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- Presentation
Year-in-Review: Key Updates in Dermatology from March 2024 to March 2025
Description
In this year-in-review session, presenters discussed significant updates in dermatology from March 2024 to March 2025, honoring the legacy of prominent dermatology figure Steve Katz. The focus was on non-dermatological findings that impact dermatologic practice, including recent studies and emerging diseases. Highlights included the potential of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as a biomarker for Merkel cell carcinoma, showing high sensitivity in detecting recurrence and correlating with tumor size. The session also covered a new report on clade 1B monkey pox in the Americas, emphasizing its historical severity and recent cases in travelers. Emerging dermatophytes, such as Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype 7, were identified as significant concerns, often spreading through sexual contact, thus necessitating oral antifungal treatments. The importance of timely public health information from agencies like the CDC was stressed, particularly regarding the tracking of communicable diseases, underscoring the role of dermatologists in recognizing and managing these emerging threats. The session concluded by urging attendees to utilize available resources and data to stay informed and prepared for such infections in clinical practice.
View moreConclusions
- Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a reliable biomarker for detecting recurrence in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), demonstrating high sensitivity and specificity.
- Positive ctDNA levels during surveillance correlate with increased risk of recurrence within 90 days.
- The amount of ctDNA detected is associated with tumor size, enabling better disease monitoring.
- Identifying ctDNA post-treatment can uncover residual disease that is not clinically evident, warranting closer follow-up.
- Even low levels of ctDNA should prompt further clinical assessment due to their predictive value.
- Emerging dermatophyte infections, particularly Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton indotineae, require careful lab testing for correct identification.
- Oral antifungal therapies are often necessary for resistant dermatophytes, and empiric treatment should be guided by clinical assessments.
- Measles has resurfaced as a re-emerging infection in the U.S. and tracking cases remains critical for public health responses.
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