From Awareness to Action: Enhancing Patient Care

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The month of October provides the opportunity to spotlight numerous awareness campaigns: National Eczema Awareness Month, World Psoriasis Day on the 29th, skin issues for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and more. In this issue, you will learn more about the ways in which the National Psoriasis Foundation supports dermatology clinicians who see and support patients with psoriasis every day. For National Eczema Awareness Month, Dermatology Times Editorial Advisory Board member Renata Block, MMS, PA-C, discusses the potential role of the gut microbiota in the development of atopic dermatitis and where future research may lead. Lastly, we provide insights on how a multidisciplinary approach to treating breast cancer that includes dermatology can enhance patient care.

In the cover feature, Stefan Weiss, MD, and Joseph Zabinski, PhD, of OM1 call attention to the use and potential future role of artificial intelligence in understanding inflammatory conditions, such as atopic dermatitis.

Although not all dermatologic conditions can have their own awareness day or month, crucial conversations are happening to address all patients and their needs. Our October issue also reviews conditions such as dermatillomania and acne conglobata. Dermatillomania can have a severe negative effect on patients’ mental health and requires patience and empathy to treat. Acne conglobata may be a rare form of nodulocystic acne, but for patients faced with painful cysts and deep abscesses, recognition and compassion are needed.

As 2023 winds down, the dermatology pipeline continues to charge forward with the upcoming Prescription Drug User Fee Act dates for nivolumab (Opdivo; Bristol Myers Squibb) for the treatment of completely resected stage IIB/C melanoma, and IDP-126 (clindamycin 1.2%/adapalene 0.15%/benzoyl peroxide 3.1%; Ortho Dermatologics) for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Aaron Farberg, MD, and Shanna Miranti, MPAS, PA-C, provide insights on the upcoming approvals and what they mean for improved patient care.

To keep up with the latest updates in breaking news, treatment pearls, study data, and interviews with experts in the field, subscribe to Dermatology Times e-newsletters, follow us on social media, and email us at DTEditor@mmhgroup.com to share your insights.