Spot Diagnosis

In the five years since our initial episode on eczema, two new game-changing systemic therapies have been added to the PBS. Despite this progress, controversy in eczema remains, and issues such as topical steroid withdrawal are becoming increasingly discussed. In this episode, we address advances in eczema and tackle clinical cases alongside dermatologists Professor John Su and Associate Professor Gayle Ross. We would like to thank our Institute Partner, Melbourne Pathology, for their support of the Spot Diagnosis Podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than half of Australia's population will experience menopause. Yet, it remains a condition that many doctors, particularly male ones, feel underprepared to manage. What skin changes happen in menopause?  What treatments are available? Does topical oestrogen actually help with wrinkles in menopause? In this episode we answer these questions with dermatologists Dr Emma Veysey and Dr Anita Lasocki and endocrinologist Dr Rosie Worsley.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mycosis fungoides - a term that is both misleading and redundant. It represents just one aspect of the often complex world of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. When should clinicians suspect cutaneous T-cell lymphoma? How is it accurately diagnosed? What treatment options are available? In this episode, dermatologists Dr Friyana Bhabha and A/Prof Aaron Robinson provide expert insights into these questions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social media is increasing used as a source of health advice, yet misinformation remains a serious concern. What kind of information are young people learning about on TikTok? Are they able to discern fact from fiction? How do we approach misinformation in patients? In this episode, we dissect these issues alongside three special guests: Dr Wonie Uahwatanasakul, Professor Margie Danchin and Dr Laxmi Iyengar.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psoriasis was the focus of our second Spot Diagnosis episode over five years ago. Since that time, the treatment landscape has expanded considerably, with the development of new oral agents and biologic therapies. In this episode, we are joined once again by Associate Professor Peter Foley who provides a comprehensive update on current treatment strategies and provides a suggested treatment approach to three clinical scenarios.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every interaction we make as doctors depends on communication - yet we rarely pause to reflect on how we’re actually doing it. How can we improve our everyday conversations with patients? How can we break bad news with compassion? And how should we respond to alternative health beliefs that challenge evidence-based medicine? In this episode, we explore these questions with oncologist and author Dr Ranjana Srivastava OAM.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sexually transmitted infections are increasing across Australia, bringing them to the forefront of concern for medical professionals. So, when is it appropriate to test for HIV? How is monkeypox diagnosed? And what’s the most effective way to manage a genital ulcer? In this episode, we discuss these key questions with Clinical Professor Louise Owen, Director of the Tasmanian Sexual Health Services.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alopecia areata is a distressing condition and a frequent reason for referral to dermatologists. What treatments are appropriate to start in a GP setting? How do you actually perform intralesional steroid injections? And when do you need to refer to a dermatologist? In this episode, we unpack the management of alopecia areata in 3 clinical vignettes of escalating severity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hair loss can be a distressing concern for patients and a frequent reason for visiting GPs. When is further investigation warranted? What treatments are effective for hair regrowth? In this episode, we explore common cases of telogen effluvium and female pattern hair loss, along with a recommended management approach. Plus, two medical students join us to share their enthusiasm for hair health and dermatology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Spot Diagnosis, we explore two frequently coexisting conditions: venous eczema and tinea pedis. How should a patient with both be managed? This episode provides insight into the causes and treatment of these common yet challenging clinical presentations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing the latest episode of the Spot Diagnosis Podcast: Hand Dermatitis. Hand dermatitis, an itchy and often troublesome rash affecting the hands, is a frequent concern in clinical practice. It presents a range of diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of hand dermatitis, exploring its various causes, common clinical scenarios, and key triggers. We also provide practical insights into effective management approaches. Our panel of experts for this episode includes dermatologists, Dr Jenny Cahill and A/Prof Alvin Chong. We would like to thank our Institute Partner, Melbourne Pathology, for their support of the Spot Diagnosis Podcast and our episode partner, Abbvie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In recognition of Trans Awareness Week, celebrated from November 13 to November 19, we have released a new episode of the Spot Diagnosis podcast dedicated to transgender dermatology. This episode delves into the field of transgender dermatology, shedding light on the distinctive skincare needs and concerns faced by some transgender individuals. Dermatologists Dr Ahmed Kazmi and A/Prof Aaron Robinson engage in an in-depth discussion about the impacts of gender-affirming therapies on the skin, with a particular focus on hormonal treatments and their dermatological implications. They share valuable insights drawn from their extensive clinical experience, offering guidance on how these therapies influence skin health. Beyond the medical aspects, Dr Kazmi and A/Prof Robinson emphasise the importance of providing care that is not only evidence-based but also inclusive and holistic. They highlight the significance of creating a safe and supportive environment for transgender patients, ensuring that dermatological care is both affirming and tailored to every individual’s unique needs. Through this thoughtful and informed approach, the episode aims to equip healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge to better support their patients. