DR. JUAN S. DINKINS, DO

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This study looked at how well private practice dermatology websites show racial diversity, focusing on areas where non-white people make up more than half of the population. Researchers found that only 2 out of 117 websites mentioned "Skin of Color," and the images on these sites featured significantly fewer non-white patients and providers than would be expected based on Census data. This lack of representation can discourage minority patients from seeking skin care, highlighting the need for dermatology practices to better reflect the communities they serve. Who this helps: This benefits racially minoritized patients seeking dermatological care.

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This study focused on finding an agreed-upon approach to treat central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), a hair loss condition. A group of 27 expert dermatologists participated in a process where they evaluated treatment options over three rounds. By the end, there was strong agreement on 20 out of 70 treatment statements, emphasizing some effective treatments, while also identifying areas where experts do not agree, which indicates a need for further research. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from CCCA by providing clearer guidelines for treatment options.

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This research paper focuses on treating cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), a skin form of lupus, with new medications called JAK inhibitors. The review highlights that JAK inhibitors have shown good potential in managing autoimmune conditions and notes their effectiveness in addressing the specific signaling problems linked to CLE. It's important to study these medications further to confirm their safety and effectiveness for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus who are seeking better treatment options.

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This study looked at how commonly used hair oils in the Black community, such as castor oil and pumpkin oil, are used to treat a specific type of hair loss called androgenetic alopecia, or pattern baldness. The researchers found that while there is a growing interest in these oils, most previous studies have focused on mice instead of humans, highlighting the need for more research on their effectiveness for people. Understanding these treatments is important because they may provide options for those suffering from hair loss. Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with hair loss, especially in the Black community.

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This study focused on a 63-year-old man with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who developed an unusual, rapidly growing sore on his nose caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). The condition was confirmed through a skin biopsy, and he was treated successfully with IV acyclovir. This research emphasizes the need for doctors to recognize atypical signs of herpes in patients with weakened immune systems, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for their health. Who this helps: This benefits patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and other immunocompromised conditions.

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The study examined the effects of two cancer treatments, osimertinib and ramucirumab, and found that using both together can lead to the development of pyogenic granulomas, which are harmless growths that can appear on the skin. This could be due to how these drugs interact with each other in the body. Recognizing this combined effect is important because it helps doctors monitor and manage side effects more effectively in patients receiving these treatments. Who this helps: Patients undergoing treatment with osimertinib and ramucirumab.

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This study looked at a child with congenital heart disease who developed a serious blockage in the left pulmonary artery after heart surgery. The blockage was completely cleared using a special medical device called the AngioJet. This is important because it shows that this method can effectively treat dangerous blood clots, helping to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps children with congenital heart disease who might develop blood clots after surgery.

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This study looked at how calpain, a protein involved in cell damage, behaves in the brains of rats with a condition that mimics multiple sclerosis. Researchers found that calpain levels and activity increased sharply around the time symptoms of the disease appeared, particularly between days 9 and 11 after the disease was triggered, which coincided with a significant rise in immune cells infiltrating the brain. This is important because it suggests that targeting calpain could be a way to intervene when symptoms of multiple sclerosis first start, potentially slowing disease progression. Who this helps: This helps patients with multiple sclerosis and their doctors.