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BACKGROUND: Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is associated with a higher mortality rate than most other skin cancers. The purpose of this expert consensus panel was to review the published literature on new technological advancements for the diagnosis and prognosis for CM and provide updated guidance on their usage. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was completed for English-language original research articles on the topics of non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic testing for CM, including gene expression profiling (GEP) and electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). A panel of 10 dermatologists with significant expertise in the treatment of CM gathered to review the articles and create consensus statements. A modified Delphi process was used to approve each statement and a strength of recommendation was assigned using widely recognized Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy criteria. RESULTS: The literature search produced 200 articles that met the criteria. A screening of the studies resulted in 19 articles. These were distributed to all panelists for review prior to a roundtable discussion. The panel unanimously voted to adopt 7 consensus statements and recommendations, 5 of which were given a strength of "A", 1 of which was given a strength of "B," and 1 of which was given a strength of "C". CONCLUSION: The 2-GEP test and EIS can aid in the precise diagnosis of clinically indeterminate lesions and the 23-GEP test can be used when histopathology is equivocal. The 31-GEP test can enhance prognostic assessment beyond AJCC8 staging and improve clinical decision-making. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(9):774-781. doi:10.36849/JDD.8365R1.

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BACKGROUND:  Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a growing health concern with a rapidly increasing incidence. Disease-specific mortality is typically preceded by a metastasis, but current staging systems have significant limitations in predicting this event. The 40-gene expression profile (40-GEP) test is a validated method of further stratifying patients based on the risk of regional or distant metastasis, but limited guidelines exist for incorporating this test into clinical practice. OBJECTIVE:  To review the available literature on the use of gene expression profile (GEP) testing to assess prognosis in cSCC and create consensus statements to guide dermatology clinicians on its use. METHODS:  A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus was completed for English-language original research articles on the use of GEP testing to assess cSCC prognosis. A panel of 8 dermatologists with significant expertise in diagnosing and managing cSCC gathered to review the articles and create consensus statements. A modified Delphi process was used to approve each statement and a strength of recommendation was assigned using the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) criteria. RESULTS:  The literature search produced 157 articles that met the search criteria. A thorough screening of the studies for relevance to the research question resulted in 21 articles that were distributed to the panelists for review prior to the roundtable discussion. The panel unanimously voted to adopt 7 consensus statements and recommendations, 6 of which were given a strength of "A" and 1 of which was given a strength of "C". CONCLUSION:  The 40-GEP test provides accurate and independent prognostic information beyond standard staging systems that only incorporate pathologic data. Incorporation of GEP testing into national guidelines can help further stratify patients based on risk of metastasis and thus may improve morbidity and mortality. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(12):54-60.   doi:10.36849/JDD.7691.

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BACKGROUND: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a growing health concern with a rapidly increasing incidence. Disease-specific mortality is typically preceded by a metastasis, but current staging systems have significant limitations in predicting this event. The 40-gene expression profile (40-GEP) test is a validated method of further stratifying patients based on the risk of regional or distant metastasis, but limited guidelines exist for incorporating this test into clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To review the available literature on the use of gene expression profile (GEP) testing to assess prognosis in cSCC and create consensus statements to guide dermatology clinicians on its use. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus was completed for English-language original research articles on the use of GEP testing to assess cSCC prognosis. A panel of 8 dermatologists with significant expertise in diagnosing and managing cSCC gathered to review the articles and create consensus statements. A modified Delphi process was used to approve each statement and a strength of recommendation was assigned using the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) criteria. RESULTS: The literature search produced 157 articles that met the search criteria. A thorough screening of the studies for relevance to the research question resulted in 21 articles that were distributed to the panelists for review prior to the roundtable discussion. The panel unanimously voted to adopt 7 consensus statements and recommendations, 6 of which were given a strength of "A" and 1 of which was given a strength of "C". CONCLUSION: The 40-GEP test provides accurate and independent prognostic information beyond standard staging systems that only incorporate pathologic data. Incorporation of GEP testing into national guidelines can help further stratify patients based on risk of metastasis and thus may improve morbidity and mortality. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(12): doi:10.36849/JDD.7691e.

