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Session handouts and meetings archive
Handouts ... 2025 Innovation Academy, Chicago, IL, July 10-13 2025 Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL, March 7-11 2024 Innovation Academy, Seattle, WA, August 1-4 2024 Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, March 8-12 2023 Innovation Academy, Tampa, FL, August 10-13 2023 Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA, March 17-21 Sessions ... 2025 Innovation
CME & session evaluation archive
Claim CME & submit session evaluations ... Claim CME credit and submit session evaluations for attending previous Academy meetings: ... 2025 Innovation Academy, Chicago, IL, July 10-13 2025 Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL, March 7-11 2024 Innovation Academy, Seattle, WA, August 1-4 2024 Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, March 8-12 2023
October 3
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 3, 2018 ... Budget bill includes wins for dermatology AAD updates "Find a Dermatologist" tool — have you updated your profile? Are you smarter than DataDerm™? Did CMS miscalculate your
May 1
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 1, 2019 ... FDA approves two new psoriasis treatments ... DW Insights and Inquiries : When assessing morbilliform eruptions think about morbilli (measles)! We want your feedback: Draft psoriasis guidelines
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.
April 3
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 3, 2019 ... Can the elimination diet hurt pediatric atopic dermatitis patients? DW Insights and Inquiries : Tofacitinib – a JAK inhibitor of all trades Unity in dermatology starts with
July 3
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 3, 2019 ... Academy comments on FDA sunscreen proposal DW Insights and Inquiries : Oy, another "Oid" to worry about — cryptococcoid lesions VA launches Community Care Network to provide
The nexus of VEXAS syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD December 1, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 47 You may not be familiar with VEXAS (Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) syndrome, but it is conceivable that you have already unknowingly encountered patients with the disorder. ... To appreciate the clinical nuances of the VEXAS
Will PD-1 inhibitors be msed for Mastocytosis?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 8, 2016 Kuklinski L, Kim J. Expression of PD-L1 in mastocytosis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2016; 74: 1010-2. ... The authors evaluated 16 specimens from 12 patients with mastocytosis, using immunohistochemical stains for PD-L1, CD-117, and mast cell tryptase on all specimens. Of the12
Humbled again: Alopecic and aseptic nodules of the scalp
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD November 3, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 44 "To confess ignorance is often wiser than to beat about the bush with a hypothetical diagnosis." - Sir William Osler I confess. I had never heard of alopecic and aseptic nodules of the scalp (AANS) and have
Going green: The complexities of the green nail syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD February 3, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 5 I find a unique satisfaction in diagnosing the green nail syndrome (GNS, aka chloronychia, Goldman-Fox syndrome) — it is easy to recognize and very reassuring to patients who were convinced they had a subungual melanoma. Based on new
Time to reassess messing around with steroids and psoriasis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 3, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 9 You don't tug on Superman ’ ... s cape You don't spit into the wind You don't pull the mask off that old Lone Ranger And you don't mess around with Jim If the late Jim Croce was
AADA advocates for innovative teledermatology policies and programs
While 85 million Americans are impacted by skin disease, only 1 in 3 patients will see a dermatologist. The Academy believes that teledermatology is a powerful tool for increasing patient access to needed dermatologic care. ... The Academy advocates for innovative teledermatology policies and programs that increase access to care
A single case report has the potential to change the world: Could JAK inhibition alter the trajectory of multicentric reticulohistiocytosis?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 3, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 31 In 1965, Reye described 18 small, fibrous tumors from 12 children submitted to his laboratory for histological examination, that he had accumulated over two decades. Initially, these lesions were tentatively classified as well-differentiated fibrosarcomas. His seminal observation
December 3, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 3, 2025 ... GLP-1s and telogen effluvium DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pityriasis rosea and pityriasis rosea-like eruptions — A Christmas tale Combination oral minoxidil and baricitinib for alopecia areata
Lagging ahead: LAG-3 checkpoint inhibition for advanced melanoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 11, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 19 Checkpoint inhibition has revolutionized the treatment of advanced melanoma over the past decade, beginning with the release of the anti-CTLA4 checkpoint inhibitor ipilimumab (Yervoy). This was followed by the development of the anti-PD-1 inhibitors pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and
Teatime for radiation dermatitis (and beyond)
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 14, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 24 I am biased — as a coffee lover, I only believe articles demonstrating coffee’s benefits, while finding flaws in any study deriding its use. I can be more objective about tea — especially green tea — a
Intermediate and complex repairs 2020: Part 1
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 1, 2019 Test your knowledge: Intermediate and complex repairs 2020 — Part 1 ... Take the quiz to
Biopsy coding in 2019: Part 3
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, January 1, 2019 Test your knowledge: Biopsy coding in 2019 — Part 3 ... Take the quiz to see
Shedding light on the hydroa vacciniforme-like lymphoproliferative disorder
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 1, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 35 Hydroa vacciniforme (HV) has always mystified me in every respect — its clinical presentation, pathophysiology, prognosis, and even its name. I understand "vacciniforme" because residual scars may resemble those of smallpox. I was surprised to learn that
3 ways to promote skin cancer awareness this month
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and all month long the AAD is asking Americans "Do You Use Protection?" and encouraging the public to "practice safe sun." Use the Academy’s new SPOT Skin Cancer™ resources
Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 3
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, November 1, 2020 Test your knowledge: Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 3 ... Take the quiz to see
Seeing red with dupilumab
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 1, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 9 Since its release in 2017, dupilumab (a fully humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks IL-4 and IL-13) has transformed the therapeutic landscape for managing atopic dermatitis (AD) and other eczematous disorders, bullous pemphigoid, Kimura disease, etc. when used
Clear cell papulosis: Clearly distinctive, clearly underrecognized
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 3, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 22 One of my greatest joys in dermatology is diagnosing a disease that I have only read about, but then encounter in life. That "aha moment" is exhilarating! When attending patient presentations at dermatology conferences, I encourage my residents
January 3, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 3, 2024 ... Efficacy of minoxidil for cancer treatment–induced hair loss DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Malignant syphilis — History in the making Most effective medications for plaque psoriasis Cardiovascular,
Exchanging plasma exchange for a novel approach: The potential of FcRn antagonists in dermatologic autoimmune disease
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Nov. 1, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 44 Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF) are potentially life-threatening disorders demanding aggressive therapy with all the finesse and skill that dermatologists can muster. PV is characterized by IgG autoantibodies targeting desmoglein (Dsg)‐3, which is associated with
March 3, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 3, 2021 ... The latest on the association between diet and acne DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Time to reassess messing around with steroids and psoriasis Is intralesional 5-FU effective
August 3, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 3, 2022 ... Dutasteride microinjections with oral minoxidil vs. oral minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Infantile digital fibromatosis – Inclusions and exclusions CMS outlines payment changes
February 3, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 3, 2021 ... How effective are oral hair growth supplements? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Going green — The complexities of the green nail syndrome A practical guide for managing
April 3, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 3, 2024 ... Safety of DEET insect repellent in children: Do the natural alternatives work? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Hair straightening and acute renal injury — The latest data
Tofacitinib for dermatomyositis: A potential belle of the ball?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 23, 2016 JAK1/3 signaling participates in the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders while JAK1/2 signaling plays a role in the development of several malignancies including leukemias, lymphomas, and myeloproliferative neoplasms. Tofacitinib (Xeljans) is a pan-JAK inhibitor that is approved by the FDA for the treatment
November 3, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 3, 2021 ... Facial contact dermatitis from cosmetic allergens DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Humbled again — Alopecic and aseptic nodules of the scalp Derm Coding Consult : Applying 2021
Necrobiosis lipoidica in a Wink
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 3, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 18 Ninety years have transpired since Urbach coined the term ... necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (NLD) for the granulomatous disorder first described by Oppenheim in 1929 as ... dermatitis atrophicans lipoidica diabetica . (1) Early authors observed sclerotic plaques
Biotin supplementation for hair and nail health: Does it pass the test?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD November 17, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 46 When patients ask me about biotin supplementation for their hair or nails, the usual question is what dose they should take, not whether or not it has any value. High dose over-the-counter biotin supplements (≥ 5 mg/day,
Weighing in on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in dermatology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 17, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 16 Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists — your patients are on them, and perhaps you are too (or at least have thought about it). In 2023, more than 500 million people worldwide were afflicted with obesity and type
July 3, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 3, 2024 ... Tazarotene vs. imiquimod in patients with plane warts DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Fire ant stings: From pain to gain — The therapeutic potential of solenopsin Efficacy
Advocacy Update May 5, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE / May 5, 2026 Advocacy win: United Healthcare delays referral program penalties Dr. Gross attends political event on behalf of SkinPAC New Medicare physician payment reform legislative efforts AADA presents at FDA nonprescription drugs access public meeting Payer Advocacy Advocacy win: United Healthcare delays referral program penalties
August 1
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / AUGUST 1, 2018 ... Physicians suing patients over negative reviews FDA to laser device manufacturers: Stop marketing for vaginal rejuvenation FDA releases biosimilars plan to increase access, encourage competition Blood test
May 3, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 3, 2023 ... Oral oxybutyloride for hidradenitis suppurativa patients? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Necrobiosis lipoidica in a Wink Exposure to anesthesia and alopecia areata Do study authors accurately report
September 3, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 3, 2025 ... Comparison of botulinum toxin A formulations for treating glabellar strain DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Trichobacteriosis — A salute to the Shelleys Academy mourns the passing of
Selectivity and the choice of beta-blockers for infantile hemangiomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 11, 2017 Clinical evolution of an infantile ulcerated hemangioma on upper lip of patient 7. Clinical appearance: Before starting propranolol (A); after 12 months of follow-up (3 months of treatment) (B). ... Credit: ... JAAD Has there ever been a more radical change in
June 3, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 3, 2020 ... COVID-19 and androgenetic alopecia: Is there a link? DW Insights and Inquiries : Clear cell papulosis — Clearly distinctive, clearly underrecognized Register for the Academy’s virtual meeting
Interfering with interferon Gamma: The mechanisms behind acquired resistance to PD-1 inhibitors for melanoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 4, 2016 Astounding major advances in targeted therapies for melanoma, most notably by PD-1 blockade, have given hope and life to patients with metastatic melanoma. Approximately 30 % of advanced melanoma patients experience tumor responses from checkpoint blockade monotherapy, with better clinical responses seen
As molecular knowledge of PROS expands, lesions contract
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 19, 2018 PIK3CA patient showing hemifacial hypertrophy. ... Credit: ... JAAD Somatic activating mutations in the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/AKT/mTOR pathway manifest as heterogeneous segmental overgrowth phenotypes Historically, the clinical diagnoses in patients with PIK3CA activating mutations have included Fibroadipose Hyperplasia or Overgrowth (FAO), Hemihyperplasia Multiple Lipomatosis
Itching to see if polymerase chain reaction mite be the future of diagnosing scabies
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 6, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 1 The scourge of scabies has been plaguing mankind for millennia. The causal relationship of the itch mite causing scabies was discovered by Bonomo and Cestoni in 1687, earning the distinction of being the first to discover a proven
Diagnosing pyoderma gangrenosum? Consider cocaine/levamisole as a potential culprit!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 1, 2016 The authors presented 8 patients with PG following exposure to levamisole-contaminated cocaine. All patients had lower extremity involvement, and 6 also had PG on the upper extremities. Retiform purpura was only observed in 3 patients. Most had elevated titers for p-ANCA and
Advocacy Update Jun 3, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / June 3, 2025 AADA advocates for revisions to CLIA lab director requirements AADA urges DOJ to tackle Medicare payment reforms and CLIA lab director restrictions Advocacy win: Step therapy reform law enacted in New Jersey Become an AADA Advocacy Key Contact Support SkinPAC to elect dermatology
Neurofibromatosis type 1, juvenile xanthogranuloma, and leukemia: Wasting a good worry?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 22, 2017 A clinically pigmented neurofibroma associated with underlying café au lait macule. ... Credit: ... JAAD Worry comes with the territory of Neurofibromatosis Type I (NF-1). It often starts with the anxiety of determining if a child has enough criteria to confirm the
Advocacy Update March 3, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE / March 3, 2026 Dermatology pursues immediate CMS action, LCD reconsideration on SRT training AADA, NY dermatologists oppose lab director requirements Watch your inbox for an important AADA RUC survey AADA presents at FDA’s annual compounding listening session Dermatologists urge support for Rhode Island step therapy reform
What are the effects of nemolizumab treatment in prurigo nodularis patients?
Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, July 1, 2024 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, DermWorld ... Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Shawn
Monitoring infantile hemangiomas: What’s the score?
By Howard B. Pride, MD, FAAD Geisinger Medical Center, Department of Dermatology Aug. 11, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 32 Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are common vascular tumors that generally run a self-limited course of rapid growth in the first 2-3 months of life, slow growth for another 4-6 months, and then
Digital media kit: DermWorld editorial calendar
Download a PDF of the 2026 DermWorld editorial calendar . ... JANUARY ... FEBRUARY ... MARCH ... Preparing derms to use ... GLP-1 RA Coding: Soft tissue excision ... Managing declining morale in health care ... Close: 11/25/25 ... Materials due: 12/3/25 ... Mail date: 1/2/26 ... Update on ...
For patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria the tide has come in
By Warren Heymann, MD May 12, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 19 Oct. 8, 2019, was an eventful day for patients with erythopoietic protoporphyria (EPP) in the United States, when the FDA announced its approval of afamelanotide (Scenesse). (1) The drug was first approved in Italy in 2010. (2) ... Patients
Advocacy Update Feb 3, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 3, 2026 Dermatologists urged Washington state to support truth in advertising Humana corrects destruction code denials Academy asks CMS to reduce regulatory burdens on dermatology Contribute to SkinPAC Truth in Advertising Dermatologists urged Washington state to support truth in advertising ... The AADA ... urged
Olmsted syndrome patients can finally put their foot down
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 20, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 3 Reading Olmsted’s seminal paper entitled "Keratodermia Palmaris et Plantaris Congenitalis" is captivating reading on multiple levels. In that era of descriptive dermatology, there is an allure in how he differentiates his patient from keratodermas described by the giants
Speculating on spicules: Our incomplete knowledge of trichodysplasia spinulosa
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD December 15, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 49 For inexplicable reasons, there are certain differential diagnoses that I find particularly satisfying, one being disorders responsible for facial follicular spicules: follicular mucinosis (1), pityriasis folliculorum ... (Demodex folliculorum) (2), follicular hyperkeratotic spicules (myeloma immunoglobulin or cryoglobulin)
Happy 4th of July from DI&I
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 3, 2018 George Washington contracted smallpox when he was 19 years old. Although he nearly succumbed to the disease, he survived with pockmark scars and life-long immunity. (1) He and other founders recognized the severity of smallpox and its threat to their independence and
Clinical information
1. How contagious is measles? ... Measles is a highly contagious virus, much more contagious than the common cold and even more contagious than other outbreaks like smallpox or Ebola. ... 1 ... Measles is potentially transmissible even after brief exposures and at distances up to 30 meters. ... 2
Nailing down the treatment for ungual melanoma in situ
By Adam Rubin, MD April 21, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 16 In the recent ... Dermatologic Surgery manuscript "Nail Unit Melanoma In Situ Treated with Mohs Micrographic Surgery" (1), Dr. Divya Srivastava and her colleagues at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center demonstrated the effectiveness of the combination of
Can oral ivermectin cure pediatric periorificial dermatitis? It mite!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 5, 2017 A 13-year-old boy with severe rosacea before (A) and 1 month (B) and 4 months (C) after receiving oral therapy with a single dose of 250 μg/kg ivermectin (case 3). Note the facial desquamation after the first weeks of therapy, not attributable
Playing the field: Introducing tirbanibulin for actinic keratosis therapy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 27, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 4 Field therapy is a cornerstone of actinic keratosis (AK) management. Two years ago, a ... New England Journal of Medicine article demonstrated that 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) was the best among inadequate therapies (compared to imiquimod, MAL-PDT, and ingenol mebutate).
The congenital perineal groove: Defective recognition of a dermal defect
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Feb. 28, 2018 ... It has been nearly half a century since Stephens first detailed the perineal groove (PG) as a congenital malformation consisting of three features: (1) a wet groove in the midperineum between the fourchette and the anus; (2) normal formation of
Primary sclerosing cholangitis associated with pyostomatitis vegetans and pyodermatitis vegetans: A potentially bilious situation
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 29, 2016 Inflammatory bowel disease may be associated with multiple cutaneous manifestations including pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), erythema nodosum, or directly by fistulae or "metastatic" Crohn disease. Seven cases of pyostomatitis vegetans-pyodermatitis vegetans (PSV-PDV) were reviewed. All 7 patients had inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) —
What's hot?
