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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
Connection to Community Service Provider — Measure 498
Connection to Community Service Provider ... DESCRIPTION: Percent of patients 18 years and older who screened positive for one or more of the following health-related social needs: food insecurity, housing instability, transportation needs, utility difficulties, and interpersonal safety and had contact with a Community Service Provider for at least one
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
Patient education licensing opportunities
Written and vetted by dermatologists, the AAD’s patient education content is accurate, up-to-date, and most importantly easy to understand. ... Doctors are always looking for reliable and accurate patient education resources for their patients. And now, with your support, your company can use this tool to provide the doctors in
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
The doctor will see you...soon?
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, July 1, 2019 As efforts to improve access to dermatologic care remain ongoing (Read ... Dermatology World ’s 2017 feature "Access Granted" at ... www.aad.org/dw/monthly/2017/october/access-granted for strategies to broaden patient access), how long can the average patient expect to wait
Secukinumab for pityriasis rubra pilaris: Tread lightly
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 17, 2016 Every dermatology resident preparing for their board examination can rattle off Griffiths’ classification of pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) — Type I (Classical Adult), Type II (Atypical Adult), Type III (Classic Juvenile), Type IV (Circumscribed Juvenile), and Type V (Atypical Juvenile). Type VI,
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.
Educating the public — Member media training in spotlight at AAD Annual Meeting
The 2022 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology took place in Boston in March — and that’s big news for more people than just AAD members. ... How big? Coverage of our meeting appeared in more than 120 media stories and was seen more than 81 million times.
AADA hosts annual Capitol Hill skin cancer screening event
On May 10, the AADA, in conjunction with the Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus, held its ... Annual Congressional Skin Cancer Screening and Health Fair, which offered free skin cancer screenings to members of Congress, staff, and the public. ... Over 120 attended the event. In addition, 11 AADA physician members
Moving the needle: Advocating for skin cancer prevention policies, one skin exam at a time
Moving the needle ... By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, September 1, 2023 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. During Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the AADA, in conjunction with the Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus, held its Annual
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
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
Member benefits — CME benefits are easier and more convenient than ever
The AAD offers a variety of options to earn CME. You can access more than 60 hours of convenient CME, simply by being a member of the Academy. You also have access to more than 110 hours of discounted CME through your Academy membership. ... Thousands of you have taken
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
Preventive Care and Screening: Screening for High Blood Pressure and Follow-Up Documented — Measure 317
Preventive Care and Screening: Screening for High Blood Pressure and Follow-Up Documented ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of adult patients who were screened for high blood pressure and received a follow-up plan where indicated. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 317 ... ... Type: Process ... ... CMS Derm
The Venetian antithesis: Treating median canaliform nail dystrophy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 4, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 40 Tony Bennett may have left his heart in San Francisco, but mine remains in Venice. ... (The editorial staff of DWI&I offer our sincerest condolences to the families of those who perished, and our prayers for recovery
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
You’ve been using the AAD’s Diversity Toolkit
The AAD is continuing to expand on offerings in its ... Diversity Toolkit . If you don’t know about it, you should. ... The ... Skin of Color Curriculum is a complete, definitive inpatient and outpatient curriculum for the diagnosis and effective treatment of skin of color diseases and conditions
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
Your Academy CME roundup: Highlights from 2022
By now you know that the AAD offers its members a variety of options to earn CME. You can access more than 60 hours of convenient CME, simply by being a member of the Academy. You also have access to more than 110 hours of discounted CME through your Academy
Running a tight ship
In Practice ... Dr. Weinkle is a Mohs surgeon at her practice in Brandenton, Florida. She serves as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of South Florida. ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, January 1, 2019 Dermatology World talks with Susan Weinkle, MD, from Bradenton, Florida, about
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
Use of High-Risk Medications in Older Adults — Measure 238
Use of High-Risk Medications in Older Adults ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients 65 years of age and older who were ordered at least two high-risk medications from the same drug class. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 238 ... ... Type: Process ... ... CMS Derm Specialty
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:
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:
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
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
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
October 23, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 23, 2024 ... Botulinum toxin type A with topical minoxidil vs. topical minoxidil alone in males with androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Shocking news — Heat shock protein
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
Plantar melanoma and mechanical stress
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 15, 2016 Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) involves the palms, soles, and nail beds. It is the most common type of melanoma in patients of African or Asian descent. Delays in diagnosis result in more advanced disease at the time of diagnosis. Trauma or chronic
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
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
Addressing systems and administrative challenges
Running a successful dermatology practice hinges not only on exceptional patient care but also on efficient administration. While challenges vary based on practice type and other factors, most practices face common administrative burdens. These burdens are a major driver of burnout. ... Surveys conducted among Academy members between 2016-2020 revealed
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,
June 13
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / JUNE 13, 2018 ... FDA approves first hyaluronic acid filler for hands Feedback requested: Primary cutaneous melanoma treatment draft guidelines After 60 years, a new treatment for pemphigus vulgaris Jack Resneck
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
Do skin cancer rates differ by transplanted organ type and patient age?
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, March 1, 2023 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Lee Wheless, MD,
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
Melanoma: Tracking and Evaluation of Recurrence — Measure 509
Melanoma: Tracking and Evaluation of Recurrence ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients who had an excisional surgery for melanoma or melanoma in situ with initial American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging of 0, I, or II, in the past 5 years in which the operating provider examines and/or diagnoses the
Melanoma: Tracking and Evaluation of Recurrence — Measure 509
Melanoma: Tracking and Evaluation of Recurrence ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients who had an excisional surgery for melanoma or melanoma in situ with initial American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging of 0, I, or II, in the past 5 years in which the operating provider examines and/or diagnoses the
Dermatomyositis oddities: Could one be responsible for the other?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 19, 2016 So much about dermatomyositis (DM) has intrigued me since medical school. Over the years, I have probably read more about this disease than any other malady. I am always amazed how I much more there is to learn. ... There were two
Screening for Social Drivers of Health — Measure 487
Screening for Social Drivers of Health ... DESCRIPTION: Percent of patients 18 years and older screened for food insecurity, housing instability, transportation needs, utility difficulties, and interpersonal safety. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 487 ... ... Type: Process ... ... CMS Derm Specialty Set: ...
October 12, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 12, 2022 ... Type 2 diabetes and CCCA severity DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Fixing the concept of the neutrophilic fixed drug eruption What’s the risk of IBD in patients
Patient-Centered Surgical Risk Assessment and Communication — Measure 358
Patient-Centered Surgical Risk Assessment and Communication ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients who underwent a non-emergency surgery who had their personalized risks of postoperative complications assessed and discussed prior to surgery using a clinical data-based, patient-specific risk calculator and who received personal discussion of those risks with the surgeon. ...
Patient-Centered Surgical Risk Assessment and Communication — Measure 358
Patient-Centered Surgical Risk Assessment and Communication ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients who underwent a non-emergency surgery who had their personalized risks of postoperative complications assessed and discussed prior to surgery using a clinical data-based, patient-specific risk calculator and who received personal discussion of those risks with the surgeon. ...
Adult Immunization Status — Measure 493
Adult Immunization Status ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients 19 years of age and older who are up-to-date on recommended routine vaccines for influenza; tetanus and diphtheria (Td) or tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap); zoster; pneumococcal; and hepatitis B. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 493 ... ...
Melanoma Reporting — Measure 397
Melanoma Reporting ... DESCRIPTION: The number of pathology reports for primary malignant cutaneous melanoma that include the pT category, thickness, ulceration, mitotic rate, peripheral and deep margin status and presence or absence of microsatellitosis for invasive tumors. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 397 ... ... Type: Process
Melanoma Reporting — Measure 397
Melanoma Reporting ... DESCRIPTION: The number of pathology reports for primary malignant cutaneous melanoma that include the pT category, thickness, ulceration, mitotic rate, peripheral and deep margin status and presence or absence of microsatellitosis for invasive tumors. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 397 ... ... Type: Process
Closing the Referral Loop: Receipt of Specialist Report — Measure 374
Closing the Referral Loop: Receipt of Specialist Report ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients with referrals during the reporting period whose referring physician received a report back from the other physician. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 374 ... ... Type: Process ... ... CMS Derm Specialty
Documentation of Current Medications in the Medical Record — Measure 130
Documentation of Current Medications in the Medical Record ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of visits for which the eligible professional or eligible clinician attests to documenting a list of current medications using all immediate resources available on the date of the encounter. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 130 ...
Documentation of Current Medications in the Medical Record — Measure 130
Documentation of Current Medications in the Medical Record ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of visits for which the eligible professional or eligible clinician attests to documenting a list of current medications using all immediate resources available on the date of the encounter. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 130 ...
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
Adult Immunization Status — Measure 493
Adult Immunization Status ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients 19 years of age and older who are up-to-date on recommended routine vaccines for influenza; tetanus and diphtheria (Td) or tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap); zoster; and pneumococcal. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 493 ... ... Type: Process
Step therapy legislation
Fast facts ... Step therapy is a tool used by health plans to control spending on patients' medications. ... In 2010, nearly 60% of commercial insurers were using step therapy. As of 2014, 75% of large employers reported offering employees plans that use step therapy. ... Step therapy has been
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
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)
Closing the Referral Loop: Receipt of Specialist Report — Measure 374
Closing the Referral Loop: Receipt of Specialist Report ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients with referrals during the reporting period whose referring physician received a report back from the other physician. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 374 ... ... Type: Process ... ... CMS Derm Specialty
Rejecting preconceived notions of squamous cell carcinomas in patients experiencing transplant rejections
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 21, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 24 Dermatologists are keenly aware of immunosuppression’s profound biologic effects. Whether by disease or iatrogenic means, clinical vigilance is mandated because of an elevated risk of malignancy, infection, or inflammatory dermatoses. ... In a study of 177 organ transplant
Psoriasis: Clinical Response to Systemic Medications — Measure 410
Psoriasis: Clinical Response to Systemic Medications ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of psoriasis vulgaris patients receiving systemic medication who meet minimal physician- or patient-reported disease activity levels. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 410 ... ... Type: Outcome ... ... CMS Derm Specialty Set: ... Yes ...
October 7, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 7, 2020 ... The costs of prior authorizations in a dermatology department DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Targeted anti-complement therapy may prove to be a complementary treatment for bullous pemphigoid
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
Psoriasis: Appropriate Assessment & Treatment of Severe Psoriasis — QCDR measure AAD15
Psoriasis: Appropriate Assessment & Treatment of Severe Psoriasis ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients with a diagnosis of severe psoriasis without a documented Body Surface Area (BSA) or a documented BSA greater than 10% for whom phototherapy or an oral systemic or biologic medication was prescribed. ... ... MEASURE ID:
Psoriasis: Appropriate Assessment & Treatment of Severe Psoriasis — QCDR measure AAD15
Psoriasis: Appropriate Assessment & Treatment of Severe Psoriasis ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients with a diagnosis of severe psoriasis without a documented Body Surface Area (BSA) or a documented BSA greater than 10% for whom phototherapy or an oral systemic or biologic medication was prescribed. ... ... MEASURE ID:
Psoriasis: Clinical Response to Systemic Medications — Measure 410
Psoriasis: Clinical Response to Systemic Medications ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of psoriasis vulgaris patients receiving systemic medication who meet minimal physician- or patient-reported disease activity levels. ... ... MEASURE ID: ... 410 ... ... Type: Intermediate outcome ... ... CMS Derm Specialty Set: ... Yes
Biopsy: Reporting Time - Clinician to Patient — QCDR measure AAD 6
Skin Cancer: Biopsy Reporting Time — Clinician to Patient ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients with skin biopsy specimens with a diagnosis of cutaneous basal, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma (including in situ disease), or primary cutaneous malignancies who are notified of their final biopsy pathology findings within less than
Biopsy: Reporting Time - Clinician to Patient — QCDR measure AAD 6
Skin Cancer: Biopsy Reporting Time — Clinician to Patient ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients with skin biopsy specimens with a diagnosis of cutaneous basal, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma (including in situ disease), or primary cutaneous malignancies who are notified of their final biopsy pathology findings within less than
2018: Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS)
Eligibility: Physicians, PAs, NPs, Clinical Nurse Specialists, and Certified Nurse Anesthetists who billed ≥ $90,000 in Medicare Part B allowed charges and saw more than 200 Medicare Part B patients ... Reporting year: January 1st, 2018 – December 31st, 2018 ... Data completeness: At least 60% of All Payer Data
Advance Care Plan — Measure 47
Advance Care Plan ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients aged 65 years and older who have an advance care plan or surrogate decision maker documented in the medical record or documentation in the medical record that an advance care plan was discussed but the patient did not wish or was not
Advance Care Plan — Measure 47
Advance Care Plan ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients aged 65 years and older who have an advance care plan or surrogate decision maker documented in the medical record or documentation in the medical record that an advance care plan was discussed but the patient did not wish or was not
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
Actinic Keratosis: Self-reported AK Treatment or Management Outcomes - National Quality Strategy Domain: Patient Experience — QCDR measure AAD 20
Actinic Keratosis: Self-reported AK Treatment or Management Outcomes - National Quality Strategy Domain: Patient Experience ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of adult patients (age 18 years and older) who report favorable outcomes resulting from a recommended treatment or management approach for Actinic Keratosis. Patients provide a global assessment of the perceived effectiveness
Controlling High Blood Pressure — Measure 236
Controlling High Blood Pressure ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of patients 18–85 years of age who had a diagnosis of essential hypertension starting before and continuing into, or starting during the first six months of the measurement period, and whose most recent blood pressure was adequately controlled (<140/90 mmHg) during the measurement
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
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)/Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Biopsy Reporting Time — Pathologist to Clinician — Measure 440
Skin Cancer: Biopsy Reporting Time — Pathologist to Clinician ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of biopsies with a diagnosis of cutaneous BCC, SCC, or melanoma (including in situ disease) in which the pathologist communicates results to the clinician within seven days from receipt of the tissue specimen. ... ... MEASURE
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)/Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Biopsy Reporting Time — Pathologist to Clinician — Measure 440
Skin Cancer: Biopsy Reporting Time — Pathologist to Clinician ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of biopsies with a diagnosis of cutaneous BCC, SCC, or melanoma (including in situ disease) in which the pathologist communicates results to the clinician within seven days from receipt of the tissue specimen. ... ... MEASURE
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
Actinic Keratosis: Self-reported AK Treatment or Management Outcomes — QCDR measure AAD 20
Actinic Keratosis: Self-reported AK Treatment or Management Outcomes ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of adult patients (18 years old and older) who self-report favorable outcomes resulting from a recommended treatment or management approach for Actinic Keratosis (AK) and who self-report satisfaction with the treatment or management of AK. Patients provide a global
Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling — Measure 431
Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of adult patients who were screened for unhealthy alcohol use using a systematic screening method at least once within the last 12 months and received brief counseling if identified as an unhealthy alcohol user. ...
Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling — Measure 431
Preventive Care and Screening: Unhealthy Alcohol Use: Screening & Brief Counseling ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of adult patients who were screened for unhealthy alcohol use using a systematic screening method at least once within the last 12 months and received brief counseling if identified as an unhealthy alcohol user. ...
Where do Americans get pricing information for health care services?
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, November 1, 2022 New survey data released this year by Akasa, a health care AI developer, found that Americans most often turn to health insurers for pricing information over other sources, placing new emphasis on the need for price transparency
Are you part of our AAD Clinical Community?
Launched earlier this year, your new online ... AAD Clinical Community is living up to its name and growing into a large, vibrant community! This new member benefit provides AAD members a moderated space to collaborate on clinical cases, advance medical skills and knowledge, and participate in a forum to
Avoidance of Opioid Prescriptions for Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection — QCDR measure AAD 18
Avoidance of Opioid Prescriptions for Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of procedures in patients, aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of skin cancer, who had intermediate layer and/or complex linear closures OR reconstruction after skin cancer resection where opioid/narcotic therapy was prescribed as first
Prior authorization’s impact during COVID-19
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, October 1, 2021 In December 2020, the American Medical Association (AMA) conducted a survey on the effects of prior authorization (PA) on physicians and patients in their care. The survey was administered to a sample of 1,000 practicing physicians, made
Continuation of Anticoagulation Therapy in the Office-based Setting for Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection Procedures — QCDR measure AAD 17
Continuation of Anticoagulation Therapy in the Office-based Setting for Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection Procedures ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of procedures in patients aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of skin cancer, on prescribed anticoagulation therapy, who had intermediate layer and/or complex linear closures OR reconstruction after skin
Avoidance of Post-operative Systemic Antibiotics for Office-based Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection Procedures — QCDR measure AAD16
Avoidance of Post-operative Systemic Antibiotics for Office-based Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection Procedures ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of procedures in patients aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of skin cancer who underwent intermediate layer, complex linear closure, or reconstruction after skin cancer resection in the office-based setting (not
Avoidance of Post-operative Systemic Antibiotics for Office-based Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection Procedures — QCDR measure AAD16
Avoidance of Post-operative Systemic Antibiotics for Office-based Closures and Reconstruction After Skin Cancer Resection Procedures ... DESCRIPTION: Percentage of procedures in patients aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of skin cancer who underwent intermediate layer, complex linear closure, or reconstruction after skin cancer resection in the office-based setting (not
Compounding toolkit
Can you compound or prescribe it? ... Answer a few questions below to determine whether the type of compounding you are performing is in compliance with Food & Drug Administration (FDA) regulations and how to access the drug product if it cannot be compounded in your office. ... Are you
June 22, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 22, 2022 ... Molluscum contagiosum: 35% trichloroacetic acid vs. autoinoculation DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Is it a waste for dermatologists to order fecal calprotectin? Physician experience with virtual scribes
Clinical and therapeutic judgment regarding confluent and reticulated papillomatosis of Gougerot and Carteaud
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Feb. 5, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 5 Congratulations to Aaron Judge for setting the American League seasonal record in 2023 for the most home runs — 62 — a remarkable feat. I was only six years old when Roger Maris* slammed his 61st home
Voluntary repayments: Contractual clawbacks
Legally Speaking ... Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Daniel F. Shay, Esq., November 1, 2020 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Daniel F. Shay, Esq. is a health care attorney
Member benefits
From residency to retirement, you can rely on us for premier educational opportunities, as a hub for innovation in patient care, and for the latest information impacting the specialty. ... Gold standard of education ... Created by dermatologists for dermatologists, our educational resources help you stay up to date on
Member benefits
From residency to retirement, you can rely on us for premier educational opportunities, as a hub for innovation in patient care, and for the latest information impacting the specialty. ... Gold standard of education ... Created by dermatologists for dermatologists, our educational resources help you stay up to date on
Preventive Care and Screening: Tobacco Use: Screening and Cessation Intervention — Measure 226
Preventive Care and Screening: Tobacco Use: Screening and Cessation Intervention ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients aged 12 years and older who were screened for tobacco use one or more times within the measurement period and who received tobacco cessation intervention during the measurement period or in the six months
Preventive Care and Screening: Tobacco Use: Screening and Cessation Intervention — Measure 226
Preventive Care and Screening: Tobacco Use: Screening and Cessation Intervention ... DESCRIPTION: The percentage of patients aged 12 years and older who were screened for tobacco use one or more times within the measurement period and who received tobacco cessation intervention during the measurement period or in the six months
New treatments provide more options for people with alopecia areata
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology ... article highlights new ways to restore hair ROSEMONT, Ill. (Aug. 15, 2023) — A study published today in a supplement of the ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology titled " ... Alopecia: A New Frontier " reveals that a new
New study reveals that some children with common form of eczema should also be tested for allergic reactions
Study author highlights test used to differentiate between two types of eczema ROSEMONT, Ill. (September 26, 2023) — Eczema, which is a group of medical conditions that causes inflamed, irritated, and often itchy skin, affects millions of people worldwide. A new article published in the ... Journal of the American
Keeping abreast of the expanding literature of implant-associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL)
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 6, 2016 Silicone gel implants were removed from the US market in 1992 because of health concerns, only to be reintroduced in 2006, with the provision for increased surveillance of health outcomes (1). I was under the (apparently mistaken) impression that the FDA put
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
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
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
What are keratoacanthomatous lesions of the legs in mature women?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 11, 2017 ... Right thigh, keratoacanthomatous atypical squamous proliferation. (Hematoxylin-eosin stain; original magnification: ×10.) ... Credit: ... JAAD I have an increasing number of patients asking me questions about proliferating keratoacanthoma-like lesions on their shins. "Why am I getting these? Are they cancer? Why
Taking it on the shin: Part one
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 31, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 22 I am intentionally skeptical of medical literature that purports "new" entities. Are they novel and distinct or just minor variations of long-recognized dermatoses? This two-part commentary will focus on two disorders that involve the pretibial region —
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
Adding protothecosis to the protocol
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 23, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 16 As a dermatology resident at the outset of the AIDS epidemic, I quickly learned that all bets are off when diagnosing infectious diseases in immunocompromised hosts. That experience taught me to culture broadly for bacterial, atypical mycobacterial,
Ustekinumab: A topic for atopics?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 9, 2017 Atopic dermatitis patient shows drastic improvement at week 19 of ustekinumab treatment. ... Credit: ... JAAD If you’re like me, you have a cadre of patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD) patients who are counting the minutes for the release of
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
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,
New data to recall when considering radiation recall dermatitis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 30, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 39 I have always been mystified by the diagnosis of radiation recall dermatitis (RRD). RRD was first described in 1959 by D’Angio et al who stated: "Actinomycin D therapy alone can reactivate ‘latent’ radiation effects in normal tissues. For
Metformin mania: Is it an adequate chemopreventive agent for skin cancer?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 31, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 35 Precisely a century ago (in 1922) metformin was synthesized, based on the folk knowledge that the active, but toxic constituent guanidine galegine, (derived from French lilac, ... Galega officinalis ) could treat "sweet urine." Metformin is now
Appealing an audit
Appealing an audit: In a nutshell ... If you disagree with an audit decision, you can discuss it with your recovery audit contractor (RAC), rebut it, and file an appeal ... There are five levels of an appeal ... Make sure that your appeal letters include all the necessary information
Tressed to impress: tips for keeping your mane magnificent
6 tips for healthier looking and feeling hair from a board-certified dermatologist ROSEMONT, Ill. (Aug. 13, 2024) — Hair is as unique as its wearer, making care an important aspect in one’s overall health and wellness routine. From understanding your hair type to learning the best shampooing technique (yes, there
Reporting Quality for MIPS
The tracking of quality measures and the implementation of improvement activities can help to lead to improved outcomes in patient care and care processes. ... Quality measures ... AAD continues to expand the number and type of dermatology-specific measures for reporting to CMS. Access a complete list of MIPS measures
Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: From rupture to rapture?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD February 16, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 7 If there was a statistic for a dermatological diagnostic impact factor, vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) would be at the top. Often undiagnosed until tragedy strikes, astute dermatologists who consider the diagnosis prior to an acute event may
Tennessee legislation increases transparency
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee (R) signed legislation limiting the use of medical specialty titles in advertisements. ... The new state law requires any advertisement for health care services to include the name of a health care practitioner and the type of licensure or profession held. The AADA believes that all
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
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
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
Waiting for Wong
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Oct. 6, 2016 ... The Wong variant of dermatomyositis was originally described by O’Leary during the Eisenhower administration (1953) and named for Wong during Nixon’s tenure (1969). I have been involved with dermatology since Carter’s term in office (1979). Since that time (Reagan,
Membership Committee portal
Welcome to the American Academy of Dermatology’s Membership Committee portal. The portal houses applications and their supporting documentation along with resources to help determine eligibility for membership. ... Applicant Name ... Type ... Category ... Country ... Status ... Review {{application.fullName}} ... {{application.pendingMemberType}} ... {{application.pendingMemberCategory}} ... {{application.businessAddressCountry}} ... {{application.status}} ...