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Analysis of morphological characteristics for the diagnosis of melanoma remains a challenge. New technologies for the diagnosis and prognosis of melanocytic lesions have been emerging to ensure earlier and more accurate detection. In this article, we review multiple technologies that improve melanoma diagnostic accuracy such as electrical impedance spectroscopy, pigmented lesion assay, reflectance confocal microscopy, and gene expression profile tests.

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BACKGROUND: Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL) has been used to maximize viable adipocyte yields in lipoaspirates, although optimizing tissue processing methods is still a challenge. A high-quality lipoaspirate has been a key factor for extended graft longevity. OBJECTIVE: To assess the viability and potency of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) in fat samples from lipoaspirates harvested with a novel 1470-nm diode, radial emitting LAL platform. Two processing methods, enzymatic and nonenzymatic, were compared. METHODS: Laser-assisted liposuction lipoaspirates harvested from 10 subjects were examined for cell viability after processing by enzymatic or nonenzymatic methods. Isolated SVF cells were cultured with an ASC-permissive medium to assess their viability and proliferation capacity by cell proliferation assay. Flow cytometric analysis with ASC-specific markers, gene expression levels, and immunofluorescence for ASC transcription factors were also conducted. RESULTS: Lipoaspirates showed high SVF cell viability of 97% ± 0.02% and 98% ± 0.01%, averaged SVF cell count of 8.7 × 10 6 ± 3.9 × 10 6 and 9.4 × 10 6 ± 4.2 × 10 6 cells per mL, and averaged ASC count of 1 × 10 6 ± 2.2 × 10 5 and 1.2 × 10 6 ± 5 × 10 5 cells per mL in nonenzymatic and enzymatic methods, respectively. The ASC-specific markers, gene expression levels, and immunofluorescence for ASC transcription factors confirmed the adipose origin of the cells. CONCLUSIONS: The laser lipoaspirates provide a high yield of viable and potent SVF cells and ASCs through both nonenzymatic and enzymatic processes. Improved purity of the harvested lipoaspirate and high ASC content are expected to result in extended graft longevity. Furthermore, eliminating enzymatic digestion may provide advantages, such as reducing process time, cost, and regulatory constraints.

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Background: The current mainstay treatment of perimenstrual acne consists of systemic hormonal therapies, which can be problematic due to their side effects, stigma, or pill burden. Topical treatments are often used as well; however, data on their efficacy in treating this type of hormonal acne are limited. Objective: We sought to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide 1.2%/3.75% combination gel in treating perimenstrual acne in adult women. Methods: The single-group interventional pilot study was performed on 22 adult female subjects with perimenstrual acne. The subjects applied the investigational drug daily and were assessed every 14 days for a total of 99 days. Treatment success was evaluated by the investigators using the acne physician global assessment (PGA) scoring system. Drug tolerability assessment was based on the subject-reported adverse events, as well as physician-evaluated erythema, scaling, and dryness. Results: The study demonstrated a significant improvement in PGA score and lesion count, as well as patient-reported outcomes. The medication was well-tolerated in all subjects. Limitations: Limited sample size; lack of concurrent comparison group. Conclusion: Clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide 1.2%/3.75% combination gel presents an important topical option for perimenstrual acne.

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BACKGROUND: Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a potentially pre-malignant tumor with a poorly defined risk of progression to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Because of the typical need for recurrent cycles of AK treatment, outcomes can be limited by both therapeutic efficacy and patient adherence. OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the available and most current literature into overarching principles to provide guidance on the management of AKs, improving patient experiences and treatment outcomes. METHODS: A systematic review querying epidemiology, natural history, prognosis, management of AKs as well as the mechanism of action of and adherence to current AK therapy was conducted. After reviewing the literature, an expert consensus panel consisting of 10 expert dermatologists and dermatopathologists used a modified Delphi process to develop statements regarding the pathogenesis and management of AKs. Final statements were only adopted with a supermajority vote (≥7/10). RESULTS: The panel developed 7 consensus statements regarding AKs pathogenesis and management. CONCLUSION: The poorly defined risk for AK progression into invasive SCC without universally accepted clinical-histopathological factors highlights the importance of long-term efficacious treatment. To effectively counsel and treat patients with actinic keratoses, dermatologists must understand how newer therapeutic approaches with mechanisms of action that have more rapid onset of action, shorter treatment courses, and less intense local skin reaction (LSRs) may promote adherence and improve long-term outcomes. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(8):888-893. doi:10.36849/JDD.6078 THIS ARTICLE HAD BEEN MADE AVAILABLE FREE OF CHARGE. PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO ACCESS THE FULL fTEXT OF THIS ARTICLE WITHOUT LOGGING IN. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PLEASE CONTACT THE PUBLISHER WITH ANY QUESTIONS.

