Survey reveals higher likelihood of reported delays in accessing melanoma care among patients with skin of color
The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) has a new position statement that clarifies the definition of psoriasis disease severity. Instead of classifying severity based on body surface area, the new two-tiered system is based on disease control and location on the body. The NPF says the clarification addresses misconceptions that limit patient access to therapies.
“It was important for us to draw a very clear line for health care providers and insurance,” said Andrew Blauvelt, MD, MBA, chair of the NPF Medical Board. “We are saying that there is no middle ground and no ambiguity. A patient should be considered as having either psoriasis, which can be managed with topical therapies, or a moderate-to-severe psoriasis, which makes these patients candidates for advanced therapies.”
As such, patients who are unable to achieve disease control with topical therapies or who have psoriasis involving high-impact body sites are considered as having “moderate-to-severe” disease. The position statement was created in light of recent work by the International Psoriasis Council as well as clinical guidelines created in the U.S. and in other countries. The full statement is published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Agent Orange Exposure Linked to Increased Risk of Acral Melanoma
A study that analyzed data from the Veterans Health Administration found veterans with documented exposure to Agent Orange had approximately 30% higher odds of developing acral melanoma. Agent Orange was an herbicide and defoliant used by the U.S. military in the Vietnam War, and is linked to severe health issues and birth defects. The study was published in JAMA Dermatology.
“This study highlights an important and potentially underrecognized risk factor for acral melanoma, particularly for U.S. veterans” said Marc Hurlbert, PhD, chief executive officer of the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA) and a team principal investigator on the research. “Identifying exposures that may increase risk can help inform earlier recognition and, ultimately, earlier diagnosis when treatment is most effective.”
The research was supported by the Melanoma Research Alliance, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program.
Dr. Melvin Chiu Appointed Chair of USC Department of Dermatology
Melvin Chiu, MD, MPH, has been appointed chair of the Department of Dermatology at Keck School of Medicine of USC. Dr. Chiu has previously served as acting chair as well as chief of clinical operations and wellness director for the department. He is also a former president of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Dermatological Society.
“I am confident that Dr. Chiu will continue to foster collaboration, mentorship, and academic excellence both within the department and the Keck School,” says Carolyn Meltzer, MD, dean of the Keck School of Medicine.
