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AAD letter to the Wall Street Journal in response to “$500,000 Pay, Predictable Hours: How Dermatology Became the ‘It’ Job in Medicine”
American Academy of Dermatology President Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD Letter to the editor originally submitted to the Wall Street Journal ... on Nov. 20, 2024 ROSEMONT, Ill. (Dec. 2, 2024) — On behalf of the American Academy of Dermatology and its 21,000 members, I am writing to express very serious concerns
What's new in dermatology?
Experts break down diagnoses you didn't know about 10 years ago ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, March 1, 2022 The history of medical diagnosis traces back to ancient Egypt, where the first recorded examples can be found in the writings of Imhotep dating 2630–2611 BC. In the
Session handouts and meetings archive
View previous AAD meeting sessions, handouts, poster exhibits, and floor plans.
CME & session evaluation archive
Claim CME credit and submit session evaluations for attending previous Academy meetings.
AADA hosts largest Capitol Hill skin cancer check in a decade
On May 15, the AADA hosted its 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health Fair with the Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus. This event was our largest to date, hosting 198 Hill staffers and 11 members of Congress, performing 127 skin checks, and providing 75 Reveal camera image results.
Shingles and the battle of the bulge
Learn more about Shingles and the battle of the bulge at aad.org
Academy physician leaders meet with federal legislators
On June 4, AADA physician leaders met with legislators in Washington, D.C., as part of the House Call on the Mall fundraiser hosted by the National Republican Congressional Committee and Rep. John Joyce, MD, FAAD (R-PA). During the event, AADA leaders reiterated the importance of Medicare physician payment reform.
AADA hosts 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health Fair
Moving the needle ... By Apoorva Stull, Senior Manager, Advocacy Communications, May 1, 2024 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. On May 15, the AADA hosted its 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health
The “rope” sign is knot pathognomonic: Autoimmunity ties the etiologies together
The “rope” sign is a dramatic finding presenting as a linear to curvilinear cords (“cordonifom”) on the lateral chest. It was originally described as an uncommon, but specific feature of Interstitial Granulomatous Dermatitis with Arthritis (IGDA), and has been considered pathognomonic for that disorder. That perspective is no longer tenable.
Alarming but benign: The enigma of acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy
Read the September 8, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy.
Taking biologics to heart
Comorbidities related to psoriasis have dominated the dermatologic literature for more than a decade since Joel Gelfand published his seminal paper.
How to check for bedbugs
Board-certified dermatologist’s tips ROSEMONT, Ill. (March 14, 2024) — Bedbugs can make you itch just by thinking about them. These tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on blood are notorious for infiltrating hotel rooms and luggage, hitchhiking their way back to a new home virtually undetected. ... "Understanding what to be
Educating the public – Summer meeting coverage
See exciting examples of how the Academy has succeeded in putting dermatologists at the forefront of the media on issues related to skin, hair, and nails.
Angiosarcomas and morbid obesity: An enormous problem
More than a third of US adults are obese (body mass index, BMI greater than 30), per the CDC website. Patients with severe obesity (BMI greater than 40) or morbid obesity (BMI greater than 50) have far more serious health consequences than those who are moderately obese.
Academy presence elevated during awareness months and days
Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Hair Loss Awareness Month shine in particular. Part of the Academy’s robust public education involves utilizing various awareness months and days throughout the year to share information with the public that is relevant to the awareness campaign in question.
January 31, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 31, 2024 ... Dupilumab vs. upadacitinib for atopic dermatitis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Early-onset hypertension associated with extensive capillary malformations — A new worry to raise dermatologists’ blood pressure
Preventing payment appeals
Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, October 3, 2016 Prior Cracking the Code columns have focused upon common billing errors and appeals strategies. However, a
Advocacy Update May 5, 2026
In response to advocacy by the AADA and other specialty societies, UnitedHealth Care will delay any adverse payment decisions related to Medicare Advantage referral requirements starting on May 1.
Advocacy Update Feb. 4 2025
The AADA is pleased that physician champions in the U.S. House introduced a bipartisan bill to address the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule cut.
Skin Cancer Awareness Month campaign reaches billions!
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and in 2024 the Academy once again undertook a robust effort to spread awareness to the general public. Similar content did very well in 2022, did even better in 2023, and shows no signs of stopping in 2024!
Time to break up with your old break room
The break room can often go neglected because it may not be valued the same way as the other areas of the office, where important patient care work takes place. But that is a short-sighted view of how much this space can contribute to your practice’s overall success.
Advocacy Update Dec 9, 2025
The AADA endorsed a House bill that would include an annual inflationary update to the Medicare physician fee schedule, the Academy’s top federal advocacy priority.
Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin
Learn more about Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin at aad.org
COVID-19 dermatology registry
The Academy is bringing together dermatologists to report on the dermatologic manifestations of COVID-19. This anonymous reporting registry is helping the Academy gather and disseminate important information regarding the infection and how it impacts patients.
The importance of spreading skin cancer awareness
From the President ... Dr. Alam is the Academy’s current president. ... By Murad Alam, MD, FAAD, May 1, 2026 Dear members, ... The Academy is dedicated to public education and takes its role as one of the largest sources of skin, hair, and nail health care information seriously. As
PASI 100 and the perfection paradox
I am not a psychiatrist, but over the years I have concluded that my patients’ happiness is more supratentorial than epidermal.
