drs. Lebwohl and Del Rosso discussed how specific cytokines can be targeted for a safer treatment of atopic dermatitis. They emphasized that the targeted therapies for atopic dermatitis do not have any boxed warnings and the treatment of cytokines, specifically interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-13, can significantly improve itching and dermatitis. Dr. Lebwohl discussed the inhibiting of IL-13 to make atopic dermatitis better and that blocking IL-4 and IL-13...

In episode 48 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Andrew Blauvelt, MD, MBA, a clinical trials investigator and former President and Owner of the Oregon Medical Research Center. Dr. Blauvelt has conducted almost 200 clinical trials on biologics and JAK inhibitors! In part 1 of this series, the two discuss the best way to learn about these new therapies for psoriasis.

With 11 biologic medications now available for psoriasis, Dr. Blauvelt recommends breaking them down into three categories based on mechanism: the original TNF blockers, the IL-17 blockers, and the IL-23 blockers. He su...

In episode 47 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO sits down with Alexandra K. Golant, MD to discuss advances in the management of atopic dermatitis.

They begin by highlighting the landmark approval of dupilumab in 2017 and how it completely revolutionized treatment of the disease at a time when options were very limited. Now, with additional biologics and a few JAK inhibitors on the market, both discuss some tips for choosing between the drug classes based on patient characteristics. Importantly, they also discuss the black box warning for JAK inhibitors and how to counsel patie...

In episode 46 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Joel L. Cohen, MD, founder of AboutSkin Dermatology in Denver, Colorado. The two discuss how Dr. Cohen incorporated laser procedures and cosmetics into his general medical dermatology practice.

Dr. Cohen takes us back to the beginning of his cosmetics journey and how he strategically chose an IPL device as his first purchase so that he could treat a variety of conditions important to his patients. He then reviews additional pearls and pitfalls as he looked to expand into other devices. These ti...

In episode 45 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO sits down with Mark Kaufmann, MD, President of the American Academy of Dermatology.

The two begin by discussing the many benefits of AAD membership and what the AAD is currently doing to support its members. In an economy that has seen record levels of inflation, physicians have still had to face an 8.5% cut to Medicare reimbursements. Dr. Kaufmann explains how he is working to counteract these cuts, and how you can support this mission by reaching out to him directly to get involved or b...

In episode 44 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO sits down with April Armstrong, MD, MPH and David Cohen, MD, MPH, live at Winter Clinical Hawaii 2023 to discuss highlights from the meeting.

The trio reviews important tips from a variety of topics, ranging from contact dermatitis to psoriasis. Many lectures from this meeting focused on the new biologics and JAK inhibitors available to treat inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. The group unpacks important considerations for each of these medications and how to effectively use them to improve patient outcomes. Finally, t...

In episode 43 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, sits down with Bruce Strober, MD, PhD, a Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale University. The two discuss some of the newest advances in psoriasis management.

They start with an overview of therapies with new mechanisms of action and discuss other medications that are in the pipeline. Dr. Strober then provides important tips for screening for psoriasis comorbidities. Since at least 1 in 5 patients will get significant psoriatic arthritis, and patients with moderate to severe psoriasis are at increased risk for cardiac events, Dr. Strober e...

The Derms and Conditions Podcast had a very successful year in 2022! Many discussions took place covering a wide range of topics in dermatology, including new published information, treatments, technologies, medications, and practical tips to improve the overall performance of your practice. Derms and Conditions wraps up the year by summarizing valuable insights and information for dermatology practitioners.

Host James Q. Del Rosso, DO, explains the value of occasionally going back and listening to past episodes as some "pearls" always seem to emerge that were missed during the initial listening of the podcast. Some of the greatest hits from episod...

In episode 41 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO brings back a prior podcast guest in Brad P. Glick, DO, a member of the board of directors of the AAD and National Psoriasis Foundation as well as the residency program director at Larkin Palm Springs in Miami. The two discuss psoriasis management and the utility of anti-TNF drugs.

Dr. Glick emphasizes that TNF inhibitors remain a very important part of our psoriasis therapeutic armamentarium despite newer drugs coming to the market. About 30% of psoriasis patients will get psoriatic arthritis and TNF inhibitors are ver...

In Episode 40 of Derms and Conditions, our host James Q. Del Rosso, DO sits down with Whitney A. High, MD, JD, a Professor of Dermatology and Pathology at the University of Colorado. The two discuss blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN), a highly aggressive and fatal malignancy that can be very challenging to diagnose.

Dermatologists are in a great position to make the initial diagnosis of this rare disease as it involves the skin in 80-90% of cases. Dr. High discusses several clinical pearls about BPDCN including how it presents, important considerations for the dermatopathologist, and the...