Since the enactment of the 10% tax on indoor tanning last July, the topic continues to be of significant interest. Many developments occurred in October, including new legislation in California and the publication of new research. In particular, researchers at Harvard Medical School have demonstrated a definitive link between tanning and an increased risk for skin cancer with the results of a 20-year study. A report from the IRS also shows that the tanning tax may not be as effective as expected.

An inside look at dermatology issues from Steven R. Feldman, MD, PhD

Study looks at potential of vemurafenib treatment for improved survival in patients with BRAF V600 mutation-positive metastatic melanoma.

According to press releases from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Genentech, a Phase III study (BRIM3) showed that Genentech’s investigational BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib (RG7204, PLX4032) significantly improved overall survival in people with previously untreated BRAF V600 mutation-positive metastatic melanoma, compared to chemotherapy.

Results of an AAD survey reveal indoor tanning trends among teens and young adult women.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recently conducted the “2011 Indoor Tanning: Teen and Young Adult Women” survey. More than 3,800 white, non-Hispanic females ages 14 to 22 responded to a nationwide survey online about their tanning knowledge, attitudes and behavior. The survey was conducted by Relevant Research, Inc., (formerly RH Research) of Chicago from December 28, 2010, to January 11, 2011. Data were weighted by age and region based on the U.S. Census Current Population Survey (released in 2010).

An update of news and treatment trends.

Patient-Friendly Digital Dermoscopy

Patients concerned about skin cancer — especially after noticing a suspicious growth — may gain peace of mind or next-steps information by undergoing a MoleSafe body scan, which consumer-directed product information from the company calls “a powerful tool to assist you and your physician to provide the highest quality of care currently available in managing your melanoma risk.”

A look at patient support groups/reliable online sources of information on treatments and helpful tips for your patients with skin cancer.

Delivering a diagnosis of any chronic, long-term condition can be difficult for dermatologists, but having to tell patients they have any form of skin cancer can be especially difficult and can put them on edge.

While many still believe destruction of the atrophic lesions — mainly using cryosurgery — is the beginning and end of treatment, dermatologists Kenneth Wasserman, Joseph Jorizzo, and Neal Bhatia insist that a combination approach that includes a field treatment for preclinical lesions as well as a destructive modality for visible AKs best serves the overall health and wellness of most patients.

NIH-sponsored Panel Issues Comprehensive U.S. Food Allergy Guidelines

Guidelines recommend uniform standards in the diagnosis and management of food allergy.

A look at clinically relevant discoveries and cutting-edge breakthroughs in dermatology.

The year 2010 has brought a vast array of exciting discoveries in the field of dermatology. This 2010 year-in-review article highlights clinically relevant discoveries and cutting-edge breakthroughs in select areas of dermatology, including: infectious disease, alopecia, acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, pediatric dermatology, cutaneous malignancy, and cosmetic dermatology.