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BACKGROUND: Actinic keratoses (AK) are rough scaly patches that arise on chronically ultraviolet-exposed skin and can progress to keratinocyte carcinoma. Treatment options for AK include topical medications, photodynamic therapy, cryosurgery, and laser ablation. OBJECTIVE: This executive summary provides a synopsis of the 18 evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of AK detailed in the Guidelines of Care for the Management of Actinic Keratosis. METHODS: A multidisciplinary workgroup conducted a systematic review to address 5 clinical questions on the management of AKs and applied the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach for assessing the certainty of the evidence and formulating and grading clinical recommendations. Graded recommendations were voted on to achieve consensus. RESULTS: Analysis of the evidence resulted in 18 recommendations, suggesting there are several effective treatments available for AK. LIMITATIONS: The analysis informing the recommendations was based on the best available evidence at the time it was conducted. The results of future studies may necessitate a revision of current recommendations. CONCLUSIONS: Strong recommendations are presented for using ultraviolet protection, topical imiquimod, topical 5-fluorouracil, and cryosurgery. Conditional recommendations are presented for the use of photodynamic therapy and diclofenac for the treatment of AK, both individually and as part of combination therapy regimens.

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BACKGROUND: Actinic keratoses (AK) are rough scaly patches that arise on chronically ultraviolet-exposed skin and can progress to keratinocyte carcinoma. OBJECTIVE: This analysis examined the literature related to the management of AK to provide evidence-based recommendations for treatment. Grading, histologic classification, natural history, risk of progression, and dermatologic surveillance of AKs are also discussed. METHODS: A multidisciplinary Work Group conducted a systematic review to address 5 clinical questions on the management of AKs and applied the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach for assessing the certainty of the evidence and formulating and grading clinical recommendations. Graded recommendations were voted on to achieve consensus. RESULTS: Analysis of the evidence resulted in 18 recommendations. LIMITATIONS: This analysis is based on the best available evidence at the time it was conducted. The pragmatic decision to limit the literature review to English language randomized trials may have excluded data published in other languages or limited identification of relevant long-term follow-up data. CONCLUSIONS: Strong recommendations are made for using ultraviolet protection, topical imiquimod, topical 5-fluorouracil, and cryosurgery. Conditional recommendations are made for the use of photodynamic therapy and diclofenac for the treatment of AK, both individually and as part of combination therapy regimens.

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The presence of actinic keratoses (AKs) increases a patient's risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by greater than six-fold. We evaluated the effect of topical treatment with imiquimod on the tumor microenvironment by measuring transcriptomic differences in AKs before and after treatment with imiquimod 3.75%. Biopsies were collected prospectively from 21 patients and examined histologically. RNA was extracted and transcriptomic analyses of 788 genes were performed using the nanoString assay. Imiquimod decreased number of AKs by study endpoint at week 14 (p < 0.0001). Post-imiquimod therapy, levels of CDK1, CXCL13, IL1B, GADPH, TTK, ILF3, EWSR1, BIRC5, PLAUR, ISG20, and C1QBP were significantly lower (adjusted p < 0.05). Complete responders (CR) exhibited a distinct pattern of inflammatory gene expression pre-treatment relative to incomplete responders (IR), with alterations in 15 inflammatory pathways (p < 0.05) reflecting differential expression of 103 genes (p < 0.05). Presence of adverse effects was associated with improved treatment response. Differences in gene expression were found between pre-treatment samples in CR versus IR, suggesting that higher levels of inflammation pre-treament may play a part in regression of AKs. Further characterization of the immune micro-environment in AKs may help develop biomarkers predictive of response to topical immune modulators and may guide therapy.

