Innovative Insights in Skin Cancer Prognosis, Gene Expression Profiling, and Early Career Tips

“I see and understand the value of the younger dermatologist. We are the future, and we want to make sure that they get more unique and personalized education,” said Aaron Farberg, MD, in an interview with Dermatology Times at Fall Clinical 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Farberg, a double board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, chief medical officer at Bare Dermatology in Dallas, Texas, and Dermatology Times' Spring Editor in Chief, presented “Skin Cancer Prognosis: The Tried and True and What’s New,” “The Power of GEP: Utilizing Gene Expression Profile testing in Dermatological Care,” “What’s New in Precision Medicine,” and“Early Career Controversies.”

Farberg's sessions provided a comprehensive update on several important topics, specifically focusing on advancements in gene expression profiling (GEP) for melanoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and inflammatory skin diseases, as well as initiatives in early-career dermatology education.

Farberg’s Session Highlights

1) Melanoma Prognosis and Gene Expression Profiling: Farberg, shared the latest data on prognostic tools in melanoma, particularly focusing on the DecisionDX-Melanoma 31-GEP test from Castle Biosciences. This test is a prominent tool that dermatologists use to better predict patient outcomes and tailor care in melanoma. The session provided updated insights into how the 31-GEP test informs clinicians of a melanoma patient’s prognosis and helps guide patient management. Farberg noted that these updates aim to deepen clinicians' understanding of gene expression profiling's role in improving precision in melanoma care.

2) Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (cSCC) and the DecisionDX-SCC Test: Farberg also highlighted the utility of the DecisionDX-SCC 40-GEP test for cSCC, which helps stratify patients according to risk and optimizes decisions around radiation therapy. The latest data on this tool emphasizes its role in personalizing treatment, aiding clinicians in determining which patients would benefit most from radiation and who may avoid it, thereby enhancing patient care through risk-based treatment planning.

3) Precision Medicine in Inflammatory Skin Disease: A novel area of exploration discussed was precision medicine for inflammatory skin conditions. In collaboration with Castle Biosciences, Farberg is developing a GEP test for inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, which can be challenging to manage accurately based on which therapeutic may be best. This test could prove especially useful in cases with atypical presentations or severe manifestations (e.g., on the palms and soles), helping clinicians make precise therapeutic choices based on the molecular profile of the inflammatory disease, thereby advancing personalized care.

4) Early Career Dermatology Initiative: Recognizing the importance of promoting the next generation of dermatologists, Farberg also discussed his role in the “Early Career Dermatology Initiative” session. This program provides young dermatologists with unique educational opportunities, mentorship, and insights into career development from faculty who share practical tips and experiences. By fostering an environment for collaboration and knowledge sharing, the initiative aims to equip early-career dermatologists with skills that are both clinically and professionally invaluable.

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