Learning module: Genetic skin diseases
Goals and objectives ... The purpose of this module is to help develop a clinical approach to the evaluation and initial management of patients presenting with genodermatoses. ... By completing this module, the learner will be able to: ... Identify and describe the morphology of skin lesions typical of tuberous
Alleviate the ouch
Experts share best practices and review the latest on safety concerns for anesthesia use in children. ... Feature ... By Heidi Splete, Contributing Writer, May 1, 2024 Use of anesthesia can be tricky in adults, but even trickier in children. The use of local or general anesthesia in pediatric dermatology
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
March
Issue ... March January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... I always knew firefighting was a dangerous occupation What’s hot ... This month’s news from across the specialty Clinical Applications ... Do skin cancer
Malpractice insurance 101
Experts offer advice on navigating malpractice insurance policies. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, February 1, 2025 While medical malpractice suits first regularly appeared in the United States in the 1800s, the frequency of claims has only increased since the 1960s, with lawsuits relatively common today. Medical malpractice
Tuberculosis Screening Prior to First Course Biologic and/or Immune Response Modifier Therapy — Measure 176
Tuberculosis Screening Prior to First Course Biologic and/or Immune Response Modifier Therapy ... DESCRIPTION: If a patient has been newly prescribed a biologic and/or immune response modifier that includes a warning for potential reactivation of a latent infection, then the medical record should indicate TB testing in the preceding 12-month
Tuberculosis Screening Prior to First Course Biologic and/or Immune Response Modifier Therapy — Measure 176
Tuberculosis Screening Prior to First Course Biologic and/or Immune Response Modifier Therapy ... DESCRIPTION: If a patient has been newly prescribed a biologic and/or immune response modifier that includes a warning for potential reactivation of a latent infection, then the medical record should indicate TB testing in the preceding 12-month
Mohs Surgery Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) app
There are many considerations when determining whether to use Mohs surgery for the treatment of skin cancer, such as the cancer type, location, and whether it is new or recurring, as well as the health profile of the patient. ... With the Academy's complimentary Mohs Surgery Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC)
November 18, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / November 18, 2020 ... Hydrogen peroxide and the common wart: Phase 2 results are in DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Granulomatous slack skin — More than one type of mimicry FDA
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%
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
Private payer appeal letter tool
How can I appeal insurance denials? ... Use the tool below to generate letters from automated templates. These letter templates are intended to help dermatologists appeal to private payers when payments are inappropriately reduced. They may be modified to specifically address your circumstances and those of your patients. ... {{
Demand for cosmetic procedures resumes after COVID
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, April 1, 2023 During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many practices paused elective and cosmetic procedures for several weeks, followed by further disruptions due to the ebb and flow in national and regional caseloads. ... The release of new
Ransomware attacks on U.S. health care double
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, February 1, 2024 Ransomware is on the rise. A recent ... JAMA Health Forum study found that the annual number of ransomware attacks on health care organizations more than doubled from 2016 to 2021, exposing the personal health information (PHI)
Melanoma incidence rising, deaths decreasing
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, December 1, 2019 According to data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER), there were an estimated 96,480 new cases of melanoma of the skin in 2019 — making it the fifth most
COVID’s impact on cosmetic procedures
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, April 1, 2022 During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many practices paused elective and cosmetic procedures for several weeks, followed by further disruptions throughout the year due to the ebb and flow in national and regional caseloads. The release
January 30
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / January 30, 2019 ... Dermatologists prescribe fewer antibiotics overall, but use increased with surgery CMS updates Open Payments data What causes allergic responses in patients with atopic dermatitis? YouTube videos about
Medical research funding
Ask the Expert ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, August 1, 2021 DermWorld ... spoke to Jennifer Mangone, JD, manager of congressional policy for the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), about the Academy’s advocacy efforts to support medical research funding. DermWorld: Advocating for medical research funding is a top
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
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... August 1, 2024 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Maureen Offiah, MD, FAAD Several physician groups have recently modified the ... staging and classification of all primary cutaneous lymphomas (PCL). Changes to
AAD membership at a glance
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist, June 1, 2018 Which way are the winds of dermatology blowing? AAD membership data may serve as a bellwether. In 2018, overall membership surpassed 20,000 dermatologists, but beyond hitting the 20K mark, other demographic changes regarding gender and practice type
Transplantation dermatology: Race matters
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 21, 2017 African American man with generalized vitiligo. Medial aspect of foot before (A) and 5 months after (B) melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation procedure. ... Credit: ... JAAD December 3rd, 2017 will mark the 50th anniversary of the first human-to-human heart transplant performed by the late
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
2020 DW Insights and Inquiries archive
Explore ... DermWorld Insights and Inquiries articles by publication date. ... December ... December 23 - 2020 holiday greeting December 16 - We’re in hot water! Vibrio vulnificus infections are heading north December 9 - Much ado about nothing in dermatopathology December 2 - Pigmented onychomatricoma: Avoid getting nailed by
Chanarin-Dorfman syndrome: Shifting out of neutral
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 27, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 34 In nearly all neutrophil, eosinophil and basophil leukocytes and in the monocytes, several clear vacuoles of varying size were observed in the cytoplasm, which after vital staining…revealed a red colour, i.e. contained a fatty substance. The erythrocytes
Lightening the cutaneous and emotional burden of melasma: Cysteamine’s role
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD February 9, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 6 Melasma is a frustrating disorder for patients and practitioners alike. Facial gray-brown patches may cause psychosocial distress and embarrassment, thereby diminishing quality of life. (1) Melasma most frequently occurs in women with Fitzpatrick skin types III-VI with
COVID-19 can nail you in so many ways
By Elizabeth Yim, MD, MPH, FAAD, and John Montgomery Yost, MD, MPH, FAAD July 13, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 28 Dr. Elizabeth Yim and Dr. John M. Yost. ... During these difficult and quite frankly, scary times, we have heard numerous reports of various cutaneous manifestations by the SARS-COV-2 infection
Studying skin aging never gets old: The potential role of oxytocin
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 14, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 41 Every day, dermatologists address patient concerns about their aging skin — whether they are presenting for medical, surgical, or cosmetic problems. Extrinsic factors such as ultraviolet light and smoking resulting in a leathery, coarsely wrinkled appearance are well
Practice types in dermatology
Dermatologists can choose from a diversity of practice types, from independent to group and institutional. Each of these practice types comes with trade-offs between between autonomy and support, benefits and risks. There are also new practice models, meant to improve value and contain costs. Use the AAD resources below to
Key messages in social media about eczema
Key messages ... Eczema refers to a group of conditions that lead to inflamed skin. Signs of inflamed skin include a rash, itchiness, and excessive dryness. (1) ... There are several types of eczema. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type. ... Eczema is a complex condition. Your genes, immune
What's hot?
What's hot ... February 26, 2019 In this monthly column, members of the ... Dermatology World Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD ... Isn’t it interesting how some common warts that we treat seem to go away almost instantly but others persist
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
Atrophic tinea versicolor: Knowledge about its pathogenesis is hypertrophying
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 12, 2017 In the entry "Atrophic Tinea Versicolor: More Than a Mirage" (April 22, 2016), I learned that the atrophic appearance of some cases of tinea versicolor is not just an optical illusion. The case of a 35-year-old man with depressed brown lesions on
4 cradle cap tips from dermatologists
Tips from board-certified dermatologists ROSEMONT, Ill. (August 18, 2022) — Bringing home a new baby is a joyous time for any parent. For first time parents, bringing home a new baby can unlock a wide range of emotions—from excitement to nervousness. As you adjust to parenthood, you’ll notice that your
AAD's guidance on resources related to workplace violence
Unfortunately, violence in the workplace has become more common in health care and incidences are slowly rising. Has someone at your dermatology practice ever experienced any type of violence at work? Is your practice equipped or prepared to handle violence, if it were to occur? Dermatologists are not always trained
How to prevent keloid scars
Board-certified dermatologist shares tips to reduce your risk ROSEMONT, Ill. (Dec. 6, 2023) — Keloids are a type of raised scar that can occur after an injury, and over time they can grow much larger than the wound itself. Although keloids are not dangerous to a person’s health, they can
The retiring type?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 23, 2017 "Tell me, Dr. Heymann, when do you plan to retire?" ... Patients seem to ask me that every day. ... My usual response: "Why do you ask, do I look that bad?" ... "No, you look pretty good for your age." (According
RAC audits: Target areas
This page has quick tips, facts, and links for you to keep on hand so that you can stay on top of the audit game. ... Where a RAC will catch you ... It goes without saying that you must be careful about many procedures when you’re a physician. However,
A dermatologic riddle: How is IgG4-related ophthalmic disease parliamentary?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 22, 2017 Immunostains of infiltrate. A, Immunostain shows an infiltrate rich in IgG4+ plasma cells. The infiltrate had an IgG4+ cell count of 80 per HPF and an IgG4+/IgG+ ratio of 80%. B, IgG immunostain shown for comparison. (A and B, original magnifications:
Granulomatous slack skin: More than one type of mimicry
By Warren R. Heymann, MD November 18, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 46 My chief resident presented a case to me enamored with his clinical diagnosis of granulomatous slack skin (GSS). Although I was delighted that he considered the disorder, I explained why I thought these inguinal and submammary pink-white subtly
CMS Targeted Probe and Educate (TPE) reviews are now in full swing
What is a Targeted Probe and Educate program? ... A Targeted Probe and Educate (TPE) program is a claim review process utilized by the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MACs) designed to help dermatologists reduce claim and billing denials as well as appeals through "one-on-one" corrective action assistance and is overseen by
My fair-weather therapeutic friends for alopecia areata
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 25, 2017 Type C clinical pattern of alopecia. A, Patchy hair loss on a background of a diffuse hair loss with (B) occipital involvement in an ophiasis-like pattern. C, Biopsy specimen obtained from the vertex of the scalp. Histopathology of vertical sections shows an
Dermatology resident develops face masks from recycled medical supplies
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... DermWorld Weekly talks with Aditi Sharma, MD, a third-year resident in the department of dermatology at the University of California, Irvine, about how she produced a new type of protective face mask made from recycled
Contract reimbursement review
When deciding whether to sign a contract with a payer, reimbursement is one of the most important considerations. Adequate reimbursement is critical to the viability of your practice. Therefore, be sure to review contract language on reimbursement carefully. ... Aspects of reimbursement are often negotiable, though the extent to which
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
Types of audits
RAC audits: In a nutshell ... There are four different types of Medicare contractors that are responsible for auditing records, claims, and payments. ... You need to notify your MAC if you notice errors during a self-audit. ... It doesn’t matter whether you are being audited for the first time
Are teens tanning less?
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Signs point to progress, but work remains ... Signs point to progress, but work remains ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer It appears that fewer teens are indoor tanning in recent years, but the data are sparse. Regulations
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. ...
CBD: Potential or placebo?
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Potential applications and concerns regarding the use of cannabinoids in dermatology ... Potential applications and concerns regarding the use of cannabinoids in dermatology ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor This recent Mother’s Day holiday, shoppers may have observed
Giving a NOD2 to Yao syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 5, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 9 The 21 ... st ... century has witnessed an expanding array of systemic autoinflammatory disorders (SAIDs) due to innate immunity dysfunction. SAIDs are characterized by recurrent attacks of fever, cutaneous signs, chest or abdominal pain, lymphadenopathy, vasculopathy,
Dupilumab: The first year
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Jan. 8, 2018 A patient with severe atopic dermatitis has benefited from dupilumab. ... Credit: Warren R Heymann ... When introduced as dermatologist to a new acquaintance, I’m sure you have heard: "Dermatology is a great field — you don’t cure anybody, so
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
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
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
Coming to grips with lymphocytic thrombophilic arteritis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 18, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 20 As a medical student, I was introduced to the concept that bilaterally symmetrical palpable purpura is leukocytoclastic vasculitis until proven otherwise. Although that bromide has served me well over the years, with experience, vasculitis perpetually befuddles me.
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
How and when to report prolonged services
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, September 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Coding Consult articles . Prolonged services in dermatology are often necessary
January 11, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 11, 2023 ... Antihistamines as adjunct therapy for alopecia areata DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Acquisition and loss — A tribute to Jouni Uitto, MD, PhD Lidocaine shortage: Ask the
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
October 25, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 25, 2023 ... Efficacy of berdazimer gel for molluscum contagiosum clearance DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : A permanent addition to the list of transient neonatal dermatoses — Transient abdominal telangiectasia
Paraneoplastic Sarcoidosis? A Proposal to Revise and Rename the “Sarcoidosis-Lymphoma Syndrome”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 18, 2018 ... A 45-year-old woman with cutaneous sarcoidosis at (A) baseline before treatment and (B) with koebnerization after BBLT (560 nm filter at 20 J/cm2, pulse width 30 msec, 20°C cooling, 7-mm square spot size, repetition rate 10 Hz). ... Credit: ... JAAD
AAD is fighting to mitigate Medicare cuts
Medicare physician payment is facing a crisis. Over the last 20 years, payment updates have not kept pace with rising costs, and when accounting for inflation, physicians have seen a greater than 20% decrease in payments over this period. Additionally, physicians face the threat of additional cuts in 2024 unless
Turning our attention to melanoma risk in Turner syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 2, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 26 "…at the endocrine clinic and in private practice, I had seen a few young girls who had not matured, and they were short in stature and they had short necks with a low hair line and increased
Happy 95th birthday, Mom! A Birthday vish in the Era of “Value-based” healthcare
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... June 5, 2016 ... I am blessed that my mother is in reasonable health with a keen intellect. She’s a prolific reader, politically engaged, and still independent in mind, body, and spirit. ... She has fought medical ageism on several occasions. At age 88,
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
May 6, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 6, 2020 ... What dermatologic hazards are COVID-19 health care workers facing? DW Insights and Inquiries: Working up pernio — How far should you dip your toe in the water?
Patient as pawn
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... With the introduction of the 'copay accumulator,' the battle between insurers and drug makers has escalated. Meanwhile, patients pay the price ... With the introduction of the 'copay accumulator,' the battle between insurers and drug makers has escalated.
