Derm Boot Camp Updates

In Week 25 of Derm Boot Camp, we take a closer look at some of the most clinically nuanced and high-yield dermatologic conditions. This episode covers rashes around the mouth, including key differentials and management strategies for perioral presentations you can’t afford to miss. We then dive into cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) — recognizing early findings, understanding diagnostic pitfalls, and knowing when to escalate care. Finally, we explore diseases of the mucous membranes, breaking down inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic processes.

Week 24 dives into high-yield pathology every dermatology provider needs to recognize with confidence. This episode focuses on tumors not to miss—the critical lesions that demand early identification to prevent morbidity and mortality. We break down distinguishing clinical and histologic features, red flags on exam, and the practical pearls that help you separate benign mimickers from dangerous malignancies.The discussion also expands into less common dermal diseases, clarifying patterns of presentation and how to approach them systematically in both board prep and real-world practice. We review macrophage-driven disorders, unpacking their pathophysiology, immunologic mechanisms, and characteristic cutaneous findings.To round out the episode, we cover additional skin tumor types that frequently appear in testing and clinic alike, emphasizing morphology, diagnostic strategy, and management principles. If you’re preparing for boards or sharpening your diagnostic acumen, Week 24 delivers concise, high-yield insight designed to make complex dermatopathology more approachable and clinically actionable.

In Episode 23, we break down lichen planus from the classic presentation to its many variations including cutaneous, oral, genital, scalp/lichen planopilaris, nail, hypertrophic, actinic, and pigmentosus so you can recognize patterns quickly, confirm the diagnosis when it’s subtle, and avoid common look-alikes. We also address the clinical reality that there is no FDA-approved treatment specifically for lichen planus, and walk through how clinicians build practical, stepwise management plans focused on symptom control, inflammation reduction, and preventing flares—plus how to counsel patients on expectations. Finally, we connect the dots on errors in metabolism and metabolic derangements that can complicate inflammatory skin disease and influence your differential, workup, and long-term strategy—so you’re not just treating the eruption, you’re treating the whole patient.

In Episode 22, we’re diving into Immunology with a practical, clinic-ready breakdown of BMS (blistering mucosal syndromes) and other chronic blistering dermatoses. We connect the “why” (autoantibodies, target antigens, inflammation pathways) to the “what you do next” (how they present, how to confirm the diagnosis, and how to treat effectively without overcomplicating the workup).You’ll get a clear framework for differentiating common blistering disorders, choosing the right tests (and biopsy technique), interpreting immunofluorescence patterns, and building treatment plans that balance speed of control, safety, and long-term maintenance. We also cover newer FDA-approved options and evolving therapeutic strategies, including where they fit in your step-up/step-down approach and which patients may benefit most.

Week 21 of Derm Boot Camp focuses on disorders of pigmentation and the clinical reasoning behind diagnosing and managing them. This episode covers vitiligo, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation, and other disturbances of pigmentation, with an emphasis on pathophysiology, visual recognition, and patient counseling.We also discuss phototherapy when to use it, how it works, and where it fits into treatment plans—along with practical considerations for setting expectations and improving patient experience. This episode is designed to help learners confidently differentiate pigmentation disorders and understand evidence-based management approaches in real-world dermatologic practice.A must-listen for anyone building a strong foundation in dermatology

Week 20 is Part 2 of our viral infection series, picking up right where Week 19 left off. We break down the viral derm conditions you’ll see in real practice focusing on poxvirus presentations like molluscum contagiosum how to recognize them quickly, what to rule out, and how to treat them efficiently.This episode covers practical management: when to treat vs. observe, patient-friendly counseling to reduce spread and recurrence, and the most effective in-office and at-home options. If you want a clear, real-world approach to common viral skin infections without the fluff Week 20 is your playbook.

This week’s episode focuses on three of the most common viral conditions seen in clinical practice: herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and warts. We break down how these conditions present in real patients, how to differentiate similar-looking eruptions, and how to approach evaluation and treatment with confidence. You’ll also hear practical tips for patient communication—especially for diagnoses that carry stigma, anxiety, or lots of misconceptions.

Week 18 of Derm Boot Camp is all about yeast and fungal infections. We dive deep into the different presentations you’ll see in clinic and how to quickly narrow the differential, then focus on the practical steps that drive better outcomes—collecting the most accurate samples, choosing the most effective treatment plan (topical versus systemic, duration, and follow-up), and setting clear expectations so patients actually complete therapy. The goal isn’t just clearing the infection; it’s making the entire experience smoother for the patient with simple, confidence-building education, prevention strategies to reduce recurrence, and a process that feels efficient, respectful, and easy to follow.

Week 17 of Derm Boot Camp is all about topical antifungals—and the skin conditions caused by fungi and yeast.If you’ve ever been unsure why a rash won’t clear, when an antifungal cream is actually the right move, or what causes these infections to keep coming back, this episode breaks it down in a practical way.We cover common presentations, how to approach treatment, and the mistakes that lead to repeat flare-ups.

