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A string of (clinical) pearls about drug-induced linear IgA disease
The late sage Wallace Clark taught me that once a diagnosis is secured, thinking ceases. Admittedly in cases of drug-induced linear IgA dermatosis (DI-LAD) that I have encountered (due to vancomycin), once the diagnosis was suspected and confirmed, I never gave it too much thought. Recent findings in the DI-LAD
Cyclosporine reaches the top of the SJS/TEN leaderboard
The first commentary in DI&I for 2017 included a New Year’s resolution “to try either cyclosporine or etanercept the next time I see a case of SJ/TEN.”
American Academy of Dermatology Association Applauds Introduction of The Patients First Act Aimed at Medicare Physician Reform
Statement from Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD, President, American Academy of Dermatology Association ROSEMONT, Ill. (July 15, 2026) — The American Academy of Dermatology Association applauds Academy member Representative John Joyce, MD, FAAD (R-PA), for introducing bipartisan, comprehensive Medicare physician payment reform legislation, the Patients First Act. The Academy
Where can I find updated guidance on teledermatology?
Asked and Answered ... May 1, 2022 The Academy has recently launched an updated teledermatology toolkit for AAD members, including more in-depth information on: ... Starting teledermatology ... Workflow advice for small practices ... How to prepare staff for offering teledermatology ... Up-to-date coding and reimbursement information ... Advice on
Digging into data: Using DataDerm™ to report for MIPS
Answers in Practice ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, November 1, 2019 Dermatology World ... talks with AAD member James Schiro, MD, about using DataDerm™ — the Academy’s clinical data registry — to report measures for the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS). Dermatology World: How long have you been using
Happy 4th of July from DI&I
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 took all measures at their disposal to
Session handouts and meetings archive
View previous AAD meeting sessions, handouts, poster exhibits, and floor plans.
Battling bugs...that aren't there
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Dermatologists embrace empathy, antipsychotics to help patients with psychocutaneous disease ... Dermatologists embrace empathy, antipsychotics to help patients with psychocutaneous disease ... By Jan Bowers, contributing writer Dermatologists are well equipped to diagnose and treat all manner of
Unrestricted fascination with restrictive dermopathy
Read the Nov. 16, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on restrictive dermopathy.
Welcome to Dermatology World Insights and Inquiries
Learn more about Welcome to Dermatology World Insights and Inquiries at aad.org
What is the Academy’s preferred vendor program?
Asked and Answered ... June 1, 2026 Made possible through partnerships with some of the most prestigious and well-respected companies in their respective industries, the AAD is pleased to bring you this carefully crafted collection of programs and services that have been specially negotiated with our members in mind. ...
CME & session evaluation archive
Claim CME credit and submit session evaluations for attending previous Academy meetings.
AADA hosts largest Capitol Hill skin cancer check in a decade
On May 15, the AADA hosted its 10th annual Capitol Hill Skin Cancer Check and Health Fair with the Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus. This event was our largest to date, hosting 198 Hill staffers and 11 members of Congress, performing 127 skin checks, and providing 75 Reveal camera image results.
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.
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
Medical research funding
Ask the Expert ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor, August 1, 2021 DermWorld ... spoke to Jennifer Mangone, JD, manager of congressional policy for the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), about the Academy’s advocacy efforts to support medical research funding. DermWorld: Advocating for medical research funding is a top
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
Becoming pro-geriatric by understanding progeria
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 only be seen in a texbook?
AAD's DataDerm Recognized EHRs
Find information on EHRs that integrate with DataDerm. This page lists participating EHR vendors and explains the different levels of integration that they achieve.
DI&I encore: Better than a back scratcher?
The potential toxicity of the combination of topical ketamine/amitriptyline/lidocaine (TKAL) was discussed in a recent entry detailing the encephalopathic findings in an octogenarian Parkinsonian man with atopic dermatitis who was treated with the compound.
Not just for boys: X-linked erythropoietic protoporphyria
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 the existence of X-linked erythropoietic protoporhyria (XLEPP), also
Switching EHRs: Common issues and lessons learned
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, 2022 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in Legally Speaking. This month’s author, Daniel F. Shay, Esq. is a health care attorney
Selecting an EHR
Each year, the MIPS requirements become more stringent, and exemptions may no longer be offered. The Academy advises dermatologists who wish to participate in MIPS to adopt an EHR now.
Is your EHR high maintenance?
