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Session handouts and meetings archive
Handouts ... 2025 Innovation Academy, Chicago, IL, July 10-13 2025 Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL, March 7-11 2024 Innovation Academy, Seattle, WA, August 1-4 2024 Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, March 8-12 2023 Innovation Academy, Tampa, FL, August 10-13 2023 Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA, March 17-21 Sessions ... 2025 Innovation
CME & session evaluation archive
Claim CME & submit session evaluations ... Claim CME credit and submit session evaluations for attending previous Academy meetings: ... 2025 Innovation Academy, Chicago, IL, July 10-13 2025 Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL, March 7-11 2024 Innovation Academy, Seattle, WA, August 1-4 2024 Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, March 8-12 2023
Joining the “fold”: Squamous cell carcinoma complicating porokeratosis ptychotropica
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 26, 2017 Coalescent erythematous papules involving bilateral buttocks. ... Credit: ... JAAD 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, superficial disseminated, immunosuppression-related, and
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.
November
Issue ... November January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... Legally Speaking ... The modern payer contract
Dermatology coding essentials part 1: Pearls, pitfalls, and best practices
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, April 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Your ability to deliver excellent patient care
To concierge or not concierge, that is the question
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 10, 2017 After very long days of difficult patients (diagnostically, therapeutically, and otherwise), insurance denials, prior authorizations, business decisions, MACRA, et cetera, I think of the milkman Tevye from "Fiddler on the Roof," finally sitting down, and singing "If I Were a Rich Man."
Pathway to clarity simplified: Melanocytic Pathology Assessment Tool and Hierarchy for Diagnosis (MPATH-Dx) version 2.0
By Jason B. Lee, MD, FAAD July 16, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 28 In modern medical practice, clinical care guidelines have emerged to promote consistent and evidence-based practices to manage common diseases. In dermatology, the American Academy of Dermatology, in collaboration with the National Psoriasis Foundation, has published clinical guidelines
Downloadable resources for dermatologists and patients
From the AAD: Resources for identifying and helping survivors of human trafficking For trainings, tutorials, and comprehensive resources on the topic of human trafficking: HEAL Trafficking Polaris Project — Human Trafficking Training A21 Campaign — Human Trafficking Training Resources United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) — Human Trafficking
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.
Payer contracts redux
Legally Speaking ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., December 1, 2023 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. Alice G. Gosfield, Esq ... In 2016, I wrote an ... article
More than skin deep
Dermatologists discuss cutaneous complications of tattoos — and their complex regulatory status. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, July 1, 2024 Humans have been tattooing since the Stone Age. The oldest discovery to date of tattooed human skin is on the body of Ötzi the Iceman, dating back
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... November 1, 2023 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MS, MPH, FAAD All medical fields can learn from their past mistakes. The path to modern medical practice was not
Switching EHRs: Planning ahead
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, 2020 Physician use of electronic health records (EHRs) is a modern fact of life; so is physicians switching from one EHR to
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
The modern payer contract
Legally Speaking ... Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., November 1, 2016 Many physicians who have been in practice for a while remember the backlash against managed care in the late 1990s with talk
Digging deeper into lupus erythematosus panniculitis
By Warren Heymann, MD May 5, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 18 Lupus erythematosus panniculitis (aka lupus erythematosus profundus, LEP) has a storied history. The famed clinician Harry Arnold noted that Kaposi (when he was Kohn) observed nodules in patients with lupus. (1) Debates and controversies ensued for decades, with many
Paging Dr. Google
Dermatologists discuss the consequences of self-practiced medicine and what physicians can do to educate patients ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, August 1, 2022 "There is no doubt that the modern internet age has empowered people with more information than ever before in human history. Like any tool,
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
Happy 4th of July from DI&I
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 3, 2018 George Washington contracted smallpox when he was 19 years old. Although he nearly succumbed to the disease, he survived with pockmark scars and life-long immunity. (1) He and other founders recognized the severity of smallpox and its threat to their independence and
A near miss
Dermatologists discuss patient safety issues in procedural dermatology. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, December 1, 2024 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, bringing
Professionalism and Ethics
Ethics and medicine have been intertwined since the dawn of our profession. From the ancient Hippocratic Oath to the principle of ... primum non nocere to modern-day principlism, medical ethics have evolved over time. ... As public and professional interest in medical ethics increases, it is important for clinicians, researchers,
May 1
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 1, 2019 ... FDA approves two new psoriasis treatments ... DW Insights and Inquiries : When assessing morbilliform eruptions think about morbilli (measles)! We want your feedback: Draft psoriasis guidelines
Incident to: Old wine in modern bottles
Legally Speaking ... Alice G. Gosfield, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., March 1, 2021 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., is a health care attorney
August 1
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / AUGUST 1, 2018 ... Physicians suing patients over negative reviews FDA to laser device manufacturers: Stop marketing for vaginal rejuvenation FDA releases biosimilars plan to increase access, encourage competition Blood test
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
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
Interfering with interferon Gamma: The mechanisms behind acquired resistance to PD-1 inhibitors for melanoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 4, 2016 Astounding major advances in targeted therapies for melanoma, most notably by PD-1 blockade, have given hope and life to patients with metastatic melanoma. Approximately 30 % of advanced melanoma patients experience tumor responses from checkpoint blockade monotherapy, with better clinical responses seen
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
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
July 1, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 1, 2020 ... Derm Coding Consult : E/M coding — What has changed? DW Insights and Inquiries : Spironolactone — An increasingly recognized hero in acne therapy Is it ethical
I’m not sure how to correctly code with the new 2021 E/M coding guidelines. What resources does the Academy offer?
Asked and Answered ... March 1, 2021 Members can find a high-level summary on what dermatologists need to know about the ... restructured E/M codes in the AAD’s Coding Resource Center. ... The AAD also offers an updated ... E/M coding tool , designed to reflect the revised tenets of
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
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,
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
Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem
By Christen M. Mowad, MD Oct. 9, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 31 ... The next contact allergen of the year has been announced early by the American Contact Dermatitis Society and it is an acrylate, isobornyl acrylate. (1) This chemical is a photopolymerizable monomer that has been used in industrial
June 1, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 1, 2022 ... What’s new in adult acne over the last two years? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Granulomatous cheilitis — Back to the Future Derm Coding Consult : Cigna’s
September 1, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Sept. 1, 2021 ... Which dermatology patients should receive a third dose of mRNA vaccine? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries: Shedding light on the hydroa vacciniforme-like lymphoproliferative disorder Obesity, diabetes associated with
December 1, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 1, 2021 ... Risk of COVID-19 infection in atopic dermatitis patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The nexus of VEXAS syndrome Skin and gut microbiome in hidradenitis suppurativa Is imiquimod
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
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. ...
October 1, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 1, 2025 ... Antiandrogen therapy for the treatment of female pattern hair loss DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei — A Simon and Garfunkel playlist Academy mourns
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
November 1, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Nov. 1, 2023 ... Can oral nutraceuticals reduce isotretinoin side effects? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Exchanging plasma exchange for a novel approach — The potential of FcRn antagonists in dermatologic
Applying the 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice – Part 1
The introduction of the revised 2021 evaluation and management (E/M) coding guidelines has generated a plethora of questions from dermatologists in the application of the concepts used in the ... medical-decision making table (MDM). ... To help members navigate the E/M changes in a simplified and relatable manner in everyday
Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 1
Cracking the code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, September 1, 2020 Test your knowledge: Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 1 ... Take the quiz to see
Spironolactone: An increasingly recognized hero in acne therapy
By David A. Wetter, MD July 1, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 26 In 1983, Bonnie Tyler released the catchy and powerful anthem, "Holding Out for a Hero." Emotion exudes from the lyrics: ... I need a hero I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the morning light He’s gotta be
April 1, 2026
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 1, 2026 ... Aesthetic treatment considerations for perimenopausal, menopausal patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Cocaine-associated plasma cell orificial mucositis — Anything goes Effects of PRP, minoxidil in patients with
May 1, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 1, 2024 ... Consensus statements for the treatment of vitiligo in younger patients DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Eyebrow-raising complications of microblading Role of low-dose oral minoxidil for treatment of
February 1, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Feb. 1, 2023 ... Are topical AK treatments associated with increased risk of SCC? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : A seasoned approach to treating the ‘salt and pepper’ dyspigmentation of systemic
March 1, 2023
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 1, 2023 ... Isotretinoin: Risk of IBS, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Seeing red with dupilumab IL-17 inhibitors in psoriasis patients in the real world
JAAD wins again!
JAAD has retained the #1 position as the most impactful journal in dermatology according to the 2024 Clarivate Journal Impact Factor (JIF). ... JAAD is No. 1 in the field of dermatology for the sixth year in a row, with a JIF of 11.8 and 38,702 total citations. ... But
Tracking teledermatology: Before and after COVID
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, March 1, 2021 This month marks the one-year anniversary of the shutdown of schools, businesses, and medical practices in response to COVID-19. While teledermatology was not widely utilized prior to the start of the pandemic, it became a key part
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
Psoriasiform eruptions during Kawasaki disease (KD): A prognosis that lets the good times roll
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 27, 2016 Psoriasiform skin changes have been rarely described in the literature in both acute (1-4 weeks) and convalescent phases (4-12 weeks) of KD (1). ... Haddock et al, in their review of 870 cases of KD, identified 11 patients with a psoriasiform eruption
JAAD ranks no. 1 among dermatology journals
The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology’s impact factor remains #1 in field ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 2, 2024) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology remains the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to the 2023 journal impact factor rankings recently published by Clarivate’s Journal
JAAD ranks no. 1 among dermatology journals
The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology’s impact factor remains #1 in field ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 5, 2023) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology remains the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to the 2022 journal impact factor rankings recently published by Clarivate’s Journal
Checking in on the adverse reactions to checkpoint inhibitors
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 17, 2016 Earlier this year there have been two posts devoted to adverse reactions of checkpoint inhibitors ("Thinking of Discontinuing the PD-1 Inhibitor Because of a Lichenoid Eruption? Don’t do it!" published on May 21st and "Joining the Bullae Pulpit: PD-1 inhibitors" posted on
Intermediate and complex repairs 2020: Part 1
Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, October 1, 2019 Test your knowledge: Intermediate and complex repairs 2020 — Part 1 ... Take the quiz to
What are the public health and safety implications of using home acrylic nail kits?
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, November 1, 2024 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, DermWorld ... Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, talks with Brandon
Shedding light on the hydroa vacciniforme-like lymphoproliferative disorder
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 1, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 35 Hydroa vacciniforme (HV) has always mystified me in every respect — its clinical presentation, pathophysiology, prognosis, and even its name. I understand "vacciniforme" because residual scars may resemble those of smallpox. I was surprised to learn that
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
Biopsy coding in 2019: Part 1
Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, November 1, 2018 Dermatologists commonly biopsy skin lesions via a tangential shave technique, with a punch, or with a
Excludes notes
ICD-10 Excludes notes: In a nutshell ... ICD-10-CM codes include two sets of exclusions. ... Excludes 1 exclusions indicate when two codes cannot be billed at the same time. ... Excludes 2 exclusions indicate that the codes are separately billable. ... Excludes 1 Note ... Within the ICD-10-CM manual, you
Beware: Discordance abounds among pathologists in the diagnosis of melanocytic neoplasms
By Jason B. Lee, MD Dec. 4, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 38 Discordance in the histological diagnosis of melanocytic lesions has been an underemphasized and understudied problem, and, therefore, the scale and the impact of the problem is largely unknown. Over the years, there were small studies and observations suggesting
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
Leaders in medicine – Part 1
DermWorld talks to dermatologists in leadership roles in the house of medicine. ... Feature ... By Matthew Walsh, Member Communications Specialist, May 1, 2023 The American Academy of Dermatology is one of hundreds of medical associations in the U.S., each offering opportunities for doctors to assume important leadership positions. Engaged
Granulomatous cheilitis: Back to the Future
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 1, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 22 I opened my dermatology practice in 1985 — looking retrospectively, life was then both simpler and more complicated. It was the pre-computer era when patients paid their fee at the time of their visit, utilizing a peg-board
Advocacy Update Jul 1, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / July 1, 2025 Senate advances reconciliation bill with 2026 Medicare Physician Payment increase RFK pledges to work with Rep. Joyce on Medicare physician reimbursement CMS suspends CLIA lab director restrictions AADA and DermCAC support inclusion of dermatologists in SRT Local Coverage Determinations Build a relationship with
Knuckling down on knuckle pads
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 1, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 13 Today is April Fools’ Day. Thus far, 2020 has felt like April Fools’ Year. All of us are dealing with COVID-19, 24/7. During World War II, morale was lifted by the song "There’ll be bluebirds over the White
Telehealth policy changes take effect; shutdown impacts Medicare claims processing
In the ... Medicare Learning Network (MLN) Update on Medicare Operations: Telehealth, Claims Processing, and Medicare Administrative Contractors Status During the Shutdown of Oct. 1, 2025, CMS announced that significant changes to Medicare telehealth services that took effect on Oct. 1, 2025, may impact the processing of Medicare telehealth claims.
