Skinternal Medicine: A Case Based Challenge

In the session called "Skinternal Medicine: A Case Based Challenge," directed by Courtney Shad, the focus was on diagnosing skin diseases linked to internal disorders, along with developing cost-effective evaluation methods and evidence-based management for complex medical dermatological cases. An emergency led to the cancellation of a speaker's presentation, but the session proceeded with interactive audience participation using QR codes for responding to questions. A primary case discussed involved a 29-year-old man with a painful rash, previously diagnosed with psoriasis, who had recently stopped a medication and received a COVID vaccine. Through audience questions, the discussion transitioned into diagnosing IgA vasculitis, with emphasis on the differences in adult and pediatric presentations, as well as the importance of biopsy techniques in confirming the diagnosis. Key points raised included the commonality of renal involvement in adults, the utility of urine analyses, and the lack of benefit from using prednisone in adult patients to prevent nephropathy. Clinical pearls emphasized the necessity of early biopsies, regular kidney function monitoring, and considering potential links between autoimmune disorders and medications. The session concluded with suggestions for ongoing monitoring of kidney function in patients diagnosed with IgA vasculitis, highlighting the significance of early detection and comprehensive management to mitigate serious health complications.