A Trumpian analysis of infliximab-induced follicular mucinosis: Something’s going on here
Williams et al presented two cases of biopsy-proven facial follicular mucinosis (FM), apparently induced by infliximab, with a normal tissue CD4/CD8 ratio of 2/1 and the presence of CD7, thereby ruling out CTCL. The first case was a 23 year-old man with Crohn disease; the other patient was a 16
Advocacy Update Mar. 18, 2025
The AADA is outraged that Congress once again passed a government funding bill that did not include relief to stop this year’s 2.8% Medicare physician payment cut.
Advocacy Update Feb. 18 2025
The AADA joined over 130 national and state physician organizations led by the AMA demanding Congress act to reform Medicare physician payment.
Early-onset hypertension associated with extensive capillary malformations: A new worry to raise dermatologists’ blood pressure
Patients presenting with extensive capillary malformations (port wine stains) on the trunk and extremities should be routinely screened for early-onset hypertension.
The AAD’s robust public education strategy
Taking care of dermatologists so that they can take care of their patients...and their practices. ... From the President ... Dr. Taylor is the Academy’s former president. ... By Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, May 1, 2025 Dear members, ... As you may know, the Academy’s public education efforts successfully
Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem
Learn more about Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem at aad.org
Coming to grips with lymphocytic thrombophilic arteritis
Read the May 18, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on lymphocytic thrombophilic arteritis.
Herpes zoster, immunosuppression, and vaccination: Far from a blistering pace
I had long promised myself that I would get Zostavax when I turned 60. Now 61, I am actively procrastinating – I decided to wait for a new VZV subunit zoster vaccine that consists of recombinant VZV glycoprotein E and a liposome-based ASO1B adjuvant system.
Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation: Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome
Read the June 17, 2020 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on capillary malformation.
ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding updates for 2024
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, September 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The CDC and the National Center
A presidential viewpoint: “Nobody knew that benign vascular lesions of the lip could be so complicated”
Well, maybe not as befuddling as replacing Obamacare, but there may be occasional difficulties in diagnosing benign vascular lesions of the lip, with implications for appropriate therapy.
Recognizing Trichophyton indotineae
In the last decade, a recently emerged dermatophyte species, Trichophyton indotineae, has been causing major outbreaks of severe, difficult-to-treat, and frequently relapsing infections in South Asia among immunocompetent patients.
Key messages to communicate about Indoor tanning
By communicating these key messages on indoor tanning, you can help position the specialty while increasing your credibility and raising the profile of your practice.
Diagnosis coding updates for 2026
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, November 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Your Dermatologist Knows media wins 2024
A key part of Your Dermatologist Knows is pitching stories to media outlets in hopes they’ll run news stories sharing information about the wide breadth of knowledge dermatologists have to their readership. We consider every new story published as a result of our pitches as a win, regardless of whether
October 30, 2019
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 30, 2019 ... Potential treatment for chronic urticaria may offer complete control DW Insights and Inquiries: Can chowing down improve pseudoxanthoma elasticum? Advances in medical technology: friend or foe? Do
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... January 1, 2023 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD, FAAD In October’s ... Dialogues in Dermatology , Dr. Scott Elman, double board-certified internist and dermatologist, discusses important "new medications
Emergency supply drive for front line COVID-19 workers
Dermatology World Weekly talks to Ronda Farah, MD, assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, about her efforts to collect emergency supplies for front line workers.
May 6, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 6, 2020 ... What dermatologic hazards are COVID-19 health care workers facing? DW Insights and Inquiries: Working up pernio — How far should you dip your toe in the water?
Oy, another “Oid” to worry about: Cryptococcoid lesions
Learn more about Oy, another “Oid” to worry about: Cryptococcoid lesions at aad.org
Naltrexone therapy for Hailey-Hailey disease: Confirming my addiction to evidence-based medicine
I was fascinated by a presentation at the recent World Congress of Pediatric Dermatology discussing improvement of epidermolysis bullosa wounds with topical CBD (cannabis) oil. I asked the presenter how he came up with his hypothesis. He acknowledged that the idea was not his – it came from EB families
After 23 years, a syndrome converted me into an eflornithine believer
Polyamines are integrally involved with the hair cycle. The Bachmann-Bupp syndrome has shed new light on the role of ornithine decarboxylase, and how it’s inhibition by eflornithine can be used as an advantage to either slow or stimulate hair growth.
Biotin supplementation for hair and nail health: Does it pass the test?
Read the November 17, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on biotin supplementation for hair and nail health.
The physician view of employment agreements
Legally Speaking ... Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Daniel F. Shay, Esq. , July 1, 2023 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Daniel F. Shay, Esq. is a health care attorney at
Humbled again: Alopecic and aseptic nodules of the scalp
Read the November 3, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on alopecic and aseptic nodules of the scalp.
LIDA* rose the insulin requirement
Read the April 14, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on localized insulin-derived amyloidosis.