Advocacy Update Apr. 1, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Apr. 1, 2025 HHS announced major department restructuring Senate confirms Drs. Bhattacharya to lead NIH and Makary to head FDA Step therapy reform bill headed to New Jersey governor Contribute to SkinPAC Regulatory Affairs HHS announced major department restructuring ... On March 27, the Department of
We are your No. 1 high impact journal
For the fourth straight year, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) ranked as the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to journal impact factor rankings published by Clarivate’s Journal Citation Reports (JCR) Web of Science Group. With an impact factor of 13.8, JAAD is in the
Seeing red with dupilumab
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 1, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 9 Since its release in 2017, dupilumab (a fully humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks IL-4 and IL-13) has transformed the therapeutic landscape for managing atopic dermatitis (AD) and other eczematous disorders, bullous pemphigoid, Kimura disease, etc. when used
Dermatology is a taxing specialty
From the Editor ... Dr. Heymann is the physician editor of ... DermWorld . ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, April 1, 2026 April 15 may be Tax Day, but every day is taxing for dermatologists. This issue of ... DermWorld focuses on making practice less taxing administratively and
Optimizing financial efficiency: Part 1
Experts offer advice on best practices to ensure financial health before the appointment begins. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, May 1, 2026 When opening her private practice in 2022, Suzanne McGoey, MD, MPH, FAAD, also discovered the challenges of managing the business of medicine. ... "We do
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
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
It’s JAAD, again, of course!
For the ... fifth year in a row, ... JAAD has retained its position as the #1 most impactful journal out of 94 dermatology journals measured in Clarivate’s 2023 Journal Citations Report (JCR) Web of Science. ... Here are the details: ... JAAD ’s impact factor is 12.8 ... JAAD
A seasoned approach to treating the “salt and pepper” dyspigmentation of systemic sclerosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Feb. 1, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 5 It only takes a nanosecond for a dermatologist to recognize the "salt and pepper" dyspigmentation (SPD) of systemic sclerosis (SSc), but a lifetime to understand and manage it. Of all the cutaneous signs of SSc (sclerodactyly, telangiectasias,
What you read in 2024: AAD publications roundup
JAAD still making an impact For the ... fifth year in a row, ... JAAD retained its position as the #1 most impactful journal out of 94 dermatology journals measured in Clarivate’s 2023 Journal Citations Report (JCR) Web of Science. ... Here are the details: ... JAAD ’s impact factor
Thinking of discontinuing the PD-1 inhibitor because of a lichenoid eruption? Don’t do it!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 21, 2016 Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been the proverbial "game changers" in oncology, and offer hope (and a chance of survival) where none existed just a few years ago. ... Cutaneous manifestations are the most common adverse reactions to these drugs. Indeed, more than
From the editor
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, June 1, 2018 There's a horse in the waiting room and your patient is convinced the blisters on his arm resulted from a run-in with a 15-foot weed. It must be summer.
Write this down if your patient has multiple PENS: Look further
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 18, 2016 Papular Epidermal Nevus with Skyline Basal Cell Layer (PENS) was first described by Torrelo et al. They detailed 5 infants with solitary or multiple 1 to 7 mm congenital keratotic papules. Lesions were randomly distributed and did not follow Blaschko lines. They
Claim Reopenings or Level 1 Appeals for Denied Services
Not every Medicare denial requires a formal appeal. Most Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) have developed automated claim "reopenings" to handle these simple corrections. This method significantly reduces the amount of time required to reprocess a denial. It is important that reopenings be submitted on the correct form, which can be
I’m tired
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, June 1, 2020 I hear that a lot these days. COVID-19 blew up the world as we knew it and the process has been, among other things, exhausting. Almost overnight we turned
When life gives you lemons
From the President ... Dr. Thiers served as Academy president from March 2020 to March 2021. ... By Bruce Thiers, MD, March 1, 2021 The last 12 months have been, inarguably, pretty sour. When I first assumed the office of Academy President we were embarking on a frightening journey into
March is a strange month
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, March 1, 2021 Other than the AAD Annual meeting (sadly, canceled for the second year, courtesy of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic), there’s usually not much to look forward to in March. Sure,
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,
COVID-19 impact on employed dermatologists: Part 1
Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Ben Tesdahl, JD, Megan La Suer, JD, MHA, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, September 1, 2020 Every month, Dermatology World ... covers legal issues in "Legally
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
Advocacy Update Jul 29, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / July 29, 2025 AADA VP-elect pushes for Medicare payment reform through SkinPAC AADA releases impact tables for 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule AADA outlines Medicare Advantage concerns in statement for House Ways & Means Subcommittees hearing CMS clarifies CLIA lab director requirements favorable to
1 million patients affected by ransomware in one month
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, July 1, 2022 Ransomware attacks seeking valuable patient records thus far show no signs of slowing down in 2022. In March 2022 alone, 26 health organizations reported to HHS that they had been affected by data breaches, impacting nearly one
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
Vitiligo or vitiligo-like lesions and PD1-inhibitors: Which is right?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 1, 2017 The following is a well-known staple of Jewish humor. I’ve heard it thousands of times, but it always makes me smile: ... In a small town in Russia, people brought their complaints to the Rabbi to settle their differences. One man purchased
Lagging ahead: LAG-3 checkpoint inhibition for advanced melanoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 11, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 19 Checkpoint inhibition has revolutionized the treatment of advanced melanoma over the past decade, beginning with the release of the anti-CTLA4 checkpoint inhibitor ipilimumab (Yervoy). This was followed by the development of the anti-PD-1 inhibitors pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and
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
July 6, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 6, 2022 ... Long-term recurrence rates of actinic keratoses DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Isotretinoin and diabetes — Of familiarity and surprise What physicians should know about monkeypox Anti-PD-1 therapy
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... July 1, 2024 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD, FAAD Is topical 5-fluorouracil toxic to our pets? The answer is yes, as explained by Young et al in their
The ironclad promise of ferroptosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 25, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 4 As checkpoint inhibition of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) has become standard oncologic therapy, it is easy to forget that this revolutionary therapy is barely a decade old. Until 1972, cell death was considered passive and
Educating the public — National Healthy Skin Month
30 healthy skin days hath November! ... November was National Healthy Skin Month and the AAD was Johnny on the Spot (whatever that spot may be) on Nov. 1 ... with information across aad.org and our @AADskin social media channels educating the public on healthy skin from head to toe
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).
AAD settled into Seattle for Innovation Academy
The AAD held its latest Innovation Academy meeting Aug. 1-4 in Seattle. Attendees heard from innovators, visionaries, entrepreneurs, and problem solvers who are changing the practice of dermatology, or medicine in general. ... In addition to many informative sessions and events, Innovation Academy featured a talk by famed swimmer Diana
Advocacy Update Jan. 21 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 21, 2025 MedPAC recommends 2026 Medicare payment update linked to inflation Advocacy win: FTC releases second report on egregious PBM practices AADA urges UnitedHealthcare to rescind laser policy for vitiligo Dr. Green hosts Rep. Elfreth to discuss Medicare physician payment reform SkinPAC hosts breakfast for
Thank you to the Academy staff
First Person ... By Misha Rosenbach, MD, March 1, 2021 DermWorld ... ’s First Person column offers Academy members the opportunity to share their personal reflections about how dermatology is changing and how they’ve adapted. Dr. Rosenbach submitted this column in the immediate aftermath of the disruption of the certification
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
Deciding the right time for treatment
Experts discuss neoadjuvant vs. adjuvant immunotherapy for melanoma — and recent advances in the neoadjuvant space. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, May 1, 2025 "The melanoma landscape, especially in the last decade or so, has changed remarkably in ways I never thought I would see in my
Fighting detrimental Medicare payment cuts
As our top federal legislative priority, your Academy fought all year against Medicare payment cuts of 8.5% or more that were scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, 2023. ... As a result, in late December, President Biden signed into law an omnibus spending package that included partial relief from the
Paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS) associated with merkel cell carcinoma are analogous to small cell cung Cancer: A comparison to other lung cancers
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 2, 2016 Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC) are neuroendocrine tumors associated with the Merkel cell carcinoma polyomavirus in >80% of tumors (1). Small cell lung cancer, another neuroendocrine tumor, is associated with paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS) in up to 20% of cases, notably the syndrome of
I don’t know JAK — but I will! Ruxolitinib improving chilblain lupus erythematosus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 31, 2016 The JAK inhibitors are among the current darlings of treating autoimmune diseases. Recent articles about tofacitinib for vitiligo (1) and alopecia areata (2) have been reported in the lay press with considerable fanfare. ... Ruxolitinib (Jakafi) is indicated for treating intermediate to
Evaluation and Management (E/M) coding changes are coming in 2021 – Part 1
Several major E/M guideline revisions will go into effect Jan. 1, 2021, including: ... E/M guideline additions, revisions, and restructuring; ... Deletion of CPT code 99201 and revision of CPT codes 99202 – 99215 ... Updates to components for code selection to include: ... A medically appropriate history and/or physical
Revenue cycle best practices
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, CPCD, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, December 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . In today’s increasingly complex health care environment, dermatology practices, whether solo or
Pityriasis rubra pilaris: Check a TSH!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... June 10, 2016 ... There are myriad ways to mine the data from the review of 100 cases of PRP by Ross et al, however, one key finding will change the way I will assess these patients — 20% were hypothyroid! (1) ... There
CMS creates permanent drug code for treating molluscum contagiosum
Last updated: March 5, 2026 ... CMS has created a permanent drug code, J7354, for cantharidin, a drug used to treat molluscum contagiosum in adult and pediatric patients 2 years and older. The new J-code became effective on April 1, 2024. ... Cantharidin is the first ... FDA-approved topical treatment
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
CMS Releases 2020 First Quarterly NCCI PTP Edits
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the first Quarterly Update to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) Procedure-to-Procedure (PTP) Edits, Version 26.0, which will go into effect on January 1, 2020. ... As part of the effort to promote correct coding and to minimize inappropriate payments
Tackling Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: Part 1
Diagnosis and common mimickers. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Senior Editor, May 1, 2026 Among serious diseases treated by dermatologists, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) often top the list. ... Rare disorders of the skin and mucous membranes, SJS and TEN are thought to be clinically
Lipoid proteinosis’ weak, hoarse cry is crying for targeted therapeutic intervention
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Nov. 6, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 45 Having recently participated in the excellent conference devoted to antisemitism in medicine organized by Heather Milbar at the University of Pennsylvania, I reacquainted myself with Erich Urbach, who described lipoid proteinosis (LP, Urbach-Wiethe disease) with the otolaryngologist
Give your practice the tech boost it needs to thrive!
Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, Associate Director, Practice Management, June 1, 2025 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss how to optimize technology solutions to best suit your practice. Running a successful dermatology practice today requires more than
Get your KICS on Route IL-6
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 1, 2018 Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a syndrome caused by hypercytokinemia (notably Th1 cytokines — interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-6). Clinical manifestations are dramatic, presenting as fever, hepatosplenomegaly, hemophagocytosis, and cytopenias. (See the addendum for diagnostic criteria of HLH). Primary forms of HLH
Advocacy Update Aug 19, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 19, 2025 Academy addresses Cigna’s new E/M billing policy AADA member selected for Partnership for Quality Measurement’s Pre-Rulemaking Measure Review Clinician Committee AADA presents at FDA Advisory Panel on dermal fillers Contribute to SkinPAC Payer Advocacy Academy addresses Cigna’s new E/M billing policy ... On
2020 CPT Coding Updates
For 2020, the CPT code set has multiple changes. Although most of the changes do not specifically affect dermatology, there are notable changes that members need to be aware of starting on January 1, 2020. ... Non-Face-to-Face-Services: Telephone Services ... CPT code 99444 has been deleted and in its place,
The woolly culprit: Lanolin revealed as an uncommon cause of dermatitis on normal skin
By Christen Mowad, MD, FAAD Nov. 15, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 46 Excitement surrounding the "Allergen of the Year" may only be truly appreciated by those immersed in the field of contact dermatitis and patch testing, but each year the announcement is met with enthusiasm from the wider dermatology specialty.
Shedding light on tumoral melanosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 9, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 41 Tumoral melanosis (TM) is a worrisome and confounding lesion for dermatologists and dermatopathologists alike. TM presents as darkly pigmented macules, papules, or nodules mimicking the appearance of a melanoma. Most cases are associated with either partial or
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
What are the legal risks associated with social media and online review sites?
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, 2019 Social media usage continues to grow. For example, as of June 2019, Facebook boasts 1.59 billion active users per day. Physicians and
The physician view of employment agreements
Legally Speaking ... Daniel F. Shay, Esq., is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield and Associates, P.C. ... By Daniel F. Shay, Esq. , July 1, 2023 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Daniel F. Shay, Esq. is a health care attorney at
Malignant syphilis: History in the making
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 3, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 1 As our new academic year commences, soon I will remind our new residents of Sir William Osler's famous aphorism, "He who knows syphilis knows medicine." As the great mimicker, our trainees will never go astray by including
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... March 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MPH, MSBS The American Journal of Public Health published a series of analyses on wasteful spending in United States health
Modifier 25 and E/M coding in 2021
Derm Coding Consult ... By Cynthia Stewart, CPC, COC, CPMA, CPC-I, manager, coding & reimbursement resources, March 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in Derm Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The recently released 2021 CPT ... ® ... office or
Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Program on a ladder to success
On June 1, the Academy launched its new ... Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Program nationally. Developed in partnership with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, the new program aims to provide help to a population that is at a much greater risk of melanoma and skin cancer than the average person.