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Now that electronic health records (EHRs) are a staple in nearly all dermatologists' offices, what is involved in maintaining them? ... Now that electronic health records (EHRs) are a staple in nearly all dermatologists' offices, what is involved
Advocacy Update Sept. 29, 2026
SkinPAC surpasses its previous fundraising record, raising more than one million dollars.
May 25, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 25, 2022 ... Placebo regrowth rate in alopecia areata trials DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : The globalization of monkeypox AADA renews calls for iPLEDGE improvements with IPMG, FDA Seeking comments
New Medicare cards
In Practice ... Rachna Chaudhari is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips in response to common member questions. ... By Rachna Chaudhari, MPH, director of practice management, April 2, 2018 ... The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that it would be changing your
April 22, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 22, 2020 ... Are you exempt from the COVID-19 FMLA and paid sick leave provisions? DW Insights and Inquiries: The profound dermatological manifestations of COVID-19: Part IV - Cutaneous features
June
Issue ... June January February March April May June July August September October View digital flipbook In this issue ... From the Editor ... Dermatology is bustin’ out all over What’s hot ... This month’s news from across the specialty DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... A potential roadMAP for treating
Are we there yet?
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Experts discuss the status of EHR interoperability initiatives ... Experts discuss the status of EHR interoperability initiatives ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer In an ideal world, physicians could access their patients’ health information from other physicians with
How to participate in AAD’s DataDerm™ clinical data registry
Legally Speaking ... By Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Ben Tesdahl, JD, LL.M, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, September 1, 2023 Every month, ... DermWorld covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s authors are health care attorneys with Allyn Rosenberger, JD, MPH, Ben Tesdahl, JD, LL.M, and Robert M.
Teledermatology after COVID-19
Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Pachauri, MPH, Manager, Health Technology & Informatics, April 1, 2022 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff offer tips on clinical photography in dermatology. Since the public health emergency (PHE) began two years ago, telemedicine has
Securing mobile devices
The convenience of mobile technology in health care sells itself, but when we use electronic communications to send patient information, called Protected Health Information (PHI), federal law requires safeguards to protect patient privacy. Noncompliance could result in compromised PHI and hefty fines. Use this guidance to ensure you are communicating
Teledermatology
Find resources to help you with teledermatology. These include downloadable checklists for your to consult, along with online education offered by the Academy that can help you understand teledermatology.
Advocacy Update Feb. 4 2025
The AADA is pleased that physician champions in the U.S. House introduced a bipartisan bill to address the 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule cut.
Advocacy Update June 30, 2026
AADA President Murad Alam, MD, MSCI, MBA, FAAD, met with federal legislators on Medicare physician payment reform in Washington, DC.
Advocacy Update May 5, 2026
In response to advocacy by the AADA and other specialty societies, UnitedHealth Care will delay any adverse payment decisions related to Medicare Advantage referral requirements starting on May 1.
EHR optimization 101
What should you be doing to make the most out of your electronic health record (EHR) system? ... Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Bhatia, MPH, manager, Health Technology & Informatics , August 1, 2020 Each month Dermatology World ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Swapna Bhatia,
Securing privacy
Physicians and other clinicians must also secure electronic protected health information (ePHI). Federal law requires that clinicians prevent unauthorized access to ePHI, but you must also maintain copies of ePHI in case of disaster. Securing ePHI depends upon both policy and technical measures.
Using mobile apps to reduce burdens
Mobile applications are taking medical practice into a new territory. They enable access to medical information in real time for dermatologists and patients alike. This has the potential to reduce clinical documentation and administrative burdens, but it can also present new challenges.
Getting started resources
Find resources to help you get started with teledermatology. These include downloadable checklists for your to consult, along with online education offered by the Academy that can help you understand teledermatology.
Reduce Drug Code Denials Related to Incomplete Claims Data
Learn how to reduce drug code denials related to incomplete claims data.
Dupilumab: The first year
When introduced as dermatologist to a new acquaintance, I’m sure you have heard: “Dermatology is a great field – you don’t cure anybody, so they keep coming back!” Trust me. It’s no joy to see patients with recalcitrant, severe, life-altering, debilitating diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, recalcitrant mycosis fungoides, et
AADA keeps pressure on IPMG to fix iPLEDGE REMS program
Recently, leaders of the AADA’s iPLEDGE Workgroup again met with representatives from the Isotretinoin Product Manufacturers (IPMG) and the FDA to advocate for improvements to the iPLEDGE Program.