What's hot ... July 24, 2018 In this monthly column, members of the ... Dermatology World Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Edward W. Cowen, MD, MHSc ... The first human retrovirus, identified in 1980, was not HIV, but human T-cell lymphotrophic virus-1 (HTLV-1). It
Generalized multinucleate cell angiohistiocytomas and thoughts on diagnostic first impressions
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 1, 2017 I became aware of multinucleate cell angiohistiocytomas (MCA) when I learned of an article published by friends who reported the first cases in the United States (1). The following abstract by Smolle et al (2) accurately described the entity, and my concept
A point to make about punctate, pigmented, and verrucous papillomatosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 25, 2016 What is your mental image of the Gougerot-Carteaud (GC) syndrome? I equate it with confluent and reticulated papillomatosis, presenting on the trunk with hyperpigmented minimally raised plaques. The KOH examination is negative and there is a quick, characteristic response to antibiotics such
How can I get a receipt for payments made to the Academy?
Asked and Answered ... March 1, 2020 For all Academy-related payments — membership dues, past orders, a subscription to ... Dialogues in Dermatology — AAD members can access their receipts as follows: ... 1. Visit ... www.aad.org/members 2. Sign in to your member profile ... 3. Click the "Account" tab
Not aging like fine wine: The myths and mysteries of acquired port wine stains
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 13, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 2 Port wine stains (PWS, aka nevus flammeus, nevus simplex, salmon patch) are cutaneous capillary malformations that are characteristically congenital (CPWS) but may be acquired (APWS). APWS was first described in a German publication by Fegeler in 1949, hence
Tofacitinib: A JAK inhibitor of all trades
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 3, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 4 The Janus kinase inhibitors are taking the dermatologic therapeutic world by storm — at least in the literature. By now, most dermatologists are familiar with studies that have demonstrated efficacy in alopecia areata, vitiligo, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and
Cimetidine offers a ray of sunshine for patients With erythropoietic protoporphyria
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 16, 2016 Only once in a great while an article makes me want to break into my happy dance — the report of 3 pediatric cases of erythropoietic protoporhyria (EPP) by Tu et al had that effect. Recently, I ran a post on EPP
Oy, another “Oid” to worry about: Cryptococcoid lesions
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 3, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 17 The suffix "oid" m ... eans "resembling." There is a plethora of "oids" in dermatology — lichenoid, Pagetoid, rupioid, targetoid, to name a few. (My favorite is "oid-oid" disease, aka Sulzberger-Garbe disease, or exudative discoid and lichenoid chronic
How can I get involved with this year’s Legislative Conference?
Asked and Answered ... July 1, 2024 The 2024 AADA Legislative Conference will take place Sept. 8-10, at the JW Marriot in Washington, D.C. ... Attending the conference is as easy as 1, 2, 3. You can expect: ... Two days of networking and learning from political experts about the
Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis: Six decades of progress
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, March 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 3 Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF) is a quizzical disorder. In 1965, Ise and Ofuji described the case of a 42-year-old woman who "repeatedly developed crops of small pustules on the face, the trunk,
How can I get involved with this year’s Legislative Conference?
Asked and Answered ... July 1, 2023 The 2023 AADA Legislative Conference will take place Sept. 10-12, at the Conrad Hotel, in Washington, D.C. ... Attending the conference is as easy as 1, 2, 3. You can expect: ... Two days of networking and learning from political experts about the
2026 AADA Legislative Conference
Join your peers at the 2026 AADA Legislative Conference and tell Congress to reform Medicare physician payment, the Academy’s sole Federal congressional advocacy priority. ... This activity has been approved for ... AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ What to expect ... Attending the 2026 AADA Legislative Conference is as easy
Applying the 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice – Part 3
Part three of the AADA’s clinical vignettes focuses on the application of the more challenging concepts related to the review and analysis of data in the AMA Medical Decision-Making table. Understanding the application of these concepts will assist you in determining when data may impact the level of service provided.
July 31, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 31, 2024 ... Does an increase in omega-3 fatty acids improve acne? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Which treatment modality of pyogenic granuloma is worth its weight in salt? Is
Skin cancer fact sheet
Incidence rates ... Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. (1-3) ... Current estimates are that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. (4) ... It is estimated that approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.
Other emerging severe and resistant dermatophytes of concern
Overview ... Trichophyton mentagrophytes type VII (TMV ... II ... ) is a recently emerged dermatophyte that is closely related to ... T. indotineae (note: ... T. indotineae was previously called ... T. mentagrophytes type ... VIII ... ). ... 1-3 ... TMVII spreads between people and may be transmitted
Following up on “A Trend I Cannot Endorse”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 22, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 38 I admit defeat. ... For those of you who did not read " ... A Trend I Cannot Endorse ," which was published on Dermatology Insights and Inquiries (the forerunner of Dermatology World Insights and Inquiries), please
2021 DW Insights and Inquiries archive
Explore ... DermWorld Insights and Inquiries articles by publication date. ... December ... Dec. 29 - 2021: Best of DermWorld Insights and Inquiries Dec. 22 - DWI&I Holiday Greeting 2021 Dec. 15 - Speculating on spicules: Our incomplete knowledge of trichodysplasia spinulosa Dec. 8 - Propranolol and neutrophilic dermatoses: Can
Is there a genetic basis of CCCA and, if so what is it?
Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, July 1, 2019 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Amy McMichael, MD, about her
A future therapeutic Harlequin Romance?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 17, 2018 A neonate with harlequin ichthyosis on day 21 of life after 3 weeks of treatment with acitretin at 1 mg/kg/d. ... Credit: ... JAAD My fiancé Ronnie, then a pediatric resident, called me excitedly, asking for my opinion about a remarkable neonate
Becoming whipped up over flagellate dermatoses
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... July 13, 2017 ... A, A 44-year-old male patient with characteristic flagellate dermatitis after ingestion of shiitake. B, Same patient 4 days after balneo PUVA therapy. ... Credit: ... JAAD The literature on flagellate dermatoses has been whipped into frenzy. The initial description
AAD letter to the New York Times in response to “3 Medical Routines that Older People May Not Need”
American Academy of Dermatology President Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD Letter to the editor originally submitted to the New York Times ... on May 4, 2026 ROSEMONT, Ill. (May 4, 2026) — 3 Medical Routines that Older People May Not Need , by Paula Span, imprudently suggests that patients
Vitamin C as treatment of basal cell carcinoma: Is it fruitful?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... July 3, 2016 ... For those of us who learned that taking mega dose vitamin C for the common cold, as advocated by the late Nobel Laureate Linus Pauling, was truly something to sneeze at, I always approach studies lauding the effects of nutrient-based
Keeping abreast of drug-induced cutaneous lupus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 4, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 31 Tom Hanks, as Commander Jim Lovell in the movie ... Apollo 13, lamented that the world was not watching their onboard video, compared to Neil Armstrong’s moon landing a year earlier. Reality dictates that the seminal breakthroughs
Topical amelioration of neuropathic pain and pruritus leading to painful consequences
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 26, 2016 Increasingly, compounded amitriptyline and ketamine have been utilized for the management of neuropathic pain and pruritus. A review of PubMed reveals its utility in erythomelalgia and diverse neuropathic disorders (peripheral neuropathy, radiation-induced neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, proctodynia, and pain associated with
Progress in pemphigus: Solidifying rituximab’s role
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 7, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 27 "Now what do I do?" ... That question, asked by dermatologists every day about patients who are not responding to therapy, was posed in the preface of the first (and every subsequent) edition of ... Treatment of
How do I claim CME credits from the Annual Meeting?
Asked and Answered ... May 1, 2019 Your CME credits are just a few clicks away! ... To claim AAD meeting credits: ... Visit www.aad.org/evals , or select the CME/Evals icon on the AAD meeting app. If you do not have your registration code, email aadcme@aad.org . To begin claiming
Getting a leg up on squamous cell carcinomas of the teratoacanthoma type
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 8, 2016 I thought it was my imagination, but apparently not — there is distinct subset of patients, mostly mature women, with squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the keratoacanthoma type (KA) usually presenting on the anterior distal lower extremities. ... These patients are not
Nanotechnology for topical cyclosporine: Not a small matter
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 19, 2016 Taken at face value, the study by Kumar et al, demonstrating the efficacy of topical cyclosporine for psoriasis, utilizing liposomal nanocarriers (lipogel), might elicit a shrug, because in this randomized study, at 14 weeks, complete clearance of psoriasis was observed in 41%
New evaluation and management (E/M) coding changes are coming in 2021 – Practical applications of the 2021 E/M coding changes
Selecting the E/M level of service ... Part 3 of the "E/M coding changes are coming in 2021" series will focus on the practical application of the changes to dermatology-specific encounters based on ... medical decision making (MDM) or ... time . (Review ... part 1 and ... part 2
Malignant syphilis: History in the making
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 3, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 1 As our new academic year commences, soon I will remind our new residents of Sir William Osler's famous aphorism, "He who knows syphilis knows medicine." As the great mimicker, our trainees will never go astray by including
November 1, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 1, 2023 ... Can oral nutraceuticals reduce isotretinoin side effects? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Exchanging plasma exchange for a novel approach — The potential of FcRn antagonists in dermatologic
Digging deeper into lupus erythematosus panniculitis
By Warren Heymann, MD May 5, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 18 Lupus erythematosus panniculitis (aka lupus erythematosus profundus, LEP) has a storied history. The famed clinician Harry Arnold noted that Kaposi (when he was Kohn) observed nodules in patients with lupus. (1) Debates and controversies ensued for decades, with many
Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem
By Christen M. Mowad, MD Oct. 9, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 31 ... The next contact allergen of the year has been announced early by the American Contact Dermatitis Society and it is an acrylate, isobornyl acrylate. (1) This chemical is a photopolymerizable monomer that has been used in industrial
June 1, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 1, 2022 ... What’s new in adult acne over the last two years? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Granulomatous cheilitis — Back to the Future Derm Coding Consult : Cigna’s
Striving for hard facts about water softening in atopic dermatitis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 18, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 33 With the success of dupilumab in managing atopic dermatitis (AD), and new agents on the horizon (IL-13 inhibitors lebrikizumab and tralokinumab; the IL-31 inhibitor nemolizumab; targeted anti IL-17, IL-22, and TSLP inhibitors; JAK inhibitors; and the PDE4
Alopecia areata incognita in Cronkhite-Canada syndrome suggests an autoimmune etiology – and that’s the way it is.
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 14, 2017 Cronkhite–Canada syndrome. A, Onycholysis. B, Alopecia. ... Credit: ... JAAD I have always been intrigued by the mysterious nature of the Cronkhite-Canada syndrome (CCS) — although I have considered the disorder in my differential diagnosis, I have never seen a case. ...
Dermatology practice staff by the numbers
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, July 2, 2018 Nurses, aestheticians, billers — who’s most likely to be spotted working in the average dermatology practice? Aside from dermatologists, medical assistants and practice administrators are the most widely employed across all practice settings, according the 2017 AAD Practice Profile
How can I use DataDerm to report for MIPS?
Asked and Answered ... November 29, 2018 DataDerm™ can help you report for all three MIPS categories in 2018: ... Quality Promoting interoperability (PI) Improvement activities (IA) Here’s how to get started: ... 1. Step one: Sign up. ... Complete the sign-up portal at ... https://dataderm.aad.org/signup/Login.aspx by ... Dec. 7,
Biting my nails worrying about atypical presentations of nail unit melanomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 27, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 3 I recently encountered a patient who expressed his disappointment in me, complaining that I was too slow to diagnose a lentigo maligna in a facial solar lentigo that we had been following. How could I miss a melanoma?
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
Mpox: Caring for skin
The mpox (monkeypox) virus causes lesions to form on the body. While these can be located anywhere, many individuals during the current outbreak have experienced lesions in the anogenital region, though involvement of other areas including the face, extremities, and mucosal areas such as the mouth have also occurred. ...
Methotrexate toxicity: What’s in a name?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 24, 2017 Methotrexate-induced skin toxicity: photographs of 4 illustrative cases. A, Erosions in psoriatic plaques over the torso (patient 1). B and C, Ulcerated and reticulated psoriatic plaques over the arms (patient 2). D, Small shallow cutaneous erosions (patient 4). E, Mucosal erosions over
Melanoma risk in patients with melaoncortin-1 receptor independent of ultraviolet radiation: Is there a way not to be burned by your genome?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 18, 2016 I admit that my concept of Type I skin red-headed patients getting melanoma was simple: They have a polymorphism(s) of the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), pheomelanin, ultraviolet exposure, DNA damage, increased reactive oxygen species, and voila: melanoma! While conceptually elegant, this is apparently
Getting to the heart of neonatal lupus erythematosus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 21, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 29 I have found that rendering the diagnosis of neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is fraught with emotional challenges. Not only are mothers concerned for their children, frequently they are unaware of the fact that they are also at
Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin
By Albert C. Yan, MD June 12, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 14 Patterned skin injury can raise the specter of non-accidental trauma. However, over the past decade or so, striking examples of patterned skin injury have emerged among adolescents and pre-teens that share certain features: these are self-induced voluntarily; the
Changing a long-standing habit
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 16, 2016 Topical corticosteroid has no influence has no influence on inflammation or efficacy after ingenol mebutate treatment of grade I to III actinic keratosis (AK): A randomized clinical trial. ... This is a randomized controlled clinical trial of patients with multiple AK and
Recognizing toxic epidermal necrolysis-like acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus ASAP
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD November 10, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 45 ASAP, the well-recognized acronym for "as soon as possible," takes on special significance for dermatologists confirming the diagnosis of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). In 2004, Ting et al introduced an alternative definition of the ASAP acronym —
Spironolactone: An increasingly recognized hero in acne therapy
By David A. Wetter, MD July 1, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 26 In 1983, Bonnie Tyler released the catchy and powerful anthem, "Holding Out for a Hero." Emotion exudes from the lyrics: ... I need a hero I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the morning light He’s gotta be
Homing in on hornerin: Breaking down the barrier to understand its crucial role in atopic dermatitis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 16, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 42 Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by skin barrier dysfunction, inflammation, and chronic pruritus. The etiology of AD, however, is complicated and incompletely understood, with genetic, environmental (soaps, surfactants, stress), and immunological factors causing skin barrier abnormalities and
Key messages for social media about aging skin
Key messages ... Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and indoor tanning beds is the most preventable cause of early skin aging. (1-3) ... The most effective ways to prevent wrinkles and sun damage are to protect yourself from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and applying
Allopurinol-induced adverse reactions: More than genetics
... By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 25, 2016 There are certain drugs that confer a high risk of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) ranging from morbilliform drug eruptions, DRESS, Stevens-Johnson, to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. You know the usual suspects — anticonvulsive agents, sulfa drugs, other anti-infective agents, and
Dermatology antibiotic prescription trends
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, November 1, 2019 As antibiotic resistance has increasingly captured the attention of the media and global health organizations, physicians have found themselves under more pressure to monitor their antibiotic prescription habits. Although overall antibiotic prescribing by dermatologists decreased by 36.6%
AAD | Best Practices for Prior Authorization
Top strategies for prior authorization ... 1. The process of prior authorizations can be painful. Accept that it will take time. ... 2. Assign a dedicated staff member (such as a medical assistant) to handle prior authorization requests, so as a dermatologist, you have more time with patients and more
Move over Lues: Graft-versus-host disease is the new mimicker king
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 9, 2016 I have always been intrigued by graft-versus-host disease (GVH). I first learned of the disorder in my college immunology course when it was referred to as a cause of "runting syndrome" in mice. ... In the context of transplant recipients, classical features
Putting a finger on the diagnosis of Achenbach syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 28, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 30 Please study the image below first. Castillo et al reported the case a 48-year-old woman complaining of acute pain, swelling, and ecchymosis of the volar aspect of her right third finger, sparing the fingertip, when walking her
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome-Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: The aftermath
By Warren Heymann, MD May 26, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 21 The American Academy of Dermatology’s SkinSerious ... ® ... campaign highlights how dermatologists treat serious diseases. Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) top the list. (1) Justifiably, all attention focuses on the immediate issues in an attempt
Granular detail on granular parakeratosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD October 6, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 40 After attending a clinic at the University of Pennsylvania 30 years ago, I recall relaxing in the cafeteria, coffee in one hand and ... JAAD in the other, being impressed with an article by Northcutt et al
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... March 1, 2026 In this monthly column, members of the DermWorld ... Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. Harry Dao Jr., MD, FAAD Injectable biologics remain the gold standard for achieving optimal clinical responses in psoriasis, but fear of injections leads many
Epidemic of melanoma or epidemic of scrutiny?