Digital marketing for dermatologists 101
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Use these basics to build the perfect practice website ... Use these basics to build the perfect practice website ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor Why should dermatologists care about how they’re portrayed online? “It’s like the yellow
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
March
Issue ... March January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... March is a strange month What's hot ... This month's news from across the specialty Clinical Applications ... What is the path forward for
Practical steps to an environmentally friendly office
Answers in Practice ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, March 1, 2021 DermWorld ... talks to David Fivenson, MD, — founder of Fivenson Dermatology in Ann Arbor, Michigan — about steps his practice has taken to reduce its carbon footprint. DermWorld: Tell us about your practice. Dr. Fivenson: I’ve been
Primer on payer contract issues
Answers in Practice ... By Lou Terranova, Associate Director, Practice and Payment Policy, and Teresa Salaway, Senior Manager, Practice and Payment Policy, October 1, 2024 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, AADA regulatory and payment policy staff highlight critical elements of payer contracts for
AADA takes on step therapy reform, sunscreen access
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) signed step therapy reform legislation into law, effective Jan. 1, 2026. The new law places guardrails around the use of step therapy protocols by state-regulated health plans, including Medicaid. ... The AADA has supported this effort since 2020 in partnership with the Dermatological Society
2026 AAD Annual Meeting: Opening ceremony and Keynote
Opening Ceremony ... Friday, March 27 | 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. ... Join us on Friday at Bellco Theatre for the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 AAD Annual Meeting, featuring opening remarks from AAD President Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, president-elect candidate speeches, remarks from this year’s Gold Medal
Labor Day thoughts on increasing dermatologist burnout
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 5, 2016 "Love and work…work and love. That’s all there is" – Sigmund Freud ... Today you probably received an email from ... Dermatology Times entitled "Tips for taking advantage of Labor Day 2016." A recent Mayo Clinic study was quoted, noting that between
Expanding your cosmetic services
In Practice ... Beth Santmyire-Rosenberger, MD, PhD, is the owner of Appalachian Spring Dermatology, PLLC, in Fairmont, West Virginia. ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, May 1, 2019 Dermatology World talks with Beth Santmyire-Rosenberger, MD, PhD, from Appalachian Spring Dermatology, PLLC, in Fairmont, West Virginia, about how to expand the
AADA advocacy delivers Senate Medicare payment reform bill
In a major advance in AADA’s fight for Medicare payment reform, the Senate introduced a bill on Aug. 1 aimed at addressing budget neutrality, a major cause of the ongoing physician payment cuts. This is a direct result of the AADA’s relentless advocacy on this issue, which is our sole
Selectivity and the choice of beta-blockers for infantile hemangiomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 11, 2017 Clinical evolution of an infantile ulcerated hemangioma on upper lip of patient 7. Clinical appearance: Before starting propranolol (A); after 12 months of follow-up (3 months of treatment) (B). ... Credit: ... JAAD Has there ever been a more radical change in
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
Applying the 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice – Part 3
Part three of the AADA’s clinical vignettes focuses on the application of the more challenging concepts related to the review and analysis of data in the AMA Medical Decision-Making table. Understanding the application of these concepts will assist you in determining when data may impact the level of service provided.
2026 AAD Annual Meeting: Global Education Day
Global Educational Day of Dermatology at the 2026 AAD Annual Meeting is an opportunity for international societies who are ... member organizations of the ... International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) to hold an independent educational session the day before the official start of the AAD Annual Meeting on Thursday,
Should benign cephalic histiocytosis be renamed? Let’s keep our heads about this decision.
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 4, 2017 Benign cephalic histiocytosis (BCH) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytic disorder first recognized by Gianotti 46 years ago. (1) Over the years, I have seen several cases of both Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), and non-Langerhans cell histiocytoses, but do not recall ever
A change of tack
The evolution of clinical trials reflects a growing focus on efficiency, safety ... Feature ... By Victoria Houghton, assistant managing editor, July 1, 2016 During the mid-eighteenth century, sailors from all over Europe were dying at sea in droves. However, these shipmen weren’t succumbing to warfare, but rather, scurvy. James
Reflectance confocal microscopy, driverless cars, and Uber: The future of dermatopathology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Sept. 12, 2016 ... In a matter of days, you will be able to use Uber to hail a driverless car to your destination in Pittsburgh. During these trials, initially there will be a human monitor (1). You know where this is going
The risk of melanoma in adults with giant pigmented nevi
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 27, 2016 Giant pigmented nevi (GPN, defined in reference 1 as > 20 cm in an adult) are among the most challenging lesions from so many perspectives. When diagnosed in childhood, questions from parents regarding the risk of melanoma, approach to monitoring, managing, and
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
The concept of atrophoderma of pasini and pierini as morphea may be falling off a cliff
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 6, 2017 ... Clinical photos of idiopathic atrophoderma of Pierini and Pasini. ... Credit: ... JAAD Diagnosing Atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini (APP) is reasonably straightforward — it usually presents in adolescents and young adults, more often in females, with sharply defined, single or
AADA advocates for innovative teledermatology policies and programs
While 85 million Americans are impacted by skin disease, only 1 in 3 patients will see a dermatologist. The Academy believes that teledermatology is a powerful tool for increasing patient access to needed dermatologic care. ... The Academy advocates for innovative teledermatology policies and programs that increase access to care
AMA CPT releases new online digital E/M services codes for private payers
Effective Jan. 1, 2020, the AMA CPT deleted CPT code 99444 (Online evaluation and management service provided by a physician or other qualified health care professional who may report evaluation and management services provided to an established patient or guardian, not originating from a related E/M service provided within the
The journey of focal dermal hypoplasia: From description to inspired therapy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 9, 2017 The dermatologic community lost a giant in 2014 with the passing of Robert W. Goltz, MD at the age of 90. Dr. Goltz was not only responsible for describing focal dermal hypoplasia (FDH), but also multicentric reticulohistiocytosis, generalized elastolysis, and the nevoid
We are battling detrimental Medicare payment cuts
As our top federal legislative priority, your Academy has been fighting all year against Medicare payment cuts of 8.5% or more that are scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, 2023. These scheduled cuts are on top of payment reductions that took effect this year, and, without a long-term solution, Medicare
A Trumpian analysis of infliximab-induced follicular mucinosis: Something’s going on here
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 10, 2016 Williams et al presented two cases of biopsy-proven facial follicular mucinosis (FM), apparently induced by infliximab, with a normal tissue CD4/CD8 ratio of 2/1 and the presence of CD7, thereby ruling out CTCL. The first case was a 23 year-old man with
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
If want to be a true leader, emulate the first president
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 30, 2017 I recently had a discussion with our departing chief resident as he was about to embark on his academic career at UCLA. He was looking for sage advice — I focused on the need to maintain enthusiasm, wonder, curiosity, and dedication to
AAD Board of Directors shed light on the strategic plan’s impact on members
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... Throughout the course of a five-week series, members of the AAD Board of Directors share their thinking on Academy programs that are meaningful and initiatives that might need improvement. In their dynamic, yet transparent Q&As,
Demystifying step therapy
Get familiar with the appeals process, your state’s laws, and what’s happening with reform efforts ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, March 1, 2021 For many dermatologists, step therapy is an unwelcome and familiar hurdle, often requiring careful navigation of an onerous appeals process while patients fail to
Smarter not harder
In Practice ... Dr. Gardner serves as assistant professor of medicine and dermatology at the University of Washington School of Medicine and works in the dermatology clinic at UW Medical Center Roosevelt and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, March 1, 2019 Dermatology World talks
What is the path forward for treating children with severe atopic dermatitis with dupilumab?
Clinical Applications ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, March 1, 2021 In this month’s Clinical Applications column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Amy Paller, MD, about her
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
June 26, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 26, 2024 ... Finasteride vs. minoxidil for female pattern hair loss DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pathway to reducing medical errors Cutaneous drug reactions to psychedelics and hallucinogens Trichophyton indotineae
July 31
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 31, 2019 ... Academy and NPF release new psoriasis phototherapy guidelines DW Insights and Inquiries : A metabolic pathway that may allow dermatologists to run rings around porokeratoses Having trouble
Not just for boys: X-linked erythropoietic protoporphyria
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 7, 2017 I was anxiously awaiting the results of erythrocyte protoporphyrin levels obtained from a 4 year-old boy who avoids sunlight because his "skin hurts" when not in the shade. Until I read the article by Balwani, et al (1), I was unaware of
What to know about coding dermatology encounters after the Public Health Emergency (PHE) and beyond
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, January 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Editor ’s Note: The online version
Impact Report — Vol 6, Issue 1
Your membership in action From fighting for your patients and practice against payment cuts and scope-of-practice expansions, to securing major media wins that position you as the authorities in skin, hair, and nails, see how your Academy is working for you. Plus, explore the latest member benefits, including new CME
A bridge from the view: Switching from glass to digital dermatopathology
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 23, 2016 Eight months ago, I started using the Clearpath digital dermatopathology system developed by Tom Olsen and his associates at the Dermatopathology Laboratory Central States (DLCS). As one of the early utilizers, I was grateful to work with his software wizards, offering my
Impact Report — Vol 5, Issue 1
Reiterating the value of membership It’s time once again for the Academy’s ... Impact Report to reveal its 2024 advocacy and patient education activities and remind you of your meaningful member benefits from last year. ... Read the latest on how we are advocating for you on Capitol Hill and
JAAD ranks no. 1 among dermatology journals
The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology’s ... impact factor increases by 34% ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 5, 2022) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology is the top peer-reviewed journal in its field, according to the 2021 journal impact factor rankings recently published by Clarivate’s Journal
Three life lessons
From the President ... Dr. Hruza served as Academy president from March 2019 to March 2020. ... By George Hruza, MD, MBA, April 1, 2019 I am honored and humbled to lead this great organization. I want to thank Dr. Suzanne Olbricht for her strong leadership over this past year
Is dyshidrosiform pemphigoid really anti-p200 pemphigoid?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 20, 2016 Dyshidrosiform pemphigoid (DP) was initially reported in a 72 year-old man with large, tense bullae on the plantar aspect of his feet, with some lesions on an erythematous base. He also had an "ill-defined papular eruption" of the trunk and an erosion
Resident International Grant
International Travel ... The Academy reserves the right to modify or cancel the Resident International Travel Grant Program or specific grants made under this program based on circumstances in particular cities, regions, or countries. ... The fall 2023 application cycle for rotations July-December 2024 has been cancelled. Please check back
A mixed bag
A burgeoning style of dermatologic care that combines traditional medicine with evidence-based alternatives is taking shape ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, assistant managing editor, August 1, 2021 As a child, Peter Lio, MD, FAAD, was an enthusiast for all things mysterious — telepathy, Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster. Despite
Changing the narrative: The AAD and education
by Melanie Tolley Hall Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, AAD In our ... first article , AAD Board member Abby VanVoorhees, MD, shared that the AAD will unveil its new brand in September. Having done branding work throughout my career in diverse institutions including Fortune 500 companies and hospital health
Step 1: Check participation requirements
MIPS 2025 Reporting Snapshots ... Access our ... 2025 MIPS reporting options (PDF), with guidance tailored to your practice size and needs. ... First, determine if you are exempt from MIPS reporting. ... Use the tool below to check whether you are required to participate in MIPS. CMS uses your
Step 1: Check participation requirements
MIPS 2026 Reporting Snapshots ... Access our 2026 ... MIPS reporting options (PDF), with guidance tailored to your practice size and needs. ... First, determine if you are exempt from MIPS reporting. ... Use the tool below to check whether you are required to participate in MIPS. CMS uses your
Warts and all
Remedies for warts abound, but high-quality studies are lacking. ... Feature ... By Jan Bowers, contributing writer, March 1, 2021 Warts, one of the most common skin disorders worldwide, can be easy to treat or maddeningly difficult. Although warts can resolve spontaneously, others readily respond to over-the-counter treatments such as
Applying the 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice – Part 2
In our ongoing efforts to help members navigate the E/M changes in a simplified and relatable manner in everyday practice, part two of the AADA’s clinical vignettes focuses on the application of the concepts necessary to support reporting a high level of number and complexity of problems addressed, data analyzed,
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.