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
New melanoma cases projected to increase in 2026
Facts at your Fingertips ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, June 1, 2026 New American Cancer Society (ACS) data predicts a growing rate of melanoma incidence and a slight increase in deaths in the United States this year. ... According to the report, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed
Surviving and thriving after a natural disaster
Answers in Practice ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, September 1, 2023 DermWorld ... talks to Mary Lupo, MD, FAAD, from the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology in New Orleans, about how to prepare your practice for a natural disaster. Mary Lupo, MD, FAAD ... DermWorld: Tell us
Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin
Learn more about Taking the challenge: Social media, adolescents, and the skin at aad.org
Advocacy Update Dec 9, 2025
The AADA endorsed a House bill that would include an annual inflationary update to the Medicare physician fee schedule, the Academy’s top federal advocacy priority.
Clinical photography in dermatology
Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Pachauri, MPH, Manager, Health Technology & Informatics, February 1, 2022 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff offer tips on clinical photography in dermatology. Photography plays an increasingly significant role in dermatology, particularly in the way
iPLEDGE win included in year-end package
The AADA’s 2022 advocacy efforts were successful in securing provisions on the iPLEDGE Program within the omnibus spending package that was signed into law in December 2022.
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
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. ...
Advocacy Update Feb. 18 2025
The AADA joined over 130 national and state physician organizations led by the AMA demanding Congress act to reform Medicare physician payment.
Advocacy Update July 21, 2026
New legislation introduced would modernize the Medicare physician payment system.
Advocacy Update July 28, 2026
President’s message on Academy’s efforts on fighting proposed Dermatology cuts.
Advocacy Update Mar. 18, 2025
The AADA is outraged that Congress once again passed a government funding bill that did not include relief to stop this year’s 2.8% Medicare physician payment cut.
Bad online review?
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Dermatology World explains why bad online reviews may not be so bad after all ... Dermatology World explains why bad online reviews may not be so bad after all ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer Patients are increasingly
I’ll have a necrobiotic xanthogranuloma to go – with mustard!
Mechlorethamine has been used for decades to treat cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Rodriguez et al utilized 0.01% topical nitrogen mustard to treat a 60+ year-old man with biopsy-proven NXG with paraproteinemia (IgG-κ), without myeloma.
AAD | Best Practices for Prior Authorization
Learn strategies for reducing the administrative burdens of prior authorization, for the benefit of both your practice and your patients. Using integrated tools and the Academy's PA appeal letter generator can help you save time and money, along with delays to care for your patients.
iPLEDGE win included in year-end package
Moving the needle ... By Victoria Houghton, Managing Editor, May 1, 2023 DermWorld ... breaks down the latest highlights of AADA advocacy activities at the federal and state legislative and regulatory level. The AADA’s 2022 advocacy efforts were successful in securing provisions on the iPLEDGE Program within the omnibus spending
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,
The rosy reality of coffee
I have never discouraged caffeine in rosacea patients, because of a brilliant study by Jonathan Wilkin that I read early in my residency.
The concept of atrophoderma of pasini and pierini as morphea may be falling off a cliff
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 multiple round to oval, hyperpigmented, depressed lesions with a “cliff-drop” border. Unusual presentations may include congenital lesions (1) or with a Blaschkoid
As molecular knowledge of PROS expands, lesions contract
Somatic activating mutations in the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/AKT/mTOR pathway manifest as heterogeneous segmental overgrowth phenotypes Historically, the clinical diagnoses in patients with PIK3CA activating mutations have included Fibroadipose Hyperplasia or Overgrowth (FAO), Hemihyperplasia Multiple Lipomatosis (HHML), Congenital Lipomatous Overgrowth, Vascular Malformations, Epidermal Nevi, Scoliosis/Skeletal and Spinal (CLOVES) syndrome, macrodactyly, Fibroadipose Infiltrating Lipomatosis,
2026 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda
Learn more about the policy-focused sessions during the 2026 AADA Legislative Conference.
Implementing technology
Consult this checklist to successfully integrate teledermatology technology into your practice. You should consider issues around how to implement the technology, but there are also questions around staff and malpractice, scheduling, insurance, and more.
Radical chik: Chikungunya fever presenting as a toxic epidermal necrolysis-like eruption
I have seen only one documented case of Chikungunya fever (CF), in a young woman who returned from Puerto Rico, presenting with high fever, joint pains, and a morbilliform rash (see image). Unfortunately, she will not be the last.
Dupilumab’s conjunctivitis conundrum
Having worn glasses since kindergarten, and being virtually helpless without them, I am particularly sympathetic to patients with eye disorders.
Teledermatology workflow for small practices
Use the workflow below to help you implement or improve your teledermatology operations. This version is designed for solo or small practices.