By Jason B. Lee, MD May 19, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 20 The goal of population screening is to detect cancers at their early stages to prevent the associated morbidity and mortality of the late stages. The efforts to detect melanoma in its early stages went into full gear over
What’s up in Down syndrome?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD October 13, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 41 Being married to a geneticist has served me well as a dermatologist. Just as dermatologists can instantly diagnose many dermatoses based on pattern recognition, geneticists skilled in dysmorphology can identify many syndromes in a heartbeat. Physicians of
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... May 1, 2026 In this monthly column, members of the DermWorld ... Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. Jason Lee, MD, FAAD The incidence of melanoma in situ has increased to epidemic proportions, rising 50-fold since 1975. Lentigo maligna is the most
Insult to injury: COVID-19-associated mucormycosis
By Warren Heymann, MD June 9, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 23 As America unmasks this Memorial Day, COVID-19 is ravaging India. The scenes of desperation stemming from the overwhelmed heath system, poverty, and funeral pyres are almost unfathomable. In the midst of the devastation, doctors in India have observed an
Dermatology and dermatopathology awake: now is the time to embrace the artificial intelligence revolution
By Jason B. Lee, MD June 23, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 25 In 1991, the late Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman sounded the alarm about the decline in the interest in dermatopathology by dermatologists in an effort to preserve this foundational subspecialty within dermatology. (1) Although not with the same urgency,
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... February 1, 2020 In this monthly column, members of ... Dermatology World 's Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... EDWARD COHEN, MD, MHSc Apremilast, an oral inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4, was approved in 2014 for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic
August 8, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 9, 2023 ... Emerging treatments for itch in atopic dermatitis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Prior authorization audits and innovations — Are we finally reducing the (PA)in? Adverse events in
Hair straightening and acute renal injury: The latest data straight up
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 3, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 14 The global hair straightener market has experienced significant growth, with a market size of US$ 587.9 million in 2022, projected to be US$ 759.9 million by 2028. (1) I expected the market to already be in the
Psoriasiform eruptions during Kawasaki disease (KD): A prognosis that lets the good times roll
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 27, 2016 Psoriasiform skin changes have been rarely described in the literature in both acute (1-4 weeks) and convalescent phases (4-12 weeks) of KD (1). ... Haddock et al, in their review of 870 cases of KD, identified 11 patients with a psoriasiform eruption
How to maintain your EHR
Dealing with your EHR can be cumbersome, but follow these tips to optimize your EHR and make your use more efficient. ... 1. Connect leadership and EHR users ... Boosts provider satisfaction long-term and reduces slowdown. ... 2. Enhance hardware and built-environment solutions ... Implement side-by-side seating for physicians, clinical
Appropriate Documentation and Shared Decision Making of AK — QCDR measure AAD 21
Actinic Keratosis: Appropriate Documentation and Shared Decision Making of AK ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of adult patients (18 years old and older) diagnosed with Actinic Keratosis (AK) whose healthcare provider has recorded the following information in the patient’s medical record 1) documentation of the number or range of AKs, 2) location(s)
March 1, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 1, 2023 ... Isotretinoin: Risk of IBS, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Seeing red with dupilumab IL-17 inhibitors in psoriasis patients in the real world
Deep learning in dermatopathology
By Kiran Motaparthi, MD June 30, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 26 Deep learning algorithms — deep neural networks that model the connections neurons make and analyze images in successive layers to ultimately produce a likelihood of diagnosis — can now distinguish dermoscopic images of nevus and melanoma with greater accuracy
Beware: Discordance abounds among pathologists in the diagnosis of melanocytic neoplasms
By Jason B. Lee, MD Dec. 4, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 38 Discordance in the histological diagnosis of melanocytic lesions has been an underemphasized and understudied problem, and, therefore, the scale and the impact of the problem is largely unknown. Over the years, there were small studies and observations suggesting
Checking in on the adverse reactions to checkpoint inhibitors
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 17, 2016 Earlier this year there have been two posts devoted to adverse reactions of checkpoint inhibitors ("Thinking of Discontinuing the PD-1 Inhibitor Because of a Lichenoid Eruption? Don’t do it!" published on May 21st and "Joining the Bullae Pulpit: PD-1 inhibitors" posted on
Workplace violence
Legally Speaking ... Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, presents legal dilemmas in dermatology every other month. He is a dermatologist in practice in Florida and a partner in the law firm Lober, Brown, and Lober. ... By Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, June 3, 2019 Question: What is workplace violence?
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... November 1, 2023 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MS, MPH, FAAD All medical fields can learn from their past mistakes. The path to modern medical practice was not
Impact Report — Vol 3, Issue 1
We are building a brighter tomorrow, today. Our bright tomorrow is forged and reinforced by the work we do all year to make the Academy strong. The efforts and successes involve AAD staff, working alongside leadership and, importantly, members like you. It’s a powerful collaboration. ... In this edition of
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... July 1, 2025 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Michael A. Marchetti, MD, FAAD Although management options for chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) improved with the introduction of the anti-IgE monoclonal antibody omalizumab
Applying the 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice – Part 1
The introduction of the revised 2021 evaluation and management (E/M) coding guidelines has generated a plethora of questions from dermatologists in the application of the concepts used in the ... medical-decision making table (MDM). ... To help members navigate the E/M changes in a simplified and relatable manner in everyday
Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 1
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, September 1, 2020 Test your knowledge: Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 1 ... Take the quiz to see
May 1, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 1, 2024 ... Consensus statements for the treatment of vitiligo in younger patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Eyebrow-raising complications of microblading Role of low-dose oral minoxidil for treatment of
February 1, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 1, 2023 ... Are topical AK treatments associated with increased risk of SCC? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : A seasoned approach to treating the ‘salt and pepper’ dyspigmentation of systemic
Key messages to communicate about Indoor tanning
Key messages ... Using indoor tanning beds can increase your risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. (1-15) ... Using tanning beds before age 20 can increase your chances of developing melanoma by 47%, and the risk increases with each use. (16) ... Women younger
July 1, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 1, 2020 ... Derm Coding Consult : E/M coding — What has changed? DW Insights and Inquiries : Spironolactone — An increasingly recognized hero in acne therapy Is it ethical
Psoriasis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity — Measure 485
Psoriasis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients, aged 8 years and older, with a diagnosis of psoriasis where at an initial (index) visit have a patient reported itch severity assessment performed, score greater than or equal to 4, and who achieve a score reduction of
Dermatitis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity — Measure 486
Dermatitis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients, aged 8 years and older, with a diagnosis of dermatitis where at an initial (index) visit have a patient reported itch severity assessments performed, score greater than or equal to 4, and who achieve a score reduction of
Psoriasis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity — Measure 485
Psoriasis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients, aged 8 years and older, with a diagnosis of psoriasis where at an initial (index) visit have a patient reported itch severity assessment performed, score greater than or equal to 4, and who achieve a score reduction of
Dermatitis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity — Measure 486
Dermatitis: Improvement in Patient-Reported Itch Severity ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients, aged 8 years and older, with a diagnosis of dermatitis where at an initial (index) visit have a patient reported itch severity assessments performed, score greater than or equal to 4, and who achieve a score reduction of
April 1, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 1, 2020 ... What to do with iPLEDGE patients during COVID-19 DW Insights and Inquiries : Knuckling down on knuckle pads Medicare offers physicians advance payments to address COVID-19 cash-flow
Step 1: Check participation requirements
MIPS 2026 Reporting Snapshots ... Access our 2026 ... MIPS reporting options (PDF), with guidance tailored to your practice size and needs. ... First, determine if you are exempt from MIPS reporting. ... Use the tool below to check whether you are required to participate in MIPS. CMS uses your
Write this down if your patient has multiple PENS: Look further
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 18, 2016 Papular Epidermal Nevus with Skyline Basal Cell Layer (PENS) was first described by Torrelo et al. They detailed 5 infants with solitary or multiple 1 to 7 mm congenital keratotic papules. Lesions were randomly distributed and did not follow Blaschko lines. They
What is the path forward for treating children with severe atopic dermatitis with dupilumab?
Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, March 1, 2021 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Amy Paller, MD, about her
Advocacy Update Feb. 4 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 4, 2025 Physician champions introduce Medicare physician payment fix in House Academy joins coalition urging less regulatory burdens in Medicare Advantage and Part D program AADA urges CMS to improve MVP framework Become an AADA Advocacy Key Contact Support dermatology champions in Congress through SkinPAC
Keeping up
Dermatologists discuss the various methods for staying current with the latest medical research ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, August 1, 2021 With an estimated 33,000 peer-reviewed, English-language, scientific journals and more than 3 million articles published each year, it’s no wonder that staying current with the medical
A seasoned approach to treating the “salt and pepper” dyspigmentation of systemic sclerosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Feb. 1, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 5 It only takes a nanosecond for a dermatologist to recognize the "salt and pepper" dyspigmentation (SPD) of systemic sclerosis (SSc), but a lifetime to understand and manage it. Of all the cutaneous signs of SSc (sclerodactyly, telangiectasias,
Sézary syndrome and Shakespeare: What’s in a name?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... March 24, 2017 ... Initial clinical presentations of Sézary syndrome without erythroderma. Normal-appearing skin with moderate pigmentation on back of patient 2 (A), several seborrheic keratoses and a hematoma secondary to skin biopsy for patient 3 (B), no apparent lesion on back of
Spot on! Lentigines in resolved psoriatic plaques
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 30, 2016 Having treated psoriatic patients throughout my career, there have been innumerable occasions where patients were concerned about pigmentary changes following successful treatment of the plaques. I have usually reassured them that these are postinflammatory pigmentary alterations that should abate with time. Recently,
Of strife and SDRIFE
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 17, 2017 Patient 3. SDRIFE. Frontal view (A) and right lateral view (B) with erythema and blanching papules coalescing into plaques with vesicles on back, abdomen, and bilateral inframammary and inguinal folds. ... Credit: ... JAAD A conceivable Yelp review: I was so uncomfortable
Thinking of discontinuing the PD-1 inhibitor because of a lichenoid eruption? Don’t do it!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 21, 2016 Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been the proverbial "game changers" in oncology, and offer hope (and a chance of survival) where none existed just a few years ago. ... Cutaneous manifestations are the most common adverse reactions to these drugs. Indeed, more than
Advocacy Update Dec 9, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 9, 2025 AADA endorses annual inflationary update to Medicare payment legislation Upcoming formulary prior authorization changes to Blue Cross Blue Shield’s federal employee coverage Podcast highlights advocacy on dermatopathology payer and regulatory challenges AMA offering $1 million in community health program grants Peter Friedman, MD,
Glomus tumors point a finger at neurofibromatosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Nov. 21, 2016 ... The correct diagnosis of the ... JAMA Dermatology Clinicopathological Correlation of a glomus tumor presenting as longitudinal erythronychia was straightforward — I was fascinated by this comment in the discussion: "The presence of multiple glomus tumors in the digits
2023 MIPS and telehealth highlights
Eligibility criteria ... The low volume threshold remains the same as 2022 and includes 3 aspects of covered professional services: ... Allowed charges ... Number of Medicare patients who receive services ... Number of services provided ... You must participate in MIPS (unless otherwise exempt) if, in both 12-month segments of
Leishmania episode 1a: attack of the clones
By Kiran Motaparthi, MD February 10, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 6 Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), although not life-threatening, can progress to a disfiguring disease with prominent scarring. Humans serve as reservoirs for > 20 species of ... Leishmania, which are transmitted as flagellate promastigotes by sandflies. Within humans, the organisms convert
December 24, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 24, 2025 ... Warts: Local hyperthermia with hydrogen peroxide DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Holiday greeting 2025 Academy mourns the passing of Alfred W. Kopf, MD FDA alert flags cosmetic
Maximizing knowledge about infantile hemangioma with minimal or arrested growth
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 3, 2017 Areas affected by segmental infantile hemangioma (IH) and IH with minimal or arrested growth (IH-MAG) of the arms (A to E) with correlating arterial supply areas. ... Credit: ... JAAD Knowledge about hemangiomas is proliferating at a rate the compares with the
May 11, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 11, 2022 ... Sexual dysfunction associated with finasteride use in men with androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Lagging ahead — LAG-3 checkpoint inhibition for advanced melanoma FDA grants
The alphabetization of lymphomatoid papulosis: Focus on “F”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 3, 2017 Follicular lymphomatoid papulosis. Recurrent papulonodular lesions on face (A to C). Patient had similar lesions on extremities. ... Credit: ... JAAD Seven years ago, today (April 3rd, 2010) my wife purchased an iPad on its inaugural release date. The only choices to
Melanoma: Appropriate Surgical Margins — QCDR measure AAD 12
Melanoma: Appropriate Surgical Margins ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of primary excisional surgeries for melanoma or melanoma in situ with Breslow depth and appropriate surgical margins per the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology-Melanoma (NCCN Guideline). ... ... MEASURE ID: ... AAD12 ... ... Type: Intermediate
Short duration cyclosporine may undress DRESS
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 22, 2016 DRESS (Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms) is a severe drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DIHS) that may affect adults and children. The eruption of DRESS usually appears 3 weeks to 2 months after introduction of the drug. The rash is primarily morbilliform,
Autoimmune blistering diseases associated with renal disease: With some hesitancy, reports are beginning to flow
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 12, 2018 Cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis. Patient 3: kidney biopsy found membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis with cryoglobin plugs/hyaline thrombi (arrows), suggestive of cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis. (Hematoxylin-eosin stain; original magnification: ×60.) ... Credit: ... JAAD Admittedly, other than monitoring blistering disease patients treated with systemic immunosuppressants, I have not thought
MUE, MAI, and you
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, June 3, 2019 Test your knowledge: MUE, MAI, and you ... Take the quiz to see if you're up
A cold abscess remains a cold case: Multiple neonatal staphylococcal cold abscesses of the large folds
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 17, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 3 Graduating residents will usually ask me for parting words of wisdom. If I had to choose one morsel of advice, it would be to read and study throughout their career. I still marvel at reports of entities
September 1, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 1, 2021 ... Which dermatology patients should receive a third dose of mRNA vaccine? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Shedding light on the hydroa vacciniforme-like lymphoproliferative disorder Obesity, diabetes associated with
Platelet rich plasma: Good for whatever ails you?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 13, 2017 Hair regrowth in ophiasis-type alopecia areata after platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection. Occipital hair loss before treatment (A) and occipital hair regrowth 3 months after administration of PRP at a concentration 3.5 times above baseline (B). ... Credit: ... JAAD Okay, okay, I
August 28
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 28, 2019 ... Dupilumab shows positive results for younger atopic dermatitis patients DW Insights and Inquiries : Finding joy in pediatric phototherapy FDA, UMD seek feedback on compounded drug use
Propranolol for infantile hemangiomas: Start to finish
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 26, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 12 "We have observed that propranolol can inhibit the growth of these [infantile capillary] hemangiomas." (1) In my career, I cannot think of any statement that led to such a swift, dramatic paradigm shift in management more than
Changing perceptions of pediatric mastocytosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 3, 2018 I have always been disquieted by mastocytosis. Its constellation of clinical presentations from childhood to adulthood, spectrum of systemic involvement, variable prognoses, and therapeutic challenges, never allow for complacency or certainty. ... Even when the diagnosis is straightforward with an excellent prognosis,
Chronic Skin Conditions: Patient Reported Quality-of-Life — QCDR measure AAD8
Chronic Skin Conditions: Patient Reported Quality-of-Life ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients aged 18 years and older with a chronic skin condition whose self-assessed quality-of-life was recorded at least once in the medical record within the measurement period. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... AAD8 ... ... Type:
The pressure to prevent pressure ulcers
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 24, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 34 Pressure ulcers (PUs, aka decubitus ulcers, pressure sores, bed sores) are due to prolonged pressure, characteristically over bony prominences such as the sacrum, occiput, ischial tuberosities, greater trochanters, heels, and lateral malleoli. (1,2) Interestingly, in the COVID-19
Future shock of teledermatology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 16, 2016 The authors surveyed 62 patients older than 18 years, and 43 caregivers of patients younger than 18 who had been taking isotretinoin for at least 3 months. "Most respondents reported no concern about the safety of an e-visit compared with that of
Vitiligo or vitiligo-like lesions and PD1-inhibitors: Which is right?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 1, 2017 The following is a well-known staple of Jewish humor. I’ve heard it thousands of times, but it always makes me smile: ... In a small town in Russia, people brought their complaints to the Rabbi to settle their differences. One man purchased
Develop a nose for suspecting angiosarcoma
Angiosarcoma histopathology. Anastomosing dilated vessels, lined by crowded endothelial cells, extend between pre-existing collagen bundles. (Hematoxylin-eosin-saffron stain; original magnification: ×40.) ... Credit: ... JAAD By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 12, 2018 Occasionally I read an article that disturbs me, because I know that I would miss the diagnosis, with
Granulomatous cheilitis: Back to the Future
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 1, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 22 I opened my dermatology practice in 1985 — looking retrospectively, life was then both simpler and more complicated. It was the pre-computer era when patients paid their fee at the time of their visit, utilizing a peg-board
Biopsy coding in 2019: Part 2
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, December 3, 2018 Test your knowledge: Biopsy coding in 2019 — Part 2 ... Take the quiz to see
December 1, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 1, 2021 ... Risk of COVID-19 infection in atopic dermatitis patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The nexus of VEXAS syndrome Skin and gut microbiome in hidradenitis suppurativa Is imiquimod
Vitiligo and melanoma: New thoughts on an old observation
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 27, 2016 I was fortunate that as a resident and fellow I had marvelous attending physicians who would offer their pearls of wisdom. As it is impossible to study every dictum, I would (usually) accept these viewpoints as "facts" and incorporate them into practice.