Advocacy Update Oct 28, 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 28, 2025 CMS lifts hold on Medicare claims Advocacy win: Elevance expands coverage for home-based light therapy AAD statement on FDA safety alert for RF microneedling devices AADA nominates Alina Bridges, DO, FAAD, for Medicare clinical diagnostic laboratory test advisory panel 2026 Advocate of the
Dyeing for a “new” topical agent for psoriasis? Think indigo
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 9, 2018 Despite the magnificent revolution of biologics for psoriasis, topical agents remain the cornerstone of treatment, either alone, or in combination with phototherapy or systemic treatments. Patients clamor for "natural" products and are increasingly steroid phobic (please see "Countering Corticophobia with Assistance from
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 —
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
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
2026 DW Insights and Inquiries archive
Explore ... DermWorld Insights and Inquiries articles by publication date. ... May ... May 1 - Granular C3 dermatosis in granular detail April ... April 1 - Cocaine-associated plasma cell orificial mucositis: Anything goes March ... March 1 - Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis: Six decades of progress February ... Feb. 1
Extinguishing burnout
Managing low morale in medicine. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, January 1, 2026 About five years into her practice, Lisa Swanson, MD, FAAD, began feeling the symptoms of occupational burnout. ... "It’s kind of an insidious process where it’s probably been creeping up for a while, but
The tech connection
New tools boost peer-to-peer physician communication ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, March 1, 2022 The patient-physician relationship isn’t the only one impacted by social distancing due to COVID-19. The pandemic has taken a toll on peer-to-peer communication, as well. Asking a colleague about a suspicious lesion isn’t
First 100 days: Contain COVID-19
Dermatologists will likely have to wait before the Biden administration turns its attention to health care issues impacting the specialty. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, March 1, 2021 The novel coronavirus will dominate the Biden administration’s health care agenda in 2021. Depending on how quickly the COVID-19
JAAD impact factor ranks No. 1 among dermatology journals
JAAD International debuts at No. 10 ROSEMONT, Ill. (June 19, 2025) — The ... Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology remains the top peer-reviewed journal in its field for the sixth straight year, according to the 2024 journal impact factor (JIF) rankings recently published by ... Clarivate’s Journal Citation
Impact Report — Vol 4, Issue 1
Celebrating a year of big wins at the Academy From critical changes to iPLEDGE, to new CME learning opportunities on actinic keratosis, alopecia, and atopic dermatitis, to enhanced coding and practice management tools, the Academy was here for you in 2023. Our successes are a direct result of the strong
Impact Report — Vol 3, Issue 1
We are building a brighter tomorrow, today. Our bright tomorrow is forged and reinforced by the work we do all year to make the Academy strong. The efforts and successes involve AAD staff, working alongside leadership and, importantly, members like you. It’s a powerful collaboration. ... In this edition of
Pregnant with possibility: Rituximab prophylaxis for pemphigoid gestationis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 26, 2018 ... Pemphigoid gestationis in 34-year-old primigravida at 28 weeks gestation. A, Urticated erythema with multiple tense blisters on both thighs. B, Histopathologic findings reveal subepidermal blister formation with abundant eosinophils, accompanied by superficial and middermal perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltrate. (Hematoxylin-eosin stain; original magnification:
Digital media kit: DermWorld editorial calendar
Download a PDF of the 2026 DermWorld editorial calendar . ... JANUARY ... FEBRUARY ... MARCH ... Preparing derms to use ... GLP-1 RA Coding: Soft tissue excision ... Managing declining morale in health care ... Close: 11/25/25 ... Materials due: 12/3/25 ... Mail date: 1/2/26 ... Update on ...
What is the status of MAC implementation of the NCCI new procedure to procedure edits for the new biopsy codes?
Asked and Answered ... August 1, 2019 As of July 1, 2019, service modifiers 59 and XE, XS, XP, and XU may be appended to either Column 1 or Column 2 codes in the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) Procedure-to-Procedure (PTP) edits table, when appropriate. On March 29, the Centers
Reflections on “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 13, 2016 I was given this best-selling book as a holiday gift last winter. I wanted to read it, but somehow it was easier to deny my fears about aging by ignoring the text. With increasing rapidity, I am losing patients that I
Human resources: To outsource or not, that is the question
Human resource (HR) activities typically include staffing, compensation and benefits, training and development, safety and health, and employee management. Given these vast domains, a small dermatology practice may struggle to balance what can be done in-house and what should be outsourced. HR itself can often be outsourced but consider your
Virtual credit card payments
Electronic funds transfer (EFT) is a secure and efficient payment method used by health care organizations. EFTs enable direct deposits of funds from insurance companies into bank accounts, reducing administrative hassles. In contrast, virtual credit card (VCC) payments are made by insurance companies issuing single-use credit card numbers to physicians.
Best of DermWorld Insights and Inquiries
Dec. 26, 2024 We know how much you enjoy Dr. Heymann and the editorial board’s weekly analyses of dermatologic literature, so we’ve created a list of the top 10 most popular issues in 2024 — starting with the most popular issue of the year. ... 1. Weighing in on glucagon-like
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
Meaningful benefits — DermWorld Insights & Inquiries
AAD brings you clinical analysis you can use every Wednesday ... DermWorld Insights & Inquiries made its debut appearance in ... DermWorld Weekly on March 13, 2019. That first Wednesday, traffic was modest — 385 views. But things grew steadily; soon traffic on Wednesdays spiked to 1,000, then 2,000, and
AAD 2019 Strategic Plan: Our vision for the future
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... The Academy Board of Directors and President Suzanne Olbricht, MD, convened during a special three-day working event to imagine what the organization should look like a decade from now. What they outlined and documented as
2022 first and second quarter NCCI edit updates
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, August 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released its first and second quarterly updates to the National Correct
CMS releases 2023 third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, January 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the third and fourth quarter updates to the National Correct
CMS updates 2021 first and second quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, coding analyst, coding & reimbursement, July 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in Derm Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the first and second quarter updates to the National
History and current status
1. What is the history of measles in the U.S.? ... Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease. ... Pre-vaccine era ... Measles was first identified as an infectious agent from blood samples collected in 1757 and became a nationally notifiable disease in the US in 1912. ... 1 ... An average
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
CMS releases 2024 first and second quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, August 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Coding Consult articles . CMS released the first and second quarter
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
CMS releases 2023 first and second quarter NCCI Edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, July 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the first and second quarter updates to the National Correct
CMS releases 2025 third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, CPCD, CRCR Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, March 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the third and fourth quarter updates to the
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
May 5, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 5, 2021 ... Is dutasteride an effective treatment for frontal fibrosing alopecia? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Digging deeper into lupus erythematosus panniculitis Which herbal supplements may affect autoimmune skin
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
What's hot?
What's hot ... July 24, 2018 In this monthly column, members of the ... Dermatology World Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Edward W. Cowen, MD, MHSc ... The first human retrovirus, identified in 1980, was not HIV, but human T-cell lymphotrophic virus-1 (HTLV-1). It
Nailing down the treatment for ungual melanoma in situ
By Adam Rubin, MD April 21, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 16 In the recent ... Dermatologic Surgery manuscript "Nail Unit Melanoma In Situ Treated with Mohs Micrographic Surgery" (1), Dr. Divya Srivastava and her colleagues at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center demonstrated the effectiveness of the combination of
Ubiquitous ubiquitination
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 28, 2017 Generalized severe epidermolysis bullosa simplex. Blister classification. Single blisters were defined as a count of 1. Blister nests derived from 1 healing blister were defined as a count of 1. Redness without convexes was not counted. Only time points for which good
Isotretinoin and diabetes: Of familiarity and surprise
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 6, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 27 On a gloriously sparkling, warm spring afternoon in 2009 I sat with my family in the right field bleachers of the new Yankee Stadium as the Bronx Bombers took on the Phillies. I relished the expansive majesty
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,
CMS releases 2024 third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, February 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the third and fourth quarter updates to the 2024 National
CMS releases 2025 first and second quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany E. McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, September 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released the first and second quarter updates to the 2025 National
Should dermatologists be anti-antihistamine for atopic dermatitis?
By Sylvia Hsu, MD July 17, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 19 Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by pruritus that results in eczema induced by scratching. Histamine-1 receptor blockers are routinely used to treat the pruritus of AD. Histamine does not seem to play a role in AD through the histamine-1
Advocacy Update Jan. 7 2025
IN THIS ISSUE / Jan. 7, 2025 Medicare physician payment cuts effective Jan. 1 Advocacy Win: Aetna fixes Mohs surgery claim edits AADA advocated for clarification on Aetna denied claims for complex repairs AADA presses FDA on sunscreen access Save the date— SkinPAC reception at Orlando Annual Meeting Join your
Cultivating a supportive work culture
Work culture is a collection of attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that make up the regular atmosphere of your workplace. A healthy work culture is fundamental to good patient care and your own well-being. So what does it take to create a healthy, wellness-oriented, dynamic culture? ... To start, it takes
January 22, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / January 22, 2025 ... Considerations regarding GLP-1 receptor agonist use in dermatology DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : An encapsulation of palisaded encapsulated neuromas Pregabalin vs. gabapentin in patients with chronic pruritus
Sweating over sweat gland carcinomas: Part 1 — Squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 13, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 32 A highlight of my week is leisurely reading the ... Philadelphia Inquirer on quiet Sunday mornings, skimming over the troubling headlines, and concentrating on positive happenings in the Delaware Valley. My bliss was rudely interrupted by a
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
Cannabis arteritis: Getting higher on the differential diagnosis list of ulcerative lesions
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, January 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 1 Marijuana use is on the rise. In 2022, nearly 22% of people had used the drug in the past year, with steep increases in the number of people 65 and older who
CMS releases third and fourth quarter NCCI edits
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, January 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has released its third and fourth quarterly
Workplace Safety Compliance Tool
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Which treatment modality of pyogenic granuloma is worth its weight in salt?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 31, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 31 I get palpitations with every pyogenic granuloma (PG) I encounter. Even though the clinical diagnosis is instant, my personal Jiminy Cricket dermatologist reminds me not to miss an amelanotic melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or cutaneous metastasis. If
OSHA Compliance Tool
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HIPAA Compliance Tool
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News releases
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Office optimization tool
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Financial safeguards and best practices tool
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MIPS best practices tool
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The fundamentals of recruiting, hiring, and retaining high-quality staff
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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)
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)
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
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).
Clinical information
1. How contagious is measles? ... Measles is a highly contagious virus, much more contagious than the common cold and even more contagious than other outbreaks like smallpox or Ebola. ... 1 ... Measles is potentially transmissible even after brief exposures and at distances up to 30 meters. ... 2
Preventing suicide
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 800,000 people die by suicide every year, making it one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, for each suicide, there are many more individuals who contemplate it or make unsuccessful attempts. ... If you or someone you know is experiencing
Snitching on Schnitzler syndrome: The continuing search for an optimal biomarker
By Warren R. Heymann, MD August 7, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 22 Urticarial dermatoses confound our even our most sagacious dermatologists. It is no surprise that patients with systemic autoinflammatory diseases such as Schnitzler syndrome (SS) go undiagnosed for years after failed trials of antihistamines, steroids, and other immunosuppressive therapies.
When assessing morbilliform eruptions think about morbilli (measles)!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 1, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 8 ... I’m confident you’ve seen the headlines about measles (rubeola, morbillii): ... "Measles Outbreak: The Spread in New York" ( ... New York Times , March 28, 2019) ... "Fourth Measles Case Reported in Maryland Outbreak" ( ...
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
Parabens — A common allergen with lots of hype and no real harm
By Christen M. Mowad, MD Sept. 4, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 26 Every year for the past 20 years, the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) has highlighted an allergen. Most often the particular allergen is selected because it is new and emerging, such as methylisothiazolinone in 2013. (1) Sometimes, it
Dermatological Care MIPS Value Pathway (MVP)
The Dermatological Care MIPS Value Pathway (MVP) is a streamlined reporting system designed specifically for dermatologists to meet MIPS requirements. CMS is designing MVPs to allow physicians to report on measures that are more relevant to their specialties in a structured manner. Unlike traditional MIPS, participation in an MVP for
Oral tranexamic acid to treat melasma: Are you bloody kidding me?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 1, 2016 Tranexamic acid (TA) is a synthetic derivative of lysine utilized as an antifibrinolytic agent to prevent bleeding (for dental surgery in patients with hemophilia, post-cardiac bypass surgery patients, or in women with menorrhagia) and as a treatment option for hereditary angioedema.