Making your voice heard: Medicare payment reform, cultivating legislators, and the AADA Legislative Conference
From the President ... Dr. Alam is the Academy’s current president. ... By Murad Alam, MD, FAAD, June 1, 2026 Dear members, ... There is some positive news on Medicare payment reform. The U.S. House of Representatives recently introduced legislation that addresses budget neutrality requirements by raising the amount that
2025 AADA Legislative Conference: Program and agenda
Learn more about the policy-focused sessions during the 2025 AADA Legislative Conference.
Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem
Learn more about Glucose monitors: Not as sweet as they seem at aad.org
Cyber hacking in health care
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... What do you need to know to keep your practice safe? ... What do you need to know to keep your practice safe? ... By Emily Margosian, content specialist Target, Anthem, Equifax, and...your practice? As headlines continue to
Everyday practice compliance made easier
Answers in Practice ... By Olivia Barry, Manager, Practice Management, June 1, 2026 Each month, DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month, practice management staff discuss practical compliance tips for day-to-day dermatology operations. Compliance should not be an afterthought or something your practice only thinks about when
Clawing to understand lichen nitidus
I enjoy diagnosing lichen nitidus (LN). Only dermatologists are aware of the entity, it is of little significance, and usually resolves on its own.
Dyeing for a “new” topical agent for psoriasis? Think indigo
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.
Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation: Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome
Read the June 17, 2020 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on capillary malformation.
AAD and OM1 collaboration
AAD’s collaboration with OM1 enables dermatologists, researchers, and life sciences companies access to quality clinical data critical for advancing medical research and improving outcomes in dermatology.
Stepping up to set up the private doctor’s office
You need a private office where you can get away from it all, address larger practice matters, deal with confidential issues (professional or personal), or just take a deep breath to re-center. Whatever the need, having a space to yourself is important.
Dermatology is bustin’ out all over
From the Editor ... Dr. Heymann is the physician editor of ... DermWorld . ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, June 1, 2026 " ... June is Bustin’ Out All Over ", the spirited ensemble song embracing summer’s onset from Rogers and Hammerstein’s ... Carousel , is an appropriate
PD1 blockade: The next step for aggressive basal cell carcinomas?
I was about to start the weekend, relishing that delightful TGIF feeling, with one final task – go through lab reports in my bin. My mood became morose when I read the follow-up letter about Sue (not her real name). She is a lovely woman in her 40’s who did
What are keratoacanthomatous lesions of the legs in mature women?
I have an increasing number of patients asking me questions about proliferating keratoacanthoma-like lesions on their shins. “Why am I getting these? Are they cancer? Why do more of them appear after surgery?”
Recognizing Trichophyton indotineae
In the last decade, a recently emerged dermatophyte species, Trichophyton indotineae, has been causing major outbreaks of severe, difficult-to-treat, and frequently relapsing infections in South Asia among immunocompetent patients.
No advocacy experience? No problem!
Ask the Expert ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, August 1, 2023 In this exclusive DermWorld Academy Insider ... interview, Afton Cobb, MD, FAAD, and Virginia Tracey, MD, FAAD, first-time attendees of the 2022 AADA Legislative Conference, talk about their experiences and why it’s important that dermatologists attend regardless
Using scribes to reduce burdens
Physicians are winning back their time is with use of scribes. Scribes can work in the exam room during the patient encounter, or they can work remotely, transcribing the note through an audio connection. Scribes who work remotely are sometimes called e-scribes.
Voriconazole prophylaxis mandates cutaneous prophylaxis – and communication
The utilization of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been increasing dramatically. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, 92,784 procedures were performed between 2010 and 2014.
Hand-wringing over the histology of mechanic’s hands and other cutaneous manifestations of dermatomyositis
Of all the cutaneous manifestations of dermatomyositis (DM) – the heliotrope rash, Gottron’s papules, Gottron’s sign, shawl sign, holster sign, flagellate erythema, photosensitivity, poikiloderma, periungual erythema, periungual telangiectasis, Samitz sign, pruritic erythema of the scalp, and panniculitis – none has perplexed me more than mechanic’s hands (MH).
Key messages for social media about nails and nail health
By communicating these key messages on nails, you can help position the specialty while increasing your credibility and raising the profile of your practice. People who are diagnosed with melanoma of the fingernails are often diagnosed relatively late. These messages will help raise awareness.