Week 16 is all about bacterial skin infections, how to spot them fast and treat them correctly. We break down staph (“staph,” short for Staphylococcus) infections, including the different ways they can present, how to tell common look-alikes apart, and what clinical clues matter most. This episode also covers the broader bacterial infection spectrum in derm and the key “don’t-miss” considerations that can change management.

This week, Dr. Boswell dives into one of his favorite areas to diagnose: connective tissue diseases. We break down how these conditions show up on the skin, what they can reveal about a patient’s overall health, and why getting the diagnosis right can quite literally change a life. Dr. Boswell also walks through the role of systemic medications when topical treatments aren’t enough, how he thinks through starting a systemic, and what risks and benefits providers need to keep in mind to truly help these patients long term.

In this episode, we dive into urticaria and erythema with a focus on intense itch, what’s actually driving the sensation and how to calm it down. We break down the role of histamine, when to consider H2 receptor blockers alongside H1s, and where some of the newer FDA-approved treatment options fit into your algorithm for stubborn cases. We also talk through practical pearls for counseling itchy patients so they feel validated, heard, and supported while you work toward long-term control.

This week, we dive into allergic reactions and contact dermatitis—two conditions that look similar on the surface but require completely different approaches to diagnose and treat.We break down the difference between irritant vs. allergic contact dermatitis, why some patients flare from everyday products, and how the immune system can overreact to seemingly harmless ingredients. We also cover patch testing, common allergens like fragrances, preservatives, and metals, and how delayed hypersensitivity reactions actually work.You’ll learn why allergic reactions aren’t always immediate, why “hypoallergenic” doesn’t always mean safe, and why chronic contact dermatitis patients can suffer for years before getting the right diagnosis. We also discuss treatment options: topical steroids vs. non-steroidal alternatives, barrier repair strategies, and how to help patients identify triggers without overwhelming them.If you’ve ever wondered why a rash keeps coming back, or why a product “you’ve used forever” suddenly causes a reaction—this episode explains it all.

This week, we dive into eczema — and why treating it goes far beyond comfort and cosmetics. Recent findings show that chronic eczema can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, making proper management a matter of long-term health, not just skin care. We’ll explore the systemic impacts of inflammation, the link between eczema and cardiovascular health, and why reducing flare-ups can also lower infection risk.It’s time for dermatologists to rethink how they frame eczema — and for patients to understand that treatment isn’t just about the itch. It’s about protecting your whole body.

This week’s episode explores the complex world of itch and pruritus — and why it’s not all about histamine. We break down how chronic itch can stem from immune dysregulation and cytokine activity, not just allergic reactions. Patients with chronic itch often face stigma, being told it’s “in their head,” but the truth is far deeper. We discuss how autoimmune factors, neurochemical pathways, and environmental triggers can heighten itch sensitivity and why it’s crucial to take these patients seriously.Learn how to properly assess and treat itch beyond antihistamines, and why understanding the immune and chemical landscape of pruritus is key to effective dermatologic care.

This week’s episode dives into modern psoriasis management exploring how far treatment has come beyond traditional topicals and steroids. We discuss biologic therapies, how they work to target inflammation at its source, and what makes them a game-changer for many patients. Plus, we break down how to navigate insurance approvals and advocate for proper access to these advanced treatments.#DermBootCamp #PsoriasisAwareness #Biologics #DermatologyEducation #SkinHealth

This week, we’re tackling two common and often confusing skin conditions: seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.We’ll cover the latest updates in treatment, including a newly approved non-steroidal medication that’s changing how we approach seb derm. You’ll learn why Head & Shoulders and other classic shampoos aren’t as effective for many patients anymore, and how rotating different medicated shampoos can help you get the best results from each.We’ll also discuss Zoryve® (roflumilast) a new foam formulation that’s proving to be a game-changer for seb derm. Finally, we’ll emphasize why steroid-sparing therapies should always be considered first when non-steroidal options are available.

In this episode, we dive into Alopecia Areata, an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss on the scalp or body. We break down the clinical presentation, common triggers, and how to differentiate it from other forms of alopecia.We also explore the groundbreaking development of JAK inhibitors—a new class of targeted medications originally designed for autoimmune diseases. Learn how they work by blocking the Janus kinase pathway, reducing inflammation, and allowing hair regrowth in patients who previously had limited treatment options.Whether you're studying dermatology or treating patients, this episode connects the immunology behind the disease with the latest therapeutic advances.

This week, we dive into nevi (moles) and melanoma, breaking down how to distinguish benign from malignant lesions. We discuss the characteristics of blue nevi benign deep dermal moles and when a punch biopsy is appropriate, depending on lesion size and clinical suspicion. Plus, we cover real-world “nightmare cases” that highlight why proper biopsy technique and early recognition are critical.

This week on Derm Boot Camp, we’re diving deep into the world of lumps, bumps, cysts, and skin neoplasms the everyday lesions that can make or break a good differential diagnosis. We’ll cover how to recognize common presentations, when to biopsy vs. observe, and practical biopsy tips to improve accuracy and patient outcomes. Whether it’s a benign cyst or a suspicious growth, this episode helps you sharpen your diagnostic eye and hands-on approach in the clinic.