2026 Board Prep Plus Raffle
Official Rules & Regulations ... How to enter the Board Prep Plus "Board Bonanza" Raffle ... Residents can earn a raffle ticket by: ... Doing a test-drive of Board Prep Plus at the AAD Resource Center. ... Leaving a review of Board Prep Plus March 26 – March 29 (current
The congenital perineal groove: Defective recognition of a dermal defect
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Feb. 28, 2018 ... It has been nearly half a century since Stephens first detailed the perineal groove (PG) as a congenital malformation consisting of three features: (1) a wet groove in the midperineum between the fourchette and the anus; (2) normal formation of
Monthly Archives
Issue ... May January February March April May View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... Easing the pain of dermatology What’s hot ... This month’s news from across the specialty DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... Granular C3 dermatosis in granular detail Feature ... Tackling Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic
May
Issue ... May January February March April May View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... Easing the pain of dermatology What’s hot ... This month’s news from across the specialty DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... Granular C3 dermatosis in granular detail Feature ... Tackling Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic
From a JAK to a king of Castleman disease
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 15, 2017 A 44-year-old Chinese woman with a 10-year history of asymptomatic cutaneous patches and plaques on her trunk (Fig 1, A) who reported intermittent fever and lymphadenopathy for 6 months. A skin biopsy specimen from a cutaneous plaque showed perivascular infiltration of plasma
Evaluation and management in 2021: Part 4
Cracking the code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, December 1, 2020 Jan. 1, 2021: A new structure for reporting office and other outpatient evaluation and management (E/M)
DermWorld
Tackling Stevens-Johnson syndrome/TEN: Part 1 Diagnosis and common mimickers. ... Optimizing financial efficiency: Part 1 Best practices to ensure financial health before the appointment begins. ... Avoid the opioid Effective pain management in dermatology. ... Coding Consult Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month. ... Insights and Inquiries
Primary sclerosing cholangitis associated with pyostomatitis vegetans and pyodermatitis vegetans: A potentially bilious situation
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Aug. 29, 2016 Inflammatory bowel disease may be associated with multiple cutaneous manifestations including pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), erythema nodosum, or directly by fistulae or "metastatic" Crohn disease. Seven cases of pyostomatitis vegetans-pyodermatitis vegetans (PSV-PDV) were reviewed. All 7 patients had inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) —
How can I get a receipt for payments made to the Academy?
Asked and Answered ... March 1, 2020 For all Academy-related payments — membership dues, past orders, a subscription to ... Dialogues in Dermatology — AAD members can access their receipts as follows: ... 1. Visit ... www.aad.org/members 2. Sign in to your member profile ... 3. Click the "Account" tab
When to see red in linear erythronychia — Malignant onychopapilloma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 29, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 26 With every passing year, I take increasing comfort in the stability of the linear erythronychia of my left fifth digit. The presumed diagnosis of an onychopapilloma (OP) is very reassuring because every article I ever read about
Calcipotriene and 5-fluorouracil: Dermatology’s new dynamic duo?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 18, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 28 Chatting with my chief resident, Tia Pyle, I was lamenting the recent comparative report that ingenol mebutate (and other treatments) did not fare as well as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) for treating actinic keratoses (AKs). (1) (See previous ... Dermatology
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 ( ...
Can oral ivermectin cure pediatric periorificial dermatitis? It mite!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 5, 2017 A 13-year-old boy with severe rosacea before (A) and 1 month (B) and 4 months (C) after receiving oral therapy with a single dose of 250 μg/kg ivermectin (case 3). Note the facial desquamation after the first weeks of therapy, not attributable
AAD insurance
The American Academy of Dermatology in conjunction with Aon Affinity Insurance Service Inc. has seven custom-designed insurance programs to help protect your future and the future of your family. ... Choose from various insurance programs including: ... Level Term Life 1 ... Lock-in member-only group rates for a 10- or
The pachydermoperiostosis prostaglandin paradigm
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 10, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 18 Prostaglandins were the rage when I started medical school in 1975; their role in inflammatory dermatoses was considered of paramount importance throughout my residency in the early 1980s. Hours were spent studying the transformation of arachidoinic acid to
Crystallizing thoughts about crystalglobulinemia
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Dec. 14, 2017 ... A, Necrotic purpuric lesions on the dorsum of the foot in a patient with crystalglobulinemia. The thumb had been previously amputated because of necrotic gangrene secondary to occluded vessels. B, Histopathologic features in cutaneous lesions of crystalglobulinemia. Scanning power showing a
Diversifying the specialty can result in high quality access to dermatologic care
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... Diversifying the specialty can result in high-quality access to dermatologic care Providing access to dermatologic care continues to present challenges in dermatology with demand for services outstripping supply in many locations nationwide. As such, access
Documenting encounters when you suspect trafficking
The ICD-10 was the first edition to publish diagnostic codes for suspected and known human trafficking, including commercial sexual exploitation. On December 5, 2019, HEAL Trafficking and the International Center for Missing and Exploited Children convened national experts to develop draft guidelines and training requirements to inform the safe and
Diagnosis coding updates for 2026
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, November 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Office preparedness
The information below is provided for informational purposes only and is not an AAD guideline. Please refer to your local, state, or national guidelines for infection control regulations. ... 1. How can I prepare my practice for a patient with suspected measles? ... If your office does not have an
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
Welcome to Dermatology World Insights and Inquiries
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 13, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 1 Keeping up with clinically relevant dermatologic literature has become an increasingly daunting task. The time constraints facing dermatologists (and all physicians) have multiplied, as have administrative demands, burdens of electronic records, etc., challenging even the most time-efficient, organized
A point to make about punctate, pigmented, and verrucous papillomatosis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 25, 2016 What is your mental image of the Gougerot-Carteaud (GC) syndrome? I equate it with confluent and reticulated papillomatosis, presenting on the trunk with hyperpigmented minimally raised plaques. The KOH examination is negative and there is a quick, characteristic response to antibiotics such
Eye-opening news about oxymetazoline
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 27, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 17 Certain articles have a "wow" factor that immediately impacts practice. In 2007, I recall being impressed by the 2 cases of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea reported by Shanler and Ondo that dramatically improved with the application of oxymetazoline hydrochloride
May 9
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / MAY 9, 2018 ... FDA grants lidocaine HCL 1% approval to Spectra Medical AAD Board selects Daniel D. Bennett, MD, as next assistant secretary-treasurer Hawaii passes legislation banning sunscreen with oxybenzone
How can I get involved with this year’s Legislative Conference?
Asked and Answered ... July 1, 2024 The 2024 AADA Legislative Conference will take place Sept. 8-10, at the JW Marriot in Washington, D.C. ... Attending the conference is as easy as 1, 2, 3. You can expect: ... Two days of networking and learning from political experts about the
Double check, pause...and proceed
What dermatologists can learn from quality efforts in surgery ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist, October 3, 2016 As the culture of health care and developing regulatory trends continue to move in an increasingly quality-focused direction, dermatologists may soon find themselves under more scrutiny. Wrong-site surgery is one
How can I claim CME credits?
Asked and Answered ... March 1, 2026 Academy members can use the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Transcript Program to document their continuing medical education (CME) and continuing certification program (CCP) requirements to send to a licensing body. This service is a member benefit at no additional fee.* ... With the
How do I claim CME credit from the AAD Annual Meeting?
Asked and Answered ... April 1, 2025 Use the American Academy of Dermatology’s (AAD) online Continuing Professional Development Transcript (CPD) Program to document your CME and CCP activities to send to a licensing body. This service is a member benefit at no additional fee.* ... With the CPD Transcript Program
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
They are hot.
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, FAAD, November 1, 2025 It is hard to think of another class of drugs that has generated such excitement from the general public as the GLP-1 agonists. While originally designed (and still
Generalized multinucleate cell angiohistiocytomas and thoughts on diagnostic first impressions
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 1, 2017 I became aware of multinucleate cell angiohistiocytomas (MCA) when I learned of an article published by friends who reported the first cases in the United States (1). The following abstract by Smolle et al (2) accurately described the entity, and my concept
How can I get involved with this year’s Legislative Conference?
Asked and Answered ... July 1, 2023 The 2023 AADA Legislative Conference will take place Sept. 10-12, at the Conrad Hotel, in Washington, D.C. ... Attending the conference is as easy as 1, 2, 3. You can expect: ... Two days of networking and learning from political experts about the
Re-examining physician mental health
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, September 1, 2022 According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. has experienced a mental illness in the past year, with an increase in observed prevalence over the last decade. Additional
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
Transform your skin health: diet and lifestyle take center stage at 2025 AAD Annual Meeting
ORLANDO, FL (March 7, 2025) — The 2025 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting will take place March 7-11 in Orlando. The meeting will feature nearly 300 educational sessions with more than 1,700 speakers discussing the latest research on skin, hair, and nails, including topics on how diet and lifestyle
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
Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei: A Simon and Garfunkel playlist
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Oct. 1, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 39 William Tilbury Fox (1836-1879) was a brilliant dermatologist, the first in the United Kingdom to have a post in a teaching hospital. With Erasmus Wilson, he resurrected the prominence of British dermatology nearly half a century after
Coming full circle (almost): Low dose oral minoxidil for alopecia
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD January 5, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 1 I presume that virtually every dermatologist reading this commentary has recommended topical minoxidil (TM) for their patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and other alopecias (telogen effluvium, alopecia areata [AA], hair shaft abnormalities, and eyebrow hypotrichosis). I recall
ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding updates for 2025
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, October 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Centers for Disease Control and
2025 CPT coding updates
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, December 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The American Medical Association (AMA) has
Not aging like fine wine: The myths and mysteries of acquired port wine stains
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 13, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 2 Port wine stains (PWS, aka nevus flammeus, nevus simplex, salmon patch) are cutaneous capillary malformations that are characteristically congenital (CPWS) but may be acquired (APWS). APWS was first described in a German publication by Fegeler in 1949, hence
ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding updates for 2024
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, September 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The CDC and the National Center
2023 CPT coding updates
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, December 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The American Medical Association (AMA) has
Dermatologists will increasingly meet mammalian meat allergy
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 20, 2019 Vol 1, No. 2 It has been a decade since Van Nunen et al detailed 25 patients living in a tick-endemic region of Sydney, Australia, who developed a red meat allergy following large, local reactions to tick bites. (1) Tick-induced mammalian meat
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
From the editor
From the Editor ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld. By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, July 1, 2019 Happy New Year! Those of us in academic medicine run on a somewhat different calendar than does the rest of the world. We fondly say our goodbyes to our
A ‘pregnant pause’ is necessary before concluding on the obstetric risk of vitiligo
... By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 17, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 6 ... Vitiligo affects approximately 1% of the worldwide population of all racial/ethnic groups, equally affecting male and female patients. As neither immune nor non-immune mechanisms in isolation can sufficiently explain all parts of this complex disease,
Preparing for MIPS 2023 and beyond
Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2023 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff offer tips on MIPS reporting. It’s year five of the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS), so you are probably well aware that
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... April 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate ... Mallory Abate, MD Differentiating BCCs from intradermal nevi (IDN) along the lower eyelid margin can be tricky, but is important
Nailing the diagnosis of the BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 5, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 23 I never imagined that I would be writing another commentary on onychopapillomas (Ops) so soon. The initial commentary was devoted to rare malignant Ops. (1) Unsurprisingly, additional reports of malignant Ops have been reported. (2) What else
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)
ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding updates for 2022
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, manager, coding & reimbursement, September 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in Derm Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) within
Oy, another “Oid” to worry about: Cryptococcoid lesions
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 3, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 17 The suffix "oid" m ... eans "resembling." There is a plethora of "oids" in dermatology — lichenoid, Pagetoid, rupioid, targetoid, to name a few. (My favorite is "oid-oid" disease, aka Sulzberger-Garbe disease, or exudative discoid and lichenoid chronic
Preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME)
By Jason B. Lee, MD, FAAD May 10, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 19 In 1980, the discovery of S100 protein expression in cultured metastatic melanoma cell lines (1) stirred excitement in the pathology community for its potential role as a diagnostic marker for melanoma. The excitement was short-lived once it
AESOP: The ants and the grasshopper
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Aug. 21, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 34 Unquestionably, AESOP ( ... A denopathy and ... E xtensive ... S kin patch ... O verlying a ... P lasmactyoma) is rare — to date, fewer than 25 cases have been reported. (1) Why write (or
New evaluation and management (E/M) coding changes are coming in 2021 – Practical applications of the 2021 E/M coding changes
Selecting the E/M level of service ... Part 3 of the "E/M coding changes are coming in 2021" series will focus on the practical application of the changes to dermatology-specific encounters based on ... medical decision making (MDM) or ... time . (Review ... part 1 and ... part 2
Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis: Six decades of progress
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, March 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 3 Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF) is a quizzical disorder. In 1965, Ise and Ofuji described the case of a 42-year-old woman who "repeatedly developed crops of small pustules on the face, the trunk,
Obituaries
Obituaries ... By Jerry Graff, MD, June 1, 2020 The Academy recently learned with sorrow of the passing of the following members of the dermatologic community. ... ROBERT AUERBACH, MD, of New York, Nov. 1, 2017, at age 85. Trained in dermatology at University of Chicago. Was a well-known expert
ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding updates for 2023
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, October 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Centers for Disease Control and
2026 CPT coding updates
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, January 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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
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
Can dermatology employers require employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
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, LL.M, Megan La Suer, JD, MHA, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, April 1, 2021 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally
CMS finalizes and implements evaluation and management visit complexity HCPCS add-on code G2211
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, May 1, 2024 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . CMS has officially implemented the novel
Innovative learning experiences equip members to provide compassionate patient care
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... Excellence in dermatology through education and advocacy . One of five strategic goals under the Academy’s ... new Strategic Plan , this reflects the Academy’s commitment to providing dermatologists with the education and environment that
Itching to see if polymerase chain reaction mite be the future of diagnosing scabies
By Warren R. Heymann, MD January 6, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 1 The scourge of scabies has been plaguing mankind for millennia. The causal relationship of the itch mite causing scabies was discovered by Bonomo and Cestoni in 1687, earning the distinction of being the first to discover a proven
Private payer coding issues
Derm Coding Consult ... By Tiffany McFarland, RHIT, Analyst, Coding & Reimbursement, and Louis Terranova, MHA, Assistant Director, Practice Advocacy, April 1, 2022 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . In 2021, dermatologists and non-physician clinicians
Estate planning 101
Experts offer tips on what to do and when to do it. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, March 1, 2023 They are two of the most difficult decisions to make: who should be your child’s guardian and who should get your assets if something happens to you.
