Journal Digest: February 26

Australasian Journal of Dermatology: Ergonomics in dermatological surgery: An international survey among dermatologists

A global survey of dermatological surgeons found a high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and upper and lower back. Despite widespread awareness of poor posture during procedures, few surgeons actively monitored their positioning. Researchers recommended behavioral strategies, such as alternating between sitting and standing and taking frequent breaks, to alleviate discomfort. Additionally, workstation modifications—including surgical loupes, proper lighting, and adjustable stools—were identified as essential for minimizing strain and improving long-term musculoskeletal health.¹

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology: Effectiveness and tolerability of an emollient "plus" compared to urea 10% in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis

A clinical trial comparing a modern emollient "plus" moisturizer containing bacterial lysate to a standard urea 10% moisturizer for mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) found the emollient "plus" to be more effective in improving skin barrier function and reducing symptoms. Sixty participants applied their assigned moisturizer twice daily for 12 weeks, with assessments at multiple intervals. The emollient "plus" showed greater improvements in transepidermal water loss, skin pH, SCORAD, and hydration, with significant differences in eczema severity, itch, and quality of life scores by week 12. Both treatments were well tolerated, but the findings support the emollient "plus" as a superior option for AD management.²

Australasian Journal of Dermatology: Improving cardiovascular outcomes in the psoriasis cohort. Psoriasis and cardiovascular disease-clinician knowledge, practice and perceptions

A cross-sectional study assessed clinician and patient knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding the link between psoriasis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). A survey of 298 clinicians and 102 patients revealed that while most dermatologists and rheumatologists recognized the association, awareness was significantly lower among cardiologists and general practitioners. Only a small percentage of patients were aware of the connection. Clinicians favored primary care physicians for CVD risk management, whereas patients preferred specialist or multidisciplinary care.³

Experimental Dermatology: Rationales of cold plasma jet therapy in skin cancer

A review of medical gas plasma therapy in skin cancer treatment highlighted its potential as a complementary approach for basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and actinic keratosis. The study discussed the mechanisms of gas plasma, which generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and its established safety in dermatology, particularly for nonhealing wounds. It also explored preclinical and early clinical evidence supporting its use in dermato-oncology and outlined strategies for integrating gas plasma into existing skin cancer treatment protocols, encouraging further clinical research to advance its role in cancer care.⁴

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology: International consensus statement on the use of ultrasound in hidradenitis suppurativa

A review of ultrasound (US) use in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) highlighted its value in diagnosis, scoring, and disease assessment, despite the absence of international consensus. To address this gap, a Delphi study gathered 24 experts across 14 countries to establish recommendations on US applications in HS. The panel reached strong consensus on key aspects, including diagnostic criteria, staging, monitoring, surgical planning, and research integration. While challenges remain in implementation, the task force strongly advocates for US as a crucial tool in HS management and clinical practice.⁵

References

1. Lim PN, Kelly AS, Lawrence M, Hunt WTN. Ergonomics in dermatological surgery: An international survey among dermatologists. Australas J Dermatol. 2025 Feb 20. doi: 10.1111/ajd.14435
2. Prakoeswa CRS, Huda BKN, Indrawati D, et al. Effectiveness and tolerability of an emollient "plus" compared to urea 10% in patients with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(2):e70051. doi:10.1111/jocd.70051
3. Smith A, Lai B, Zaman S, et al. Improving cardiovascular outcomes in the psoriasis cohort. Psoriasis and cardiovascular disease-clinician knowledge, practice and perceptions. Australas J Dermatol. Published online February 22, 2025. doi:10.1111/ajd.14436
4. Bekeschus S, Singer D, Ratnayake G, Ruhnau K, Ostrikov K, Thompson EW. Rationales of cold plasma jet therapy in skin cancer. Exp Dermatol. 2025;34(2):e70063. doi:10.1111/exd.70063
5. Wortsman X, Alfageme F, Dini V, et al. International consensus statement on the use of ultrasound in hidradenitis suppurativa. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. Published online February 18, 2025. doi:10.1111/jdv.20600

What new studies have you been involved with or authored? Share with us by emailing DTEditor@mmhgroup.com for an opportunity to be featured.