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we delve into the various skin changes that can arise during pregnancy. We discuss common concerns such as melasma, changes in skin pigmentation, and stretch marks, which are frequently on the minds of expectant mothers. Furthermore, we address significant pregnancy-specific skin disorders that may signal more serious underlying conditions, potentially impacting the fetus. We'll also provide insights into diagnosing and effectively managing these conditions. Our panel of experts for this episode includes specialist dermatologists, Dr Emma Veysey, Dr Anita Lasocki and A/Prof Alvin Chong, and GP, Dr Laxmi Iyengar.We would like to thank our Institute Partner, Melbourne Pathology, for their support of the Spot Diagnosis Podcast and our episode partner, Pfizer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore two common pediatric conditions: molluscum contagiosum and impetigo, also known as school sores. We'll cover the causes of these skin infections, which often worry parents, and discuss effective management strategies. Our panel of experts for this episode includes specialist dermatologist and Spot Diagnosis Co-Host A/Prof Alvin Chong and GP and Spot Diagnosis Co-Host Dr Laxmi Iyengar. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we delve into the world of photosensitivity. We discuss the inherent differences between primary and secondary photodermatoses and how a good clinical history and examination findings can assist with diagnosis. In addition, the role of investigations including the use of phototesting, the gold standard for proving photosensitivity, is also explored. Our panel of experts for this episode includes Director of Dermatology at St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne A/Prof Chris Baker, consultant dermatologist A/Prof Alvin Chong and GP and Spot Diagnosis Co-Host Dr Laxmi Iyengar. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More and more frequently we hear the term ‘skin of colour’ being used colloquially and in medicine. What exactly do we mean by the term ‘skin of colour’? Why are patients with ‘skin of colour’ considered different, unique or distant from societal norms? In this episode, dermatologist Dr Ahmed Kazi passionately educates the listener about how and why common skin conditions present differently in patients with skin of colour, and variations in the natural history of these conditions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest episode, Skincare Gone Crazy, delves into the growing obsession with skincare among today’s youth and its potential physical and psychological repercussions, providing parents and practitioners with valuable insights and the latest information from top clinicians.  We have a distinguished panel of experts including consultant dermatologists, Dr Mei Tam and Dr Katherine Armour, consultant psychiatrist Dr Siu-Ying Kwok and GP Dr Laxmi Iyengar.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In honour of HS Awareness Week, we had consultant dermatologist and lead consultant of the Skin Health Institute HS Clinic, Dr Diana Norris join us on the Spot Diagnosis Podcast to delve into the complex condition that is hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). HS can be challenging to diagnose and manage, and it is pivotal to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition to optimise patient care. In this episode, we clarify misconceptions and discuss clinical cases to provide valuable insights into the various HS presentations and treatment approaches, helping to improve understanding and outcomes for individuals affected by HS. https://skinhealthinstitute.org.au/spot-diagnosis/clinical-cases-in-hidradenitis-suppurativa/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we delve into the crucial role clinical trials play in advancing dermatological treatments and enhancing skin health. Clinical trials are essential for demonstrating the effectiveness and safety of new treatments and interventions to prevent, detect, treat, or manage various medical conditions. They are key to improving our current disease management methods and shaping future medical practices. We examine the unique aspects of dermatological clinical trials, the challenges they encounter, and the breakthroughs they achieve. Our panel of experts for this episode includes, Director of Research at the Skin Health Institute, A/Prof Peter Foley, Director of Clinical Research & Advanced Targeted Therapies at the Skin Health Institute, Ms Sarah Chivers and Deputy Director of Research at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, A/Prof Tam Nguyen.  For more information on this episode or to access resources, visit the link below. https://skinhealthinstitute.org.au/spot-diagnosis/clinical-trials/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we delve into a comparison between two prevalent skin issues: periorificial dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis. We explore the factors associated with periorificial dermatitis, such as frequent use of layered cosmetics, prolonged application of potent topical steroids, and wearing masks. In contrast, seborrheic dermatitis manifests in areas abundant in sebaceous glands, where skin's natural inhabitants like Malassezia Furfur break down fatty acids in sebum, leading to skin inflammation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.