Proceedings from the 2008 Alabama Dermatology Society Meeting

This supplement features selected presentations from The Alabama Dermatology Society Meeting, which was held in Sandestin, Florida from June 26 to June 29, 2008. This supplement was supported by Graceway Pharmaceuticals, LLC.

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Journal Watch
January 2009
by Laura G. Alexander

Section Editors: Dr. Brian Berman, MD, PhD, is Professor of Dermatology and Internal Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida. Dr. Paolo Romanelli, MD, is Associate Professor, Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida. Contributor: Ms. Alexander is a freelance writer and
editor who lives in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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by Joseph B. Bikowski, MD, FAAD[a], and James Q. Del Rosso, DO, FAOCD [b]

[a]Private Practice, Sewickley, Pennsylvania;
[b] Dermatology Residency Director, Valley Hospital Medical Center;
Clinical Assistant Professor (Dermatology), Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine and University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas Skin and Cancer Clinics, Las Vegas, Nevada

Abstract
Given the reported common occurrence of Demodex dermatitis in the general population, Demodex dermatitis—considered as a separate condition from rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis—was evaluated in a retrospective case analysis.

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by David A. Jones, MD, PhD
Department of Dermatology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts

Abstract
Rosacea is a common skin condition thought to be primarily an inflammatory disorder. Neutrophils, in particular, have been implicated in the inflammation associated with rosacea and mediate many of their effects through the release of reactive oxygen species. Recently, the role of reactive oxygen species in the pathophysiology of rosacea has been recognized. Many effective agents for rosacea, including topical azelaic acid and topical metronidazole, have anti-inflammatory properties. In-vitro models have demonstrated the potent antioxidant effects of azelaic acid, providing a potential mechanistic explanation for its efficacy in the treatment of rosacea.

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Therapeutic and Aesthetic Uses of Photodynamic Therapy

Part four of a five-part series

by Michael H. Gold, MD, Medical Director, Gold Skin Care Center and The Laser & Rejuvenation Center, Nashville, Tennessee

Abstract
The use of 5-aminolevulinic acid–photodynamic therapy in clinical practice is an individual determination based on experiences learned from clinicians and from personal experience. This manuscript reviews how one clinician approaches patients interested in having photodynamic therapy. It covers all practical aspects of the treatment process and reviews how photodynamic therapy can be utilized in your clinical practice.

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by Alison F. Stallings, MD [a], and Mary P. Lupo, MD, FAAD [b]

[a] Advanced Dermatology of Westchester, Tarrytown, New York; [b] Clinical Professor of Dermatology, Tulane Medical School, New Orleans, Louisiana

Abstract
Cosmeceuticals are the fastest growing sector of the cosmetic industry, and the future of antiaging cosmeceuticals in particular is very promising. Botanical extracts that support the health, texture, and integrity of the skin, hair, and nails are widely used in cosmetic formulations. They form the largest category of cosmeceutical additives found in the marketplace today due to the rising consumer interest and demand for natural products. Various plant extracts that formed the basis of medical treatments in ancient civilizations and many traditional cultures are still used today in cleansers, moisturizers, astringents, and many other skin care products. New botanical skin care treatments are emerging, presenting dermatologists and their patients the challenge of understanding the science behind these cosmeceuticals. Thus, dermatologists must have a working knowledge of these botanicals and keep up with how they evolve to provide optimal medical care and answer patient questions. The most popular botanicals commonly incorporated into skin care protocols are discussed.

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by LindaSusan Marcus, MD; Robert Carlin, BS; and Neal Carlin, BS.

Dr. Marcus has a Private Practice, Wyckoff, New Jersey; Director–Chair, Department of Dermatology, Valley Hospital, Ridgewood, New Jersey. R. Carlin and N. Carlin work at Dr. Marcus’ Private Practice in Wyckoff, New Jersey.

Abstract

It is well documented that congenital nevi have a statistical chance of becoming malignant; however, it is unusual to actually follow the progression of such an event. A 48-year-old man photographically documented changes in his own nevus, which was present at birth, over a period of six months. Seeing this evolution in one lesion is interesting. Emphasis must not only be placed upon the importance of early diagnosis, but also on the expeditious removal of suspicious nevi and treatment.

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by James Q. Del Rosso, DO, FAOCD

Dr. James Del Rosso, DO, FAOCD, is Dermatology Residency Director, Valley Hospital Medical Center; Clinical Associate Professor (Dermatology), University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, Nevada; and Associate Professor (Dermatology), Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Henderson, Nevada.

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