Angiosarcomas and morbid obesity: An enormous problem
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 26, 2017 Localized lymphedema. A, Case 7 showed many polypoid lesions that varied in size and were localized throughout the vulva, pubis, and perineum. B, Case 9 showed multiple small polypoid lesions with cauliflower-like morphology in the penis and scrotum. C, Case 3 showed
2026 MIPS and telehealth highlights
Eligibility criteria ... The low volume threshold remains the same as in 2026 and includes 3 aspects of covered professional services: ... Allowed charges ... Number of Medicare patients who receive services ... Number of services provided ... You must participate in MIPS (unless otherwise exempt) if, in both 12-month
Coming to terms with Louis Brocq and his diagram: Pityriasis lichenoides 2018
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 16, 2018 ... A and B, Pityriasis lichenoides chronica–like drug eruption. The lower legs show several, 3- to 4-mm, red-brown, thin papules with centrally adherent micaceous scale and intermixed erosions. ... Credit: ... JAAD As a first-year dermatology resident in 1980, I struggled with
One less headache to worry about: Using Isotretinoin in patients with a history of pseudotumor cerebri
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 13, 2016 I have been prescribing isotretinoin since it was first introduced over thirty years ago, having encountered just a few patients with truly suspect pseudotumor cerebri (PTC). This was manifested by severe headaches and papilledema on ophthalmologic examination. Considering discretion the better part
A presidential viewpoint: “Nobody knew that benign vascular lesions of the lip could be so complicated”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 14, 2017 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. ... Tobouti et al, in a study from an oral pathology service, found that of
Lipschütz ulcers: Not only for women
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 24, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 12 Superstar dermatologists do not throw softball questions to presenters at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. A few years ago, following my presentation on the cutaneous manifestations of Epstein-Barr infection, Dr. Jeffrey Callen, one of
Sun safety
Key messages ... At least one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. (1,2) ... Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. (3-6) ... To protect your skin from the sun, seek shade, wear protective
Decomplexing plexiform neurofibromas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 29, 2016 Plexiform neurofibromas (PNs) are some of the most disfiguring and therapeutically challenging lesions that dermatologists confront. PNs are mostly associated with autosomal dominant neurofibromatosis type 1. Rarely, they may also be seen in germline p16 mutation-positive heritable melanoma and Cowden syndrome. Diffuse
October 1, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 1, 2025 ... Antiandrogen therapy for the treatment of female pattern hair loss DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei — A Simon and Garfunkel playlist Academy mourns
April 17
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 17, 2019 ... Having trouble accessing compounded quinacrine tablets? Here’s why. DW Insights and Inquiries : A ‘pregnant pause’ is necessary before concluding on the obstetric risk of vitiligo Lessons
Alarming but benign: The enigma of acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 8, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 36 "The patient, a fat baby thriving on its mother’s milk, was suddenly attacked by purpura, urticaria and localized edema, lasting about ten days. There were only systemic symptoms from the result of pain. At first the bowels
Probing pediatric pigmented purpuras
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD October 20, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 42 Pigmented purpuric (PP) eruptions are often referred to as "benign" pigmented purpuras. Although that may be true in the medical sense, these dermatoses may be very distressing for patients (or their parents). Angst may be due to
Honing in on diffuse dermal angiomatosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD February 17, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 7 Diffuse dermal angiomatosis (DDA) was conceptualized as a variant of reactive angioendothelimatosis (RA) in 1994 by Krell et al, reporting on two women, both with severe peripheral vascular disease requiring bypass grafts, presenting with ulcerated, violaceous plaques on
Vitiligo, autoimmunity, and cancer?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 3, 2017 Disorders associated with autoimmune thyroid disease: systemic lupus erythematosus (A), progressive systemic sclerosis (B), bullous pemphigoid (C), pemphigus vulgaris (D), urticaria (E), and vitiligo (F). ... Credit: ... JAAD While attending the pre-AAD pediatric dermatology seminar in Orlando, I received a call
2025 DW Insights and Inquiries archive
Explore ... DermWorld Insights and Inquiries articles by publication date. ... December ... Dec. 24 - DWI&I Holiday greeting 2025 Dec. 17 - Long COVID has a lot of nerve Dec. 10 - The illusions of IgG4-related skin disease Dec. 3 - Pityriasis rosea and pityriasis rosea-like eruptions: A Christmas
Melanoma fact sheet | AAD
Q. What is melanoma? A. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells. Melanoma may appear on the skin suddenly without warning but also can develop within an existing mole. The overall incidence of melanoma continues to rise. (1,2) ... Q.
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. ...
PASI 100 and the perfection paradox
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 27, 2016 I am not a psychiatrist, but over the years I have concluded that my patients’ happiness is more supratentorial than epidermal. ... As we approach perfection, imperfections take on far greater importance. Some examples: ... In medical school, I spent many Sunday
An encapsulation of palisaded encapsulated neuromas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 22, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 3 You know the drill — a patient presents with a solitary, slowly enlarging, dome-shaped, non-pigmented painless facial papule and asks, "Is it skin cancer?" Your clinical and dermoscopic examinations are not definitive, so you respond with uncertainty,
Advocating for you — We prevented Medicare cuts in 2022
In 2021, the specialty was facing Medicare payment cuts of up to 10% due to the policy changes with the evaluation and management (E/M) codes, sequestration, and the budget rules associated with the Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010. The AADA focused on averting the steep cuts — looking for long-term solutions
Taking woolly hair to heart
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD October 27, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 43 Woolly hair (WH) appears as strongly coiled hair — it may be localized or diffuse, with the latter often associated with syndromes affecting the heart, gastrointestinal tract, or central nervous system. ... This commentary will briefly touch
Evaluation and management: Selecting the codes
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, September 3, 2018 You have evaluated a patient, and now it is time to select an appropriate level of
Assessing the significance of a Long-Developed Habit: The role of LDH in dermatology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 14, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 28 Upon ordering laboratory tests recently for a patient with cutaneous T cell lymphoma, I included a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level, as I have done for decades, without giving it much thought. When I came across an article
Keeping an eye on melanoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 7, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 14 If your practice bears any resemblance to mine, a significant portion of your schedule is devoted to patients following up because of their history of melanoma. Prior to seeing the patient, our medical assistant runs through a focused
February 14
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / FEBRUARY 14, 2018 ... A win for dermatology: Congress repeals IPAB, misvalued codes policy Vote in the AAD election by March 3 Are machines poised to replace physicians? Countdown to official
May 18, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 18, 2022 ... Abrocitinib efficacy after switching from dupilumab DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Coming to grips with lymphocytic thrombophilic arteritis DermWorld Young Physician Focus : Protecting dermatologic scope of
Is ivermectin an old drug with new tricks?
By Temitayo Ogunleye, MD, FAAD Sept. 15, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 37 Most of us are familiar with the use of oral ivermectin in the setting of treating extensive or resistant scabetic or lice infestations, or more rarely (in the United States but very commonly globally) for conditions such as
Netherton syndrome: From apex to nether
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 31, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 13 If you are a dermatologist preparing for your board exam, I’ll wager that you can rattle off the classical features of Netherton syndrome (NS, aka Comel-Netherton syndrome) in a heartbeat. The more important question — would you recognize
Knuckling down on knuckle pads
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 1, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 13 Today is April Fools’ Day. Thus far, 2020 has felt like April Fools’ Year. All of us are dealing with COVID-19, 24/7. During World War II, morale was lifted by the song "There’ll be bluebirds over the White
Positively perplexing: Determining the meaning of CD30 positivity
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 29, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 39 I’ll wager that most readers of DWI&I have experienced receiving a biopsy report, obtained from an inflammatory lesion, stating "scattered CD30+ cells were observed," accompanied by a comment that "clinicopathologic correlation is necessary to rule out the
April 1, 2026
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 1, 2026 ... Aesthetic treatment considerations for perimenopausal, menopausal patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Cocaine-associated plasma cell orificial mucositis — Anything goes Effects of PRP, minoxidil in patients with
Fire ant stings: From pain to gain — The therapeutic potential of solenopsin
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 3, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 27 Fire ant stings are nasty. Lesions usually occur on the lower extremities after the disruption of a nest, causing a large number of ants to swarm and attack. The most common presentation is a wheal and flare
Probing pityriasis rosea in pregnancy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD January 19, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 3 I have always been captivated by pityriasis rosea (PR). As a second-year medical student, my late brother Andrew (presumably) developed it. I was clueless when he showed me his rash. He immediately told my father that money
Touching on contact pemphigus and pemphigus-like eruptions due to imiquimod
By Warren Heymann, MD June 2, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 22 Most astute medical dermatologists are aware of drug-induced pemphigus, but many (including myself) may not be as familiar with topical medications being the responsible culprits. This commentary will focus on imiquimod-induced pemphigus and pemphigus-like eruptions (PLE). ... My curiosity
A shot in the dark
By Danielle M. DeHoratius, MD March 10, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 10 Danielle DeHoratius, MD ... For the past few Mondays, I have been asked to see the following "emergency" patients who called in with the diagnosis of cellulitis after the COVID-19 vaccination. Typically, these patients were seen in urgent
DermWorld Weekly comparing efficacy of JAK inhibitors used in alopecia areata
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 22, 2023 ... Comparing efficacy of JAK inhibitors used in alopecia areata DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Resorcinol’s resourcefulness in hidradenitis suppurativa Derm Coding Consult : CMS Targeted Probe and
Like the tumor itself, knowledge about DFSP is expanding wider and deeper
By Warren Heymann, MD June 16, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 24 Dermatofibosarcoma (DFSP) is a mystifying lesion. Although considered rare, I have encountered several cases over the years. Some recent literature offers potential insights into its pathogenesis and management. ... DFSP is a low-to-intermediate grade sarcoma with a reported incidence
April 28, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 28, 2021 ... Acne: Clindamycin-tretinoin vs. benzoyl peroxide-adapalene DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Do not get burned by missing Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome Is daylight photodynamic therapy effective for actinic keratosis?
Pityriasis rosea and pityriasis rosea-like eruptions: A Christmas tale
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Dec. 3, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 47 Santa Claus waving from his sleigh on Central Park West on Black Friday traditionally commenced the Christmas holiday season. That "official" start now occurs after the last trick-or-treater devours their Hershey bar on Halloween. Realistically, it is
July 16, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 16, 2025 ... Female pattern hair loss: Is systemic minoxidil effective over the long term? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pathway to clarity — The new and improved Melanocytic Pathology
Literature request form
Please note that fields marked with an asterisk are required to submit the form.The boxes handle more text than their size dictates. Standard service is 3-7 days. You cannot submit the form without a budget code. If you require assistance with this form, contact Charniel McDaniels at x1823. ... If
Trichobacteriosis: A salute to the Shelleys
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 3, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 35 Indelible memories form in youth. I couldn’t wait to get my New York driver’s license — within a year of that milestone the 1973 oil embargo hit, and most drives were limited to the gas station to
LIDA* rose the insulin requirement
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 14, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 15 * Localized insulin-derived amyloidosis ... Amyloidosis, I thought I knew ye. But alas, you fooled me again. ... Amyloid is an insoluble protein folded in ... β -pleated sheets that is deposited extracellularly. Amyloid can accumulate in one
JAAD wins again!
JAAD has retained the #1 position as the most impactful journal in dermatology according to the 2024 Clarivate Journal Impact Factor (JIF). ... JAAD is No. 1 in the field of dermatology for the sixth year in a row, with a JIF of 11.8 and 38,702 total citations. ... But
The case for comprehensive patch testing
Acta Eruditorum ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, September 3, 2018 In this month’s Acta Eruditorum column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Jenny E. Murase, MD, about
April 27, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 27, 2022 ... A novel treatment for molluscum contagiosum? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Eye-opening news about oxymetazoline Trends in prescribing spironolactone for acne, HS in adolescents Racial biases in
Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus: Interfering with interferon
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 17, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 33 Disfigurement due to scars and dyspigmentation complicating discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) can be devastating. The cornerstones of therapy for cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) are steroids (topical, intralesional, systemic) and antimalarials (hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, quinacrine). Secondary agents include immunosuppressive
Paradoxical biological reactions and Grandma Dora’s waterbed
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 22, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 3 My late maternal grandmother Dora — a real ... balabusta (Yiddish for "mistress of the house") — was the first person I knew to get a waterbed. That raised eyebrows, until I explained that it comforted her octogenarian
Pityriasis rubra pilaris: Check a TSH!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... June 10, 2016 ... There are myriad ways to mine the data from the review of 100 cases of PRP by Ross et al, however, one key finding will change the way I will assess these patients — 20% were hypothyroid! (1) ... There
Paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS) associated with merkel cell carcinoma are analogous to small cell cung Cancer: A comparison to other lung cancers
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 2, 2016 Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC) are neuroendocrine tumors associated with the Merkel cell carcinoma polyomavirus in >80% of tumors (1). Small cell lung cancer, another neuroendocrine tumor, is associated with paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS) in up to 20% of cases, notably the syndrome of
Improvement activities (15%)
In this performance category, clinicians are rewarded for care focused on care coordination, beneficiary engagement, and patient safety. For 2026 MIPS reporting, this category is worth 15% of the MIPS score with a maximum of 40 points available. There are 67 dermatology-relevant practice improvement activities (IAs) to choose from. ...
JAAD ranks no. 1 among dermatology journals
The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology’s impact factor remains #1 in field ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 2, 2024) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology remains the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to the 2023 journal impact factor rankings recently published by Clarivate’s Journal
JAAD ranks no. 1 among dermatology journals
The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology’s impact factor remains #1 in field ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 5, 2023) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology remains the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to the 2022 journal impact factor rankings recently published by Clarivate’s Journal
I don’t know JAK — but I will! Ruxolitinib improving chilblain lupus erythematosus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 31, 2016 The JAK inhibitors are among the current darlings of treating autoimmune diseases. Recent articles about tofacitinib for vitiligo (1) and alopecia areata (2) have been reported in the lay press with considerable fanfare. ... Ruxolitinib (Jakafi) is indicated for treating intermediate to
Multiple pilomatricomas by the numbers
By Warren R. Heymann, MD February 24, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 8 I have always been beguiled by pilomatricomas (PM). From the time I first heard the term "calcifying epithelioma of Mahlerbe" or pondering "is it pilomaticoma or pilomatrixoma?" this benign lesion has been a source of wonder. There is
Becoming pro-geriatric by understanding progeria
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 13, 2018 A fifteen-year-old boy with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome. ... Credit: ... JAAD I have never seen a case of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS). You probably haven’t either, given its incidence of 1 in 4 million. Why comment on a disease that will likely
Do not get burned by missing Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome
By Warren Heymann, MD April 28, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 17 I would be surprised if any first-year dermatology resident could not differentiate Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) from toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). What is straightforward now was a source of confusion for decades. The following is an elegant summation
Immediate pathology report release to patients – Is the 21st Century CURES Act worse than the disease?
By Lorraine L. Rosamilia, MD, FAAD Staff Dermatologist, Geisinger Health System Aug. 25, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 34 The 21st Century Cures Act, signed into federal law in 2016, was enacted to optimize medical product development and advance patient access to medical innovations. Notable for inclusion of patient perspectives in
Advocacy Update Feb. 11 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 11, 2025 Act now to stop Medicare payment cut AADA urges members to oppose physician assistant independent practice legislation AADA opposes Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield payment reduction Dermatologists demand Aetna cover psoriasis treatment AADA insists CMS retain MA plan measures on appeals Contribute to
What are the updated guidelines of care for the management of primary cutaneous melanoma?