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Currently, several classes of oral therapies for psoriasis are in use, in development, or in investigative stages. Standard non-biologic treatments for psoriasis, such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and acitretin, have generally unfavorable safety profiles and are not ideal for long-term use. This review will address the safety and efficacy of existing and novel oral therapies for psoriasis that target inflammatory pathways via modulation of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), Janus kinases (JAKs), sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), A3 adenosine receptors, and rho-associated kinase 2 (ROCK2), with an emphasis on JAK inhibitors.

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There are many undesirable manifestations that arise as one ages. One of the most notable undesired effects is increasing skin laxity. Traditionally, the gold standard of treatment is surgical correction of skin laxity. However, demand for noninvasive aesthetic procedures has grown due to minimal risk and accelerated recovery time. Over the years, many new devices have become available for addressing skin laxity including laser therapy, radiofrequency (RF), ultrasound, and intense pulsed light (IPL). This article discusses these various noninvasive treatment options and seeks to give providers details of the science behind each device.

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Brodalumab, a first-in-class interleukin-17 (IL-17) receptor blocker, carries a black box warning for suicidal ideation and behavior, yet it is also one of the most powerful biologic agents in our armamentarium. We wish to highlight three patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis and comorbid depression who were successfully treated with brodalumab. The patients were chosen by an expert panel comprising dermatologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists. Psoriasis disease severity was measured using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score. All three patients experienced PASI 100 after treatment with brodalumab (N=3). Importantly, depressive symptoms improved or resolved in two out of three patients. One patient, who had a history of psychiatric hospitalizations, required in-patient psychiatric treatment during treatment. The use of brodalumab in patients with psoriasis can provide rapid-onset improvement in both skin and depressive symptoms.

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Skin appearance is affected by intrinsic factors (eg, aging) and extrinsic factors (eg, UV light). A myriad of treatments has been created to combat the phenotypic effects of these forces, including vitamins and supplements. This article reviews these therapies with a focus on carotenoids; vitamins C, E, and D; as well as collagen, ceramides, and mixed supplements.

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Patterned hair loss is common and can negatively impact quality of life. Patients often seek nonsurgical treatment options as a first-line measure to avoid undue risks and expense associated with surgery. This article discusses these noninvasive treatment options, with a focus on minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, spironolactone, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), microneedling, and oral supplements.

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Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that is associated with many comorbidities. Several psoriasis treatments approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration have been shown to have beneficial effects on these comorbidities, while others might lead to an exacerbation of these conditions. In this article, we review studies of psoriasis treatments and their level of evidence for use in co-occurring diseases. An awareness of the multifaceted effects of certain psoriasis medications can enable physicians to provide more personalized treatment to their most complicated patients.

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As interest in complementary and alternative medicine has grown, the relationship between diet and skin health has become an active area of research. Various supplements, plant derivatives, and antioxidants have gained attention as possible tools to prevent signs of aging and improve skin conditions. As such, knowledge of clinical trial data is important to counsel patients appropriately on risks and benefits of these complementary treatments and lifestyle modifications. Herein, we review the role of diet and supplements in preventing photoaging and treating common skin conditions.

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Vaginal rejuvenation procedures are designed to improve the aesthetic appearance and/or function of the female genitalia. The popularity of these techniques continues to increase as more patients seek to reverse the effects of aging, childbearing, and/or hormonal changes. Newer strategies focus on laser and radiofrequency (RF) devices, which have provided noninvasive options for treatment. In this article, we review the safety and efficacy data behind these modalities.

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A 28-year-old man of Middle-Eastern descent presented with a raised, pearly, slightly pigmented lesion on the right nasal ala. The lesion had been present for approximately 4 months. An excisional biopsy was taken, and the lesion measured 1.0 cm × 0.9 cm in dimension. The cut surface revealed a firm, white to tan nodule located within the dermis. The patient had no other significant medical history. After the initial excision, the lesion did not recur.

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Acne vulgaris and postacne scarring are common in the general population. Even after lesions have resolved, scarring can lead to detrimental psychologic effects and can negatively impact patients' quality of life. Fortunately, there have been several recent advances in therapeutic options to treat acne scarring. This article discusses these treatments with a focus on microneedling, lasers, chemical peels, and dermal fillers.

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