Vitiligo association with metastatic melanoma survival tops October dermatology reads

Source: Healio.com/dermatology, October 2015

Study results finding a possible association between the onset of vitiligo and clinical benefit of Keytruda in patients with metastatic melanoma was the most-read article in October on Healio.com/Dermatology.

Other widely read articles included research presented at the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery annual meeting on Kybella treatment in men and long-term Botox treatment for static glabellar lines:

Vitiligo associated with survival in patients receiving Keytruda for metastatic melanoma

The onset of vitiligo may be associated with clinical benefit in patients with metastatic melanoma who were treated with Keytruda, according to study results recently published in JAMA Dermatology.

Researchers in France conducted a prospective study of patients with metastatic melanoma at the Cancer Campus of Gustave Roussy Institute. The patients had confirmed diagnosis of unresectable stage III or IV melanoma and had received Keytruda (pembrolizumab, Merck). Read more

AbbVie launches hidradenitis suppurativa global awareness campaign

AbbVie has launched a new global campaign to increase awareness and support for people who have hidradenitis suppurativa.

The launch of “Voices of HS” took place Oct. 7-11 at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology congress in Copenhagen and included a panel event featuring an advocacy representative, a dermatologist and patients discussing the impact and management of hidradenitis suppurativa, documentary style videos of patients with HS and educational resources, according to a press release.

Kybella found to be effective, satisfactory in men in analysis of phase 3 trials

CHICAGO — Men treated with Kybella in two phase 3 trials had a reduction in submental fat and were satisfied with the treatment, according to study results presented at the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery annual meeting.

“The post-hoc analysis of the Refine-1 and Refine-2 trials showed that men got very good results, just like women did” researcher Vince Bertucci, MD, told Healio.com. “It was a safe and effective treatment; the most common adverse events consisted of bruising, swelling and pain … and patients were satisfied with their appearance.”

AAD identifies procedures that may be unnecessary as part of Choosing Wisely campaign

The American Academy of Dermatology released recommendations regarding dermatologic tests and treatments it recommends are not always necessary.

It is the second list developed by the AAD as part of the Choosing Wisely campaign, an ABIM Foundation initiative designed to help patients avoid care that may be unnecessary for them, according to a press release.