Acta Eruditorum ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, December 3, 2018 In this month’s Acta Eruditorum column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Susan M. Swetter, MD, and
CMS creates permanent drug code for treating molluscum contagiosum
Last updated: March 5, 2026 ... CMS has created a permanent drug code, J7354, for cantharidin, a drug used to treat molluscum contagiosum in adult and pediatric patients 2 years and older. The new J-code became effective on April 1, 2024. ... Cantharidin is the first ... FDA-approved topical treatment
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
Can topical ketoconazole tip the scales for acne vulgaris?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 28, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 43 How often do you perform an oral examination? If you’re like me, probably only under two circumstances — when the patient has specific complaints (soreness, a raised lesion, or a discoloration noted by their dentist), or when we
Sweating over sweat gland carcinomas: Part 2 — Eccrine mucin-producing sweat gland carcinoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 20, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 33 As I write this commentary, March Madness is underway. According to the NCAA, the odds of predicting all 63 NCAA tournament games correctly are approximately 1 in 9.2 quintillion (a quintillion is 10 to the 18th power).
June 7, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 7, 2023 ... Treatments for pseudofolliculitis barbae DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Taking it on the shin – part two Efficacy of abrocitinib for the treatment of lichen sclerosus? Scientists
February 28
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / FEBRUARY 28, 2018 ... Anthem rescinds proposed modifier 25 policy Vote in the AAD election by March 3 FDA grants rituximab priority review for pemphigus vulgaris CMS eases up on value-based
Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation: Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 17, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 24 Small cutaneous lesions may have profound systemic implications. Astute dermatologists will recognize these lesions and assess patients accordingly, often to the surprise of referring physicians and patients alike. ... The Capillary Malformation – Arteriovenous Malformation (CM-AVM) syndrome was
Complications of silicone injections: persistence, stigma, and treatment
By Howa Yeung, MD, MSc, FAAD Jan. 18, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 3 Walking in with a cane and reporting his severe skin pain, a patient of mine recalled travelling with their friend to get buttock injections in a hotel room in another state over a decade ago. ... The
Board of Directors meeting minutes
Below are the approved minutes from the AAD and AAD Association Board of Directors meetings for the past year. Please email Kim N. Andersen, DipESG, at ... knoelleandersen@aad.org with any questions or if you would like to request the minutes from a particular past Board meeting. ... Board of Directors
October 30, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 30, 2024 ... Breast health outcomes in women on oral 5-alpha reductase inhibitors D ermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The breathless complications of anti-MDA-5-positive dermatomyositis What symptoms are most significantly
Biopsy coding in 2019: Part 1
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, November 1, 2018 Dermatologists commonly biopsy skin lesions via a tangential shave technique, with a punch, or with a
Get your KICS on Route IL-6
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 1, 2018 Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a syndrome caused by hypercytokinemia (notably Th1 cytokines — interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-6). Clinical manifestations are dramatic, presenting as fever, hepatosplenomegaly, hemophagocytosis, and cytopenias. (See the addendum for diagnostic criteria of HLH). Primary forms of HLH
Excludes notes
ICD-10 Excludes notes: In a nutshell ... ICD-10-CM codes include two sets of exclusions. ... Excludes 1 exclusions indicate when two codes cannot be billed at the same time. ... Excludes 2 exclusions indicate that the codes are separately billable. ... Excludes 1 Note ... Within the ICD-10-CM manual, you
From the editor
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, December 3, 2018 Christmas came early for dermatology. Indeed, it came early for all of medicine this year when the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released its final rule implementing
I'm confused about the new biopsy codes. Does the Academy offer any resources to help?
Asked and Answered ... June 3, 2019 Absolutely. ... The Academy recently published an update to the online ... Practice Management Center featuring: ... Quick guides Downloadable reference tools Interactive quizzes Need help now? ... Use these tip sheets for practical guidance on common coding: ... www.aad.org/practicecenter/coding-and-reimbursement/coding-resource-center/coding-tip-sheets . ... Still
Cannabinoids may elevate therapy for connective tissue diseases to a higher level
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 2, 2017 Medical "reefer madness" is taking hold in the United States with approximately 10% of cannabis users utilizing it for diverse medical conditions, including dermatologic disorders such as pruritus and atopic dermatitis. To date, at least 28 states allow for the use of
Body dysmorphic syndrome
Legally Speaking ... Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, presents legal dilemmas in dermatology every other month. He is a dermatologist in practice in Florida and a partner in the law firm Lober, Brown, and Lober. ... By Clifford Warren Lober, MD, JD, December 3, 2018 Lori: Bryan, I recently excised
Using gene expression profiling to identify risk of melanoma metastasis
Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, June 3, 2019 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Sancy Leachman, MD, PhD, about
Lipoid proteinosis’ weak, hoarse cry is crying for targeted therapeutic intervention
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Nov. 6, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 45 Having recently participated in the excellent conference devoted to antisemitism in medicine organized by Heather Milbar at the University of Pennsylvania, I reacquainted myself with Erich Urbach, who described lipoid proteinosis (LP, Urbach-Wiethe disease) with the otolaryngologist
Concierge medicine
Concierge medicine involves patients paying a monthly or annual fee for enhanced services. According to Medscape's Compensation Report from 2017, about 3% of dermatologists participate in a concierge model of care. There are many different ways to structure your practice into this model. You can choose to have patients pay
Maximizing your retirement wealth
Money Matters ... David B. Snyder, JD, CLU ... ® ... , is an attorney, author, and financial advisor at the wealth management firm OJM Group. He covers financial issues for dermatologists in this quarterly ... Dermatology World column. ... By David B. Synder, JD, CLU, December 3, 2018 For
Become a Corporate Partner of the AAD
Partner with the trusted voice in dermatology ... With a membership of more than 20,500 physicians worldwide, the AAD is the largest, most influential, and representative dermatology group in the United States. Founded in 1938, the AAD is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting leadership in dermatology and excellence
Advocacy Update Apr. 8, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Apr. 8, 2025 AADA asks FDA to continue collaboration on AI-enabled medical devices guidance New Jersey expands children’s access to sunscreen Support the second-largest physician PAC and federal dermatology champions Regulatory Affairs AADA asks FDA to continue collaboration on AI-enabled medical devices guidance ... On April
Tackling Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: Part 1
Diagnosis and common mimickers. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Senior Editor, May 1, 2026 Among serious diseases treated by dermatologists, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) often top the list. ... Rare disorders of the skin and mucous membranes, SJS and TEN are thought to be clinically
Leaders in medicine – Part 1
DermWorld talks to dermatologists in leadership roles in the house of medicine. ... Feature ... By Matthew Walsh, Member Communications Specialist, May 1, 2023 The American Academy of Dermatology is one of hundreds of medical associations in the U.S., each offering opportunities for doctors to assume important leadership positions. Engaged
Office staff guide
This guide is meant for staff scheduling teledermatology visits. If the requirements below can’t be satisfied, consider offering an in-person visit. ... Is teledermatology appropriate for the specific patient need? ... Has the patient participated in teledermatology with your office before? ... If yes, schedule the teledermatology visit and remind
December
Issue ... December January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... 2021 What's hot ... This month's news from across the specialty Feature ... COVID-19 and dermatology What have we learned about the cutaneous manifestations
AAD bolsters information about darker skin tones
New and updated content on AAD.org reflects our commitment to providing information for patients of all skin tones. ... The Academy launched a ... Darker Skin Tones resource center in 2022, which included updates on 11 conditions that affect people with darker skin tones more frequently or more severely. It
Should benign cephalic histiocytosis be renamed? Let’s keep our heads about this decision.
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 4, 2017 Benign cephalic histiocytosis (BCH) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytic disorder first recognized by Gianotti 46 years ago. (1) Over the years, I have seen several cases of both Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), and non-Langerhans cell histiocytoses, but do not recall ever
January
Issue ... January January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... From the editor Asked and Answered ... I am on the OLC. Where can I find the JAAD and Dialogues in Dermatology quizzes? What's
Advocacy Update Jan. 14 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 14, 2025 2025 Congressional key dates Add your voice: Become an AADA Key Contact SkinPAC reception at Orlando Annual Meeting Congressional activity 2025 Congressional key dates ... On Jan. 3, the 119th Congress started its new session and commenced with leadership elections in the House.
November
Issue ... November January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... It’s always the gluten What's hot ... This month's news from across the specialty Clinical Applications ... How is structural racism affecting atopic dermatitis
Despite concerns, dermatologists retain primary control of their practices
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, June 3, 2019 Amid ongoing debate about the evolution of dermatology practice settings and the role of equity-backing in the specialty, new AAD survey data indicates that dermatologists have maintained both primary ownership and management of their practices. According to
February 21
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / FEBRUARY 21, 2018 ... CMS releases MIPS quality performance scores Vote in the AAD election by March 3 Study indicates e-consults improve access to dermatology How helpful is federal research funding?
Moving or closing practices? Here's what you need to know.
In Practice ... Faiza Wasif, MPH, is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips on an area she commonly receives questions about from members. ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, December 3, 2018 There is a lot you must consider before you move or close your practice including the
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common human skin cancer, comprising more than half of all non-melanoma skin cancer diagnoses, that affect more than 3 million Americans annually. These evidence-based guidelines for the management of BCC provide the most current information on widely accepted therapies, emerging treatments, staging, biopsy
Advocacy Update Jul 1, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / July 1, 2025 Senate advances reconciliation bill with 2026 Medicare Physician Payment increase RFK pledges to work with Rep. Joyce on Medicare physician reimbursement CMS suspends CLIA lab director restrictions AADA and DermCAC support inclusion of dermatologists in SRT Local Coverage Determinations Build a relationship with
Dermatology heads to Capitol Hill
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, December 3, 2018 The contentious midterm election season has concluded, but the impact from the 2018 AADA Legislative Conference is still going strong. In July, physicians, patients, patient advocates, dermatology nurses, and dermatology practice administrators gathered in Washington, D.C. to
Gaining experience face-to-face
Brittany Valk, DO, was able to attend her very first in-person AAD Annual Meeting. Dr. Valk’s story ... Brittany Valk, DO, PGY-3 at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. ... I had the privilege of attending the 2022 AAD Annual Meeting in Boston this past spring. Due to the
Reflectance confocal microscopy, driverless cars, and Uber: The future of dermatopathology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Sept. 12, 2016 ... In a matter of days, you will be able to use Uber to hail a driverless car to your destination in Pittsburgh. During these trials, initially there will be a human monitor (1). You know where this is going
Telemedicine: Reimbursement liability patient consent and HIPAA
Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, Rebecca Burke, JD, and Christina L. Krysinski, JD, September 3, 2018 This month, we follow up on our May 2018 column
Hoops and happiness: Having the courage to take a shot
By David A. Wetter, MD March 17, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 11 In dermatology our daily routine is dominated by caring for patients, many of whom have complex diseases that are difficult to manage. Our dedication to help our patients initially drew many of us to the medical profession (and
April 11
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / APRIL 11, 2018 ... How did you fare with MIPS? Take a look. Help wanted: AAD Pruritus Measure Testing Project Indoor tanning bed users not getting screened What is the economic
Congress passes one-year increase to Medicare physician payment in budget bill
July 3, 2025 Advocacy News Alert Today the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate’s version of the budget reconciliation legislation, which includes a one-year 2.5% increase for the proposed 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule to account for sustained cuts as Congress continues to work toward long-term payment reform. ...
Advocacy Update Apr. 1, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Apr. 1, 2025 HHS announced major department restructuring Senate confirms Drs. Bhattacharya to lead NIH and Makary to head FDA Step therapy reform bill headed to New Jersey governor Contribute to SkinPAC Regulatory Affairs HHS announced major department restructuring ... On March 27, the Department of
Practice Management Corner: CMS Released Preliminary 2018 MIPS Participation Data
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Quality Payment Program (QPP) which began in 2017, is in its third performance year. In July 2019, CMS published a blog and released an infographic with preliminary data on the 2018 QPP Merit-based Incentive Payment Program (MIPS) program participation which revealed the
We are your No. 1 high impact journal
For the fourth straight year, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) ranked as the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to journal impact factor rankings published by Clarivate’s Journal Citation Reports (JCR) Web of Science Group. With an impact factor of 13.8, JAAD is in the
Telehealth policy changes take effect; shutdown impacts Medicare claims processing
In the ... Medicare Learning Network (MLN) Update on Medicare Operations: Telehealth, Claims Processing, and Medicare Administrative Contractors Status During the Shutdown of Oct. 1, 2025, CMS announced that significant changes to Medicare telehealth services that took effect on Oct. 1, 2025, may impact the processing of Medicare telehealth claims.
Patient guide
This guide is for use by patients before the teledermatology visit. ... Preparing for the visit ... Does your insurance cover live interactive telehealth services and understanding of copays? ... Do you have the required equipment, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a webcam, that will work with
Optimizing financial efficiency: Part 1
Experts offer advice on best practices to ensure financial health before the appointment begins. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, May 1, 2026 When opening her private practice in 2022, Suzanne McGoey, MD, MPH, FAAD, also discovered the challenges of managing the business of medicine. ... "We do
DWI&I Holiday Greeting 2021
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD December 22, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 50 Dear ... DWI&I devotee: ... The end of the year is a time for reflection and hope. Everyone reading this commentary has been affected by the pandemic. My heart goes out to anyone who has lost a
FAQs - Coding for Intermediate and Complex Repairs in 2020 and beyond
Q: Are there any changes to the Simple Repair guidelines? A: No, the simple repair guidelines will remain unchanged for 2020 and beyond. ... Q: How should I code a nasal tip excision, for which the defect is repaired with a linear layered closure (3 cutaneous and 5 super-ficial sutures)
Propranolol and neutrophilic dermatoses: Can beta-blockade be better blockade?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD December 8, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 48 Ask any dermatology resident what the first-line treatment is for infantile hemangiomas (IH) and you will get a matter-of-fact response — "propranolol" — as if this has been an entrenched fact for decades. Barely more than a
Vulvar hidradenoma papilliferum and mammary-like gnogenital glands: The whole story
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 31, 2016 I had always assumed that hidradenoma papilliferum (HP), which characteristically appears in the vulvar region, was derived from apocrine glands. Until I read the article by El-Khoury et al (1) I had never even heard of mammary-like anogenital glands (MLAGs). ... Although
The concept of atrophoderma of pasini and pierini as morphea may be falling off a cliff
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 6, 2017 ... Clinical photos of idiopathic atrophoderma of Pierini and Pasini. ... Credit: ... JAAD Diagnosing Atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini (APP) is reasonably straightforward — it usually presents in adolescents and young adults, more often in females, with sharply defined, single or
For better or worse technology is changing medicine.
From the President ... Dr. Olbricht served as Academy president from March 2018 to March 2019. ... By Suzanne Olbricht, MD, September 3, 2018 When is the last time you looked at a paper map or met with a travel agent to book your next adventure? Advances in technology have
Joining the bullae pulpit: PD-1 inhibitors
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 25, 2016 As the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has increased, so have the number of severe immunotherapy-related adverse events (irAEs). Although discontinuation of therapy may result in resolution of these untoward reactions, long-term sequelae and death have been reported. In a recently published
Advocacy Update Jan 20, 2026
IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 20, 2026 Dr. Bridges selected for Medicare Clinical Lab Diagnostic Laboratory Test Panel AADA asked CMS to ensure Medicare Part D coverage for alopecia areata treatment Dermatology presence strong at AMA State Advocacy Summit Contribute to SkinPAC AADA News Dr. Bridges selected for Medicare Clinical
The opioid epidemic: Coma blisters and beyond
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 4, 2017 The opioid crisis in the United States is responsible for at least 90 fatalities every day. This dire situation has been aggravated by the increased availability of very potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and carfentanil, which are 50 and 5000 times
The risk of melanoma in adults with giant pigmented nevi
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 27, 2016 Giant pigmented nevi (GPN, defined in reference 1 as > 20 cm in an adult) are among the most challenging lesions from so many perspectives. When diagnosed in childhood, questions from parents regarding the risk of melanoma, approach to monitoring, managing, and
Reflecting on 2018 with gratitude
From the President ... Dr. Olbricht served as Academy president from March 2018 to March 2019. ... By Suzanne Olbricht, MD, December 3, 2018 Legendary crooner Andy Williams may have said it best in his song, "It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." Holidays aside, for me this time
Doing our part to make a difference
From the President ... Dr. Hruza served as Academy president from March 2019 to March 2020. ... By George Hruza, MD, MBA, June 3, 2019 "When you think about yourself, skip the only,’ as in I’m only a surgeon’ or I’m only a dermatologist.’ Think about what needs to be
It’s JAAD, again, of course!
