by Dow Stough, MD, Burke Pharmaceutical Research, Hot Springs, Arkansas; Alicia D. Bucko, DO, Academic Dermatology Associates, Albuquerque, New Mexico; George Vamvakias, BS, sanofi-aventis, Malvern, Pennsylvania; Elyse S. Rafal, MD;  DermResearchCenter of New York, Inc., Stony Brook, New York; and Steven A. Davis, MD, Dermatology Clinical Research Center of San Antonio™, San Antonio, Texas

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by William Philip Werschler, MD, FAAD, FAACS
Department of Medicine/Dermatology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington

Abstract
Actinic keratosis (AK), the initial lesion in a disease continuum that may progress to squamous cell carcinoma, often begins with ultraviolet B light-induced photo damage and increases in prevalence with age. Topical 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) for the treatment of widespread multiple AK lesions has cure rates of more than 90 percent. The associated skin irritation, however, may lead patients to prematurely discontinue treatment. To improve treatment efficacy and tolerability, 5-FU cream 0.5%, a novel Microsponge®-based formulation, was developed. In the elderly population, 5-FU cream 0.5% may be preferable because of its convenient (once daily) administration and its lower potential for irritation and systemic absorption, which may impact adherence to therapy and, thus, possibly increase cure rates.

(J Clin Aesthetic Derm. 2008;1(2):22–27)

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by Terry Arnold, MA, PA-C
Advanced Practice Consultants, LLC, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Abstract
Although physician assistants have played a key role in the delivery of medical care since the mid-1960s, their utilization in the dermatology specialty has been a more recent occurrence. Dermatology physician assistants have experienced tremendous growth over the last 10 years, largely due to the imbalance between patient demand for skin care services and a lack of supply in residency-trained dermatologists. Working under the supervision of dermatologists, physician assistants have been able to extend the reach of the physician and improve patient access to quality dermatologic care.

(J Clin Aesthetic Derm. 2008;1(2):28–31)

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Therapeutic and Aesthetic Uses of Photodynamic Therapy
Part one 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 utilization of aminolevulinic acid–photodynamic therapy in dermatology has steadily been on the rise since its introduction into our therapeutic armamentarium almost 10 years ago. Clinicians are realizing the continued benefits of this therapy from a therapeutic and cosmetic/aesthetic outcome. This was first seen in the treatment of nonhyperkeratotic actinic keratoses of the face and scalp where resolution of the actinic keratoses was achieved and a cosmetic improvement noted from the therapies. Clinicians are embracing photorejuvenation utilizing aminolevulinic acid–photodynamic therapy, which is reviewed in this article.

(J Clin Aesthetic Derm. 2008;1(2):32–37)

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by Martha Viera, MD; Sadegh Amini, MD; Ran Huo, BS;
Shasa Hu, MD; Margaret Oliviero, ARAP; Sara Bassalo, MD;  and Harold Rabinovitz, MD Read the rest of this article »

by Sanjay Bhambri, DO; Avani Bhambri, MD;
and James Q. Del Rosso, DO, FAOCD Read the rest of this article »