COVID-19 dermatology registry
The Academy is bringing together dermatologists to report on the dermatologic manifestations of COVID-19. This anonymous reporting registry is helping the Academy gather and disseminate important information regarding the infection and how it impacts patients.
Key messages to communicate about Indoor tanning
By communicating these key messages on indoor tanning, you can help position the specialty while increasing your credibility and raising the profile of your practice.
Virtual credit card payments
Virtual credit card (VCC) payments are made by insurance companies issuing single-use credit card numbers to physicians. VCCs offer enhanced security but often incur higher fees. Health care organizations can choose between these options based on their preferences, balancing security and costs in managing their financial transactions.
Midsize group practice (6-15 practitioners)
Group practices consist of multiple dermatologists working together within a shared business structure. These can be independent partnerships, large integrated groups, or practices owned by private equity.
Quality (30%)
The quality category makes up 30% of the total MIPS score. Points are earned by submitting performance on quality measures. This page provides detailed guidance on the Quality category, including on the total points possible and on those measures that CMS has classified as "topped out," which provide fewer points.
Does the JAK inhibitor baricitinib raise the bar on treating lupus?
Undeniably, the JAK inhibitors have been at the forefront of advances in immunologically-based diseases, including alopecia areata, vitiligo, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, graft-versus-host disease, and other disorders.
Coming to terms with Louis Brocq and his diagram: Pityriasis lichenoides 2018
As a first-year dermatology resident in 1980, I struggled with the concept of parapsoriasis. In trying to conceptualize the process, I recall being distressed after seeing Louis Brocq’s diagram from his classic paper, “Les parapsoriasis,” published in 1902 — Would I ever understand this? What is the relationship to
The profound dermatological manifestations of COVID-19: Part II
Read the March 25, 2020 DermWorld Insight and Inquiries on COVID-19, part 2.
Useful apps for dermatologists
This page includes links to Academy apps that derms can use. It also has a long list of apps that are not endorsed by the Academy but which are in wide industry use. Dermatologists may consider using these apps if they fit well with their practice.
Advocacy Update Sept 16, 2025
The annual AADA Legislative Conference concluded Sept. 9, with advocates participating in over 200 meetings with congressional offices to urge Medicare physician practice payment reform.
Large group practice (16+ practitioners)
A large group dermatology practice is typically a multi-site, high-volume clinical organization owned by private equity firms, hospital systems, or corporate entities. These practices often consolidate smaller groups and solo clinicians into centralized systems, offering dermatologists a salaried position with administrative support.
Protecting Electronic Health Information During Disasters
Access Academy guidance and resourcing on protecting backing up electronic Protected Health Information (ePHI) in case of disaster or emergency. Explore best practices and regulatory requirements to prepare for disruptions to information technology.
Quality (30%)
The quality category makes up 30% of the total MIPS score. Points are earned by submitting performance on quality measures. This page provides detailed guidance on the Quality category, including on the total points possible and on those measures that CMS has classified as "topped out," which provide fewer points.
Positively perplexing: Determining the meaning of CD30 positivity
Read the September 29, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on determining the meaning of CD30 positivity
Getting a head up on cutaneous scalp malignancies
Cutaneous scalp malignancies are common in patients with alopecia. Research suggests hair prevents carcinogenesis by physically blocking ultraviolet light and other mechanisms.
Disaster relief preparedness
Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Pachauri, MPH, manager, Health Technology & Informatics, June 1, 2021 Each month DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Swapna Pachauri, MPH, the Academy’s Health Technology & Informatics manager, offers a summary of disaster relief preparedness. Disasters and emergencies can happen
Augmented intelligence in dermatology
Answers in Practice ... By Swapna Pachauri, MPH, manager, Health Technology & Informatics, August 1, 2021 Each month DermWorld ... tackles issues "in practice" for dermatologists. This month Swapna Pachauri, MPH, the Academy’s Health Technology & Informatics manager, discusses the potential role of augmented intelligence in dermatology. How does augmented
April 15, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 15, 2020 ... Telehealth coding, documentation, and reimbursement during COVID-19: What you need to know. DW Insights and Inquiries : The H syndrome – Understanding Y Academy encourages participation in
April 29, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / April 29, 2020 ... Derm Coding Consult answers COVID-19 telehealth coding FAQs DW Insights and Inquiries: Here comes summer (and sunscreen conversations)! Congress passes legislation to provide further COVID-19 relief funding
Forward thinking for the front office
First impressions matter. The front desk of a dermatology practice is a busy place, and it is the patient’s first interaction — and therefore first impression — with the office space. It is important to prioritize both the set-up of the front desk and the training of the staff that
Small group practice (6-15 practitioners)
Small group dermatology practices typically consist of 2-10 physicians who work collaboratively under private ownership. These practices offer a middle ground between solo practice and large groups, combining the benefits of shared responsibility with greater autonomy.
