Synopsis: During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been considerable discussion regarding the use of biologics in patients with inflammatory skin conditions, such as psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and atopic dermatitis. This article discusses clinical trial data, real world evidence, and guidelines and recommendations for biologics that inhibit TNF, IL-12/23, IL-17, IL-23, and IL-4/13 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Across these inflammatory skin conditions, existing data generally suggest that biologics do not appear to increase the risk of COVID-19 infection nor worsen COVID-19 outcomes. The impact of biologics on COVID-19 is an area of active exploration.

Background: Many dermatologists have experienced significant changes to their practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: It is vital to recognize how the pandemic has affected dermatology practices and identify methods to maximize clinical efficiency while maintaining patient safety. Methods: Private practice dermatologists in metropolitan areas were interviewed regarding various issues, including patient volume, types of visits or procedures being performed, screening for COVID-19, and operational modifications. Results: On average, there was a 65.2% decrease in patient volume during the initial surge of the COVID-19 outbreak, which was improved to a 15.5% decrease in July 2020. Despite this reduction in patient volume, the proportion of acute dermatologic issues, biopsies performed, and skin cancer concerns were all increased compared to pre-COVID. All of the dermatologists reported notable changes in regards to scheduling, staff, operations, and workplaces. Limitations: Interview participants were limited to metropolitan dermatologists mainly within the California region. Conclusion: Improving patient communication, implementing protocols to facilitate social distancing, and utilizing teledermatology were reported to be essential to optimizing efficiency and safety. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, it is important that dermatologists identify specific ways to practice efficiently and effectively, while mitigating the spread of the virus.

Updates on treatment guidelines for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), hidradenitis suppurativa, and acne/rosacea during the COVID-19 pandemic Permalink

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We report a case of a 49 year old woman who developed biopsy‐proven xanthomas on her hands and arms after initiation of Mycophenolate mofetil therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and subsequently went into remission upon cessation of the medication.