For the ... fifth year in a row, ... JAAD has retained its position as the #1 most impactful journal out of 94 dermatology journals measured in Clarivate’s 2023 Journal Citations Report (JCR) Web of Science. ... Here are the details: ... JAAD ’s impact factor is 12.8 ... JAAD
From the editor
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, September 3, 2018 I have learned many new things from the past few editors of ... Dermatology World . This edition is no exception. I know much more about microneedling than I
From the editor
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, June 3, 2019 You asked, we listened. We had an outstanding response to our readership survey this year (thanks to all of you who took the time to offer your thoughts and
Using trusts to shield assets from potential liability
Money Matters ... David B. Snyder, JD, CLU ... ® ... , is an attorney, author, and financial advisor at the wealth management firm OJM Group. He covers financial issues for dermatologists in this quarterly ... Dermatology World column. ... By David B. Snyder, JD, CLU, September 3, 2018 Given
A Trumpian analysis of infliximab-induced follicular mucinosis: Something’s going on here
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 10, 2016 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
What you read in 2024: AAD publications roundup
JAAD still making an impact For the ... fifth year in a row, ... JAAD retained its position as the #1 most impactful journal out of 94 dermatology journals measured in Clarivate’s 2023 Journal Citations Report (JCR) Web of Science. ... Here are the details: ... JAAD ’s impact factor
Obituaries
Obituaries ... By Jerry Graff, MD, June 3, 2019 The Academy recently learned with sorrow of the passing of the following members of the dermatologic community. ... JON GARRY BEIDLER, MD, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Dec. 30, 2018, at age 82. Trained in dermatology at University of Pennsylvania and practiced in
Claim Reopenings or Level 1 Appeals for Denied Services
Not every Medicare denial requires a formal appeal. Most Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) have developed automated claim "reopenings" to handle these simple corrections. This method significantly reduces the amount of time required to reprocess a denial. It is important that reopenings be submitted on the correct form, which can be
A bridge from the view: Switching from glass to digital dermatopathology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 23, 2016 Eight months ago, I started using the Clearpath digital dermatopathology system developed by Tom Olsen and his associates at the Dermatopathology Laboratory Central States (DLCS). As one of the early utilizers, I was grateful to work with his software wizards, offering my
Reducing the burden of clinical documentation with EHRs
In Practice ... By Swapna Bhatia, MPH, June 3, 2019 It’s no surprise that clinical and administration documentation burden with electronic health records (EHRs) has been on the rise. ... Although 78% of dermatology practices reported acquiring an EHR system in the 2017 AAD Practice Profile Survey, the Academy recognizes
COVID-19 impact on employed dermatologists: Part 1
Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Ben Tesdahl, JD, Megan La Suer, JD, MHA, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, September 1, 2020 Every month, Dermatology World ... covers legal issues in "Legally
Double check, pause...and proceed
What dermatologists can learn from quality efforts in surgery ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist, October 3, 2016 As the culture of health care and developing regulatory trends continue to move in an increasingly quality-focused direction, dermatologists may soon find themselves under more scrutiny. Wrong-site surgery is one
Wait no more
In Practice ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, September 3, 2018 Dermatology World talks with Benjamin Chong, MD, MSCS service chief of dermatology at Parkland Health and Hospital System in Dallas about how he addressed long wait times. ... Dermatology World: Describe the access issues with the dermatology clinic at
Not just for boys: X-linked erythropoietic protoporphyria
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 7, 2017 I was anxiously awaiting the results of erythrocyte protoporphyrin levels obtained from a 4 year-old boy who avoids sunlight because his "skin hurts" when not in the shade. Until I read the article by Balwani, et al (1), I was unaware of
Labor Day thoughts on increasing dermatologist burnout
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 5, 2016 "Love and work…work and love. That’s all there is" – Sigmund Freud ... Today you probably received an email from ... Dermatology Times entitled "Tips for taking advantage of Labor Day 2016." A recent Mayo Clinic study was quoted, noting that between
The journey of focal dermal hypoplasia: From description to inspired therapy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 9, 2017 The dermatologic community lost a giant in 2014 with the passing of Robert W. Goltz, MD at the age of 90. Dr. Goltz was not only responsible for describing focal dermal hypoplasia (FDH), but also multicentric reticulohistiocytosis, generalized elastolysis, and the nevoid
1 million patients affected by ransomware in one month
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, July 1, 2022 Ransomware attacks seeking valuable patient records thus far show no signs of slowing down in 2022. In March 2022 alone, 26 health organizations reported to HHS that they had been affected by data breaches, impacting nearly one
Top 3 administrative burdens in dermatology and how to tackle them!
Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif and Swapna Pachauri, AADA Practice Management, December 1, 2021 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff offer tips on managing the top three administrative burdens. A successful dermatology office is established not only on optimal
Protect your ability to practice
Money Matters ... David B. Snyder, JD, CLU ... ® ... , is an attorney, author, and financial advisor at the wealth management firm OJM Group. He covers financial issues for dermatologists in this quarterly ... Dermatology World column. ... By David B. Snyder, JD, CLU, June 3, 2019 For
Up in the air
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... With the country embroiled in a public health crisis, how much will the 2020 elections inform health care policy? ... With the country embroiled in a public health crisis, how much will the 2020 elections inform health care
Is dyshidrosiform pemphigoid really anti-p200 pemphigoid?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 20, 2016 Dyshidrosiform pemphigoid (DP) was initially reported in a 72 year-old man with large, tense bullae on the plantar aspect of his feet, with some lesions on an erythematous base. He also had an "ill-defined papular eruption" of the trunk and an erosion
Dermatology coding essentials part 1: Pearls, pitfalls, and best practices
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, April 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Your ability to deliver excellent patient care
Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus: Interfering with interferon – Part II – Focus on Anifrolumab
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 13, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 37 This is an exciting time for cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE). Recently published findings from three clinical trials show substantial progress in developing more targeted, efficacious, and better-tolerated medications for patients with CLE, particularly by inhibiting the production
Educating the public — National Healthy Skin Month
30 healthy skin days hath November! ... November was National Healthy Skin Month and the AAD was Johnny on the Spot (whatever that spot may be) on Nov. 1 ... with information across aad.org and our @AADskin social media channels educating the public on healthy skin from head to toe
After 23 years, a syndrome converted me into an eflornithine believer
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 12, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 28 I learned that Vaniqa (eflornithine - ... α -difluoromethylornithine [DFMO]) was discontinued. Topical eflornithine was released in 2000 to reduce facial hirsutism. When the drug was released, I recall being fascinated by the premise of its mechanism.
AAD settled into Seattle for Innovation Academy
The AAD held its latest Innovation Academy meeting Aug. 1-4 in Seattle. Attendees heard from innovators, visionaries, entrepreneurs, and problem solvers who are changing the practice of dermatology, or medicine in general. ... In addition to many informative sessions and events, Innovation Academy featured a talk by famed swimmer Diana
Advocacy Update Jan. 21 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 21, 2025 MedPAC recommends 2026 Medicare payment update linked to inflation Advocacy win: FTC releases second report on egregious PBM practices AADA urges UnitedHealthcare to rescind laser policy for vitiligo Dr. Green hosts Rep. Elfreth to discuss Medicare physician payment reform SkinPAC hosts breakfast for
Reporting excimer laser therapy: When to use 96999 vs 9692x
As a result of a code descriptor change for CPT codes 96920-96922 effective Jan. 1, 2024, these codes are now to be used only for excimer laser treatment of psoriasis. This change was made by the AMA CPT to better align with the intended use of these services exclusively for
No Surprises Act
The No Surprises Act (NSA) provides patients with new protections against surprise billing because of insurance network rules. Like other clinicians, dermatologists must follow new NSA rules beginning on Jan. 1, 2022. The rules were issued jointly by HHS and agencies in the Labor and Treasury departments. ... The NSA
Fighting detrimental Medicare payment cuts
As our top federal legislative priority, your Academy fought all year against Medicare payment cuts of 8.5% or more that were scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, 2023. ... As a result, in late December, President Biden signed into law an omnibus spending package that included partial relief from the
Evaluation and Management (E/M) coding changes are coming in 2021 – Part 1
Several major E/M guideline revisions will go into effect Jan. 1, 2021, including: ... E/M guideline additions, revisions, and restructuring; ... Deletion of CPT code 99201 and revision of CPT codes 99202 – 99215 ... Updates to components for code selection to include: ... A medically appropriate history and/or physical
Pregnant with possibility: Rituximab prophylaxis for pemphigoid gestationis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 26, 2018 ... Pemphigoid gestationis in 34-year-old primigravida at 28 weeks gestation. A, Urticated erythema with multiple tense blisters on both thighs. B, Histopathologic findings reveal subepidermal blister formation with abundant eosinophils, accompanied by superficial and middermal perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate. (Hematoxylin-eosin stain; original magnification:
CMS Releases 2020 First Quarterly NCCI PTP Edits
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the first Quarterly Update to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) Procedure-to-Procedure (PTP) Edits, Version 26.0, which will go into effect on January 1, 2020. ... As part of the effort to promote correct coding and to minimize inappropriate payments
Advocacy Update Aug 19, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 19, 2025 Academy addresses Cigna’s new E/M billing policy AADA member selected for Partnership for Quality Measurement’s Pre-Rulemaking Measure Review Clinician Committee AADA presents at FDA Advisory Panel on dermal fillers Contribute to SkinPAC Payer Advocacy Academy addresses Cigna’s new E/M billing policy ... On
2020 CPT Coding Updates
For 2020, the CPT code set has multiple changes. Although most of the changes do not specifically affect dermatology, there are notable changes that members need to be aware of starting on January 1, 2020. ... Non-Face-to-Face-Services: Telephone Services ... CPT code 99444 has been deleted and in its place,
History and current status
1. What is the history of measles in the U.S.? ... Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease. ... Pre-vaccine era ... Measles was first identified as an infectious agent from blood samples collected in 1757 and became a nationally notifiable disease in the US in 1912. ... 1 ... An average
CMS releases 2023 third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, January 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the third and fourth quarter updates to the National Correct
Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Program on a ladder to success
On June 1, the Academy launched its new ... Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Program nationally. Developed in partnership with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, the new program aims to provide help to a population that is at a much greater risk of melanoma and skin cancer than the average person.
Sweating over sweat gland carcinomas: Part 1 — Squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 13, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 32 A highlight of my week is leisurely reading the ... Philadelphia Inquirer on quiet Sunday mornings, skimming over the troubling headlines, and concentrating on positive happenings in the Delaware Valley. My bliss was rudely interrupted by a
Advocacy Update Feb. 18 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 18, 2025 AADA, house of medicine demand reversal of Medicare cut and provide a pay boost AADA highlights need for Medicare physician payment reform at House Committee on Ways and Means hearing Dermatology addresses new CLIA requirements for lab directors Legislators reject pharmacists’ effort to
Advocacy Update Mar. 18, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Mar. 18, 2025 AADA outraged that Congress passed government funding without doc fix AADA advocates for dermatologists in CLIA lab director requirements FDA testing confirms minimal benzene in most benzoyl peroxide acne products, some voluntary recalls issued Add your voice and become an AADA Advocacy Key
AADA takes on step therapy reform, sunscreen access
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) signed step therapy reform legislation into law, effective Jan. 1, 2026. The new law places guardrails around the use of step therapy protocols by state-regulated health plans, including Medicaid. ... The AADA has supported this effort since 2020 in partnership with the Dermatological Society
Should dermatologists be anti-antihistamine for atopic dermatitis?
By Sylvia Hsu, MD July 17, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 19 Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by pruritus that results in eczema induced by scratching. Histamine-1 receptor blockers are routinely used to treat the pruritus of AD. Histamine does not seem to play a role in AD through the histamine-1
The Term “Dermal Hyperneury” Hits a Nerve
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 21, 2017 ... A, On hematoxylin-eosin stain, the borders of this nerve bundle are sharply demarcated from the surrounding connective tissue with no associated inflammation or fibrosis. A thin layer of epithelium can be seen encapsulating the intersecting fascicles of nerve fibers. Within the
A checkup on immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced subacute cutaneous lupus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 15, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 11 Keeping up with the expanding indications and adverse reactions to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can be a full-time job. These drugs are anti-neoplastic because of cytotoxic T-cell activation. ICIs include the anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) agent ipilimumab,
The role of GLP-1s in dermatology
Dermatologists discuss how the use of GLP-1s has offered potential new avenues for patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, January 1, 2026 Over the past five years, the approvals of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), particularly semaglutide and tirzepatide, have sparked
Ubiquitous ubiquitination
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 28, 2017 Generalized severe epidermolysis bullosa simplex. Blister classification. Single blisters were defined as a count of 1. Blister nests derived from 1 healing blister were defined as a count of 1. Redness without convexes was not counted. Only time points for which good
Oral tranexamic acid to treat melasma: Are you bloody kidding me?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 1, 2016 Tranexamic acid (TA) is a synthetic derivative of lysine utilized as an antifibrinolytic agent to prevent bleeding (for dental surgery in patients with hemophilia, post-cardiac bypass surgery patients, or in women with menorrhagia) and as a treatment option for hereditary angioedema.
Impact Report — Vol 4, Issue 3
At the Academy, our number one priority is to support our members. To do that, we are consistently evaluating our initiatives and programs to ensure you are getting the most from your membership. See how we support you through advocacy, read about our success in positioning your expertise with the
Impact Report — Vol 3, Issue 2
Seen, heard, valued. It all adds up. Whether it’s advocating for you on the Hill, supplementing our coding resources, positioning the specialty, or enhancing and adding to your member benefits, it all builds something bigger and stronger for dermatology. ... Read about our most current advocacy efforts, specialty positioning initiatives,
AADA advocacy delivers Senate Medicare payment reform bill
In a major advance in AADA’s fight for Medicare payment reform, the Senate introduced a bill on Aug. 1 aimed at addressing budget neutrality, a major cause of the ongoing physician payment cuts. This is a direct result of the AADA’s relentless advocacy on this issue, which is our sole
Parabens — A common allergen with lots of hype and no real harm
By Christen M. Mowad, MD Sept. 4, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 26 Every year for the past 20 years, the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) has highlighted an allergen. Most often the particular allergen is selected because it is new and emerging, such as methylisothiazolinone in 2013. (1) Sometimes, it
Best of DermWorld Insights and Inquiries
Dec. 26, 2024 We know how much you enjoy Dr. Heymann and the editorial board’s weekly analyses of dermatologic literature, so we’ve created a list of the top 10 most popular issues in 2024 — starting with the most popular issue of the year. ... 1. Weighing in on glucagon-like
Calcipotriene and 5-fluorouracil: Dermatology’s new dynamic duo?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 18, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 28 Chatting with my chief resident, Tia Pyle, I was lamenting the recent comparative report that ingenol mebutate (and other treatments) did not fare as well as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) for treating actinic keratoses (AKs). (1) (See previous ... Dermatology
When to see red in linear erythronychia — Malignant onychopapilloma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 29, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 26 With every passing year, I take increasing comfort in the stability of the linear erythronychia of my left fifth digit. The presumed diagnosis of an onychopapilloma (OP) is very reassuring because every article I ever read about
Snitching on Schnitzler syndrome: The continuing search for an optimal biomarker
By Warren R. Heymann, MD August 7, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 22 Urticarial dermatoses confound our even our most sagacious dermatologists. It is no surprise that patients with systemic autoinflammatory diseases such as Schnitzler syndrome (SS) go undiagnosed for years after failed trials of antihistamines, steroids, and other immunosuppressive therapies.
CMS releases 2024 first and second quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, August 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Coding Consult articles . CMS released the first and second quarter
When assessing morbilliform eruptions think about morbilli (measles)!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 1, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 8 ... I’m confident you’ve seen the headlines about measles (rubeola, morbillii): ... "Measles Outbreak: The Spread in New York" ( ... New York Times , March 28, 2019) ... "Fourth Measles Case Reported in Maryland Outbreak" ( ...