May 21, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 21, 2025 ... Factors associated with relapse after isotretinoin treatment DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Fixating on doxycycline-induced fixed drug eruptions Can tattoos increase risk of skin cancer? Methotrexate gel
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
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
October 14, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 14, 2020 ... OTC scar treatments: What does the evidence say about efficacy? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Studying skin aging never gets old — The potential role of oxytocin
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
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
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,
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... February 1, 2025 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MS, MPH, FAAD The Nation’s Health by the American Public Health Association published a ... special report on improving health
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 rosy reality of coffee
Ronnie and me enjoying our rosacea prevention tour of Madrid in 2012 ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 5, 2018 To paraphrase Justice Kavanaugh, I loved coffee. I still love coffee. I have probably been drinking coffee since my time in utero. My mother was a coffee addict; she
Getting the GIST cutaneous hyperpigmentation disease
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 6, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 35 Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are mesenchymal malignancies arising from the interstitial cells of Cajal (cells that create bioelectrical slow wave potential, leading to smooth muscle contraction, thereby aiding peristalsis). GISTs were initially recognized by identification of KIT (CD117)
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
Impact Report — Spring 2022
At the Academy, our number one priority is to support you, our members. We know that your practices are always evolving, and that the health care landscape is consistently changing. We are here for you to help weather those changes. ... In this edition of the ... Impact Report ,
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.
How should I prepare for a CLIA inspection?
CLIA inspections are performed every two years if you are in a moderate- or high-complexity lab. The top 10 deficiencies found in CLIA inspections among all labs over the past several years have been: ... Director qualifications ... Test reports missing ... General systems/written policies incomplete ... Director not following
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
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.
The not-so-full body skin examination
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 16, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 15 It is not my imagination. With every passing year, an increasing number of new patients schedule an appointment for a full (or total) body skin examination (FBSE, TBSE) to be checked (or, as some patients say, "scanned")
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)
Scar solutions
Experts discuss current approaches to scar management. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, January 1, 2025 Every scar has a story. However, for millions of people worldwide, scars may negatively impact their quality of life, causing psychological distress along with physical discomfort. ... While therapeutic approaches to treat
The mysteries of malakoplakia
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 24, 2017 A, Dermal nodule with confluent sheets of histiocytes containing abundant granular amphophilic cytoplasm (arrows) admixed with an inflammatory infiltrate and scattered collection of neutrophils. B, Histiocytic inclusions staining positively for calcium on a von Kossa stain. These findings were consistent with malakoplakia.
Coding and documentation for hyperhidrosis
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, November 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Clear and concise documentation is essential
Systemic amyloidosis presenting as nail dystrophy (and inducing onychophagia in the reviewer)
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 20, 2016 I admit it — I am plagued with onychophagia (nail biting). It is a life-long habit, and now that I’m 61, I presume that this foible will remain with me to the end. It is worse with anxiety — after reviewing the
Dermatologists warn people about the reliability of online symptom checkers
Research shows that online symptom checkers inaccurately diagnose skin rashes ROSEMONT, Ill. (October 12, 2022) — Thanks to the internet, we have the world at our fingertips, and with just a few clicks, we can easily enter our medical symptoms into websites and apps to self-diagnose illnesses. However, a new
1984: Dermatologically revisited
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 22, 2018 George Orwell published ... Nineteen Eighty-Four in 1949. I started my dermatopathology fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in 1984. I decided to review ... Archives of Dermatology (now ... JAMA Dermatology ), looking back 34 years to see how the dermatologic
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
Quality Resources Provided by the AAD
Quality Measures ... AAD continues to develop ... dermatology-specific measures available to dermatologists . Dermatology measures are needed to meet CMS reporting requirements, can be used to drive quality improvement, and may be required by additional organizations. ... Learn more about quality measures available for reporting, a ... measure selection
November 17, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 17, 2021 ... Intralesional acyclovir for cutaneous warts DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Biotin supplementation for hair and nail health — Does it pass the test? DermWorld Young Physician Focus
MIPS Highlights for 2021
CMS announces automatic exemption for MIPS 2020 performance period & extended deadline for COVID relief ... In response to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, CMS recently announced that it will apply an automatic extreme and uncontrollable circumstance (EUC) policy for all eligible clinicians for the MIPS program for the
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
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
Striae due to bartonella is a stretch
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 1, 2018 ... A, Localized striae distensae on the left upper limb (flexor aspect). B, Clinical improvement 9 weeks after treatment. ... Credit: ... JAAD I met a woman in her early 20’s who is being treated for chronic Lyme disease and Bartonella infections
November 12, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 12, 2025 ... Efficacy of OTC androgenetic alopecia therapies vs. FDA-approved monotherapies DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : JAK inhibitors battle in the heavyweight class Is there increased psoriasis risk in
Audit process
RAC audits: In a nutshell ... There are three methods of RAC auditing: automated review, semi-automated review, and complex review. ... The RAC will send a letter to inform you that they have found an overpayment and are requesting payment refund. ... There’s nothing like getting a paycheck, and then
Dupilumab’s conjunctivitis conundrum
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 11, 2018 Having worn glasses since kindergarten, and being virtually helpless without them, I am particularly sympathetic to patients with eye disorders. ... Ocular disease in atopic dermatitis (AD) may manifest in a variety of ways. Conjunctivitis, a predisposition to keratoconus, and anterior subcapsular
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
The H syndrome – Understanding Y
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 15, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 15 It has been more than a decade since the H syndrome was described by Molho-Pessach et al, in their report of 10 patients from 6 Arab consanguineous families. (1) More than 100 cases have now been reported worldwide.
October 30, 2019
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 30, 2019 ... Potential treatment for chronic urticaria may offer complete control DW Insights and Inquiries: Can chowing down improve pseudoxanthoma elasticum? Advances in medical technology: friend or foe? Do
April 23, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 23, 2025 ... Recommendations for the use of topical, oral minoxidil DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Adding protothecosis to the protocol FDA approves dupilumab for chronic spontaneous urticaria Long-term effectiveness
Prolactin and its role in stress-induced psoriasis: Milking the data
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 18, 2018 Patients will readily acknowledge that stress worsens their psoriasis. When asked how this happens, I respond by mentioning the "mind-body connection" using the term "psychoneuroimmunology;" patients nod in agreement, feigning understanding; appropriately so, because frankly, I don’t understand it either. ... The
Old stains leaving new marks in dermatology
... By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 15, 2018 A new blue-gray papule was noted on the left side of the neck and was excised as outlined by gentian violet surgical marker. ... Credit: ... JAAD Periodically I will pull an ancient tie from my rack. I’m delighted if
Viva ex vivo dermoscopy?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 12, 2017 Evaluation of dermoscopic features on a formalin-fixed specimen (ex vivo dermoscopy) using a smartphone attached to a dermoscope. ... Credit: ... JAAD It has been said that the best "special stain" is a deeper section — wise words indeed. While always gratifying
OIG Report Finds MA Claim Denials Are Rarely Appealed
A common complaint we hear from our members concerns Medicare Advantage (MA) claim denials, with or without a preauthorization. This same issue has been addressed in a recent report "Medicare Advantage Appeal Outcomes and Audit Findings Raise Concerns about Service and Payment Denials" from the Office of Inspector General’s (OIG’s),
Protecting patient privacy
DermWorld offers six key tips for cultivating habits to improve cybersecurity in your practice. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, February 1, 2024 Viruses, infections, safety plans: these days health care workers not only use these words to discuss patient wellness but also to protect patient privacy. Protected
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,
Living with LCDs
By Alexander Miller, MD, FAAD, June 1, 2016 ... Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) exist for the purpose of defining coverage, billing, and documentation criteria for a variety of defined diagnoses or procedures. You most likely know that they exist, and you try to adhere to their
Becoming “sensitized” to the clinical utility of the term “urticarial dermatitis” (a subtype of the dermal hypersensitivity reaction pattern)
By David A. Wetter, MD, FAAD April 2, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 13 I suspect many of us have been confounded when confronted with a patient presenting with cutaneous findings suggestive of a "dermal hypersensitivity reaction." What is the cause? How should it be evaluated and treated? What do we
How can functionality assessments help determine appropriate treatment for NMSCs in elderly 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, September 1, 2020 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Michael Renzi, MD, and Naomi
August 21
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / August 21, 2019 ... FDA grants breakthrough therapy designation to advanced melanoma treatment DW Insights and Inquiries : Rejecting preconceived notions of squamous cell carcinomas in patients experiencing transplant rejections Quality
March 6, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 6, 2024 ... Benzyl benzoate vs. permethrin in treating scabies DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Hemochromatosis — Beyond 50 shades of gray Oral acitretin plus topical triamcinolone vs. topical triamcinolone
Something from nothing: The role of random skin biopsies
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 22, 2017 There are a few reports suggesting the usefulness of the random or blind skin biopsy from normal-appearing skin for diagnosis of intravascular lymphoma. Punch biopsy results from the abdomen. A, Intravascular large lymphoid cells. B, CD20+ tumor cells. (A, Hematoxylin-eosin stain; B,
MIPS 2022 program highlights
Eligible clinicians ... Revised the definition of a MIPS eligible clinician to include: ... Clinical social workers ... Certified nurse mid-wives ... Eligibility criteria ... The low volume threshold remains the same as 2021 and includes three aspects of covered professional services: ... Allowed charges ... Number of Medicare patients
Asking psoriasis patients to open their mouths and say “Ahhh”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 5, 2018 Classification based on the pattern of tongue fissures. A, Central longitudinal pattern. B, Central transverse pattern. C, Lateral longitudinal pattern. D, Branching pattern. E, Diffuse pattern. ... Credit: ... JAAD A thorough cutaneous examination includes the hair, nails, and mucous membranes (lips,
Coding and reimbursement for teledermatology
Telehealth flexibilities extended through Dec. 31, 2027 ... CMS will continue reimbursing eligible Medicare clinicians for covered telehealth services through Dec. 31, 2027. These flexibilities apply retroactively, as though there had been no interruption. ... Originating site/geographic location and audio-only ... Patients may receive telehealth services anywhere in the U.S.
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
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).
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.
Side gig
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... What can physicians do in addition to clinical services, and how do you get started? ... What can physicians do in addition to clinical services, and how do you get started? ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor While
What's hot?
What's hot ... June 28, 2018 In this monthly column, members of the ... Dermatology World Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD ... "SPF 30 or higher" is the classic, impulse response that we often give when asked about sunscreen recommendations. However,
Lipodystrophia semicircularis: A lipoatrophy not to get depressed about
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Nov. 2, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 44 A colleague asked me if I could evaluate his 26-year-old daughter while she was briefly on break from her graduate studies in Barcelona. He was concerned that she had developed lipodystrophy. Of course, I agreed, without his
Nonepidemic Kaposi sarcoma: The fifth dimension
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 16, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 32 ... For more than a century, since first described in 1872 by Moritz Kaposi* as "idiopathic multiple pigmented sarcoma," dermatologists focused on classical Kaposi sarcoma (KS) — violaceous patches, plaques, and tumors on the lower extremities of
June 8, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 8, 2022 ... The administrative burden of prescribing isotretinoin DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Sweating over acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis AADA counters IPMG objections to iPLEDGE improvements Actinic keratosis guidelines
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
Pediatric melanoma: A wolf in sheep’s clothing
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Sept. 27, 2016 ... Despite its rarity, the incidence of pediatric melanoma (PM) has been increasing. Every practicing dermatologist, past or present, has been humbled or fooled by the clinical appearance of melanomas, examples being amelanotic or desmoplastic variants. ... The A (asymmetry),
Becker’s nevus: Mutations that shoulder responsibility
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 31, 2017 Systematized, bilateral Becker nevus with hypoplasia of left areola in 19-year-old man (Courtesy of Dr Carlos de la Torre, Pontevedra, Spain). ... Credit: ... JAAD My wife insisted I take a break from studying for the dermatology boards. ... "Warren, give it
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... December 1, 2023 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Bryan Carroll, MD, PhD, FAAD Our surgical prep may benefit non-surgical elderly patients. A study of extended bacterial decolonization in 28,956 nursing home
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... July 1, 2022 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD, FAAD Social media can be a very useful tool for practices to grow their practice population, and has become 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.
More than just poison ivy...
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Identification and treatment of hazardous plant exposures ... Identification and treatment of hazardous plant exposures ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist For most, knowledge of hazardous plants is limited to the phrase, “leaves of three, leave them be.”
Twenty years of imiquimod taking its toll on lentigo maligna — Where are we?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD February 12, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 6 Although Y2K never amounted to much, a solitary case report that year changed the dynamic in treating a vexing problem — melanoma in situ of the lentigo maligna (LM) subtype. Ahmed and Berth Jones reported treating an 88-year
June 2, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 2, 2021 ... Acne and enthesitis: Is there an association? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Touching on contact pemphigus and pemphigus-like eruptions due to imiquimod Derm Coding Consult : Applying
Responding to a breach
HIPAA requires security measures primarily to prevent breaches of protected health information (PHI). A breach is the theft, loss, or unauthorized access of PHI. When clinicians breach PHI, the law requires notification of both patients and HHS. ... What causes breaches ... Most breaches are caused by human error and
Negotiating fee schedules
When negotiating with private payers, knowing your worth can pay off. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, November 1, 2020 If you think medical school and residency were difficult, wait until you try to negotiate a higher fee schedule with a payer. ... "My experience has been that,
Navigating drug shortages and more: Strategies and solutions
Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, February 1, 2024 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff explains how to navigate drugs shortages and more. Prescription drug shortages are a persistent and complex challenge across dermatology. What is the
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... January 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 (MIS) has risen sharply in the U.S., surpassing invasive melanoma in 2025 ( ...
