Treatment of symptomatic cyclosporine-induced gingival hyperplasia can be challenging, especially if continued use of cyclosporine is necessary for adequate control of the underlying disease. We outline a simplified approach for conservatively managing cyclosporine-induced gingival hyperplasia using azithromycin and chlorhexidine.

In this retrospective study, we analyzed the prevalence and impact of pediatric androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Over a 14-year period, 133 pediatric patients were evaluated, with manifestations of AGA appearing as early as age 10 years. The analysis included factors such as body mass index (BMI), family history of AGA, comorbidities, laboratory results, and patterns of hair loss. Trichoscopic differences between sexes and age groups were observed. This study underscores the importance of individualized, step-by-step, and comprehensive treatment for pediatric AGA, prioritizing hormonal disorders and concurrent conditions while managing hair loss with topical minoxidil. Topical minoxidil generally is well tolerated in pediatric patients, although close monitoring of adverse effects and timely feedback to the clinician still are necessary. More importantly, encouraging patients to adhere to their medication and attend regular follow-up appointments can yield favorable outcomes.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has maintained a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives; however, a recent strike down of affirmative action by the US Supreme Court has caused similar efforts to be called into question. This prompted our investigation into dermatology program director (PD) perceptions of DEI programming and its integration into resident selection. A cross-sectional survey of PDs at US dermatology residency programs was conducted from April 2024 to July 2024 (N=30). Our results suggest strong support among PDs for advancing DEI in dermatology, although challenges such as legal restrictions and knowledge gaps persist. These findings underscore the importance of sustained efforts to foster a more diverse and inclusive dermatology workforce in alignment with the nation's demographics.

Buruli ulcer (BU) is a necrotizing skin and soft tissue disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans that is common in hot and humid climates. Mycobacterium ulcerans is a nontuberculous mycobacterium and ubiquitous acid-fast gram-positive bacillus known to thrive in aquatic environments and water insects. The mode of transmission to humans is poorly understood and varies by geography. Aquatic insects and mosquitoes have been studied as possible vectors for the transmission of M ulcerans and the development of BUs. Treatment involves a long course of antibiotics with possible surgical debridement with wide margins for extensive ulceration. In this article, we provide an overview of the etiology, pathogenesis, transmission, clinical presentation, prevention, and treatment of BUs.

The American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) selected sulfites as the 2024 Allergen of the Year. These common and potentially allergenic ingredients are used as preservatives and antioxidants in a variety of foods, beverages, medications, and personal care products. In this article, we review common sources of sulfite exposure, clinical manifestations of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to sulfites, and patch testing considerations for this emerging allergen.

More than 30 million Americans lack access to affordable health care, and many seek medical services such as dermatologic care at free clinics. In this study, we analyzed the dermatology patient populations at the Birmingham Free Clinic (BFC) and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), both in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A retrospective chart review of 76 BFC dermatology patients and a time-matched sample of 322 UPMC dermatology patients was performed for the period from January 2020 to May 2022. Dermatologic care at both clinics can be improved by strengthening communication with patients with limited English proficiency (LEP), providing skin care education, and offering social and scheduling services such as transportation, insurance assistance, and triage.

Identifying an optimal treatment method for verruca vulgaris can be a frustrating challenge for clinicians. We describe the use of a pinto bean pressure wrap to induce ischemic change in digital warts. This novel technique provides a low-cost, low-risk, and nearly pain-free home-based treatment option with response rates similar to those of other commonly employed methods.

Cosmetic procedures carry inherent risks of adverse events. Though rarely reported, transient and permanent alopecia are potential complications of these procedures. We report the case of a 35-year-old woman who developed pain and patches of nonscarring alopecia with erythema and edema following aesthetic application of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) on the face and along the frontal hairline. Trichoscopy and histopathologic analysis confirmed the diagnosis. Dermatologists should be aware of the potential for embolization and retinal ischemia following the use of PLLA. Moreover, trichoscopy combined with histopathologic analysis should be encouraged to improve early recognition and proper management of this rare adverse event.

Inpatient consultative dermatologists play a critical role in the care of hospitalized patients with skin disease. Our review of the 2023-2024 dermatology literature identified several areas of active investigation relevant to inpatient dermatology. In this article, we highlight advances in the understanding of severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions, diagnosis and prevention of skin and soft tissue infections, and management of autoimmune blistering diseases (AIBDs).