Step 3: Small and large practice reporting options
Access the PDF ... See a PDF version of the Academy ... ’ s ... practice reporting options . ... Review these reporting options for small practices (15 providers or fewer) and large practices (16 providers or more) to help achieve the minimum and maximum points needed to either avoid
Step 3: Small and large practice reporting options
Access the PDF ... See a PDF version of the Academy ... ’ s ... practice reporting options . ... Review these reporting options for small practices (15 providers or fewer) and large practices (16 providers or more) to help achieve the minimum and maximum points needed to either avoid
From a JAK to a king of Castleman disease
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 15, 2017 A 44-year-old Chinese woman with a 10-year history of asymptomatic cutaneous patches and plaques on her trunk (Fig 1, A) who reported intermittent fever and lymphadenopathy for 6 months. A skin biopsy specimen from a cutaneous plaque showed perivascular infiltration of plasma
A Frank discussion about earlobe creases
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Dec. 14, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 49 A half-century has transpired since Sanders T. Frank reported: "All patients 60 years of age or younger who had a positive ear-lobe sign [characterized by a prominent crease in the lobule portion of the auricle] were studied
AMA CPT releases new online digital E/M services codes for private payers
Effective Jan. 1, 2020, the AMA CPT deleted CPT code 99444 (Online evaluation and management service provided by a physician or other qualified health care professional who may report evaluation and management services provided to an established patient or guardian, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the
Caveat mTOR revisited: Neurofibromatosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Feb. 14, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 7 An abridged version of this commentary was published in "A Clinician's Perspective" in the April 2023 issue of the JAAD. ... It is understandable how dermatologists may forget about many details of rare genodermatoses after taking their
We are battling detrimental Medicare payment cuts
As our top federal legislative priority, your Academy has been fighting all year against Medicare payment cuts of 8.5% or more that are scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, 2023. These scheduled cuts are on top of payment reductions that took effect this year, and, without a long-term solution, Medicare
Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei: A Simon and Garfunkel playlist
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 1, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 39 William Tilbury Fox (1836-1879) was a brilliant dermatologist, the first in the United Kingdom to have a post in a teaching hospital. With Erasmus Wilson, he resurrected the prominence of British dermatology nearly half a century after
Crystallizing thoughts about crystalglobulinemia
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 14, 2017 ... A, Necrotic purpuric lesions on the dorsum of the foot in a patient with crystalglobulinemia. The thumb had been previously amputated because of necrotic gangrene secondary to occluded vessels. B, Histopathologic features in cutaneous lesions of crystalglobulinemia. Scanning power showing a
CMS releases third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, January 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released its third and fourth quarterly
Dermatologists will increasingly meet mammalian meat allergy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 20, 2019 Vol 1, No. 2 It has been a decade since Van Nunen et al detailed 25 patients living in a tick-endemic region of Sydney, Australia, who developed a red meat allergy following large, local reactions to tick bites. (1) Tick-induced mammalian meat
Gains in Patient Activation Measure (PAM) Scores at 12 Months — Measure 503
Gains in Patient Activation Measure (PAM®) Scores at 12 Months ... DESCRIPTION: The Patient Activation Measure (PAM) is a 10- or 13-item questionnaire that assesses an individual’s knowledge, skills, and confidence for managing their health and health care. The measure assesses individuals on a 0-100 scale that converts to one
Key messaging in social media about acne
Key messages ... Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. (1) ... There are different types of acne (blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, acne cysts or nodules), so a one-size-fits-all approach is not the best way to achieve clearer skin. (1)
Preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME)
By Jason B. Lee, MD, FAAD May 10, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 19 In 1980, the discovery of S100 protein expression in cultured metastatic melanoma cell lines (1) stirred excitement in the pathology community for its potential role as a diagnostic marker for melanoma. The excitement was short-lived once it
Cannabis arteritis: Getting higher on the differential diagnosis list of ulcerative lesions
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, January 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 1 Marijuana use is on the rise. In 2022, nearly 22% of people had used the drug in the past year, with steep increases in the number of people 65 and older who
Gains in Patient Activation Measure (PAM) Scores at 12 Months — Measure 503
Gains in Patient Activation Measure (PAM®) Scores at 12 Months ... DESCRIPTION: The Patient Activation Measure (PAM) is a 10- or 13-item questionnaire that assesses an individual’s knowledge, skills, and confidence for managing their health and health care. The measure assesses individuals on a 0-100 scale that converts to one
Welcome to Dermatology World Insights and Inquiries
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 13, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 1 Keeping up with clinically relevant dermatologic literature has become an increasingly daunting task. The time constraints facing dermatologists (and all physicians) have multiplied, as have administrative demands, burdens of electronic records, etc., challenging even the most time-efficient, organized
Dermatological Care MIPS Value Pathway (MVP)
The Dermatological Care MIPS Value Pathway (MVP) is a streamlined reporting system designed specifically for dermatologists to meet MIPS requirements. CMS is designing MVPs to allow physicians to report on measures that are more relevant to their specialties in a structured manner. Unlike traditional MIPS, participation in an MVP for
Coming full circle (almost): Low dose oral minoxidil for alopecia
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD January 5, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 1 I presume that virtually every dermatologist reading this commentary has recommended topical minoxidil (TM) for their patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and other alopecias (telogen effluvium, alopecia areata [AA], hair shaft abnormalities, and eyebrow hypotrichosis). I recall
Impact Report — Vol 6, Issue 1
Your membership in action From fighting for your patients and practice against payment cuts and scope-of-practice expansions, to securing major media wins that position you as the authorities in skin, hair, and nails, see how your Academy is working for you. Plus, explore the latest member benefits, including new CME
CMS releases 2024 third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, February 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the third and fourth quarter updates to the 2024 National
Impact Report — Vol 5, Issue 1
Reiterating the value of membership It’s time once again for the Academy’s ... Impact Report to reveal its 2024 advocacy and patient education activities and remind you of your meaningful member benefits from last year. ... Read the latest on how we are advocating for you on Capitol Hill and
JAAD ranks no. 1 among dermatology journals
The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology’s ... impact factor increases by 34% ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 5, 2022) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology is the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to the 2021 journal impact factor rankings recently published by Clarivate’s Journal
Triskaidekaphobia legitimized: Fatal Factor XIII deficiency
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 12, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 15 I am not especially superstitious. The number 13 has never concerned me but acquired Factor XIII deficiency has now joined my ever-expanding pantheon of new complications to worry about. ... The article entitled "Association of lethal acquired
Summary of MIPS 2021 changes
Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, manager, practice management, February 1, 2021 Each month DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Faiza Wasif, MPH, the Academy’s Practice Management manager, offers a summary of MIPS changes in 2021. CMS released the final Quality Payment Program (QPP)
CMS releases 2025 third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, CPCD, CRCR Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, March 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the third and fourth quarter updates to the
Advocacy Update Jan. 7 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 7, 2025 Medicare physician payment cuts effective Jan. 1 Advocacy Win: Aetna fixes Mohs surgery claim edits AADA advocated for clarification on Aetna denied claims for complex repairs AADA presses FDA on sunscreen access Save the date— SkinPAC reception at Orlando Annual Meeting Join your
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... November 1, 2019 In this monthly column, members of ... Dermatology World 's Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... EDWARD W. COWEN, MD, MHSc Adalimumab was approved in 2015 for the treatment of moderate and severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). It is
2025 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda
Conference schedule ... The conference will take place on Sunday, September 7 through Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the J.W. Marriott in Washington, D.C. The program will contain policy-focused sessions, designed to offer an in-depth understanding of how to translate the issues that affect the specialty into effective lobbying of
2026 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda
Conference schedule ... The conference will take place on Sunday, September 13 through Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at the J.W. Marriott in Washington, D.C. The program will contain policy-focused sessions, designed to offer an in-depth understanding of how to translate the issues that affect the specialty into effective lobbying of
AESOP: The ants and the grasshopper
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 21, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 34 Unquestionably, AESOP ( ... A denopathy and ... E xtensive ... S kin patch ... O verlying a ... P lasmactyoma) is rare — to date, fewer than 25 cases have been reported. (1) Why write (or
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... June 1, 2026 In this monthly column, members of the DermWorld ... Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. Emily Chu, MD, PhD, FAAD Genetic alterations underpinning melanoma have been increasingly well characterized over the last two decades — most notably point mutations
Transform your skin health: diet and lifestyle take center stage at 2025 AAD Annual Meeting
ORLANDO, FL (March 7, 2025) — The 2025 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting will take place March 7-11 in Orlando. The meeting will feature nearly 300 educational sessions with more than 1,700 speakers discussing the latest research on skin, hair, and nails, including topics on how diet and lifestyle
CMS releases 2025 first and second quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, September 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the first and second quarter updates to the 2025 National
Brentuximab vedotin update and the #MeToo saga of the Reed-Sternberg cell
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 1, 2018 Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma. High-power view showing large Reed-Sternberg–like cells (A) and mitotic figures (B). ... Credit: ... JAAD There has been increasing dermatological literature about the use of brentuximab vedotin (BV) for a variety of CD30+ cutaneous lymphomas. The thrust of this
Impact Report — Vol 3, Issue 2
Seen, heard, valued. The AAD/A ... Impact Report isn’t just a chronicle of Academy wins for our members (although it is ... that, too), it’s an ongoing confirmation that we are listening to you, responding to your needs, and giving you the tools you require to grow in your profession.
Impact Report — Vol 5, Issue 3
Your Academy continues to protect and advance our specialty where it matters most. We advocated for fair payment, defended against inappropriate step therapy protocols, raised the visibility of dermatology, expanded CME access, and strengthened our member community. ... This issue of the ... Impact Report highlights the measurable results of
Digital media kit: DermWorld rate card
DermWorld print rates ... Download a PDF of the 2026 DermWorld print rate card. Download a PDF of the DermWorld print specifications . ... BW ... 1x ... 6x ... 12x ... 24x ... 36x ... Full page ... $3,185 ... $3,015 ... $2,760 ... $2,440 ... $2,350 ... Full
Multiple café au lait spots in fair skinned children without evidence of neurofibromatosis type 1: Don’t SPRE(A)D the word – yet
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 13, 2016 Café au lait spots (CALS) are extraordinarily common; six or more lesions (at least 0.5 cm prior to puberty or 1.5 cm post puberty) are considered one of the criteria for diagnosing neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), and are also seen in
Increasing evidence for the use of topical timolol for pyogenic granulomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 16, 2016 There are multiple approaches to treating pyogenic granulomas (PGs). If possible, I usually perform a shave biopsy and electrodesiccate the base of the lesion. Certainly there are times when that approach may not be optimal, such as a PG the face of
A ‘pregnant pause’ is necessary before concluding on the obstetric risk of vitiligo
... By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 17, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 6 ... Vitiligo affects approximately 1% of the worldwide population of all racial/ethnic groups, equally affecting male and female patients. As neither immune nor non-immune mechanisms in isolation can sufficiently explain all parts of this complex disease,
Aha! The iodide paradox now makes sense!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 1, 2018 Dermatitis herpetiformis. Grouped papulovesicles with excoriations on the extensor surface of the shoulder. ... Credit: ... JAAD In the pre-direct immunofluorescence days of yore (before my time in dermatology), the exacerbation of dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) by oral or topical iodides could be
Diagnosing calciphylaxis: A better way?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 1, 2017 Calciphylaxis. Patient 6. A, Plain film of left foot with vessel calcification 0.2 mm in diameter (arrow). B, Histopathologic image with vessel calcification and thrombosis, and surrounding tissue necrosis. (Original magnification: ×100.) ... One of the most dramatic presentations on the dermatology
Naltrexone therapy for Hailey-Hailey disease: Confirming my addiction to evidence-based medicine
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 28, 2017 Hailey-Hailey disease. Patient 1: erythematous-crusted plaques on the lower midback before radiation treatment. ... Credit: ... JAAD 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.
Say it ain’t so: Dark chocolate exacerbates acne!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 5, 2016 Diet and acne has always been controversial. When I was a child I heard that pizza and chocolate could lead to break-outs; over time that was relegated to be a myth (thank goodness). ... The latest foods that have may possibly lead
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... May 1, 2022 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MPH, MSBS, FAAD Prior authorization (PA) is purportedly designed to promote evidence-based care and prevent overuse of health services that
Skin conditions by the numbers
Acne ... Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. (1) ... There are different types of acne (blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, acne cysts or nodules), so a one-size-fits-all approach is not the best way to achieve clearer skin. (2) A
AMA introduces new prolonged service code for 2021
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, manager, coding and reimbursement, January 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in Derm Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Coding based on time ... As previously discussed
Office preparedness
The information below is provided for informational purposes only and is not an AAD guideline. Please refer to your local, state, or national guidelines for infection control regulations. ... 1. How can I prepare my practice for a patient with suspected measles? ... If your office does not have an
The intimate dance of Staphylococcus aureus and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 19, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 29 I was aghast when I opened the PUVA unit when Joe told me that his mycosis fungoides (MF) was worsening — I understood why Alibert first described the disorder as resembling mushrooms in 1806. (1) His lesions
Itching to prescribe the right treatment for scabies: Topical permethrin or oral ivermectin?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Feb. 1, 2018 ... Scabies burrow via high-resolution digital photography (4 megapixels). ... Credit: ... JAAD Three weeks after confirming the diagnosis of crusted scabies on an HIV-positive patient, I started to scratch while driving in the parking lot at Cooper University Hospital.
Merkel cell carcinoma in situ: Begin the beguine?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 26, 2017 I have to admit, the concept of Merkel cell carcinoma in situ (MCCIS) was "below my radar screen," until I read the intriguing article, from Jason Lee’s group, questioning whether an intraepidermal proliferation of Merkel cells (MC) within a seborrheic keratosis is
Bowel-associated dermatosis-arthritis syndrome (BADAS): The story behind the acronym
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 30, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 13 Justifiably, the COVID-19 pandemic has focused the world’s attention, however, another global pandemic threatens us — obesity. According to the World Health Organization, in 2016, more than 1.9 billion people are overweight (BMI > 25) and 650
Are you at risk for pityriasis rubra type V? It’s in the cards!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 1, 2017 Characteristic facial involvement in caspase recruitment domain family member 14 gene (CARD14)-associated papulosquamous eruption. Symmetric and geometric pink, scaly patches or plaques involving the cheeks, upper cutaneous lip, and chin with sparing of the infralabial region is highly characteristic of CARD14-associated papulosquamous
Hidden in plain sight: Satoyoshi syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 19, 2018 I was inspired by the conclusion of a report detailing an 11 year-old boy from India diagnosed Satoyoshi syndrome: "We present this case to emphasize the importance of recognizing Satoyoshi syndrome, which could go unnoticed if not suspected." (1) ... I have
Applying the 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice – Part 2
In our ongoing efforts to help members navigate the E/M changes in a simplified and relatable manner in everyday practice, part two of the AADA’s clinical vignettes focuses on the application of the concepts necessary to support reporting a high level of number and complexity of problems addressed, data analyzed,
The ironclad promise of ferroptosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 25, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 4 As checkpoint inhibition of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) has become standard oncologic therapy, it is easy to forget that this revolutionary therapy is barely a decade old. Until 1972, cell death was considered passive and
Topical minocycline for acne: A good Idea?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 28, 2016 Concerns about the safety of minocycline have been increasing over the past two decades, with rare, serious adverse immunologic reactions including DRESS syndrome, pneumonitis, nephritis, autoimmune hepatitis, and a lupus-like syndrome (1). There have been several reports of ANCA-positive polyarteritis nodosa (PAN)
Eye-opening news about oxymetazoline
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 27, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 17 Certain articles have a "wow" factor that immediately impacts practice. In 2007, I recall being impressed by the 2 cases of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea reported by Shanler and Ondo that dramatically improved with the application of oxymetazoline hydrochloride
Understanding the risk of Wilms Tumor in hemihypertrophy: Are we halfway there?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 16, 2017 ... Diffuse capillary malformation with overgrowth. A 2-month-old girl with ill-defined erythematous patches of the bilateral upper extremities, posterior trunk, and left lower extremity. There is also overgrowth of the left lower extremity. ... Credit: ... JAAD Wilms tumor (WT, nephroblastoma) is
Eyeing the use of cryotherapy for eyebrow alopecia areata
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 5, 2017 I am always looking for alternatives to injecting eyebrow alopecia areata with triamcinolone acetonide (TAC). My protocol, based on the recommendation by Alkhalifah et al, is TAC 2.5 mg/mL, 0.5 mL to each eyebrow, every 4 to 6 weeks, as necessary (1).
Coughing up a new warning for ustekinumab
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 15, 2019 Vol 1, No. 10 After using a drug for years, physicians become comfortable with the benefits and risks of the frequently prescribed agent. I have utilized ustekinumab extensively — learning of new adverse reactions is sobering. ... Ustekinumab has been in use
Psoriatic alopecia and sebaceous glands: An unfinished symphony
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 15, 2017 Psoriasis and alopecia after initiation of TNFi. A, Diffuse erythematous pustules on the upper back of patient 1. B, Severe alopecia with mild papules on scalp of patient 4. ... Credit: ... JAAD Every so often, patients with psoriasis would ask me
Cyclosporine reaches the top of the SJS/TEN leaderboard
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 16, 2017 ... A, Sheet-like detachment, blisters, and raw erosions on back of patient with Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis. B, Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation accentuated in areas where detached epidermis was not left in situ. ... Credit: ... JAAD The first commentary in DI&I for 2017
Preventing hair loss in breast cancer patients is very cool
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 15, 2017 Dramatic change in physical appearance before (A) and 1 month after (B) treatment with paclitaxel and carboplatin. ... Credit: ... JAAD The loss of my late aunt Millie to breast cancer was devastating; it was even harder to bear after learning that
Of every possible solution for elastosis perforans serpiginosa, fractional carbon dioxide laser may be the best
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 13, 2017 ... Elastosis perforans serpiginosa. Clinical presentation. ... Credit: ... JAAD My initial attraction to dermatology, which still offers great appeal, is the challenge and joy of differential diagnosis and clinical-pathologic correlation. I learned quickly, however, that patients don’t want to be interesting
Springtime is tick time
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 27, 2017 Petechial eruption on palm of child with Rocky Mountain spotted fever. ... Credit: ... JAAD Oh, the majesty of spring’s rejuvenation — a bloom’s aroma, opening day’s first pitch, and romance in the air. For dermatologists, no one will write a
A metabolic pathway that may allow dermatologists to run rings around porokeratoses
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 31, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 21 "I know the variants of porokeratoses and can recite them as though I am the very model of a modern major general — Mibelli, linear, punctate, palmoplantar, DSAP [disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis], superficial disseminated, immunosuppression-related, and porokeratosis ptychotropica.