Keeping up is hard to do: The need for true grit
One of the daunting challenges in practicing dermatology (or any branch of medicine) is keeping abreast of advances in the literature to optimize patient care. As a clinician-educator, I have always had an interest in how we learn best. For full disclosure, I am a dermatologist, not a psychologist, nor
Targeted anti-complement therapy may prove to be a complementary treatment for bullous pemphigoid
Read the October 7, 2020 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on targeted anti-complement therapy for bullous pemphigoid.
Lipschütz ulcers: Not only for women
Read the March 24, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on Lipschütz ulcers.
JAK inhibitors battle in the heavyweight class
JAK inhibitors may cause weight gain. Although the precise pathomechanism is unknown, leptin dysregulation may be involved. Dermatologists must counsel patients treated with JAK inhibitors about the risk of weight gain and provide them with appropriate counseling.
Biotin supplementation for hair and nail health: Does it pass the test?
Read the November 17, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on biotin supplementation for hair and nail health.
After 23 years, a syndrome converted me into an eflornithine believer
Polyamines are integrally involved with the hair cycle. The Bachmann-Bupp syndrome has shed new light on the role of ornithine decarboxylase, and how it’s inhibition by eflornithine can be used as an advantage to either slow or stimulate hair growth.
Reducing the burden of clinical documentation with EHRs
In Practice ... By Swapna Bhatia, MPH, June 3, 2019 It’s no surprise that clinical and administration documentation burden with electronic health records (EHRs) has been on the rise. ... Although 78% of dermatology practices reported acquiring an EHR system in the 2017 AAD Practice Profile Survey, the Academy recognizes
May 11, 2022
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / May 11, 2022 ... Sexual dysfunction associated with finasteride use in men with androgenetic alopecia DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Lagging ahead — LAG-3 checkpoint inhibition for advanced melanoma FDA grants
Advocacy Update Jul 15, 2025
In case you missed it, Congress passed budget reconciliation legislation that included a one-year 2.5% increase for the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule to account for sustained cuts as Congress continues to work toward long-term payment reform.
Reflections on reflectance confocal microscopy for diagnosing benign lichenoid keratoses
Reflectance confocal microscopy may obviate the need for biopsies of benign lichenoid keratoses (and other lesions).
The pressure to prevent pressure ulcers
Read the Aug. 24, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on the pressure to prevent pressure ulcers.
The woolly culprit: Lanolin revealed as an uncommon cause of dermatitis on normal skin
Lanolin is the 2023 Allergen of the Year and is present in many personal care and industrial products. For those who have a positive patch test to lanolin, it is important to remember the “lanolin paradox” where patients have a positive patch test but tolerate lanolin on normal skin.
iPLEDGE advocacy updates
These member communications track the Academy's ongoing advocacy efforts for the dermatology specialty on the iPLEDGE Program, including calls to suspend the program during the transition to new rules.
April 4
Learn more about April 4 at aad.org
December 12
Learn more about December 12 at aad.org
This month’s news from across the specialty
What’s hot ... June 1, 2026 In this monthly column, members of the DermWorld ... Editorial Advisory Workgroup identify exciting news from across the specialty. Emily Chu, MD, PhD, FAAD Genetic alterations underpinning melanoma have been increasingly well characterized over the last two decades — most notably point mutations
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
Recognizing toxic epidermal necrolysis-like acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus ASAP
Read the November 10, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on recognizing toxic epidermal necrolysis-like acute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.
Further dermatologic observations in cystic fibrosis
The Cystic Fibrosis Dermatitis Arthritis Syndrome should be suspected in young (mostly female) cystic fibrosis patients presenting with episodic arthritis and rash.
Which treatment modality of pyogenic granuloma is worth its weight in salt?
There are many modalities to treat pyogenic granulomas. If removal of the lesion is impractical, and salt is as effective as preliminary studies suggest, it will be worth its weight in salt, indeed.
Necrobiosis lipoidica in a Wink
Read the May 3, 2023 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on Necrobiosis lipoidica in a Wink. Necrobiosis lipoidica is usually associated with diabetes, but may also be accompanied by thyroid disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and other disorders. JAK inhibitors are on the horizon in treating the granulomatous component of the disorder.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor: Tapinarof is taking off
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor plays a key role in inflammation. Understanding its pathophysiology has led to new therapeutic agents such as tapinarof, which is approved for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and used off-label in lupus, vitiligo, ichthyotic diseases, and perioral dermatitis.
