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SaturdayMarch 24, 2007SESSION THREE8:30 – 9:00Click here to return to Dermatology Update 2007 Schedule and Abstracts
Click here to download this abstract as an Adobe Acrobat PDF file |
Dr. Stuart MaddinAlthough we met quite recently, in October 2006, there have been some recent announcements in the field of dermatology that will directly or indirectly affect how we treat our patients. First among these is the announcement that some of the oldest pharmaceutical firms in Europe will be entering the Canadian market. These German, Danish and Belgian companies will be bringing new therapeutics for head lice, psoriasis and urticaria, as well as innovative fillers and botulinum toxin. We are also seeing many North American dermatologic pharmaceutical companies adding cosmetic products and devices to their portfolios. These new additions – which include fillers, botulinum toxin and photodynamic devices – reflect changes in what today’s dermatologists require to satisfy the needs of their practice. A new photosensitizer for use in photodynamic therapy recently gained regulatory approval in Europe and may soon receive Canadian clearance, and we will soon have new fillers with unique formulations that make them more attractive in terms of being less painful and longer-lasting. Several recent advances in dermatological research will be discussed. These include the arrival of a longer-acting anti-TNF biologic that demonstrated an impressive 80% PASI clearance in recent clinical trials, and later-stage clinical trial reports suggesting the potential topical and/or systemic benefits of a new-generation retinoid acid metabolism-blocking agent (RAMBA) for treating moderate to severe acne vulgaris. As well, at long last, there are preliminary reports showing the efficacy of a histone deacetylase inhibitor for managing cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. The newest pharmaceutical companies focusing exclusively on drugs for treating skin disease, has announced innovative topical formulations for seborrheic dermatitis and diaper dermatitis. The FDA has, for the first time, approved a botanical containing Polyphenon E for treating genital and perianal warts. And an atypical antipsychotic has been identified that provides more effective management of delusional parasitosis with a more satisfactory safety profile than existing therapies. Other issues to be discussed include a current appraisal of topical dapsone for treating acne vulgaris and a review of information pointing to the lack of efficacy of duct tape in treating warts. And finally, recent research suggesting that antioxidants don’t have beneficial effects in humans may mean that dermatologists who have recommended one or more of the antioxidants in cosmeceutical products will need to re-evaluate their choice. Click here to return to Dermatology Update 2007 Schedule and Abstracts |