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
Voluntary repayments and false claims liability
Legally Speaking ... Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Daniel F. Shay, Esq., March 1, 2026 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney
Shocking news: Heat shock protein inhibition finally enters the realm of dermatologic therapy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 23, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 43 Heat shock proteins (HSP) were serendipitously discovered by the brilliant Professor Ferruccio Ritossa in 1962 while studying nucleic acid synthesis in chromosomal puffs of ... Drosophila salivary glands. De Maio states, "Ritossa noticed something unexpected when cells
Checking in on immune checkpoint inhibitors
Immune checkpoint inhibitors offer hope for non-melanoma skin cancer patients ... Feature ... By Heidi Splete, Contributing Writer, July 1, 2022 Patients with advanced non-melanoma skin cancer see new hope on the horizon, thanks to recent developments in the number and effectiveness of new drugs to improve survival. ... "Patients
JAK inhibitors battle in the heavyweight class
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Nov. 12, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 45 Editor’s Note: A modified version of this commentary appeared as "A Clinician’s Perspective" in JAAD ... . JAK inhibitors (JAKi) have catapulted to such prominence in dermatologic therapeutics that I could write a weekly commentary about them.
Do not take a pass on the PAS stain
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 7, 2016 My threshold for obtaining a Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) on inflammatory lesions rivals the opinion of most Americans’ opinion of tomorrow’s election as reported in the New York Times — very low. ... When I read the article by Elbendary et al I
COVID rules of the road
What do dermatologists need to know about new practice regulations — and how have they adapted? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, February 1, 2022 As the COVID-19 pandemic passes the two-year mark, lawmakers have begun proposing new regulations to promote public health and safety, giving shape to
The ACA: 10 years later...during a pandemic
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... It survived for a decade, but will it survive another 10 years after COVID-19? ... It survived for a decade, but will it survive another 10 years after COVID-19? ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer On its 10
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. ...
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
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
Avoid the opioid
Experts offer advice on effective pain management in dermatology. ... Feature ... By Heidi Splete, Contributing Writer, May 1, 2026 Many dermatoses and dermatologic procedures are painful, but consensus on pain management in dermatology is limited, and complicated not only by the individual and varied experience of pain, but also
A burning question: Should patients receive the zoster vaccine after an episode of shingles?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 26, 2016 The question as to whether a patient should receive the vaccine after having had herpes zoster (HZ) has been asked since the initial release of the vaccine. There has been remarkably little data to help guide the clinician. ... The importance of
Coming clean on bleach baths for atopic dermatitis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 23, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 33 ... Bleach baths have become popularized over the past decade in managing atopic dermatitis (AD). I have been a strong proponent, often telling patients (and their parents) that the procedure would help decolonize the skin and prevent
These codes are no secret
The Academy’s ... DermWorld is committed to developing robust resources to help you navigate your practice and patient care. ... In recognition of the high-quality content that’s a must-read for the specialty, ... DermWorld received awards from four different organizations in five categories this year, including: ... Folio – Folio
Diminishing diagnostic cognitive bias: Anchors away
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 27, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 39 We have all been there, probably daily. You’re an hour behind schedule, and the patient in front of you has a laundry list of complaints demanding that you address them. You shift to autopilot, using your keen
The billing company relationship: A most significant ‘other’
Legally Speaking ... Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., July 1, 2025 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield
Keeping up is hard to do: The need for true grit
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 5, 2017 One of the daunting challenges in practicing dermatology (or any branch of medicine) is keeping abreast of advances in the literature to optimize patient care. As a clinician-educator, I have always had an interest in how we learn best. For full disclosure,
Elmer Fudd beware: Tularemia’s re-emergence
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 24, 2018 Ulcer on left thumb of patient with ulceroglandular tularemia. ... Credit: ... JAAD Practicing dermatology is humbling business. I tip my hat to Polat et al, who diagnosed tularemia in an 11 year-old girl presenting with targetoid papules and plaques of her
March 10, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 10, 2021 ... Periungual warts: Is intralesional antigen immunotherapy effective? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: A shot in the dark How does baricitinib fare in alopecia areata? Do calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy
March 10, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 10, 2021 ... Periungual warts: Is intralesional antigen immunotherapy effective? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: A shot in the dark How does baricitinib fare in alopecia areata? Do calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy
The ultimate prognosis of eosinophilic fasciitis may not be groovy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 18, 2017 Presentation in March 2017 with diffuse hyperpigmented sclerodermoid lesions of the bilateral upper extremities with palpable fasciitis and tightening of the distal forearm muscles. ... Credit: ... JAAD My patients with eosinophilic fasciitis (EF, Shulman syndrome) have been fortunate. They have been
AADA Congressional Advocacy Agenda
The American Academy of Dermatology Association advocates on issues and prioritizes work on those that are most pressing and impactful for our membership. ... 2026 Sole Federal Congressional Advocacy Priority: Protecting Medicare Access to Physicians. ... To establish a positive annual inflation adjustment. ... To replace or eliminate budget neutrality
My Green Doctor to add environmental sustainability to your offices
The Academy is pleased to offer a valuable membership benefit: ... My Green Doctor . This free program shows how to add environmental sustainability to your offices. It requires adding only five minutes of Green Team to each staff meeting. You will save money — as much as $2000 per
Examining the monograph
Dissecting the FDA’s proposed rule on the over-the-counter sunscreen monograph and what dermatologists might expect in the coming years. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor, November 1, 2020 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been regulating sunscreen since the beginning of the monograph system in
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
No longer flailing with Flegel disease
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 19, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 16 I was a toddler in 1958 when Heinz Flegel described ... hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (HLP) a 50-year-old man with persistent lesions on his dorsal feet and lower extremities. (1) In the ensuing decades, other than the clinical
Intermediate and complex repair
Use the Academy’s intermediate and complex repair (ICR) tool to find the proper code and ease reimbursement. Coding guidance for two integumentary system repair procedures provides a clear distinction between intermediate and complex repair classifications. The guidelines require dermatologists to capture relevant distinctions within their documentation when performing intermediate and
Eruptive nevi: Trying to connect the dots
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 15, 2016 Eruptive nevi are striking — they may appear after a variety of disorders, including Stevens-Johnson/toxic epidermal necrolysis, primary blistering diseases, trauma, immunosuppression (from disease or iatrogenically-induced), PUVA therapy, or idiopathically. There are also several reports in the literature for eruptive Spitz nevi
September 10, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 10, 2025 ... Most effective monotherapy for androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Twenty-first century pellagra Is there an association between JAKis and malignancy risk in alopecia areata? PRP
Preparing for a successful HIPAA audit
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, 2019 Typically, when the word audit’ comes up, it brings feelings of anxiety and fear. However, it
My diagnostic blind spot: Erythema elevatum diutinum
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 15, 2018 Erythema elevatum diutinum depicted by erythematous-to-violaceous papules and plaques affecting the extensor surfaces of the patient's arms, legs, and buttocks. ... Credit: ... JAAD I’m certain that every dermatologist — myself included — has a diagnostic blind spot. I came to this
Vasculitis on the run
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 10, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 28 I am not a runner, but I live vicariously through my residents who are. This weekend, our first-year resident, Erika Tvedten, will run the Philadelphia marathon for the first time. I have been intrigued (and impressed!) by
Skin cancer snapshot: National rates fall, men remain vulnerable
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, May 1, 2020 The results of the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) 2020 projections are in. Each year, the ACS estimates the number of new cancer cases and deaths in the United States by compiling the most recent data on population-based
Tips for avoiding fraud and abuse liability – Part II
Legally Speaking ... By Christina A. Hughes, JD, MPH, Megan La Suer, JD, MHA, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, February 1, 2022 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s authors are health care attorneys with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville in Washington, D.C. Portman
A medal-worthy diagnosis: Medallion-like dermal dendrocyte hamartoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 30, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 35 A personal joy of dermatology is rendering a diagnosis in a lesion or rash that I have only read about but never previously encountered in practice. Beyond being intellectually satisfying, having a precise diagnosis is reassuring, as
2023 skin cancer projections: Amid a decreasing caseload, deaths creep higher
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor , September 1, 2023 The latest data from the American Cancer Society (ACS) are in — and offer new insight into the impact of skin cancer on U.S. public health. Each year, the ACS estimates the number of new cancer
Preventive Care and Screening: Screening for High Blood Pressure and Follow-Up Documented — Measure 317
Preventive Care and Screening: Screening for High Blood Pressure and Follow-Up Documented ... Measure calculation example ... Dr. Taylor saw 221 adult patients during the reporting period. Three patients are excluded from the denominator because they have an active diagnosis of hypertension. After the exclusion, the denominator is 218. ...
What's hot?
What's hot ... March 28, 2019 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 title says it all: ... Lack of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration indication should not
AAD builds strong relationships with dermatologist social media influencers
Part of the Your Dermatologist Knows strategy involves collaborating with social media influencers to help spread the Academy’s message beyond the reaches of AAD social media accounts. The Academy engaged in a series of influencer engagement activities in 2023 to help build and maintain those important relationships. ... At the
AAD Licensing program
High quality content that can't be found elsewhere ... An unbiased source of scientifically accurate, reliable and up-to-date content from respected experts in the dermatology field, as well as clinical and market data representing 93% of all U.S. dermatologists. ... Need the AAD's expertise? No problem. ... Launch your dermatological
Emergency supply drive for front line COVID-19 workers
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... ... Dermatology World Weekly talked to Ronda Farah, MD, assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, about her efforts to collect emergency supplies for front line workers.
Support the AAD Teledermatology Program
Throughout the U.S., there are many underserved areas where primary care physicians do not have easy access to dermatologists. Through the ... AAD Teledermatology Program , these physicians can easily consult with volunteer dermatologists and better serve patients in need. As more clinics sign up and physicians become trained to
The appeal of molecular medicine for the peeling skin syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 17, 2018 A, After soaking his foot in warm water for 30 minutes, the patient could peel superficial layers of skin. B, After the peeling, erythematous base is revealed. C, Healed area with slight thickening and pigmentation. ... Credit: ... JAAD This may not
A string of (clinical) pearls about drug-induced linear IgA disease
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 6, 2018 Linear IgA dermatosis patient with urticarial eruption of the trunk. ... Credit: ... JAAD The late sage Wallace Clark taught me that once a diagnosis is secured, thinking ceases. Admittedly in cases of drug-induced linear IgA dermatosis (DI-LAD) that I have encountered
Research suggests connection between hair loss in women and other diseases
Board-certified dermatologist discusses common types of hair loss seen in women with darker skin tones NEW ORLEANS (March 17, 2023) — Hair loss in women can be emotionally devastating and may negatively impact quality of life, and new research suggests that it can also be associated with having other common
Social media skin care trends: Dermatologists reveal the facts
Board-certified dermatologists provide tips for healthy skin ROSEMONT, Ill. (Oct. 29, 2024) — With the growing popularity of beauty influencers and viral skin care routines, social media is playing an integral role in shaping how people care for their skin. Popular trends like the glass-skin look, the Russian manicure, and
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
July 21, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 21, 2021 ... AADA secures iPLEDGE win DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Getting to the heart of neonatal lupus erythematosus DermWorld Young Physician Focus : Advancing the cause Cutaneous reactions
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,"
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
New pitfalls in the diagnosis of Kaposi sarcoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 16, 2016 Human Herpes Virus-8 (HHV-8) is the common denominator in all forms of Kaposi sarcoma (KS) — classic, endemic, post-transplant/immunosuppressive, and epidemic/HIV. Virtually all cases will demonstrate HHV-8 by immunohistochemistry in all types. ... Manuraj et al present the instructive case of a
Claim CME and view transcript
Use the American Academy of Dermatology's (AAD) online Continuing Professional Development Transcript (CPD) Program to document your CME to send to a licensing body. This service is a member benefit at no additional fee.* ... With the CPD Transcript Program you can: ... Access and review ... AMA PRA Category
CMS announces new Place of Service code for telehealth services provided to patients in their homes
CMS has announced a new Place of Service code, POS 10, for use in reporting telehealth services provided to patients who are in their own homes. Additionally, CMS has revised POS 02 for reporting telehealth services provided to patients not located in their own homes. ... Place of Service 02
Educating our public — Educating patients through social media
Your patients are all over social media, and every day we educate nearly 300,000 individuals (and counting) on our @AADskin Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram platforms. ... Your patients = our followers ... Your patients are all over social media, and every day we educate nearly 300,000 individuals (and counting) on
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
Antihypertensive agents and eczema: New data for older patients
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 12, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 10 "Anyone who recalls the 1971 Loving Care commercial exclaiming, ‘You’re not getting older. You’re getting better!’ is getting older. America is graying — in 2019, people older than 65 years accounted for 16% of the population; in
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
June 17, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 17, 2020 ... Treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic? Here’s how to minimize your malpractice liability risk. DW Insights and Inquiries : Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation —
For the win! Championing the use of the term “reactive granulomatous dermatitis” in clinical practice
By David A. Wetter, MD, FAAD March 8, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 10 Growing up in the 1980s in suburban St. Louis, Missouri, I spent many evenings listening to Cardinals’ baseball on the local AM radio station, KMOX 1120. After the final out of each Cardinals’ victory, the late Hall-of-Fame
Skin and hair legislation: What’s happening?