Tag, you’re it!
Read the Sept. 28, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on Tag, you’re it!
Promising therapeutic developments for cutaneous lupus erythematosus: Interfering with interferon
Read the Aug. 17, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on cutaneous lupus erythematosus and interferon.
The ins and outs of billing company contracts
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, 2020 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author is Alice G. Gosfield, Esq., who is a health
Interoperability and patient access
Dermatologists must comply with new government rules on information blocking. Information blocking refers to requirements that health care providers implement and appropriately use interoperable, patient-accessible technology.
Recent health care enforcement trends and risk areas for physicians and their practices
Legally Speaking ... Alexandra Volpe, JD, and John Kelly, JD, are health care attorneys with Barnes & Thornburg LLP. ... By Alexandra Volpe, JD, and John Kelly, JD, September 1, 2025 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s authors are health care attorneys with Barnes & Thornburg
Business associate agreements 101
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, 2021 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author is a health care attorney at Alice G. Gosfield
MIPS reporting in 2018
In Practice ... Rachna Chaudhari is the AAD's practice management manager. Her column offers tips in response to common member questions. ... By Rachna Chaudhari, MPH, director of practice management, February 1, 2018 After requiring dermatologists to report one measure one time in 2017 to avoid a 4% penalty in
Reflections on infantile perianal pyramidal protrusion and Hippocrates
Dermatologists must recognize infantile perianal pyramidal protrusion (and its clinical variants) to avoid inappropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures.
The nexus of VEXAS syndrome
Read the December 1, 2021 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on VEXAS syndrome.
What common dermatologic diseases can be attributed to therapeutic and cosmetic cultural practices?
Acta Eruditorum ... Dr. Schwarzenberger is the former physician editor of ... DermWorld . She interviews the author of a recent study each month. ... By Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, November 1, 2018 In this month’s Acta Eruditorum column, Physician Editor Kathryn Schwarzenberger, MD, talks with Nicole Patzelt, MD, and Neelam
Legal considerations when using artificial intelligence in practice
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, 2025 DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This month’s author, Daniel F. Shay, Esq. is a health care attorney at Alice
December 23, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / Dec. 23, 2020 ... The impact of COVID-19 on the practice of dermatology DermWorld Insights and Inquiries : Holiday greeting 2020 HHS announces additional Medicare relief funding FDA approves topical AK
Cycling back to doxycycline’s roots as therapy for bullous pemphigoid
Staphylococcus aureus has the potential to trigger or complicate bullous pemphigoid by infection. Tetracyclines may exert their efficacy via their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Exchanging plasma exchange for a novel approach: The potential of FcRn antagonists in dermatologic autoimmune disease
FcRn antagonists, currently approved for treating myasthenia gravis, show potential for treating pemphigus and other autoimmune diseases.
June 17, 2020
Derm World Weekly - A Publication of the American Academy of Dermatology | Association ... IN THIS ISSUE / June 17, 2020 ... Treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic? Here’s how to minimize your malpractice liability risk. DW Insights and Inquiries : Researching therapeutic reformation of the capillary malformation —
Optimizing financial efficiency: Part 2
Experts offer advice on best practices for documentation and filing claims. ... Feature ... By Megan Bennett, Staff Writer, June 1, 2026 Proper documentation of a patient’s care during and after an appointment can make or break the chances of timely and appropriate reimbursement. ... "Overall, the issue isn’t just
Personal financial foundations for early-career dermatologists
Building strong financial habits can create a stable foundation for long-term success, reduced stress, and focus on providing exceptional patient care. Use this guide to support your journey to personal and professional financial success.
American Academy of Dermatology European Union General Data Protection Regulation Policy
If you are an individual located within the European Union (“EU”) this regulation policy outlines how your personal data is processed in connection with the American Academy of Dermatology.
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
A potential roadMAP for treating malignant atrophic papulosis
DermWorld Insights and Inquiries ... By Warren R. Heymann, MD, FAAD, June 1, 2026 Vol. 8, No. 6 Certain skin lesions evoke dread in the dermatologist who encounters them, fearing a poor prognosis for their patient. Examples include a Sister Mary Joseph nodule, a thick melanoma, or rhinocerebral mucormycosis, among
Website compliance for dermatology practices
Accessibility, cookies, privacy, and key risk areas ... Legally Speaking ... Lyric D. Menges, Esq., CIPP/US, is a health care attorney with Barnes & Thornburg LLP in Washington, D.C. ... By Lyric D. Menges, Esq., CIPP/US, July 1, 2026 Every month, DermWorld ... covers legal issues in "Legally Speaking." This
2027 AAD Annual Meeting: Policies and cancellations
Find registration and cancellation policies for the 2027 AAD Annual Meeting.
