Journal Digest: May 13

Frontiers in Medicine: Artificial Intelligence in Cutaneous Lesions: Where Do We Stand and What is Next?

Giavina-Bianchi and Ko’s editorial letter explored the current landscape and future directions of artificial intelligence (AI) in dermatology, specifically focusing on cutaneous lesions. The author’s analysis emphasized a surge in research output, highlighting various applications of AI, including skin cancer detection, inflammatory skin diseases, and patient perspectives. According to the authors, despite significant progress, the integration of AI tools into routine clinical practice is still limited. The editorial examined the current state of AI in dermatology through systematic reviews, reflections on methodology, and real-world applications. Key topics included the diversity of AI approaches, challenges in adoption, and future opportunities such as federated learning and multimodal models. Real-world studies demonstrate the potential of AI in improving diagnostic accuracy, reducing unnecessary referrals, and enhancing patient confidence in AI-assisted diagnosis. Giavina-Bianchi and Ko’s editorial stressed the importance of explainability and clinician interaction with AI systems. The study authors also considered innovative approaches such as synthetic dermoscopic image generation and AI replication of human acne severity grading. Overall, the editorial emphasized the journey from “AI hype” to practical implementation in dermatology practice.¹

Skin – The Journal of Cutaneous Medicine: Dupilumab-Induced Acanthosis Nigricans

In a recent study published by Yaghi et al, a case of dupilumab-induced acanthosis nigricans (AN) was reported in a patient with good control of dermatitis but persistent AN-like plaques. Dupilumab targets interleukin-4 receptor alpha and is known for its efficacy in treating atopic dermatitis. According to Yaghi et al, while typically well-tolerated and successful in many patients, dermatologic adverse events including AN, have been documented. The study author’s case highlighted a unique presentation of asymptomatic darkening in intertriginous areas associated with AN, which resolved upon discontinuation of dupilumab. Metabolic panel results were within normal ranges, supporting a clinical diagnosis of drug-induced AN due to dupilumab. Dermatologists should be aware of this rare adverse event when prescribing dupilumab and should consider monitoring patients for skin changes during treatment, concluded Yaghi et al.²

Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology: Aesthetic Considerations for Treating Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Patients: A Review and Our Experience

Hennessy et al’s review investigated considerations and recommendations for treating lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) patients in aesthetic procedures. The review authors highlighted disparities in health care access and mental health issues faced by LGB individuals. Additional considerations for LGB patients include social issues, prescription differences, and increased risks of eating disorders among LGB patients. Expectation management is emphasized, focusing on setting realistic goals and understanding patient motivations. Commonly requested procedures among LGB patients are outlined, including injectables and surgical trends. Hennessy et al’s discussion also included gender-related anatomical differences, treatment approaches for lesbian and gay patients, and considerations for bisexual patients. The review authors emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting gender fluidity in aesthetic practice and utilizing injectables to allow for gender expression.³

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology: The Impact of Monotherapies for Male Androgenetic Alopecia: A Network Meta-Analysis Study

Gupta et al’s assessed the relative efficacy of various monotherapeutic regimens for male androgenetic alopecia, including traditional treatments such as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) and minoxidil, as well as newer treatments such as photobiomodulation, platelet-rich plasma, microneedling, cetirizine, and Botox. Conducted via Bayesian network meta-analysis, the research analyzed 41 studies identified through a systematic literature review. Results indicated that dutasteride 0.5 mg once daily for 24 weeks ranked highest in efficacy for both total and terminal hair density increase. Notably, newer agents showed comparable efficacy to traditional ones, except for topical cetirizine. Oral minoxidil at varying doses demonstrated comparable effects, while topical finasteride appeared slightly less effective than oral formulations. According to the study authors, their results stress the importance of standardizing protocols for newer treatments.⁴

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

References

1. Giavina-Bianchi M, Ko J (2024) Editorial: artificial intelligence in cutaneous lesions: where do we stand and what is next? Front. Med. 11:1420152. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1420152
2. Yaghi M, Ju T, Hu J, Jadoo A, Maderal A. (2024). Dupilumab-induced acanthosis nigricans. SKIN- Journal of Cutaneous Medicine, 8(2), 1413–1417. https://doi.org/10.25251/skin.8.2.9
3. Hennessy K, Dayan S, Somenek M, Bay S, Witfill K, Fabi S. Aesthetic considerations for treating lesbian, gay, and bisexual patients: a review and our experience. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2024;17(5):34–39.
4. Gupta AK, BamimoreMA, Wang T, Talukder M. The impact of monotherapies for male androgenetic alopecia: A network meta-analysis study. J Cosmet Dermatol. Published online May 9, 2024. doi:10.1111/jocd.16362