2022 CPT coding updates
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, November 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The American Medical Association (AMA) has released the
What we have learned about E/M coding and reimbursement in 2021
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, manager, coding & reimbursement, April 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in Derm Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . On Jan. 1, 2021, changes were implemented to
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
8 tips to help optimize financial efficiency in your practice
Answers in Practice ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, manager, practice management, February 1, 2020 Financial efficiency is desirable to all practices no matter the size or practice model. There are several steps you can take to ensure that your practice is not only financially compliant, but also financially successful. ...
2024 CPT coding updates
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, November 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The American Medical Association (AMA) has
Benzene in consumer products
What dermatologists and patients should know. ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, April 1, 2025 From dry shampoo to acne medication — benzene, a known human carcinogen, has been detected in multiple cosmetic and cutaneous products over the past several years. ... The International Agency for Research on
#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
Definitions for the medical decision-making elements terminology
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, manager, coding and reimbursement, February 1, 2021 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in Derm Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Beginning Jan. 1, 2021, the selection of office
Sulzberger Institute Grant
The Sulzberger Institute for Dermatologic Education, part of the American Academy of Dermatology, provides grant support for innovative initiatives in education and technology. Grants typically provide funds to help dermatologists begin projects that will improve patient care. Apply below! There is also a ... separate award for a lectureship .
Skin biopsy codes
Dermatologists must code skin biopsies with one of six codes — three primary and three add on — which are specific about the technique and depth of the biopsy performed. However, there are rules for reporting multiple skin biopsies during the same encounter. ... Site specific codes, such as biopsy
Does your dermatopathologist recommend treatment suggestions for melanocytic lesions? My two cents (and sense)
My dermatopathology fellowship photo from 1985 at the University of Pennsylvania: Standing Left to Right: Myself, Wallace H. Clark, Jr, and Margaret Freeman (co-fellow); Seated: Bernett Johnson, Jr and Margaret Gray Wood. I learned from the best! While they (the professors) are no longer with us, somehow I hope they
Red alert: Avoid brimonidine and oxymetazoline as hemostatic agents
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 19, 2017 Mohs micrographic surgery procedure including brimonidine treatment: skin before application (A), 5 minutes after application of brimonidine (B), and minimal intraoperative bleeding with pretreatment of brimonidine (C). ... Credit: ... JAAD As a youth, I recall that "rosy cheeks" were a sign
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
2020 ICD-10-CM Coding Updates
Dermatology has a few new or newly updated ICD-10-CM codes for 2020. Listed below are new categories/subcategories of codes that will impact dermatology as of October 1, 2019. ... Below are some of the proposed revisions and/or updates to the diagnosis codes that dermatology practices need to focus on. Italicized
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
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
In the Know
CMS/NCCI Workgroup Announces July 2019 Changes to Procedure to Procedure (PTP) Edits ... Have you noticed any issues to your claims processing reported with modifiers lately? ... That is because effective January 1, 2019, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) implemented unexpected changes
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
Colorado Medicaid now covers vitiligo treatment
The Colorado Drug Utilization Review Board agreed with the AADA and classified vitiligo as a medical condition. ... Precedent exists for treating vitiligo as a medical condition. In 2022, the FDA approved topical ruxolitinib for regimentation of non-segmental vitiligo in patients ages 12 or older. ... As a result of
MIPS 2020 is here. Here are the highlights
Answers in Practice ... Faiza Wasif, MPH, is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips on an area she commonly receives questions about from members. ... By Faiza Wasif, MPH, April 1, 2020 Each month Dermatology World ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Faiza Wasif,
October 29, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Oct. 29, 2025 ... Does nicotinamide supplementation prevent skin cancer? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The 2025 Allergen of the Year is to dye for GLP-1 receptor agonists and isotretinoin Adalimumab
More than just avocado toast
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... How to recruit and retain millennial doctors ... How to recruit and retain millennial doctors ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist Rose gold iPhones aside, millennials are making waves in health care. Currently the largest living generation —
In plain sight, for all to CME
Education never stops — that’s why they call it "continuing" medical education. ... The AAD offers free opportunities for members to continue their education, including these recent online courses: ... Making Sense of the Expanding Molecular Toolbox for Skin Cancer Diagnosis In this activity, members will learn about new molecular
What is the minimum I need to report to meet the MIPS threshold in 2019?
Asked and Answered ... February 1, 2019 If you or your practice must participate in the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for 2019 and want to simply avoid the ... 7% penalty (penalty applied in 2021), the ... minimum score to avoid the penalty is 30 points — up from
Appropriate use of skin substitutes in dermatology: Documentation and coding guidance
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding and Reimbursement, August 1, 2025 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Skin substitutes are a diverse group of
Modifier madness
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, April 1, 2019 Test your knowledge: Modifier madness ... Take the quiz to see if you're up to date.
I attended AAD VMX. How do I claim my CME credits?
Asked and Answered ... September 1, 2020 CME credits can only be claimed within the AAD VMX platform. Access ... AAD VMX to claim CME or learn more about the program. ... Attendees can claim CME credits immediately after viewing a session or at a later date. All applicable CME
What is Life Membership and how can I apply?
Asked and Answered ... May 1, 2026 AAD’s Life Membership allows longtime members in good standing to not pay dues but retain the benefits of their previous membership category. ... Life Membership is available to: ... A member for at least 30 years, who is retired (no longer practices for
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,"
In the know
CMS Releases Fourth Quarterly Updates to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) ... Did you know that The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the fourth quarterly update to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) Procedure-to-Procedure (PTP) Edits, Version 25.3 and that they will go into effect
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... January 1, 2023 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD, FAAD In October’s ... Dialogues in Dermatology , Dr. Scott Elman, double board-certified internist and dermatologist, discusses important "new medications
December 22, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 22, 2021 ... Can COVID-19 be transmitted through the skin? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Holiday greeting 2021 Derm Coding Consult : Anthem updates virtual visit policies No Surprises Act
Transitions and resolutions
From the Editor ... Dr. Heymann is the physician editor of ... DermWorld . ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, January 1, 2026 New Year’s Day is a time of transition, allowing us to reflect on the past and look forward to a brighter future. ... I am honored
Changes to the Placement of Modifiers Starting on July 1st
On July 1, 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services National Correct Coding Initiative (CMS/NCCI) Procedure-to-Procedure (PTP) Edits, Version 25.2 will go into effect. The MLN Matters Number: MM11227 (CR 11227) released on March 29 announced the release of the 2019 third quarter updates to the NCCI/PTP edits. ...
AADA prevents Medicare cuts in 2022
Moving the needle ... By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, May 1, 2022 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. In 2021, the specialty was facing Medicare payment cuts of up to 10% due to the policy changes
April 17, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 17, 2024 ... Does low-dose oral minoxidil improve short anagen syndrome? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Weighing in on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in dermatology CDC investigates counterfeit botox: AAD
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... March 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 New, but not new, but maybe new, but not good = ... Candida auris is looking worse with
Implications of the Corporate Transparency Act for physicians
Legally Speaking ... Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, is a health care attorney with Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville, in Washington, D.C. ... By Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Jason Qu, JD, and Rob Portman, JD, MPP, April 1, 2024 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This
Stiff skin syndrome: Hard in many ways
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 4, 2016 Stiff skin syndrome (SSS) is a noninflammatory, fibrosing condition of the skin and fascia, often affecting the limb girdle region, notably the buttock and thighs, resulting in a lordotic posture. It may be accompanied by subtle hypertrichosis and hyperpigmentation. The course tends
Biopsy coding in 2019: Part 3
Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, January 1, 2019 Test your knowledge: Biopsy coding in 2019 — Part 3 ... Take the quiz to see
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
Teatime for radiation dermatitis (and beyond)
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 14, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 24 I am biased — as a coffee lover, I only believe articles demonstrating coffee’s benefits, while finding flaws in any study deriding its use. I can be more objective about tea — especially green tea — a
December 3, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 3, 2025 ... GLP-1s and telogen effluvium DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pityriasis rosea and pityriasis rosea-like eruptions — A Christmas tale Combination oral minoxidil and baricitinib for alopecia areata
Psoriasis
Key messages ... Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the immune system that develops when the body makes skin cells too quickly, causing skin cells to pile up and form visible patches or spots on the skin. (1-6) ... Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can be associated with other diseases
Following up on “A Trend I Cannot Endorse”
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Sept. 22, 2021 Vol. 3, No. 38 I admit defeat. ... For those of you who did not read " ... A Trend I Cannot Endorse ," which was published on Dermatology Insights and Inquiries (the forerunner of Dermatology World Insights and Inquiries), please
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
Communicating with payers using modifiers
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, April 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Q: What are modifiers? A: Modifiers
Coughing up a new warning for ustekinumab
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 15, 2019 Vol 1, No. 10 After using a drug for years, physicians become comfortable with the benefits and risks of the frequently prescribed agent. I have utilized ustekinumab extensively — learning of new adverse reactions is sobering. ... Ustekinumab has been in use
2026 AAD Annual Meeting: Industry Product Sessions
Discover the latest industry insights at the 2026 Annual Meeting through engaging educational and product-focused sessions. These presentations give exhibiting companies a platform to unveil groundbreaking research, showcase product innovations, perform live demonstrations, and highlight their newest offerings. ... These sessions are solely promotional and are not eligible for CME
Lichenoid and granulomatous dermatitis: Points to ponder
By Kiran Motaparthi, MD June 10, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 23 Clinical-pathologic correlation is the foundation of dermatologic diagnosis; often this is straightforward, but on occasion, getting to the precise diagnosis requires great thought and sleuthing. If you receive a report from your dermatopathologist with a descriptive diagnosis of "lichenoid
You like tomato, I like tomahto, you soak with steroids, I use them dry…
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 28, 2016 I have been a firm believer in the “Soak and Smear” approach to treating recalcitrant dermatoses, including atopic dermatitis, as detailed by Gutman et al, more than a decade ago. The authors defined soaking and smearing as soaking an affected body part
Measuring member satisfaction
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, September 1, 2021 In 2019, Academy leadership unveiled a new strategic plan to ensure all the work undertaken by the AAD/A on behalf of its members, their patients, and the public are guided by a clear vision, core values, and
July 24, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 24, 2024 ... Is there an association between benzoyl peroxide use and increased blood benzene levels? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Pancreatic panniculitis — Getting spooked by ghost cells AADA
July 2, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 2, 2025 ... Isotretinoin for seborrheic dermatitis DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Turning our attention to melanoma risk in Turner syndrome CMS updates MUE limit for Ameluz — Effective July
Boards Fodder: Procedural dermatology
Select a title below to access the Boards Fodder PDF. ... NEW! A guide to actinic keratosis treatments ... Access the PDF NEW! Mohs micrographic surgery ... Access the PDF Alopecia areata treatment Antiseptics and sterilization methods Approach to longitudinal melanonychia Atopic dermatitis treatment Biopsy techniques Chemical peels Cosmeceuticals CPT
May 22, 2024
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 22, 2024 ... Dermatologic findings associated with semaglutide use DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Striving to avoid an amebic nightmare — Recognizing cutaneous Balamuthia mandrillaris infection Characteristics and treatment of
Itching to prescribe the right treatment for scabies: Topical permethrin or oral ivermectin?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Feb. 1, 2018 ... Scabies burrow via high-resolution digital photography (4 megapixels). ... Credit: ... JAAD Three weeks after confirming the diagnosis of crusted scabies on an HIV-positive patient, I started to scratch while driving in the parking lot at Cooper University Hospital.
Nanotechnology for topical cyclosporine: Not a small matter
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 19, 2016 Taken at face value, the study by Kumar et al, demonstrating the efficacy of topical cyclosporine for psoriasis, utilizing liposomal nanocarriers (lipogel), might elicit a shrug, because in this randomized study, at 14 weeks, complete clearance of psoriasis was observed in 41%
2025 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda
Conference schedule ... The conference will take place on Sunday, September 7 through Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the J.W. Marriott in Washington, D.C. The program will contain policy-focused sessions, designed to offer an in-depth understanding of how to translate the issues that affect the specialty into effective lobbying of
Idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma — Have we met?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD July 20, 2017 I’m racking my brain wondering if I have ever seen a case of idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma (IFAG) — I know that I never made the diagnosis because I had never heard the term until I read the first reference. I surmise
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... September 1, 2020 In this monthly column, members of ... Dermatology World 's Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... HARRY DAO JR., MD Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) ranks high on my list of tough conditions to manage. In 2015, adalimumab’s new status
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
Lock it down
Answers in Practice ... By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, September 1, 2020 Dermatology World ... talks to Jon Ward, MD, founder and president of Dermatology Specialists of Florida, about developing office lockdown procedures. Dermatology World: You have procedures for several emergency events — not only natural disasters, but also for
IL-36 and generalized pustular psoriasis: L’chaim!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 9, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 10 In 1910, Leo Ritter von Zumbusch meticulously detailed the clinical course of "psoriasis pustulosa generalisata" (referred to herein as generalized pustular psoriasis, GPP) in a brother and sister, pondering if this was a variant of psoriasis or
What is Life Membership? How do I apply?