Experts offer a primer on what dermatologists should keep their eyes on. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, February 1, 2023 On the heels of the start of the 118th U.S. Congress — which marks the first Republican House-Democratic Senate split in a decade — lawmakers and federal
Casting a wider net
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Will a new health care option for veterans expand access to dermatologic care? ... Will a new health care option for veterans expand access to dermatologic care? ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor The U.S. Department of Veterans
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
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)
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
Support Skin Cancer Screenings
The AAD's ... SPOT Skin Cancer™ initiative is leading the fight against skin cancer. Your support helps reduce the incidence of skin cancer and saves lives by building shade structures, providing free skin cancer checks, and educating the public on the importance of skin cancer detection and prevention. ...
Slivers of skin may diagnose silver hair syndromes
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 7, 2019 As my hair gets progressively grayer trying to keep up with molecular advances in dermatology, it is refreshing to read how simple tests may help distinguish the rare silver hair syndromes (SHS): Chediak-Higashi (CHS) and Griscelli (GS). ... CHS is an autosomal
CXCR4 antagonist therapy based on a WHIM syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 12, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 24 Emelio* had a delightfully whimsical personality that matched his syndrome’s acronym — WHIM ( ... W arts, ... H ypogammaglobulinemia, ... I nfections, and ... M yelokathexis). His smile was as infectious as his verrucae, and he
What's coming down the psoriasis pipeline?
Experts break down emerging treatment options and what they can offer patients and physicians ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, August 1, 2021 While a permanent, perfect solution for psoriasis remains elusive, treatment advances over the past decade have helped dermatologists and their patients get one step closer
Dermatology at a 'disadvantage'
Enrollment in Medicare Advantage continues to grow. What does it mean for you and your patients? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, December 1, 2024 Over 67 million people in the United States receive health care coverage through Medicare. ... However, a growing number have begun to defect
Cocaine-associated plasma cell orificial mucositis: Anything goes
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, April 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 4 Dermatologists will never be bored by cocaine. The mucocutaneous manifestations are so vast that one can almost say that "anything goes," but there are clinical scenarios where clinicians should suspect cocaine use
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. ...
Academy CME opportunities abound
The alopecia frontier is open! In our last issue, we let you know that the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) published a new CME supplement, " ... Alopecia: A New Frontier, " that can help you differentiate between the various types of alopecia and identify correct treatments
Using time to select the level for E/M services
Using time to determine the level of service: In a nutshell ... The level of service can be selected based on total time spent by the dermatologist or other qualified non-physician clinician on the date of the encounter. ... Time spent by clinical staff is not included in calculation of
Pseudomolluscoid papules: A more accurate description than pseudoverrucous papules
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 28, 2016 When patients ask me how I made their diagnosis so quickly, I politely tell them that if any particular lesion takes more than 25 milliseconds to diagnose, they really do have a problem. ... Today I saw a patient that made me
Impact Report — Winter 2022
With the support of members like you, we are stepping up to meet the challenges of the specialty together. Even COVID-19 has not stopped us from raising the bar on our efforts to keep the specialty strong and your patients healthy and informed. This is the first anniversary of our
Truth in advertising
... Alabama Licensure identification Board certification (BC) Derm-specific BC Misleading advertising Licensees are prohibited from using a title in which in any way represents such person as engaged in the practice of any branch of the healing arts for which such person holds no license. ... n/a ... n/a
Emerging diseases registry
Thank you for taking part in this important effort on behalf of the American Academy of Dermatology and the International League of Dermatologic Societies. Our hope is that the information you and others provide will help us understand the dermatologic manifestations of drug-resistant dermatophytes. This survey is for all health
Differentiating lichen planopilaris from chronic cutaneous lupus may be as easy as 1,2,3 (actually CD123)
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 4, 2016 My last dermatopathology case of the week was that of a woman with scarring alopecia, which was clearly well advanced. Hardly any follicles remained, and on one section there was a small follicular unit with a peri-infundibular mononuclear infiltrate and slight vacuolar
Dermatologists cannot be lax about acquired cutis laxa
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 28, 2019 Acral localized acquired cutis laxa. Loose, redundant skin on the volar finger pads bilaterally that gave them a flat, rounded appearance. ... Credit: ... JAAD From the time I was a medical student, I have always been fascinated by the "little old
2025 MIPS and telehealth highlights
Eligibility criteria ... The low volume threshold remains the same as in 2025 and includes three 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
New CDC treatment guidelines for sexually transmitted infections
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, May 1, 2022 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Kimberly A. Workowski,
Why you should hear about the red ear syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 22, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 29 Is it my imagination that the "by the way" comments at the presumed end of a patient encounter cause the most angst? Usually, it’s something like "Oh, I forgot to mention that I’m losing my hair!" Recently, at
What's hot?
What's hot ... August 23, 2018 In this monthly column, members of the ... Dermatology World Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD ... Are you over-checking labs for your acne patients on isotretinoin? An article from the ... JAAD’ s Best of
FAQs on sunscreen ingredients including proposed rule on the final monograph
FAQs ... What does the FDA’s recent sunscreen proposal encompass? The FDA’s recently proposed rule is the first step in the process to establish a final over-the-counter sunscreen monograph and encompasses which sunscreen ingredients on the market are generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE), meaning that they can be
What's new in dermatology?
Experts break down diagnoses you didn't know about 10 years ago ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, March 1, 2022 The history of medical diagnosis traces back to ancient Egypt, where the first recorded examples can be found in the writings of Imhotep dating 2630–2611 BC. In the
HIPAA for dermatology practices
Legally Speaking ... Jane Sitorius, JD, is a health care attorney with Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Washington, D.C. ... By Jane Sitorius, JD, January 1, 2026 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author Jane Sitorius, JD, is a health care attorney with Barnes
Evaluation and management (E/M) coding changes are coming in 2021 – Part 2
Recognizing the 2021 E/M code descriptor revisions ... Changes to E/M coding will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2021. This article follows up on ... part one of our series which introduced the reasoning for these coding changes. We will now focus on key changes for each of the
Reporting Evaluation and Management (E/M) Codes by Time
Can time alone be used to select an E/M code? ... In certain circumstances, time can be used as the key or controlling factor for determining the correct E/M code. When counseling and/or coordination of care dominates (e.g., more than 50%) the physician/patient encounter (e.g., face-to-face time in the office
When Washington, D.C., comes to you
From the President ... Dr. Thiers served as Academy president from March 2020 to March 2021. ... By Bruce Thiers, MD, November 1, 2020 If we’ve learned anything this year, it’s the importance of being flexible. For example, before COVID-19, less than 10% of our members were using telemedicine; now,
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
Coding and documentation — Your best defense
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, October 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Accurate and thorough documentation in the medical
Trichophyton rubrum resistant to terbinafine
Trichophyton rubrum resistant to terbinafine ... T. rubrum , a dermatophyte fungus, is the most common cause of dermatophytosis worldwide. ... 1 ... Oral terbinafine is considered a first-line treatment for most infections caused by this fungus, but cases of terbinafine-resistant ... T. rubrum are increasingly being reported worldwide and
Pediatric dermatology
Finding Joy in pediatric phototherapy Congenital Juvenile Xanthogranulomas: Born To Be Wild (But Ultimately Mild) Sophie’s choice: Assessing atypical Spitz tumors in the molecular era The real jigsaw puzzle of the Brooke-Spiegler Syndrome: Translating the molecular biology to therapy Sirolumus’s merit for the Kasabach-Merritt phenomenon A future therapeutic Harlequin Romance?
Improvement activities (15%)
In this performance category, clinicians are rewarded for care focused on care coordination, beneficiary engagement, and patient safety. For 2025 MIPS reporting, this category is worth 15% of the MIPS score with a maximum of 40 points available. There are 77 dermatology-relevant practice improvement activities (IAs) to choose from. ...
The appropriate dermatologic response when considering the capillary malformation-arteriovenous malformation syndrome: Fast flow to referral
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 18, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 38 I have had the privilege of contributing to Dr. Ronni Wolf’s outstanding AAD symposium devoted to Emergency Dermatology by presenting the lecture "Dermatological Urgent Care: When Banalities Surprise You," discussing several cutaneous disorders that could easily be
Don't break the bank!
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... How to do the math before adopting new technology ... How to do the math before adopting new technology ... By Victoria Houghton, assistant managing editor From iPads, to hair-removal devices, to patient portals, there’s no shortage of
Melanoma clinical guideline
More than 1 million people are living with melanoma, and one person dies of the disease every hour. These new evidence-based guidelines address the most commonly considered and utilized approaches for the surgical and medical treatment of primary cutaneous melanoma. Review guideline highlights or download the full guidelines below. ... Access
Coronavirus – Frequently Asked Media Questions
Talking points for members ... 1. How do you keep your hands from getting dry, given how often you have to wash them? What hand lotion do you use? After washing your hands, apply a petrolatum/mineral oil-based cream that is fragrance and dye free. Ointments and creams — the ones
Academy culture and benefits
You’re going to love it here! ... The AAD is proud to work with a supportive staff that creates a purpose-driven and growth-oriented environment that values integrity and fosters creativity. Our management style promotes open communication and collaboration while providing teams with the guidance needed to ensure everyone’s success. You’ll
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... October 1, 2020 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... ED COWEN, MD Why do a small percentage of young and apparently healthy patients with COVID-19 develop life-threatening infection or a Kawasaki syndrome-like
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
Keeping dermatologists in the driver’s seat with step therapy reform
Moving the needle ... By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, March 1, 2023 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. Step therapy protocols interfere with patient care and create unwanted burdens on dermatology practices. Thanks to the AADA’s
So many questions. So little time.
Experts offer best practices on efficiently addressing patients’ questions about sunscreen. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, April 1, 2023 Aisles of products, numerous social media top 10 lists, and abundant information on the internet: Consumers can be quickly overwhelmed with sunscreen questions related to types, usage, and safety —
Embracing change
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Strategies to help dermatologists adapt – and be happy about it ... Strategies to help dermatologists adapt – and be happy about it ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer It seems as if a day doesn’t go by
Surgical coding challenges
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, March 1, 2020 Test your knowledge: Surgical coding challenges ... Take the quiz to see if you're up to
Et tu, Ibrutinib?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 8, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 27 When it comes to medications that I never prescribe, I learn from my patients who present with findings that compel me to do my homework. Such was the case of a middle-aged woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
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
Hidradenitis suppurativa and socioeconomic status: Food for thought (and benefit)
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Oct. 2, 2016 ... We see many patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), especially in our Camden practice. I am certainly not surprised by the well-documented comorbidities of obesity and smoking (1), which may play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. While
Contract language review
Before signing an agreement with a payer, always request the full contract text, which is called the base agreement. Thoroughly review the contract’s terms before you sign so you can flag areas of concern and negotiate alternative language. Contract language can be negotiated at the same time as rates. ...
October 27, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 27, 2021 ... COVID-19 and nails: A review of clinical findings DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Taking woolly hair to heart Derm Coding Consult : CMS revises Advance Beneficiary Notice
Teledermatology workflow for small practices
Use the workflow below to help you implement or improve your teledermatology operations. This version is designed for solo or small practices. There is a distinct PDF guide for dermatologists who practice in an ... academic or multispecialty organization . ... 1. Technology setup ... Create a generic account on
Peace of mind
Finding the right insurance coverage to protect your practice. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, September 1, 2024 While the adage goes, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail," this simple witticism has grown complicated for dermatologists looking to protect themselves, their practices, and their patients.
