August clinical considerations for NPs and PAs

Joe Gorelick, MSNDear Colleagues,

In this month’s Clinical Considerations, we learn from a new study that laser treatment following isotretinoin therapy can possibly be initiated sooner than we thought; researchers have shown microwave technology may reduce underarm odor, and glean guidance for diagnosing mycosis fungoides.

How long do you wait after isotretinoin therapy before you initiate cosmetic treatments to improve acne scars? There is really no data to guide us, yet the common recommendation is to wait at least six months. Would it surprise you to learn that this is not a data-driven recommendation? Instead it is based on case reports with bad outcomes from the 1980s and 1990s. In this small pilot study, the Fraxel DUAL system yielded safe and effective results at just one month post-treatment. 

Who would have known that undergoing treatment to reduce axillary perspiration may have added beneficial effects such as reducing hair and odor? We have been using this device in our practice for several years now and have anecdotally observed these added benefits in patients treated with the MiraDry device. Now several clinical trials show that this device reduces underarm hair as well as odor!

Making the diagnosis of mycosis fungoides (MF) can be difficult for the clinician to confirm. Furthermore, it is an unfortunate diagnosis to receive as a patient. Dr. Latkowski provides guidance for clinicians to help confirm the diagnosis and also shares invaluable insights regarding patient education. Read more here to sharpen your MF clinical skills.

Best,

Joe Gorelick, MSN, FNP-C, Dermatology Education Foundation Founder and Chairman