Elevate-Derm PA-NP Conference Day 3
Conference Reporters:
Madeline June, NP
Clara Wilson, PA-C
Friday morning began with another energizing yoga class followed by breakfast outside the Crystal Ballroom.
Dr. Brittany Craiglow started with an in-depth discussion of JAK inhibitors in the pediatric population. She shared personal insights on when to transition to a JAK inhibitor, deciding which one to choose, and how to counsel patients and their parents. Working in a pediatric-focused practice, she emphasized the impact of skin and hair disease on a child’s self esteem from a very young age.
“Updates in the Management of Vitiligo” was covered by Dr. Brett King. He spoke on how important it is to set expectations before starting treatment. Certain areas, such as the hands and feet, respond poorly to treatment. Taking pictures is also vital to objectively track progress. His review of the data showing superiority of combination topical plus nbUVB therapy was particularly interesting.
Next, Dr. Jim Treat and Dr. Craiglow teamed up to discuss challenging pediatric dermatology cases. They shared complex cases of scurvy, neonatal lupus, Kawasaki disease, neurofibromatosis type 1, lichen planopilaris and juvenile dermatomyositis. Important takeaways include asking about diet, questioning the diagnosis if not responding to optimized therapy, and considering N-Acetylcysteine for patients with skin or hair-picking disorders.
Following lunch, Dr. Craiglow and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd shared their expertise treating “Challenging Cases of Alopecia,” including alopecia areata, FFA, and CCCA. Dr. Woolery-Lloyd explained that CCCA is an autosomal dominant condition that can be exacerbated by chemical straighteners and tight hairstyles. Dr. Craiglow reviewed tips for treating tinea capitis in children: search for concurrent tinea corporis, disinfect combs, hats and helmets, and check siblings. She also presented an interesting case of loose anagen hair syndrome.
Next, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd dove deeper into the diagnosis and management of non-scarring and scarring alopecias. She helped differentiate frontal fibrosing alopecia from traction alopecia, and dissecting cellulitis from folliculitis decalvans. She also clarified that acne keloidalis nuchae is an inflammatory scarring alopecia that best responds to topical or intralesional steroids. Contrary to popular belief, it has no association with ingrown hairs.
After a dessert and coffee break, we resumed the afternoon with a lecture on pediatric dermatology infections, presented by Dr. Treat. He provided applicable advice for evaluating the pediatric patient with a rash and how to quickly identify those who require inpatient care. He spent a generous amount of time fielding questions about stubborn wart and molluscum management before discussing a fungal infection to be on the lookout for called Trichophyton indotineae.
Finally, Dr. Craiglow and Dr. King shared their wealth of knowledge during the “Stump the Experts'” panel. Dr. Craiglow reviewed the history of oral minoxidil, originally approved as an anti-hypertensive in the 1970s, to its popular use as a hair loss treatment today. In addition to androgenetic alopecia, it has also proven effective as a hair “fertilizer” for alopecia areata, chronic telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, and more. Dr. King reviewed the importance of using accredited compound pharmacies - “cheaper is not always better”
The evening concluded with a fabulous “Barbie and Ken” evening event where attendees networked and showed their moves while enjoying the fun theme and decor. There was even a life-size Barbie box for photos!