#DermTok
TikTok as a tool to engage with public health and promote dermatologic expertise ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, May 1, 2022 For a fleeting moment, there were few questions more pressing than, "Is it a Bones Day?" ... Last fall, Noodle, a 13-year-old pug, shot to stardom
February 16, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 16, 2022 ... A review of calcipotriol plus 5-fluorouracil for actinic keratosis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: From rupture to rapture? Delayed complications for FDA-approved HA dermal
2024 Allergen of the year: Sulfites
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, April 1, 2024 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, DermWorld ... Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Erin
A sweeter approach to treating scleroderma?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 14, 2017 Scleroderma fingernail changes. A, Longitudinal ridging and pitting. B, Brachyonychia. C, Trachyonychia. D, Thickened and enlarged cuticles. E, Thickened, enlarged, and irregular cuticles. F, Nailfold capillaroscopy: presence of enlarged and giant capillaries. G, Nailfold capillaroscopy: presence of enlarged and giant capillaries,
July 25
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / JULY 25, 2018 ... FDA takes steps to address, prevent drug shortages Distinction between inflammatory, neuropathic pruritus relevant for care Melanoma underreported among dermatopathologists Drugmakers rescind price hikes after California law
May 20, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 20, 2020 ... COVID-19 and physician compensation: Survey shows likely decline DW Insights and Inquiries : Reopening the dermatologic surgery office in the COVID-19 era Register for the Academy’s virtual
One size does not fit all
Dermatologists discuss considerations and complexities in caring for older adults with skin cancer. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, February 1, 2024 In the same way that children cannot be treated as little adults, older adults (65+ years old) cannot be treated the same as younger adults.
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
Myths and facts about human trafficking
There are many misconceptions about the nature of human trafficking which can compromise a dermatologist’s ability to recognize it during a patient visit. For example: ... Myth: Human trafficking does not occur in the United States. It only happens in other countries. ... Fact: Human trafficking exists in every country,
A seasoned approach to treating the “salt and pepper” dyspigmentation of systemic sclerosis
By Ashley Decker, MD, FAAD, and Naomi Lawrence, MD, FAAD Feb. 8, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 6 Ashley Decker, MD, FAAD ... Naomi Lawrence, MD, FAAD ... A commonly held belief in dermatologic surgery is that second intention wounds have a lower risk of surgical site infection (SSI) than primary
February 9, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 9, 2022 ... Tinted sunscreens: A practical guide to counseling patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Lightening the cutaneous and emotional burden of melasma — cysteamine’s role Nemolizumab plus topicals
January 25, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 25, 2023 ... Is topical spironolactone effective for acne? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The ironclad promise of ferroptosis Topical lidocaine-prilocaine vs. ice packs for laser hair removal Efficacy of
April 8, 2026
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 8, 2026 ... Does oral spironolactone improve acne in women? DermWorld What’s Hot: mRNA COVID vaccine and immune checkpoint inhibitor response Herbal medicines for psoriasis Efficacy of PDT and fractional
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
Taking psoriasis by the throat
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 2, 2016 Once the transient satisfaction of explaining the association of streptococcal infections with psoriasis (guttate, vulgaris, or pustulosis palmaris et plantaris) passes, the reality of treatment must be addressed. Of course we’ll prescribe the usual regimens — topical steroids, phototherapy, retinoids, biologics, etc.,
CMS clarifies telehealth and telephone coding during COVID-19 public health emergency
On April 30, 2020 a second round of expansive changes to telehealth coding as well as regulatory revisions was announced by CMS. These changes were to ensure access to care and flexibility to the healthcare system during the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE). These recent changes and more can be
Advocating on behalf of dermatology is an enduring obligation
From the President ... Dr. Hruza served as Academy president from March 2019 to March 2020. ... By George Hruza, MD, MBA, December 1, 2019 The year is winding down, and as usual I find myself reminiscing about the last 12 months — thinking about all of the patients I
Education: At the core of the Academy
From the President ... Dr. Tomecki served as Academy president from March 2021 to March 2022. ... By Kenneth Tomecki, MD, FAAD, August 1, 2021 Breaking news: thanks to Steve Feldman, I heard about a book, ... The Case Against Education, that basically debunks the value of education, castigating the
Getting within a hair’s breadth of understanding prurigo pigmentosa
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 2, 2017 Prurigo pigmentosa is an uncommon, acquired inflammatory disorder with a predilection for young adults of Asian descent. A 30-year-old Chinese man presented with reticulated erythematous and hyperpigmented papules on his back and shoulders (A and B). The eruption was present for 2
Red genitals: New roads to recovery
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 23, 2018 ... Red scrotum syndrome. Sharp border between the erythematous skin and the normal scrotum skin in a 65-year-old male patient. ... Credit: ... JAAD I searched PubMed for Quality of Life (QoL) studies on the Red Scrotum Syndrome (RSS) and Red Vulva
No need for panic with MANIC
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 22, 2018 As a medical student, I would panic over embryology of the neck. I never quite understood the development and anomalies of branchial arches or the migration of the thyroid anlage from the foramen cecum; yet I knew that as a clinician, it
“Brain fog” and mastocytosis: In patients and me
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 4, 2016 When following patients with mastocytosis — whether classical urticaria pigmentosa in children or adult mastocytosis — I usually ask a directed review of systems, focusing on flushing, palpitations, and gastrointestinal symptoms. I am always concerned about the possibility of systemic disease,
Quality (30%)
The quality category makes up 30% of the total MIPS score. Points are earned by submitting performance on quality measures. ... Reporting quality measures ... In 2025, achieving the minimum score required to avoid penalties is not possible without an electronic health record (EHR) or an exemption for the Promoting
Selling a practice resources
Valuing, selling, and closing a dermatology practice manual ... Purchase the ... Valuing, Selling, and Closing a Dermatology Practice, Second Edition Manual Related articles from ... Dermatology World Private equity at a glance: June 2019 Pulling back the curtain on private equity: January 2018 Overview of dermatology practice ownership ...
October 24
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / October 24, 2018 ... Drug shortages affecting your patients? Tell the FDA. When dealing with payers, the data can speak for itself Are you smarter than DataDerm™? Adalimumab biosimilar launches in
Preventing and treating Trichophyton indotineae
Prevention ... Specific recommendations to prevent ... T. indotineae infection do not exist, but physicians can educate patients about strategies for ... preventing dermatophyte infections in general. ... Health care professionals should use ... Standard Precautions when caring for patients with possible tinea. ... Empiric treatment ... Because confirmatory testing
Unrestricted fascination with restrictive dermopathy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Nov. 16, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 46 Barely a week into our fellowships at the University of Pennsylvania in 1984, my wife (a geneticist) asked her favorite dermatologist (me) if I had any thoughts about a neonate with skin that was thin, taut, and
Deeper thoughts about acne keloidalis nuchae
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, February 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 2 Wallace Clark taught me the truism that thinking often ceases when a diagnosis is rendered. The clinical diagnosis of acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is straightforward. Embarrassingly, I had not given much thought
Pathway to reducing medical errors
By Jason B. Lee, MD, FAAD June 26, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 26 The 2000 landmark report by the Institute of Medicine ... To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Health System ushered in the patient safety movement in the modern era. (1) The report highlighted nearly 98,000 hospital deaths
Key messages for social media about hair loss
Key messages ... Many conditions and diseases can result in hair loss, as can improper hair care. ... The most common cause of hair loss is hereditary thinning or baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia. (1) This condition affects an estimated 80 million Americans — 50 million men and 30
I have moved. How do I update my contact information with the Academy?
Asked and Answered ... March 1, 2023 AAD members can conveniently update their contact information at any time by visiting account.aad.org and selecting the ‘My Profile’ tab from the menu below. ... For additional assistance, please contact the Member Resource Center at ... mrc@aad.org or 866-503-7546. ... Looking for more
FAQs: Interoperability and patient access
What is the information blocking rule? ... On April 5, 2021, HHS issued regulations through the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) that prohibit information blocking. Information blocking refers to actions by an "actor" that could interfere with the access, exchange, or use of electronic health
Congenital juvenile xanthogranulomas: Born to be wild (but ultimately mild)
Positivity for CD68 stain is limited in center of specimen, where changes of juvenile xanthogranuloma exist. ... Credit: JAAD ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 17, 2018 "Lost to follow-up" has implications that go beyond the obvious. Following up with patients is an essential part of learning for physicians
Key messages when communicating about skin cancer
Key messages ... Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. It’s also one of the most preventable cancers and highly treatable when found early. ... To reduce your risk of skin cancer, seek shade, wear protective clothing and apply
August 17, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 17, 2022 ... Do dietary exclusions improve atopic dermatitis? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus — Interfering with interferon Derm Coding Consult : Dermatology
A novel sebum inhibitor for acne vulgaris: A slick maneuver
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 11, 2017 Illustrative photos of severe inflammatory acne vulgaris, largely without nodules (A). B, Very severe acne with cysts. ... Credit: ... JAAD What a pleasure it is to think about a novel treatment for acne! Honestly, have you gotten excited learning that the
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
Payer advocacy: Prior authorization
The Academy advocates that prior authorization determinations should be standardized, and the speed of determination should be quantified and minimized. Unduly delays and poorly designed prior authorization protocols can cause irreparable harm to patients. ... Notable payer advocacy updates ... CMS issued new regulations on prior authorization that provide important
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
July 12, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 12, 2023 ... Association between hydrochlorothiazide use and nonmelanoma skin cancer DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : After 23 years, a syndrome converted me into an eflornithine believer Potential applications of
January 12, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 12, 2022 ... Probiotics for atopic dermatitis? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Tarrying for tapinarof Derm Coding Consult : Patch testing unit of service reduction averted Research gap years may
February 2, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 2, 2022 ... A high-fiber diet may affect immunotherapy response for melanoma patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : An old dog with a new trick — High dose intralesional steroids
February 23, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 23, 2022 ... Frontal fibrosing alopecia: The effects of sunscreens and moisturizers DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The vexing verruciform xanthoma DermWorld Young Physician Focus : The patient experience —
April 20, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 20, 2022 ... Which biologics are most effective for psoriasis? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : One Toker over the line — Clarifying Toker cell hyperplasia in Zuska disease and its
March 29, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 29, 2023 ... Low-dose isotretinoin for severe seborrheic dermatitis? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Can we chat? Risk of melanoma in patients with BCC Is AD severity correlated with food
February 28, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 28, 2024 ... Ciclosporin vs. methotrexate for young patients with atopic dermatitis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Taming toxic erythema of chemotherapy with high-dose vitamin D Moisturizing cream with 20%
February 10, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 10, 2021 ... FDA clears device to improve cellulite DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Leishmania episode 1a — attack of the clones Distance traveled: Dr. Lim’s diversity focus as Academy president
February 19, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / February 19, 2025 ... Red and green LED light therapy in individuals with androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Treatments for renal IgA vasculitis are beginning to flow Safety of
March 11, 2026
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 11, 2026 ... Does home-use low-level laser therapy improve androgenetic alopecia? DermWorld What’s Hot: Is an oral IL-23 inhibitor on the way for psoriasis? Safety of the use of concomitant
August 27, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 27, 2025 ... A tool to assess patients at high-risk for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Chanarin-Dorfman syndrome — Shifting out of neutral Carbon dioxide laser
October 8, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 8, 2025 ... KOH vs. diclofenac for the treatment of actinic keratosis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Injecting ideas (and therapies) in digital mucous cysts FDA approves remibrutinib for chronic
The 2025 Allergen of the Year is… toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate!
Clinical Applications ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, July 1, 2025 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Amber Reck Atwater, MD, FAAD, and Nina Botto MD, FAAD, about their recent Dermatitis ... paper, ‘ Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate: Allergen of the Year 2025. ’
Scratching below the surface for the etiology of lichen amyloidosis — no sweat?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 10, 2017 Lichen amyloidosis reveals multiple hyperkeratotic papules on anterior leg. ... Credit: ... JAAD We have all confronted patients with maddeningly pruritic, recalcitrant cases of lichen amyloidosis (LA). Establishing the diagnosis is easier than treating the disorder; understanding its pathogenesis is even more
Charlottesville, Anzio beachhead, eponyms, and Roger Maris
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 18, 2017 I never anticipated the need to write this commentary on our vacation to celebrate our 35th anniversary. We had long planned visiting Anzio, where my late father-in-law, Louis Schnur, fought valiantly on the beachhead in the army artillery unit. He suffered from
DI&I encore: Better than a back scratcher?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 30, 2017 The potential toxicity of the combination of topical ketamine/amitriptyline/lidocaine (TKAL) was discussed in a recent entry detailing the encephalopathic findings in an octogenarian Parkinsonian man with atopic dermatitis who was treated with the compound. I concluded: "As our therapeutic options for recalcitrant
Quality (30%)
The quality category makes up 30% of the total MIPS score. Points are earned by submitting performance on quality measures. ... Reporting quality measures ... In 2026, achieving the minimum score required to avoid penalties is not possible without an electronic health record (EHR) or an exemption for the Promoting
Medical vs. cosmetic dermatology: Who is doing what?
