Day One Session Roundup: APP Institute Dermatology 2024

At the inaugural APP Institute Dermatology 2024, experts delivered key insights into the management of rosacea, acne, cutaneous malignancies, and pruritus, offering practical updates for clinical practice.

Hillary Baldwin, MD, and Heather Roebuck, DNP, FNP-BC, FAANP, discussed the evolving approach to treating rosacea and acne. Dr Baldwin highlighted the importance of a phenotypic approach for rosacea, recommending combination therapies like ivermectin 1% cream, minocycline 1.5% foam, and microencapsulated benzoyl peroxide 5%. She also addressed new acne treatments, including clascoterone 1% cream and advanced laser therapies. Roebuck emphasized a multidisciplinary approach, using case studies to illustrate the complexities of treating patients with underlying conditions and the need for personalized care.¹

Ted Lain, MD, MBA, FAAD, and Martha Sikes, DMSc, RPh, PA-C, presented updates on managing basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and actinic keratosis (AK). They recommended following European guidelines for BCC and SCC, with tailored treatment plans based on tumor risk. For AK, Dr Lain stressed the importance of aggressive management, highlighting newer treatments like tirbanibulin for improved outcomes. Patient education and early intervention were underscored as crucial components in reducing the progression to invasive SCC.²

Matthew Zirwas, MD, and Douglas DiRuggiero, DMSc, MHS, PA-C, offered a comprehensive overview of diagnosing and managing pruritus. They emphasized functional assessments over numerical scales when evaluating itch and provided detailed strategies for treating patients with or without rash. Dr Zirwas highlighted the diagnostic approach for non-specific rashes and the importance of avoiding unnecessary testing. For cases involving localized itch, systemics may be considered if topical treatments fail. Dr DiRuggiero expanded on atopic dermatitis case studies, offering insights into challenging cases in older patients.³

Lastly, in a panel led by meeting cochairs Lakshi Aldredge, MSN, ANP-BC, DCNP, FAANP, and Cynthia Trickett, MPAS, PA-C, experts including John Koo, MD; Joseph Merola, MD, MMSc, FAAD, FACR; and Melissa Costner, MD, addressed complex cases involving psychiatric elements, such as delusional parasitosis. The discussion highlighted the importance of building trust, assessing mental health factors, and carefully managing treatments with empathy. Dr Koo’s advice on handling delusional patients emphasized the need for patient-centered approaches and collaborative care, especially when psychiatric conditions intersect with dermatologic symptoms.⁴

Overall, day one of APP Institute Dermatology 2024 guided dermatology practitioners through evidence-based and patient-centered care strategies across a range of dermatologic conditions.

References

1. Baldwin H, Roebuck H. Rosacea and acne: what you need to know. Presented at: APP Institute Dermatology; Aug 16–17, 2024; Virtual
2. Lain E, Sikes M. Updates in cutaneous malignancies & field damage management. Presented at: APP Institute Dermatology; Aug 16–17, 2024; Virtual.
3. Zirwas M, DiRuggiero D. Roads to treat the itchy patient. Presented at: APP Institute Dermatology; Aug 16–17, 2024; Virtual.
4. Trickett C, Aldredge L, Koo J, Merola J, Costner M. Next steps: appropriate patient management and when to refer. Presented at: APP Institute Dermatology; Aug 16–17, 2024; Virtual.