Asked and Answered ... July 1, 2025 If you are currently retired, or plan to retire later this year or the first half of next year, you may be eligible for Life Membership. ... Life Membership is a category of AAD membership. Life Members are no longer required to pay
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
Psoriasis cases projected to rise worldwide by 2050
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, May 1, 2026 The incidence of psoriasis is estimated to rise by 2050, according to an analysis published in ... JAMA Dermatology (doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2025.4572). ... Using data from 1990-2021 from 236 countries reported in the 2021 Global Burden of Disease
The vexing verruciform xanthoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD February 23, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 8 Verruciform xanthomas (VX) were first described 50 years ago, and they are still a source of debate. Only the most astute dermatologists will make the diagnosis clinically, with the possible exception of recognizing such lesions in patients
March 24, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / March 24, 2021 ... Derm Coding Consult : Applying 2021 E/M coding concepts in everyday practice — Part 1 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Lipschütz ulcers — Not only for women
Prior authorization’s impact on patients
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, September 1, 2020 While prior authorizations are often applied to biologics, the process also includes less expensive medication options and procedures, with a profound impact on many dermatology patients. Results from the AAD’s 2020 Prior Authorization Survey reveal that about
Aluminum can cause allergic contact dermatitis: Allergen of the Year 2022
By Christen Mowad, MD, FAAD June 15, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 24 Allergen of the year is an eagerly awaited award for those of us excited by allergic contact dermatitis. It has been given each year for over 20 years to highlight allergens of new and emerging significance and sometimes
The newest frontier for biologics and psoriasis may be adherence
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 19, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 15 My first job as an attending dermatologist was heading the psoriasis day care center at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1983. The challenges of treating severe psoriasis with the Goeckerman regimen, PUVA, methotrexate, etc. made
I plan to retire at the end of this year. Does the AAD offer a discounted membership option?
Asked and Answered ... June 1, 2024 If you are currently retired, or plan to retire later this year or the first half of next year, you may be eligible for Life Membership. ... Life Membership is a category of AAD membership. Life Members are no longer required to pay
Beyond disfigurement: The potential for keratinocyte carcinoma in discoid lupus erythematosus
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 10, 2024 Vol. 6, No. 2 Cosmetic disfigurement due to scars and dyspigmentation is the main complication of discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE). The current classification of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) includes acute cutaneous LE (ACLE), subacute LE (SCLE), chronic cutaneous LE (DLE, LE
The intimate dance of Staphylococcus aureus and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 19, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 29 I was aghast when I opened the PUVA unit when Joe told me that his mycosis fungoides (MF) was worsening — I understood why Alibert first described the disorder as resembling mushrooms in 1806. (1) His lesions
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
2023 DW Insights and Inquiries archive
Explore ... DermWorld Insights and Inquiries articles by publication date. ... December ... Dec. 20 - DWI&I Holiday Greeting 2023 Dec. 13 - Sparking the interest in Spark nevus Dec. 6 - Aquagenic pruritus and polycythemia vera: Still valid (and mysterious) after all these years November ... Nov. 29 -
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
Brentuximab vedotin update and the #MeToo saga of the Reed-Sternberg cell
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Jan. 1, 2018 Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma. High-power view showing large Reed-Sternberg–like cells (A) and mitotic figures (B). ... Credit: ... JAAD There has been increasing dermatological literature about the use of brentuximab vedotin (BV) for a variety of CD30+ cutaneous lymphomas. The thrust of this
Preparing for 2025 MIPS and the new dermatological care MVP
Answers in Practice ... By Oliva Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2025 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss what to expect for MIPS 2025. MIPS program timeline ... In November, CMS released the ... final rule for the Quality
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
Recognizing mpox
The information on this page was created by the Academy’s Ad Hoc Task Force to Develop Mpox Content. Mpox (monkeypox) is caused by the mpox virus, which belongs to the ... Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. ... 1 ... Though mpox is rare, it is endemic in Central and West
July 14, 2021
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / July 14, 2021 ... Acne scarring treatments: What’s most effective? DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Assessing the significance of a L ong- D eveloped H abit — The role of LDH
Easing the pain of dermatology
From the Editor ... Dr. Heymann is the physician editor of ... DermWorld . ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, May 1, 2026 When interviewing candidates for our dermatology residency, I often ask them what they do not like about the discipline. Frequently, I will get a blank stare
From Down Under to all over: Kava-induced cutaneous adverse reactions
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD June 11, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 23 Firmly ensconced in my bucket-list travel time, I eagerly anticipate our trip to New Zealand, Tasmania, and mainland Australia in January 2025. ... (Editor’s note: This piece was written prior to the trip.) As a dermatologist, I
Working up pernio: How far should you dip your toe in the water?
By David A. Wetter, MD May 6, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 18 Dermatologists are rapidly becoming reacquainted with pernio (chilblains), given the increasing reports of pernio-like acral eruptions (and other dermatologic manifestations) occurring in association with COVID-19. (1, 2) This raises an important clinical question: under normal (non-COVID-19) circumstances, what
Does the No Surprises Act affect dermatologists?
Legally Speaking ... By Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, May 1, 2023 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 is also general counsel for
Shingles and the battle of the bulge
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 11, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 27 I thought I knew herpes zoster (HZ, shingles) inside and out — from patients’ experiences, my late mother’s herpes zoster ophthalmicus (I could not believe how devastatingly awful she appeared arriving back from Europe!), to my recent vaccination
Allopurinol-induced adverse reactions: More than genetics
... By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 25, 2016 There are certain drugs that confer a high risk of severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) ranging from morbilliform drug eruptions, DRESS, Stevens-Johnson, to Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. You know the usual suspects — anticonvulsive agents, sulfa drugs, other anti-infective agents, and
The treatment of systemic juvenile xanthogranulomas matures
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 8, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 1 Diagnosing juvenile xanthogranulomas (JXG) is simultaneously satisfying and slightly disconcerting. JXG’s clinical yellow appearance, the "setting sun" on dermoscopy, or the recognition of Touton giant cells histologically allows dermatologists to be reasonably confident of the diagnosis. It
Sebaceous carcinoma — Double trouble
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 23, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 29 Sebaceous carcinoma (SC, aka sebaceous gland carcinoma) is double trouble — the cancer itself and its potential association with the Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS). ... SC is an aggressive malignancy that develops from the sebaceous glands. SC is
Life is just a bowl of cherry angiomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 29, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 13 "Dr. Heymann, I’ve noticed a number of these spots appearing lately." ... "They’re called cherry angiomas — totally benign." ... "Why I am getting them?" ... "Maturity." ... "You mean I’m getting old!" ... "I did not say
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... November 1, 2022 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MPH, MSBS, FAAD An ... investigation by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that medical debt is the most common form
Preventing hair loss in breast cancer patients is very cool
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Feb. 15, 2017 Dramatic change in physical appearance before (A) and 1 month after (B) treatment with paclitaxel and carboplatin. ... Credit: ... JAAD The loss of my late aunt Millie to breast cancer was devastating; it was even harder to bear after learning that
AAD | Tool Drugs and Diseases
See a list of available drugs and dermatologic conditions available in the tool. ... Drug name ... 4% minocycline foam (Amzeeq®) ... Class 1 steroid ... Infliximab (Remicade®) ... Spesolimab (Spevigo®) ... 5-fluorouracil (Efudex®) ... Class 2 steroid ... Isotretinoin ... Sulfacetamide sodium-sulfur ... Abrocitinib (Cibinqo®) ... Clobetasaol ... Isotretinoin
CareCredit
An AAD preferred provider since 2012, CareCredit is a health, wellness, and personal care credit card that helps patients fit dermatology care into their health care budget, with promotional financing options that allow them to pay over time. ... 1 ... CareCredit celebrates 35+ years of helping patients move forward
Medical Student Mentorship Program: Information for mentors
Program description ... Through this one-on-one mentorship program, volunteer mentors provide medical students with hands-on exposure in the field of dermatology and help stimulate interest in dermatology as an obtainable career choice. ... Each medical student is required to complete a one-month, 160-hour mentorship with his or her volunteer mentor
Propranolol for infantile hemangiomas: Start to finish
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD March 26, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 12 "We have observed that propranolol can inhibit the growth of these [infantile capillary] hemangiomas." (1) In my career, I cannot think of any statement that led to such a swift, dramatic paradigm shift in management more than
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
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
Fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy may be wearing more than one DRESS
By Warren R. Heymann, MD April 24, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 7 As a dermatology resident, I was mesmerized by the concept of "angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy with dysproteinemia" (AILD) after seeing a patient presented at our weekly conference at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. I was perplexed as to how
2026 AAD Innovation Academy: Schedule at-a-glance
Experience the energy of dermatology’s latest advancements in New York this summer! ... 2026 AAD Innovation Academy arrives in New York City with just as much momentum and energy as the city itself. Explore a future focused program featuring high-impact sessions, standout speakers, and immersive learning experiences designed to keep
Necrotizing infundibular crystalline folliculitis: Not yet crystal clear
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD Jan. 29, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 4 Time and exposure to several articles are necessary to crystallize a novel clinicopathological correlation in my mind. Such is the case with necrotizing infundibular crystalline folliculitis (NICF). I suspect that I have seen this condition but have
Stress^2 + Hormones^2 = Acne^2
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 5, 2019 Vol. 1, Issue 13 I would wager that every human being has experienced at least one pimple attributed to stress. I recall a devastatingly embarrassing moment during 10th grade world history class at Martin Van Buren High School (Queens, New York), when
Perspectives on peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 28, 2016 Peristomal pyoderma gangrenosum (PPG) is a challenging problem, both physically and emotionally. The diagnosis may be delayed, often being mistaken for an irritant dermatitis or an infection. Barbosa et al have performed an extensive review of their experience in 44 patients
Becoming whipped up over flagellate dermatoses
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... July 13, 2017 ... A, A 44-year-old male patient with characteristic flagellate dermatitis after ingestion of shiitake. B, Same patient 4 days after balneo PUVA therapy. ... Credit: ... JAAD The literature on flagellate dermatoses has been whipped into frenzy. The initial description
September
Issue ... September January February March April May June July August September October November December View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... What did you do during the COVID-19 epidemic, Mom? What's hot ... This month's news from across the specialty Clinical Applications ... How can
Dermatologist happiness by practice setting
Facts at your fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor, October 1, 2019 How much do practice settings affect dermatologists’ overall job satisfaction? According to new data from the AAD Life in Practice Survey, the happiest dermatologists are those in group practices that are not owned by private equity groups.
Understanding Multiple Procedure Payment Reduction Rule
Have you ever wondered how Medicare determines when to apply the multiple procedure payment reduction rule (MPPR) and how it affects claim-reimbursement amounts? ... The American Medical Association’s (AMA’s) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) code manual describes individual services and procedures. The AMA/Specialty Society Relative Value Scale (RVS) Update Committee (RUC)
Where can I find coding resources on procedure billing?
Asked and Answered ... December 1, 2021 The Academy’s Coding Resource Center offers guides for ... biopsies and other surgical procedure codes , including: ... Deconstructions ... Excisions ... Shave removals ... Intermediate and complex repair ... Location codes ... Lip procedures ... Common soft tissue biopsy codes ... For
August 13, 2025
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Aug. 13, 2025 ... Effects of GLP-1RA on inflammatory skin diseases DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Sweating over sweat gland carcinomas: Part 1 — Squamoid eccrine ductal carcinoma Beta-HPV virus can
This month's news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... January 1, 2024 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD, FAAD Payer denials are an ever-increasing problem, leading to an increased burden of administrative tasks, and more and more physicians
What is quality improvement
What is Quality Improvement? ... Quality Improvement (QI) consists of systematic and continuous actions that lead to measurable improvement in health care services and the health status of targeted patient groups ... 1 ... . The Institute of Medicine identifies six dimensions of health care quality that can be used
Cutaneous complications of immune checkpoint inhibitors
DermWorld highlights some of the common (and not-so-common) skin complications associated with ICIs and shares expert tips for management. ... Feature ... By Heidi Splete, Contributing Writer, March 1, 2024 Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a mainstay of immunotherapy for many cancer types — including breast, colon, liver, lung, skin,
Skin cancer fact sheet
Incidence rates ... Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. (1-3) ... Current estimates are that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. (4) ... It is estimated that approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.
