Christopher Nelson, MD, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; Darrell Rigel, MD, New York University Medical Center, New York, New York Read the rest of this article »

James Q. Del Rosso, DO, FAOCD
Valley Hospital Medical Center, Las Vegas, Nevada

Abstract
Objective: The study was conducted to evaluate the product attributes of a new benzoyl peroxide-containing foaming cloth cleanser and to compare the overall patient satisfaction of this product with two currently available benzoyl peroxide acne products (6% benzoyl peroxide cleanser and 4% benzoyl peroxide wash). Design: This was a randomized, single-blind study. Setting: Two clinical trial sites. Participants: Male and female subjects (N=193) aged 17 to 30 years with a history of acne vulgaris were enrolled. Measures: Subjects initially cleansed their face with the benzoyl peroxide foaming cloth and then completed a product-attribute survey. Following an interval of five minutes or more, subjects cleansed their face again using one of two randomly assigned comparator benzoyl peroxide-containing cleansing products and then completed a comparative survey. Survey results were tabulated and a top-two box analysis was performed. Results: Following the use of the benzoyl peroxide-containing foaming cloth, 94 percent of the product-attribute responses were positive (p?0.05). With respect to convenience, usability, and cosmetic elegance, the majority of subjects indicated a preference for the benzoyl peroxide foaming cloth compared to the 6% benzoyl peroxide cleanser and 4% benzoyl peroxide wash (for each, p?0.05). There were no reports of adverse events. Conclusion: These attributes supporting preference for the benzoyl peroxide foaming cloth cleanser may improve patient satisfaction with topical acne treatment resulting in improved patient compliance.  (J Clin Aesthetic Dermatol. 2009;2(7):26–29.) Read the rest of this article »

Yvette A. Tivoli, DO, Palmetto General Hospital, Hialeah, Florida; bRichard M. Rubenstein, MD, Co-Director, Wellington Regional Medical Center Dermatology Program, Wellington, Florida

Abstract
Pruritus is among the most common dermatological complaints. The authors examine the pathophysiology of itch according to the most common mediators uncovered by researchers. They also discuss the encompassing etiologies, which include dermatological, psychological, and systemic causes. Finally, they discuss the diagnostic approach and the latest, most appropriate treatment options.  (J Clin Aesthetic Dermatol. 2009;2(7):30–36.) Read the rest of this article »

Novie Sroa, MD, Larisa Ravitskiy, MD—The Division of Dermatology, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio; Shannon Campbell, DO; Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Specialty Medicine, O’Bleness Memorial Hospital, Athens, Ohio

Abstract

Mohs micrographic surgery has become the “gold standard” for surgical excision of nonmelanoma skin cancers for maximal preservation of normal tissue. Mohs micrographic surgery entails processing specimens in horizontal frozen sections with immediate examination under a light microscope. This technique offers the examination of lateral and deep margins in the same plane in contrast to wide local excision. Success with Mohs micrographic surgery depends on accurate mapping of the tumor, correct interpretation of the histopathological sections, and appreciation of aggressive tumor characteristics. The most common reason for recurrence of tumor after Mohs micrographic surgery is residual undetected tumor. Because hematoxylin and eosin stains may present difficulties in interpretation, immunohistochemistry techniques are being used to supplement these routine stains. Although immunohistochemistry is not being widely utilized by Mohs micrographic surgery surgeons, the many advantages of immunohistochemistry over routine staining of frozen sections in selected settings is of great value. Herein, the authors review the application of immunohistochemistry in Mohs micrographic surgery for a variety of neoplasms encountered most frequently by Mohs micrographic surgery surgeons. (J Clin Aesthetic Dermatol. 2009;2(7):37–42.) Read the rest of this article »

Sherrif F. Ibrahim, MD, PhD; Marc D. Brown, MD
University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Dermatology, Rochester, New York

Abstract
Actinic keratoses are common intra-epidermal neoplasms that lie on a continuum with squamous cell carcinoma. Tightly linked to ultraviolet irradiation, they occur in areas of chronic sun exposure, and early treatment of these lesions may prevent their progression to invasive disease. A large variety of effective treatment modalities exist, and the optimal therapeutic choice is dependent on a variety of patient- and physician-associated variables. Many established and more recent approaches are discussed in this review with a focus on efficacy and administration techniques. Several previously experimental options, such as imiquimod and photodynamic therapy, have become incorporated as first-line options for the treatment of actinic keratoses, while combination treatment strategies have been gaining in popularity. The goal of all therapies is to ultimately limit the morbidity and mortality of squamous cell carcinoma.
(J Clin Aesthetic Dermatol. 2009;2(7):43–48.) Read the rest of this article »