A revelation: Drug-induced pseudoglucagonoma syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 21, 2016 Although only having diagnosed the glucagonoma syndrome (GS) once, I have always been fascinated by necrolytic migratory erythema (NME), and conditions that mimic NME, the so-called pseudoglucagonoma syndrome (PGS). ... PGS has been reported with the following conditions: liver disease, inflammatory bowel
Iododerma from contrast material or Sweet syndrome?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 23, 2016 Take a look at "Images in Clinical Medicine" in the June 23rd issue of the ... New England Journal of Medicine (1). ... The authors present the case of a 57 year-old man who presented with a 12 hour history of hematuria.
Red alert: Avoid brimonidine and oxymetazoline as hemostatic agents
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 19, 2017 Mohs micrographic surgery procedure including brimonidine treatment: skin before application (A), 5 minutes after application of brimonidine (B), and minimal intraoperative bleeding with pretreatment of brimonidine (C). ... Credit: ... JAAD As a youth, I recall that "rosy cheeks" were a sign
Yom Kippur and the physician payment Sunshine Act
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 9, 2016 Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, is upon us. It is Judaism’s most sacred holiday. It is a day of fasting and prayer to atone for sins of the past year. According to traditional teachings, a person’s fate is written in
Bank of America - Practice Solutions
When you need financing for your dermatology practice, you want to work with someone who understands your industry. For over 25 years, Bank of America Practice Solutions has helped dermatologists across the nation reach their goals through smart financial solutions ... 1 ... and expert guidance. Whether you own a
Advocacy Update Oct 28, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 28, 2025 CMS lifts hold on Medicare claims Advocacy win: Elevance expands coverage for home-based light therapy AAD statement on FDA safety alert for RF microneedling devices AADA nominates Alina Bridges, DO, FAAD, for Medicare clinical diagnostic laboratory test advisory panel 2026 Advocate of the
Diagnosing atypical hand, foot, and mouth disease by routine microscopy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 15, 2016 Hand, foot, and mouth (HFM) disease is childhood exanthem usually caused by Coxsackie A16; enterovirus 71 has been implicated in cases of HFM complicated by encephalitis, flaccid paralysis, myocarditis and pulmonary edema. Coxsackie A6 has recently been associated with severe, atypical episodes
The prescience of Bernie Ackerman: The road from “pseudoleukemia cutis” to “intralymphatic proliferation of T-cell lymphoid blasts (IPTCLBs)”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 13, 2016 Hand, foot, and mouth (HFM) disease is childhood exanthem usually caused by Coxsackie A16; enterovirus 71 has been implicated in cases of HFM complicated by encephalitis, flaccid paralysis, myocarditis and pulmonary edema. Coxsackie A6 has recently been associated with severe, atypical episodes
Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 4
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, December 1, 2020 Jan. 1, 2021: A new structure for reporting office and other outpatient evaluation and management (E/M)
Psoriasis
Key messages ... Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the immune system that develops when the body makes skin cells too quickly, causing skin cells to pile up and form visible patches or spots on the skin. (1-6) ... Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can be associated with other diseases
Focusing attention on X-linked ichthyosis
Ichthyosis vulgaris ... Credit: ... JAAD By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 2, 2019 I thought it was me. Like every dermatologist, I learned the classical appearance of the ichthyoses, and wonder why I’m not sure if I am looking at a patient with ichthyosis vulgaris (IV) or X-linked ichthyosis
CareCredit
An AAD preferred provider since 2012, CareCredit is a health, wellness, and personal care credit card that helps patients fit dermatology care into their health care budget, with promotional financing options that allow them to pay over time. ... 1 ... CareCredit celebrates 35+ years of helping patients move forward
AAD Meetings: First-time exhibitor information
Reserve your booth space today and join us for an AAD meeting! ... The American Academy of Dermatology invites you to exhibit at one of our upcoming meetings. Take advantage of meeting with the most dedicated dermatology experts and decision makers from around the world. As an exhibitor at an
Pineapple and cicatricial pemphigoid: A need to dole out more studies
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 4, 2016 The benefits of pineapples have been touted in folk medicine for years. Increasing knowledge of its active ingredient bromelain has lead to a therapeutic pineapple renaissance. Bromelain is a complex natural mixture of proteolytic enzymes derived from pineapple (Ananas cosmosus) and possesses
Purpuric dermatitis herpetiformis: Itching to know why
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 24, 2016 Last week my partner, Justin Green MD, asked for my opinion about a man with biopsy-proven dermatitis herpetiformis (neutrophilic abscesses and granular IgA deposition) with negative serologic studies for anti-endomysial antibodies (tissue transglutaminase). He had classical lesions on his elbows (grouped vesicles)
Pubic hair grooming: Less means more
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 14, 2016 It is essential for dermatologists to comprehend current mores that affect our patients’ health. Understanding the trend toward increased genital hair grooming in men and women can help us instruct patients on how to avoid injuries related to hair removal. Indeed, 19-
The woolly culprit: Lanolin revealed as an uncommon cause of dermatitis on normal skin
By Christen Mowad, MD, FAAD Nov. 15, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 46 Excitement surrounding the "Allergen of the Year" may only be truly appreciated by those immersed in the field of contact dermatitis and patch testing, but each year the announcement is met with enthusiasm from the wider dermatology specialty.
The pachydermoperiostosis prostaglandin paradigm
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 10, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 18 Prostaglandins were the rage when I started medical school in 1975; their role in inflammatory dermatoses was considered of paramount importance throughout my residency in the early 1980s. Hours were spent studying the transformation of arachidoinic acid to
Implications of the Corporate Transparency Act for physicians
Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Jason Qu, JD, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, April 1, 2024 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This
Stiff skin syndrome: Hard in many ways
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 4, 2016 Stiff skin syndrome (SSS) is a noninflammatory, fibrosing condition of the skin and fascia, often affecting the limb girdle region, notably the buttock and thighs, resulting in a lordotic posture. It may be accompanied by subtle hypertrichosis and hyperpigmentation. The course tends
Herpes zoster, immunosuppression, and vaccination: Far from a blistering pace
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 5, 2016 Do you recognize the name Chris Gueffroy? He was the last person shot trying to escape from East Berlin, before the wall came down. I had long promised myself that I would get Zostavax when I turned 60. Now 61, I am
Mindfulness for the patient and the dermatologist
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... March 28, 2017 ... While meditation has been present for millennia, the concept of mindfulness has recently come into vogue. Conceptually, mindfulness aims to have a person focus their attention on the present moment by developing coping strategies, such as meditation or deep
MIPS 2020 is here. Here are the highlights
Answers in Practice ... Faiza Wasif, MPH, is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips on an area she commonly receives questions about from members. ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, April 1, 2020 Each month Dermatology World ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Faiza Wasif,
Coding and reporting for immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining in dermatology
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, July 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining is used to
Treatments for renal IgA vasculitis are beginning to flow
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Feb. 19, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 7 The alliterative phrase "palpable purpura" will instantly conjure the diagnosis of leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) for dermatologists. IgA vasculitis (IgAV, aka Henoch-Schönlein purpura [HSP]) is the most common vasculitis in children but is much less frequent in adults.
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... July 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD The FDA has approved the first treatment for progeria (Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome). As we all know, progeria is a rare
Dupilumab’s growing pains
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 8, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 1 Dupilumab has been a valuable addition to dermatologists’ therapeutic palette in managing atopic dermatitis (AD). The biologic agent was released in 2017, indicated for moderate to severe AD, and is now approved for patients who are at least
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... June 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Bryan Carroll, MD, PhD The debate over the curative benefit of radiotherapy for aggressive cutaneous invasive squamous cell carcinoma continues. The inflection point
Looking beyond ‘Ozempic face’
Dermatologists weigh in on cutaneous side effects of GLP-1 agonists. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Senior Editor, November 1, 2025 Glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists are an emerging class of medications used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and weight loss, with demonstrated efficacy in reducing hemoglobin A1c levels, body
Progress for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 8, 2019 Vol. 1, No.9 Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a nightmare. For any dermatologist seeing patients with autoimmune diseases, HIV, lymphoproliferative disorders, or who are on immunosuppressive medications (azathioprine, chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide, glucocorticoids methotrexate, TNF inhibitors, and rituximab), PML is a "sword of Damocles,"
IL-36 and generalized pustular psoriasis: L’chaim!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 9, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 10 In 1910, Leo Ritter von Zumbusch meticulously detailed the clinical course of "psoriasis pustulosa generalisata" (referred to herein as generalized pustular psoriasis, GPP) in a brother and sister, pondering if this was a variant of psoriasis or
Is there a best approach to widespread actinic keratoses?
By Deirdre Connolly, MD and Naomi Lawrence, MD April 10, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 5 Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology Volume 72, Issue 2, Pages e57-e59 (February 2015) ... Widespread actinic keratoses (AKs) are problematic to both patients and physicians, not only because of their pre-cancerous nature, but
July 2, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 2, 2025 ... Isotretinoin for seborrheic dermatitis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Turning our attention to melanoma risk in Turner syndrome CMS updates MUE limit for Ameluz — Effective July
Paraneoplastic Merkel cell carcinoma: Searchin’ for my lost shaker of salt
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 6, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 36 By pure coincidence, Jimmy Buffett passed away from Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) as I researched the topic of paraneoplastic MCC. Although I am no parrothead, every time I’d hear Margaritaville, I’d smile and fantasize about a lifestyle
2026 DW Insights and Inquiries archive
Explore ... DermWorld Insights and Inquiries articles by publication date. ... May ... May 1 - Granular C3 dermatosis in granular detail April ... April 1 - Cocaine-associated plasma cell orificial mucositis: Anything goes March ... March 1 - Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis: Six decades of progress February ... Feb. 1
I’ll have a necrobiotic xanthogranuloma to go – with mustard!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 11, 2016 Mechlorethamine has been used for decades to treat cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Rodriguez et al utilized 0.01% topical nitrogen mustard to treat a 60+ year-old man with biopsy-proven NXG with paraproteinemia (IgG-κ), without myeloma. He had 20% body surface area involvement, including
Obituaries
Obituaries ... By Jerry Graff, MD, June 1, 2020 The Academy recently learned with sorrow of the passing of the following members of the dermatologic community. ... ROBERT AUERBACH, MD, of New York, Nov. 1, 2017, at age 85. Trained in dermatology at University of Chicago. Was a well-known expert
In plain sight, for all to CME
Education never stops — that’s why they call it "continuing" medical education. ... The AAD offers free opportunities for members to continue their education, including these recent online courses: ... Making Sense of the Expanding Molecular Toolbox for Skin Cancer Diagnosis In this activity, members will learn about new molecular
Eosinophilic dermatosis of hematologic malignancy: Reality bites
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 24, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 20 Our new gazebo’s screening beckons! Finally completed late last fall, I have longingly stared at it, waiting for spring’s warm embrace to invite me in. I cherish being outside, but in the shade and protected from the annoyance
Idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma — Have we met?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 20, 2017 I’m racking my brain wondering if I have ever seen a case of idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma (IFAG) — I know that I never made the diagnosis because I had never heard the term until I read the first reference. I surmise
The nerve of Zika!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 17, 2017 Zika virus–associated skin exanthem. Peripheral edema of bilateral hands (A) and feet (B). Generalized lymphadenopathy was also present. ... Credit: ... JAAD Zika virus infections have dominated the headlines, most notably because of its association with microcephaly. According to the valuable CDC
Hemochromatosis: Beyond 50 shades of gray
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 6, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 10 As a medical student, I was enamored by the term "bronze diabetes" as a depiction of hemochromatosis; ever since I have been magnetically attracted to the disease. Hereditary (primary) hemochromatosis is a common autosomal-recessive disorder, with a
Incretin-based therapy for diabetes and dermatology: Promise and peril
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 23, 2017 In a given day, how many of your patients are diabetic? According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2015, 9.4% of the US population (30.3 million) were diabetic; 29 million of this group had type 2 diabetes. ... Incretin hormones refer to
Raising a toast to advances in treating alcohol-induced flushing
By Warren R. Heymann, MD November 11, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 45 Whether with pride or embarrassment, we have all blushed. Also known as flushing, the process is defined as a visible reddening of the skin accompanied by a sensation of warmth, characteristically affecting the face, ears, neck, and upper
What is the carbon footprint of the typical outpatient dermatology practice?
Clinical Applications ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, April 1, 2025 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Misha Rosenbach, MD, FAAD, and Genevieve Silva, BS, about their JAMA Dermatology ... paper, ‘ Carbon Footprint Analysis of an Outpatient Dermatology Practice at an
The newest frontier for biologics and psoriasis may be adherence
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 19, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 15 My first job as an attending dermatologist was heading the psoriasis day care center at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1983. The challenges of treating severe psoriasis with the Goeckerman regimen, PUVA, methotrexate, etc. made
Aluminum can cause allergic contact dermatitis: Allergen of the Year 2022
By Christen Mowad, MD, FAAD June 15, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 24 Allergen of the year is an eagerly awaited award for those of us excited by allergic contact dermatitis. It has been given each year for over 20 years to highlight allergens of new and emerging significance and sometimes
Tying up loose ends
Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Bhatia, MPH, December 1, 2019 Shutting down a dermatology practice can be stressful, whether it be planned or unplanned circumstances — especially if you are not familiar with the protocols of what to do with your patients’ electronic health records (EHRs). Do not make
Koebnerization in Henoch-Schönlein purpura: How does it line up with prognosis?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 20, 2017 ... Urticarial hemorrhagic lesions of Henoch-Schönlein purpura in characteristic distribution. Note Koebner phenomenon in lines of scratch. ... Credit: ... JAAD Heinrich Koebner is eponymically known for having first described the phenomenon of developing an existing dermatosis in previously normal skin following
Histologic overreliance on mucin for diagnosis may prove…sticky
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 27, 2017 Cutaneous lupus mucinosis. A, Before treatment, large nodules covered with erythematous skin are seen on the lower back. B, After treatment with systemic prednisolone and tacrolimus, the sizes of the nodules are decreased and pigmentation is observed on the surface of the
Reflections on infantile perianal pyramidal protrusion and Hippocrates
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 29, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 22 Patient safety and quality improvement have been at the forefront of medical care since the publication of "To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System" by the Institute of Medicine, which estimated that as many as
JAAD impact factor ranks No. 1 among dermatology journals
JAAD International debuts at No. 10 ROSEMONT, Ill. (June 19, 2025) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology remains the top peer-reviewed journal in its field for the sixth straight year, according to the 2024 journal impact factor (JIF) rankings recently published by ... Clarivate’s Journal Citation
What role can dermatologists play in developing a COVID-19 vaccine?
Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, October 1, 2020 DermWorld ... talks to Adnan Nasir, MD, PhD, medical director of dermatology research at Wake Research Associates at
Preparing for MIPS 2023 and beyond
Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2023 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff offer tips on MIPS reporting. It’s year five of the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS), so you are probably well aware that
Vaccines, maintenance, and PEP
The information below is provided for informational purposes only and does not represent treatment or vaccine guidelines from the AAD. Please refer to your local, state, or national guidelines for treatment and vaccine guidelines. ... 1. What are the guidelines for routine MMR vaccination? ... 1,2 ... The routine vaccination
FTC narrowly passes final rule prohibiting non-compete clauses
Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Natalie Lorenz, JD, Ben Tesdahl, JD, LLM, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, June 1, 2024 Every month , DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally
Finding Joy in pediatric phototherapy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 28, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 25 This commentary is dedicated to Joy, a bright, rambunctious, delightful bundle of energy with (formerly) recalcitrant atopic dermatitis, who taught me a great deal about phototherapy in children. ... The cutaneous effects of ultraviolet (UV) light are by
I never wanted chaperones — until now
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 25, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 29 My oldest brother George had just gotten his driver’s license — under no circumstances would my mother allow him to drive his date Ruth to the movies. George protested vehemently, but ultimately relented, with my mother sitting in