Another group wellness class, Sunrise Yoga, started conference day 2 of Elevate-Derm West. Conference-goers then made their way to the lecture hall for Dr. Suneel Chilukuri’s first lecture on the cosmetic toolbox for the medical derm provider. His updates included using products containing azelaic acid and licorice extract to inhibit 5 Alpha-Reductase as well as use of Collagen induction therapy to improve scars via injury/inflammation, tissue proliferation, and tissue remodeling. After breakfast, he returned to the stage to discuss hyperpigmentation and suggested using tinted physical sunscreens for patients with hyperpigmentation of any origin. Then we welcomed the highly esteemed Douglas DiRuggierro, PA-C, for a very informative lecture on corticosteroids. He reviewed articles and case studies that highlighted risks associated with topical steroid use and emphasized the importance of evaluating patients’ total cumulative exposure when using topical corticosteroids as new, safe steroid-sparing topical medications are available for treating inflammatory diseases.
Lunch was followed by Drs. Jason Hawkes of Oregon Medical Research Center and Jennifer Hsaio covering CSU. They reminded clinicians that chronic urticaria can have a significant quality of life impact, including work impairments, sleep disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, anticipatory fear, social withdrawal, and substance abuse. In fact, the quality of life impact is similar to coronary artery disease. Concurrently, attendees had an opportunity to attend a career development symposium featuring a panel discussion between NP Margaret Bobonich and PAs Terry Arnold, Douglas DiRuggierro, and Martha Sikes. The group covered tips for APPs to expand their scope beyond clinical practice as well as additional certifications and advanced education for NP/PAs. Up next, Dr. Hawkes returned to the stage accompanied by Dr. James Song to cover Cutaneous Manifestations of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors. Their lecture included pearls related to common skin adverse reactions in cancer patients treated with immunotherapy like rashes and pruritus and the importance of recognizing and treating these side effects to prevent medication discontinuation. PAs Justin Love and Lisa Weiss then brought back the Elevate-Derm Quiz Bowl where attendees answered questions to test their learning and competed for a chance to win a dermatoscope. The afternoon lectures concluded with Dr. James Song’s lecture on AD therapeutics updates where he covered several new as well as up and coming medications. He shared practical insights like the MOA behind OX40 (ROCA)/OX40L (AMLIT) inhibition, which has the potential for disease modifications and extended periods of disease control even once patients discontinue or take breaks from therapy. He also delivered a presentation titled Revisiting Old Friends, which covered pearls on traditional systemic medications such as using the combo therapy of cyclosporine with glucosamine can improve the therapeutic effect.
The Nocturnal networking event was an eagerly anticipated Swiftie-themed concert featuring a Taylor Swift cover band. Attendees donned their Swiftie gear and danced and sang into the evening to their favorite hits. Themed beverages were enjoyed by attendees, faculty, and sponsors while networking in the fun atmosphere. After hours of memorable connections and entertainment, the crowd died down for the evening to rest up for Saturday’s didactic sessions.