Indoor tanning fact sheet
Find facts and statistics for reporting about indoor tanning.
Telemedicine in the age of COVID-19: What’s happened and what’s to come
Legally Speaking ... By Megan La Suer, JD, MHA, and Robert M. Portman, JD, MPP, March 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 is also general counsel for the
Protecting patient privacy
DermWorld offers six key tips for cultivating habits to improve cybersecurity in your practice. ... Feature ... By Andrea Niermeier, Contributing Writer, February 1, 2024 Viruses, infections, safety plans: these days health care workers not only use these words to discuss patient wellness but also to protect patient privacy. Protected
Taking the wheel
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... Dermatologists discuss how DataDerm™ drives their success — and the specialty's ... Dermatologists discuss how DataDerm™ drives their success — and the specialty's ... By Victoria Houghton, managing editor "As a small specialty, it may not come as
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
iPLEDGE update: Changes ahead
Strong advocacy efforts have prompted new changes to the program. What do they mean for you and your patients? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, August 1, 2024 Since 2005, isotretinoin has only been available through an FDA-mandated Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) program implemented to monitor
Murky waters
Will a new federal regulation create an era of health care transparency or leave dermatologists and their patients in the dark? ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, January 1, 2022 In 2016, Congress passed the 21st Century Cures Act, which included provisions that push for greater interoperability
Healthcare consolidation
As health entities combine, what is the impact on dermatology? ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, June 1, 2026 Healthcare is in a consolidation mode; it has been for some time. Increasingly, more physicians are being employed by hospitals and health systems, health insurers, and private equity firms.
Out of the (check) box
Dermatologists break down how to make quality and practice improvement activities manageable while benefiting their practice and patients. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, December 1, 2022 Quality improvement (QI) efforts are increasingly tied to reimbursement. Reporting measures in the quality category of the Merit-based Incentive Payment
Removing the veil
Predatory conferences and journals may be fake, but their impact is real. ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, Contributing Writer, July 1, 2024 Few things impact a physician’s career more than speaking at prestigious conferences or getting published in renowned medical journals. But what if these opportunities are not as
Powering down
A step-by-step guide for physicians retiring from practice ... Feature ... By Ruth Carol, contributing writer, April 1, 2021 Opening your practice didn’t happen overnight and retiring from it won’t happen overnight either. However, with some thoughtful planning, your retirement can be a seamless transition to the next phase of
The globalization of monkeypox
Read the May 25, 2022 DermWorld Insights and Inquiries on the globalization of monkeypox.
Tackling Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis: Part 2
Controversies and management ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Senior Editor, June 1, 2026 How would you treat a confirmed case of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)? ... Corticosteroids ... Cyclosporine ... Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) ... A tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor ... A combination of the above ...
The great resignation
Dermatologists and practice management experts share strategies for minimizing staff turnover. ... Feature ... By Allison Evans, Assistant Managing Editor, April 1, 2023 In 2021, 20% of health care workers left their jobs — more than doubling the pre-pandemic rate. According to a survey conducted by the American Medical Association,
Breaking the mold
COVID-19 has sent waves of change throughout the health care system — how will it reshape patient access to dermatology care? ... Feature ... By Emily Margosian, Assistant Editor, October 1, 2021 It has been approximately 640 days since the first cluster of COVID-19 cases were reported by the Wuhan
23andDermatology
Go to AAD Home ... Go to AAD Home ... Menu ... What are the dermatologic implications of direct-to-consumer DNA tests? ... What are the dermatologic implications of direct-to-consumer DNA tests? ... By Emily Margosian, assistant editor Spit, swab, drop DNA in the mail. Since genetic tests were first offered
Dermatology coding essentials part 2: Reporting dermatology procedures and services
Derm Coding Consult ... By Faith C. M. McNicholas, RHIT, CPC, CPCD, PCS, CDC, Senior Manager, Coding & Reimbursement, June 1, 2026 Academy coding staff address important coding topics each month in DermWorld Coding Consult. ... Read more Derm Coding Consult articles . Current Procedural Terminology (CPT ... ® ...