Dermatology: A memoir
First Person ... By Walter Larsen, MD, May 1, 2021 In July 1961, Sylvi and I drove from San Francisco to Portland, Oregon for my residency in dermatology. We were married three months before in San Francisco. We packed up all our earthly possessions into our 1957 Chevrolet including a
Donors, children, dermatologists: Camp Discovery benefits all
Donor Spotlight ... By Dean Monti, Managing Editor, Special Publications, November 1, 2022 In this new column, DermWorld ... highlights individual members who have gone above and beyond with their Academy contributions. Giving takes many forms and so do our donors. It takes a healthy measure of financial and direct
Practicing with a purpose
Answers in Practice ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, September 1, 2021 DermWorld ... talks to Vinh Chung, MD, FAAD, from Vanguard Skin Specialists in Colorado Springs, Colorado, about the value of promoting meaning and purpose at work. DermWorld: Tell us about your practice. Dr. Chung: Vanguard started out with
Examine the exam room for opportunities for efficiencies
The exam room often makes up for less than half of the medical office space, but the exam room is the primary place where physicians and patients develop their relationship. The design and set up of this space should be carefully considered to optimize efficiency, workflow, and patient engagement.
Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus: Interfering with interferon
Read the Aug. 17, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on cutaneous lupus erythematosus and interferon.
The nexus of VEXAS syndrome
Read the December 1, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on VEXAS syndrome.
Exchanging plasma exchange for a novel approach: The potential of FcRn antagonists in dermatologic autoimmune disease
FcRn antagonists, currently approved for treating myasthenia gravis, show potential for treating pemphigus and other autoimmune diseases.
The ACA: 10 years later...during a pandemic
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... It survived for a decade, but will it survive another 10 years after COVID-19? ... It survived for a decade, but will it survive another 10 years after COVID-19? ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer On its 10
Telemedicine in the time of COVID-19...and beyond
How a novel virus disrupted and transformed health care delivery ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor, July 1, 2021 Since its beginnings in the late 1960s, telemedicine has been relegated to the periphery of the health care system. Rigid rules around patient location and eligible services, interstate
Coding dermatology encounters in 2026: Practical guidance and tips for success
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, May 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . As healthcare delivery continues to evolve, 2026
Watch your back!
Focusing on ergonomics can help dermatologists avoid a career-ending injury. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, February 1, 2021 After a long day of seeing patients, performing dermatologic procedures, or reviewing slides, do you have stiffness in your neck, pain in your back, or maybe an aching in
Your Dermatologist Knows media wins 2024
A key part of Your Dermatologist Knows is pitching stories to media outlets in hopes they’ll run news stories sharing information about the wide breadth of knowledge dermatologists have to their readership. We consider every new story published as a result of our pitches as a win, regardless of whether
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans recurrence: Size matters
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans can be locally destructive and may rarely be fatal. Having the lesion excised (preferably with Mohs micrographic surgery) is the definitive foundation of treatment.
Coding lessons learned in 2022 — update on all of the common coding FAQs
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, January 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . 2022 has come to a close
Dermatology residency memories
First Person ... By Arthur L. Norins, MD, July 1, 2021 DermWorld’s ... First Person column offers Academy members the opportunity to share their personal reflections about how dermatology is changing and how they’ve adapted. A condensed version appeared in print. The American Academy of Dermatology meeting was scheduled in
23andDermatology
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... What are the dermatologic implications of direct-to-consumer DNA tests? ... What are the dermatologic implications of direct-to-consumer DNA tests? ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor Spit, swab, drop DNA in the mail. Since genetic tests were first offered
The skin and stress connection
Experts explore the underlying mechanisms of the link between the brain and the skin. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor, December 1, 2020 There is generally no question among dermatologists that psychological stress can affect the skin. This year, more than ever, the heightened stress of living
Cosmetic conundrums
Contact dermatitis experts discuss key cosmetic allergens and how to investigate which product may be causing a patient’s allergic reaction. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, September 1, 2023 Thousands of substances can cause an allergic skin reaction, offering a broad lineup of potential "suspects" for contact dermatitis
Start the presses!
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Experts offer advice on how to successfully manage media relations ... Experts offer advice on how to successfully manage media relations ... By Victoria Houghton, assistant managing editor When Anne Chapas, MD, arrived in New York City and
Sky high
PBM tactics increase drug prices, lower patient access ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, September 1, 2022 Last month, ... DermWorld discussed the role pharmacy benefits managers (PBMs) play in the drug distribution chain. This month, we will discuss some of the tactics PBMs use that are driving
Alleviate the ouch
Experts share best practices and review the latest on safety concerns for anesthesia use in children. ... Feature ... By Heidi Splete, Contributing Writer, May 1, 2024 Use of anesthesia can be tricky in adults, but even trickier in children. The use of local or general anesthesia in pediatric dermatology
Dermatology issues in the news
Access talking points on prominent dermatology issues in the news. These include sunscreen, skin cancer awareness, scope of practice/truth in advertising, coverage related to JAAD, isotreninoin, and much more.
Our donors
The AAD welcomes this year's generous donors and thanks them for their commitment to advancing the programs and services of the Academy.