August Clinical Considerations for NPs, PAs

Joe Gorelick, MSN, FNP-CDear Colleagues,

In this edition of Clinical Considerations, we examine the benefits of dermatoscopy, caring for psoriasis patients, and treating patients with AKs. As dermatology NPs and PAs, we treat patients with these considerations in our daily practices. The selected articles offer excellent guidance and perspective on these issues, as well as insight into trends of the industry.

The dermatoscope is quickly becoming a staple in the diagnostic tool belts of dermatology providers. The ability to determine the need to biopsy is the essence of dermoscopy. Basic dermoscopy training will allow providers to determine whether a lesion is benign i.e., a seborrheic keratosis, vascular lesion, or lentigo. Evaluation using a dermatoscope of pigmented lesions can determine the need to biopsy or not. Practice and advanced training will further enhance your diagnostic prowess and accuracy.

Optimizing care for our patients with psoriasis is essential for our practices. Long term extension studies and registry data provide essential safety data for this patient population. The goal of clear 'normal' skin for patients with psoriasis is important to consider as treatment choices are made so we can optimize treatment satisfaction for our patients.

A single or multiple Actinic Keratosis (AK) can serve as a beacon to alert us to a surrounding field of damaged skin. Ultraviolet exposure over time causes cumulative damage to the immune function of the skin which results in the progression of abnormal cells manifested by premalignant lesions (AKs) and skin cancers.   Treating the field in the presence of AK's should be considered for a comprehensive approach to treating skin damaged by ultraviolet radiation. 

We hope you find these articles beneficial to your practice.  As always, please offer your feedback so that we may continue to select the timeliest and most relevant information to support your professional development.

Best,

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

Kara Gooding, PA-C