Topical retinoid treatment is the mainstay of acne management in ethnic skin, as it is in fairer individuals. However, additional considerations are needed to address the unique postinflammatory sequelæ in dark skin and precipitating factors for acne eruptions.

The state-of-the-art 3-D imaging system known as Lifeviz raises the bar in the management of acne and rosacea lesions by allowing the clinician to visualize much more accurately lesion images and, therefore, better follow the treatment progress of patients.

Tissue necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is a pivotal cytokine in inflammatory pathways, but its role in acne has not been characterized. Studies under way at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine aim to elucidate more information with the ultimate goal of identifying potential new therapeutic targets for acne.

Photodynamic therapy with methyl aminolevulinate cream and red light is associated with marked and relatively durable reductions in inflammatory lesion counts in patients with moderate inflammatory acne, an expert says.

Dapsone gel, Oracea capsules and modified photodynamic therapy are three brand-new approaches to acne therapy, all of which may change current acne treatment and management.

Patients with acne that is unresponsive to traditional therapies were enrolled in a multicenter study evaluating photopneumatic therapy with a vacuum-assisted pulsed light device (Isolaz, æsthera). The treatment was easy to deliver and well-tolerated.

The new Bikowski Acne Severity Index (BASI) effectively combines common medical jargon for describing acne lesions, which helps physicians grade these lesions more accurately.

The iPLEDGE program is excellent for protecting the prescriber, so that he or she can continue to practice medicine and responsibly care for patients with severe acne, one dermatologist says. However, the issue of compliance remains a major hurdle.

Athletes who participate in team sports are at an elevated risk of developing certain skin conditions, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Team physicians should be checking for contagions, such as fungi on the body, and ensure athletes shower after practice and wear clean, dry clothing.