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, January 1, 2019 Despite ongoing discussion about the role of cosmetics in the specialty, data from the 2017 AAD Practice Profile Survey indicate that medical dermatology remains the primary focus of dermatology practitioners across all types. However, dermatologists spend the
Breaking through
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Advances in disease pathogenesis and treatments offer new promise for patients with connective tissue disease ... Advances in disease pathogenesis and treatments offer new promise for patients with connective tissue disease ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor
March 17, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 17, 2021 ... COVID-19 in melanoma patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Hoops and happiness — Having the courage to take a shot DermWorld Young Physician Focus : Forging ahead
Injecting ideas (and therapies) in digital mucous cysts
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 8, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 40 I am almost embarrassed to admit it, but I go on clinical autopilot when it comes to digital mucous (myxoid) cysts (DMCs). I offer a brief explanation, reassure the patient that the lesion is benign, refer the
What's hot?
What's hot ... August 27, 2019 In this monthly column, members of ... Dermatology World 's Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Bryan Carroll, MD, PhD ... Identifying the origin of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of an unknown primary can inform prognosis and
Recognizing Trichophyton indotineae
Reporting to health departments ... Physicians who suspect antimicrobial-resistant dermatophytosis can also contact ... their state or local health departments for assistance . Public health officials who are concerned about potential cases or clusters of drug-resistant tinea infections can email ... fungaloutbreaks@cdc.gov for assistance with recommendations and testing. ... Overview
Life insurance 102: Five success factors when using permanent life insurance
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 2, 2019 In
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
Focus on the FDA
Where do things currently stand on issues that concern dermatologists? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, September 1, 2021 Since its founding in 1906 during Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency, what is now known as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been tasked with protecting America’s public health
Sunscreen highlights
DermWorld offers updates on efficacy, regulations, and controversies. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, March 1, 2026 As skin cancer diagnoses steadily rise in the U.S., the need for regularly applied, adequately protective sunscreen (along with other sun-safe practices) is more important than ever. ... Data on Americans’
A tale of two disorders of hypopigmentation: The potential role of Cutibacterium acnes dysbiosis in progressive macular hypomelanosis and lichen striatus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 30, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 17 The human microbiome of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and airways comprises distinct populations of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mites and plays an essential role in homeostasis. The skin microbiome represents the totality of microbial genes within the
January 17, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 17, 2024 ... Risk of skin cancers in patients with actinic keratoses DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : A cold abscess remains a cold case — Multiple neonatal staphylococcal cold abscesses
March 26, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 26, 2025 ... What’s the best way to dissolve fillers with hyaluronidase? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Propranolol for infantile hemangiomas — Start to finish 2025 Allergen of the Year
Finding the right treatments for genetic hair loss
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent hereditary hair loss from worsening and regrow hair, says board-certified dermatologist. VANCOUVER, BC. (July 21, 2022) — Hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia or pattern hair loss, is the most common form of hair loss in both men and women, affecting millions
How to examine your skin for skin cancer
Board-certified dermatologist shares 5 skin cancer exam tips ROSEMONT, Ill. (May 31, 2023) — Last year, 69-year-old Isabel Lievano's board-certified dermatologist diagnosed the persistent black spot under her nail as melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Though she lost her nail, she was thrilled that her dermatologist was able
The globalization of monkeypox
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 25, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 21 Disclaimers: This commentary was written on May 22 for a publication date of May 25, 2022. The issues related to the increasing number of reported monkeypox cases are changing rapidly. The content included in this commentary may
Pediatric drug testing obstacles
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Is the drug trial landscape about to change? ... Is the drug trial landscape about to change? ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor Choosing the best therapeutic options for pediatric patient populations can be an administratively complex
Protecting patients one state at a time
The AADA advocates for a physician-led, team-based approach to care that ensures both safety and best outcomes for each patient and against state legislation that weakens the quality and safety of specialty care. ... So far in 2025, the Academy has fought against unsafe scope of practice expansion, with the
Drug pricing and prior authorization
Discover resources on insurance and drug pricing issues, including tools to generate prior authorization and other appeal letters for patients. ... Private payer contracts Use our resources on payer contracts to spot concerning language and negotiate for better alternatives. ... Private payer resources Access Academy resources on navigating issues with
What is being recommended to patients on social media?
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, October 1, 2023 Social media is abundant with skin care advice. A recent ... JAAD cross-sectional analysis of acne treatments on YouTube found that up to 91% of teens report using social media to access health information. However, who is
Atrophic tinea versicolor: More than a mirage?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 22, 2016 On occasion I would examine a patient with tinea versicolor and wonder if the finely scaly patches were atrophic. Somehow, I figured (possibly mistakenly) that it was more of an optical illusion than genuine atrophy. That was a settled issue in
Shedding light on treatments for female pattern hair loss
Dermatologist hair experts discuss the efficacy and safety considerations of off-label treatments for female pattern hair loss. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, April 1, 2025 A female patient presents with thinning hair and a reduction in hair density at the top of the scalp. Is it
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
Rounds on pityriasis rotunda
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 7, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 32 Science, medicine, and patient strife aside, sometimes I just admire the beauty of skin lesions in and of themselves. Round, annular, and targetoid lesions (fixed drug eruptions, granuloma annulare, tinea, subacute lupus, erythema multiforme, erythema migrans, and
Documentation and reporting requirements for adjacent tissue transfer or rearrangement
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, June 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Adjacent tissue transfer (ATT) or rearrangement procedures
What dermatology practices need to know about laws protecting pregnant and lactating employees
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, LLM, Jason Qu, JD, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, September 1, 2024 Every month , DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking."
What's hot?
What's hot ... May 29, 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 ... You may be surprised to learn that a ... new organ’ in the skin was recently identified.
Striving to alleviate the physical and emotional scars of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
By Warren R. Heymann, MD November 4, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 44 More than half a century ago, Drs. Lopresti, Papa, and Kligman coined the term "hot comb alopecia," asserting: "The cause is unmistakable, namely the practice of straightening the hair with a hot comb…" (1). Now known as central
An old dog with a new trick: High dose intralesional steroids in hidradenitis suppurativa
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD February 2, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 5 Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is hitting its stride academically — deservedly so. In 2000 there were 2 publications about HS in the ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology ; in 2010, 9 manuscripts; and, in 2020,
Hot coding topics from the field
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, July 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The AADA coding team responds to
September 28, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 28, 2022 ... Treating warts with needle-free fluorouracil injection DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Tag, you’re it! Clinical outcomes of chronic urticaria after two years Clues to help identify patients
March 11, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 11, 2020 ... A guide to managing coronavirus in dermatology clinics DW Insights and Inquiries : The 2020 vision for nemolizumab in atopic dermatitis Feedback requested: AAD/NPF draft guidelines for
June 9, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 9, 2021 ... Merkel cell carcinoma survival by anatomic site DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Insult to injury — COVID-19-associated mucormycosis Microneedling with topical therapies for melasma Photosensitivity reaction from benzodiazepines
December 13, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 13, 2023 ... Isotretinoin exposure and risk of adverse male sexual health outcomes in acne patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Sparking the interest in Spark nevus Metronidazole for patients
May 31, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 31, 2023 ... Cause or cure: Dupilumab and alopecia areata DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Taking it on the shin – part 1 A simplified dermoscopic algorithm for melanoma diagnosis
March 5, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 5, 2025 ... Is there a link between oral minoxidil and pericardial effusion? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Giving a NOD2 to Yao syndrome Higher cumulative dose of isotretinoin tied
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
Dermatology evaluation and management (E/M) service code utilization
As part of its advocacy and educational efforts with the upcoming 2021 E/M coding changes, the AAD encourages dermatology practices to take a moment to understand their E/M code utilization. ... The AAD coding team has reviewed Medicare’s ... 2019 national E/M code utilization data (PDF download) (previously known as
Climate change
From the President ... Dr. Tomecki served as Academy president from March 2021 to March 2022. ... By Kenneth Tomecki, MD, FAAD, December 1, 2021 Climate change is an existential threat to the planet, its inhabitants, and the environment. If unchecked, the changes will affect all of us in time,
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
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... November 1, 2025 In this monthly column, members of the DermWorld ... Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. Bryan Carroll, MD, PhD, FAAD I don’t see an important word — ‘teledermatology’ — in the title of a recent publication about 3D total-body
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
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
Re-excising severely atypical nevi: A signature issue?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 10, 2017 Clark (dysplastic) nevus with atypical features. A, Low magnification demonstrates a broad compound melanocytic neoplasm with architectural asymmetry. B and C, Higher power reveals elongated rete ridges, subepidermal fibroplasia, parakeratosis, and marked variability in size and shape of melanocytes and their
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
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
Employee voices
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Dermatologists offer first-person perspectives on life as an employed physician ... Dermatologists offer first-person perspectives on life as an employed physician ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor For the average dermatologist 20 years ago, starting a career also
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
Disaster relief preparedness
Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Pachauri, MPH, manager, Health Technology & Informatics, June 1, 2021 Each month DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Swapna Pachauri, MPH, the Academy’s Health Technology & Informatics manager, offers a summary of disaster relief preparedness. Disasters and emergencies can happen
New American Academy of Dermatology survey: increasing number of Americans at risk of skin cancer despite knowing how to protect themselves
Board-certified dermatologist urges public to practice safe sun ROSEMONT, Ill. (April 30, 2024) — Abby Weiner knew the dangers of unprotected sun exposure long before she was diagnosed with skin cancer. As someone with fair skin and freckles, the 43-year-old mother of three says she has always been diligent about
Americans lack basic health insurance literacy
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, March 1, 2023 A recent Forbes Advisor survey of 2,000 Americans who have health insurance found that while most policyholders report they’re happy with their coverage, many don’t understand it.According to the survey, over three-quarters of participants were unable to
Trichophyton indotineae infections and other severe or antifungal-resistant dermatophytoses
Dermatophytosis (ringworm, tinea, jock itch, athlete’s foot) is a very common and typically minor infection of the skin caused by dermatophyte fungi. ... 1 ... In the past decade, severe or antifungal-resistant dermatophytoses have become a global public health concern, including in the United States. ... The AAD has assembled
The AADA advocates for truth in advertising
The Academy wants to ensure that health care providers clearly and honestly state their level of training, education, and licensing. Patients deserve to have this information during face-to-face encounters, as well as when they read health care providers’ advertising, marketing, and other communications materials. However, there is a wide spectrum
AADA fights unsafe scope expansions and misleading advertising
In 2025, the Academy took on several scope expansion and truth-in-advertising bills in partnership with state dermatology and medical societies. The AADA advocates for a physician-led, team-based approach to care that ensures the safety and best outcomes for each patient. We fight against state legislation that weakens the quality and
A virus like no other
How to protect yourself against identity theft. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, January 1, 2024 Dermatologists are high achievers. That serves them well when it comes to graduating from medical school, persevering in residency, and practicing dermatology. It doesn’t serve them well online where scammers use malware,
Research rebound
Steady funding fuels dermatologic research after pandemic paralysis. ... Feature ... By Jan Bowers, Contributing Writer, December 1, 2022 With the exception of the lifesaving mRNA vaccines developed at remarkable speed, many non-COVID-related research projects ground to a halt as the pandemic seized the nation. "Our laboratories shut down for
Golden rules for the golden years
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Strategies for caring for elderly patients ... Strategies for caring for elderly patients ... By Victoria Houghton, assistant managing editor According to the U.S. Census, there were 47.8 million people over the age of 65 in the United
Documenting the specificity of ICD-10-CM
The key to successfully coding ICD-10-CM: In a nutshell ... ICD-10-CM codes have greater specificity than previous coding sets. ... Coding the highest level of specificity requires documentation that captures the necessary details identified in the code description. ... Failing to document specific information in the medical record results in
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,
Measuring a lesion and choosing the appropriate excision code
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, June 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Benign and malignant lesions present significant
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
Cosmetic complications
Dermatologists offer insight and instruction for approaching procedural afflictions. ... Feature ... By Laura Vernaci, Contributing Writer, September 1, 2025 It goes without saying that dermatologists do everything in their power to keep their patients safe and avoid complications or adverse events. However, stay in the business long enough and
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
Questions and answers: Evaluation and management (E/M) guidelines
Working with the AMA, the AAD’s coding experts are here to provide you with insightful solutions to your most common inquiries. In this informative question-and-answer article previously published in AMA CPT ... ® ... Assistant FAQ of August 2023, our coding team delves into the intricacies of coding for the
American Academy of Dermatology survey shows outdoor workers more at risk for skin cancer than average Americans
Board-certified dermatologist encourages those who work outside to utilize proper sun protection ROSEMONT, Ill. (May 7, 2024) — A recent American Academy of Dermatology survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adults revealed that outdoor workers — like those who work in construction, landscaping, emergency medical services, and postal delivery —