By Allison Sit
The founders of a Midwest-based dermatology group have made a donation to ensure future dermatologists receive training on business and healthcare advocacy. The gift will create The Dr. Amy and Mr. Michael Derick Endowed Speaker Series in the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery.
“Traditionally, physicians are not taught about critical topics like contracts, billing, and insurance processes or licensures,” said Amy Derick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the co-CEO and medical director of Derick Dermatology. “I was very fortunate to have my husband, Michael, lend his business expertise in helping build this practice. It is very important for doctors to learn to advocate for themselves and for their patients.”
The couple also funded a similar speaker series at the University of Chicago.
New research published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology delves into the role of Demodex in rosacea. The review found that recent studies suggest Demodex triggers two opposing actions: a normal immune response aimed at eliminating the mite and an immunosuppressive action aimed at favoring the mite’s proliferation. During this process, the T-cells in the skin are exhausted, which allows the dominance of immunosuppression, and mites can flourish in this environment. The review also cited research that suggests a vicious cycle for rosacea: persistent erythema may provide a favorable breeding ground for the mites, which may in turn worsen symptoms.
“Although the potential role of Demodex in rosacea has been controversial in the past, these new insights suggest where it may play a role as a meaningful co-factor in the development of the disorder,” said Richard Gallo, MD, PhD, chairman of dermatology at the University of California, San Diego, in a news release from the National Rosacea Society.
The Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) has issued a statement on monkeypox.
“Monkeypox is a viral infection that is very contagious,” said the SPD in an article posted to Practical Dermatology. “This virus is currently spreading and while rare, it is something to be aware of in the pediatric and adolescent population. Children with eczema and/or other immunocompromised conditions may be at a higher risk of having severe monkeypox infection, making prevention essential.”
The SPD says parents should take caution if their child has come into physical contact with a person who has been diagnosed with monkeypox. In addition, the SPD recommends parents seek care from a healthcare provider if they are concerned that their child may have been exposed or if the child is exhibiting symptoms.