Rituximab and dermatomyositis: Dr. Samitz would be proud
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 20, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 37 The gifted dermatologist clinician-educator Morris H Samitz, MD, has been honored with an annual lectureship at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania for the past 44 years. Dr. Samitz passed away in 1993, but
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... June 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Bryan Carroll, MD, PhD The debate over the curative benefit of radiotherapy for aggressive cutaneous invasive squamous cell carcinoma continues. The inflection point
Yom Kippur and the physician payment Sunshine Act
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 9, 2016 Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, is upon us. It is Judaism’s most sacred holiday. It is a day of fasting and prayer to atone for sins of the past year. According to traditional teachings, a person’s fate is written in
Order from chaos: Conceptualizing atypical fibroxanthomas, pleomorphic dermal sarcomas, and undifferentiated pleomorphic dermal sarcomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD June 26, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 16 The classification of fibrohistiocytic tumors is ambiguous and controversial. This has been compounded by the evolving nomenclature as understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of these tumors improved. Previously, fibrohistiocytic tumors encompassed the superficial AFX [atypical fibroxanthoma]
Vitamin C as treatment of basal cell carcinoma: Is it fruitful?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... July 3, 2016 ... For those of us who learned that taking mega dose vitamin C for the common cold, as advocated by the late Nobel Laureate Linus Pauling, was truly something to sneeze at, I always approach studies lauding the effects of nutrient-based
Pubic hair grooming: Less means more
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 14, 2016 It is essential for dermatologists to comprehend current mores that affect our patients’ health. Understanding the trend toward increased genital hair grooming in men and women can help us instruct patients on how to avoid injuries related to hair removal. Indeed, 19-
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
Aha! The iodide paradox now makes sense!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Oct. 1, 2018 Dermatitis herpetiformis. Grouped papulovesicles with excoriations on the extensor surface of the shoulder. ... Credit: ... JAAD In the pre-direct immunofluorescence days of yore (before my time in dermatology), the exacerbation of dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) by oral or topical iodides could be
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 importance of spreading skin cancer awareness
From the President ... Dr. Alam is the Academy’s current president. ... By Murad Alam, MD, FAAD, May 1, 2026 Dear members, ... The Academy is dedicated to public education and takes its role as one of the largest sources of skin, hair, and nail health care information seriously. As
Academy secures wins with private payers
As a direct result of AADA advocacy, Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) rescinded its modifier 25 payment reduction policy. ... Without strong advocacy by the Academy and state dermatology and medical societies, the policy would have gone into effect on March 1, resulting in reduced payment for non-preventive E/M
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
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
How can I tell if the AAD/A event I'm registering for is legitimate?
Asked and Answered ... October 1, 2019 Excellent question! ... Fake medical conferences and instances of meeting fraud are on the rise, and the ability to spot fakes from the real deal can save dermatologists headaches, time, and money. ... Registration for official AAD/A meetings and events should only be
CPT Coding Updates for 2020
2020 Revisions to Intermediate and Complex Repair Guidelines ... The AMA CPT Editorial Panel has provided updated coding guidance to two of the integumentary system repair procedures. These changes are necessary because the integumentary repair coding guidelines were ambiguous and caused inappropriate report-ing of intermediate and complex repair services. The
Reflections on reflectance confocal microscopy for diagnosing benign lichenoid keratoses
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD July 5, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 27 At the inception of my dermatology residency in July 1980 I read a brief article entitled "Benign Lichenoid Keratosis" (BLK) by Detlef Goette (1) and thought to myself "Remember this — I’ll probably see this lesion now
Granular C3 dermatosis in granular detail
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, May 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 5 Except for straightforward cases of bullous pemphigoid, my ability to predict direct immunofluorescence (DIF) results in cases of presumed autoimmune blistering diseases leaves much to be desired. Recently, my humility in this
Say it ain’t so: Dark chocolate exacerbates acne!
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 5, 2016 Diet and acne has always been controversial. When I was a child I heard that pizza and chocolate could lead to break-outs; over time that was relegated to be a myth (thank goodness). ... The latest foods that have may possibly lead
Memories of pneumocystis pneumonia and thoughts of prophylaxis
By Warren R. Heymann, MD ... Nov. 27, 2017 ... A chest x-ray examination demonstrated a ground-glass appearance throughout the bilateral mid lung zones with sparing of the apices (Fig. 1). ... Credit: ... JAAD My childhood friend Alan was a rotating surgical resident at Methodist Hospital in Houston
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
Understanding the risk of Wilms Tumor in hemihypertrophy: Are we halfway there?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Nov. 16, 2017 ... Diffuse capillary malformation with overgrowth. A 2-month-old girl with ill-defined erythematous patches of the bilateral upper extremities, posterior trunk, and left lower extremity. There is also overgrowth of the left lower extremity. ... Credit: ... JAAD Wilms tumor (WT, nephroblastoma) is
Atopic dermatitis: Fantasizing about a dual approach
By Warren R. Heymann, MD March 9, 2017 Patient photos before and after dupilumab. A, Subject-provided photograph before the start of dupilumab therapy. B, Photograph taken in the clinic 1 year after the patient started dupilumab therapy. ... Credit: ... JAAD It has been acknowledged that we are on the
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:
What is Question of the Week and how do I sign up for it?
Asked and Answered ... October 30, 2018 Question of the Week is an opportunity to earn both CME and Self-Assessment credits, which can be used to fulfill Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requirements for AAD members who are enrolled in MOC through the American Board of Dermatology. ... By completing a
Dermatologist workforce mobility
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, April 1, 2025 How often do dermatologists separate from their practices? A recent ... JAMA Dermatology study sought to answer this question and identify characteristics associated with practice separation (doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2021.5862). The cross-sectional study collected data from archived versions of the
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
Mpox: Treating severe lesions
Wound care ... Accurate diagnosis of lesions is crucial and should start with an assessment of the patient and potential risk factors for mpox (monkeypox), disease severity, and complications. Risk factors for mpox include history of known or possible exposure, relevant travel and sexual behaviors (e.g., sex associated with commercial
Raising a toast to advances in treating alcohol-induced flushing
By Warren R. Heymann, MD November 11, 2020 Vol. 2, No. 45 Whether with pride or embarrassment, we have all blushed. Also known as flushing, the process is defined as a visible reddening of the skin accompanied by a sensation of warmth, characteristically affecting the face, ears, neck, and upper
One Toker over the line: Clarifying Toker cell hyperplasia in Zuska disease and its relationship to hidradenitis suppurativa
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD April 20, 2022 Vol. 4, No. 16 Don’t fret. I had never heard of Zuska disease (ZD) either until I read the article by Torre-Castro et al discussing the "tricky association" of Toker cell hyperplasia (TCH) in ZD. (1) Why should you care? Because
Navigating MIPS 2026: A survival guide for dermatology practices
Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, April 1, 2026 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss navigating MIPS in 2026. CMS has released the rules for the MIPS program for 2026 and continues to encourage use of
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... May 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Craig Burkhart, MD, MPH, MSBS As published in a recent ... Dermatologic Surgery paper, Surget Cox et al performed a systematic review on
Ethics in medicine is an enduring professional goal
From the President ... Dr. Thiers served as Academy president from March 2020 to March 2021. ... By Bruce Thiers, MD, September 1, 2020 Every year, there are several dates that I must remember, such as birthdays, holidays, etc. One annual ritual is checking my Academy disclosure of outside interests
Recommended mentoring topics
The actual mentoring that happens in any individual relationship will, of course, be variable. Discussions can be open-ended and are meant to bring clarity to difficult issues or dilemmas that the mentee may be facing. Some may find that shared readings may be helpful to discuss. Some examples of common
Is VMX going away?
Asked and Answered ... May 1, 2023 With the return of live meetings, AAD VMX will not be offered in 2023. ... What virtual learning opportunities is the AAD offering in its place? ... In its place, this year the AAD will be offering a virtual component to the AAD
Mpox outbreak: U.S. snapshot
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, May 1, 2023 It has been one year since an outbreak of Mpox was confirmed in the United States. While cases have dropped off in recent history, as of January 2023, total U.S. cases of Mpox totaled just under 30,000
Where can I find resources to offer skin cancer checks?
Asked and Answered ... April 1, 2026 Hosting an AAD skin cancer check event is a great way to demonstrate your commitment and passion to the community and the specialty. ... The skin cancer check program is the Academy's longest-standing public health program. Since 1985, dermatologists have conducted more than
Avascular necrosis in psoriasis: Avoiding “snap” judgments
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 8, 2017 Of all the adverse reactions of corticosteroids, there is none more terrifying than avascular necrosis (AVN, aka osteonecrosis); this usually involves the femoral head (AVN of the hip), although the shoulders and knees may be affected. It is estimated that 25,000 new
A future therapeutic Harlequin Romance?
By Warren R. Heymann, MD Sept. 17, 2018 A neonate with harlequin ichthyosis on day 21 of life after 3 weeks of treatment with acitretin at 1 mg/kg/d. ... Credit: ... JAAD My fiancé Ronnie, then a pediatric resident, called me excitedly, asking for my opinion about a remarkable neonate
Putting muscle into isotretinoin laboratory testing isn’t chopped liver!
By Danielle M. DeHoratius, MD August 14, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 23 When I first became interested in dermatology during medical school, I started shadowing dermatologists. When prescribing isotretinoin all the physicians needed was a small yellow sticker. They could give patients months of medication at a time. I am
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... March 1, 2026 In this monthly column, members of the DermWorld ... Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. Harry Dao Jr., MD, FAAD Injectable biologics remain the gold standard for achieving optimal clinical responses in psoriasis, but fear of injections leads many
This month's news from across the specialty
What's hot ... July 1, 2021 In this monthly column, members of the ... DermWorld Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. ... Mallory Abate, MD The FDA has approved the first treatment for progeria (Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome). As we all know, progeria is a rare
2026 AAD Annual Meeting: Policies and cancellations
Get ready to sharpen your dermatologic expertise at the 2026 AAD Annual Meeting. ... Registration for the 2026 Annual Meeting will open in November 2025. Check back for more information. ... Policies and cancellations ... Hotel guarantee, cancellation, and change policies ... Hotel reservation guarantee policy ... Reservations must be
Necrobiosis lipoidica in a Wink
By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD May 3, 2023 Vol. 5, No. 18 Ninety years have transpired since Urbach coined the term ... necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (NLD) for the granulomatous disorder first described by Oppenheim in 1929 as ... dermatitis atrophicans lipoidica diabetica . (1) Early authors observed sclerotic plaques
Multiple Surgery Reduction Rule: Sometimes less is more
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Manager, Lead Coding and Reimbursement Strategist, August 1, 2023 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld ... Coding Consult. Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . The Multiple Surgery Reduction Rule (MSRR)
Key messages for social media about aging skin
Key messages ... Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and indoor tanning beds is the most preventable cause of early skin aging. (1-3) ... The most effective ways to prevent wrinkles and sun damage are to protect yourself from the sun by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and applying
The 2025 Allergen of the Year is to dye for
By Christen Mowad, MD, FAAD Oct. 29, 2025 Vol. 7, No. 43 The "Allergen of the Year" announcement is always much anticipated in the world of contact dermatitis and patch testing. This year the honor has gone to toluene-2,5-diamine sulfate (PTDS). (1) PTDS is an aromatic amide that is used
FAQs
Evaluation and Management ... We are dedicating this edition of the FAQs section to the gray areas of evaluation and management (E/M) services. ... The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Simplification Act of January 1, 2019, has eased documentation requirements for physicians and other qualified healthcare professionals. With
Key components of evaluation and management: Physical examination
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, July 1, 2018 There are three "key components" used to determine levels of Evaluation and Management (E/M) services. The
Increasing evidence for the use of topical timolol for pyogenic granulomas
By Warren R. Heymann, MD May 16, 2016 There are multiple approaches to treating pyogenic granulomas (PGs). If possible, I usually perform a shave biopsy and electrodesiccate the base of the lesion. Certainly there are times when that approach may not be optimal, such as a PG the face of
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
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
Study outlines average frequency, timing of skin cancer diagnoses
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, April 1, 2026 More than 40% of skin cancer patients will develop skin cancer at least once more in their lifetime, according to a 2025 JAAD study that analyzed millions of patients over more than 20 years (doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2024.12.047). ...
Bank of America - Practice Solutions
When you need financing for your dermatology practice, you want to work with someone who understands your industry. For over 25 years, Bank of America Practice Solutions has helped dermatologists across the nation reach their goals through smart financial solutions ... 1 ... and expert guidance. Whether you own a
AAD Prior Authorization Appeal Letter Tool
{{ steps[index] }} ... Step {{index + 1}} of {{steps.length}} ... Dermatologic disease with ICD-10 diagnosis code ... Name of drug ... Alternative treatment drug options ... For step therapy protocols, select drug/treatment the insurance company is requiring you to prescribe your patient as an alternative treatment (skip if not
CPT 2018: What's new, part 2
Cracking the Code ... Dr. Miller, who is in private practice in Yorba Linda, California, represents the American Academy of Dermatology on the AMA-CPT Advisory Committee. ... By Alexander Miller, MD, January 1, 2018 Test your knowledge – CPT 2018: What's new, part 2 ... Take the quiz to see