Cutaneous Miscellaneous: The Dermatology Residents Podcast

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, speaks with Natasha Mesinkovska, MD, about diagnosing and managing alopecia areata (AA) with a focus on JAK inhibitors. Dr Mesinkovska shares diagnostic pearls, including full-body exam essentials, dermoscopy tips, recognition of key comorbidities, and the impact of AA on mental health. They also touch on less common subtypes such as diffuse AA and the ophiasis pattern, as well as the role of the SALT score.The conversation then turns to treatment, with insights into the 3 FDA-approved JAK inhibitors for AA: baricitinib, ritlecitinib, and deuruxolitinib. They discuss mechanisms of action, dosing, boxed warnings, and counseling strategies, while offering guidance on treatment selection and building confidence without head-to-head trial data. The episode closes with a discussion of GLP-1–associated skin considerations that may become increasingly relevant for board exams, along with key points on body contouring procedures that are seeing greater demand as GLP-1 use rises. Tune in to the full episode to sharpen your diagnostic skills, gain confidence in prescribing JAK inhibitors, and stay ahead on emerging board topics in alopecia areata and beyond.

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes pediatric dermatologist Lisa Swanson, MD, for a deeper look at advanced systemic therapy in pediatric atopic dermatitis (AD). They begin with a board review of transient skin diseases of the newborn. They cover key conditions including erythema toxicum neonatorum, transient neonatal pustular melanosis, congenital milia, neonatal cephalic pustulosis, eosinophilic pustulosis folliculitis, and the miliaria variants, highlighting cytologic findings, distinguishing features, and treatment considerations. In the main segment, they explore AD biologics in a “102-level” discussion for residents. Dr Swanson reviews patient identification, differences between pediatric and adult treatment decisions, counseling strategies for families, and the impact of AD on growth and quality of life. She also discusses the mechanisms and use of dupilumab, lebrikizumab, tralokinumab, and nemolizumab, offering practical advice on selecting, switching, and discontinuing biologics, as well as insights into building confidence with advanced therapies. Tune in to the full episode for both a high-yield board review and real-world guidance on incorporating systemic therapies into pediatric dermatology, equipping residents with tools for managing complex cases.

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Ryan Svoboda, MD, for an in-depth review of cutaneous lymphomas. They begin with a boards review of the four primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas—two indolent (follicle center, marginal zone) and two aggressive (diffuse large B-cell, intravascular B-cell). The discussion covers prognostic differences, biopsy strategies, key immunostains, helpful mnemonics for BCL markers, and notable associations such as Borrelia infection. In the main segment, the focus shifts to cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, particularly mycosis fungoides. Dr Svoboda shares diagnostic challenges, strategies to improve biopsy yield, and a practical scoring algorithm to interpret inconclusive pathology reports. They also review tips for diagnosing Sézary syndrome and highlight relevant NCCN guidelines. Tune in to the full episode for high-yield insights on recognizing, diagnosing, and managing both B-cell and T-cell cutaneous lymphomas in clinical practice.

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes David Osborne, PhD, an industry expert in topical drug formulation, for an in-depth discussion on formulations and compounding in dermatology. Dr Brownstone begins with a board review on the structure and function of the epidermis, covering the 5 layers of the skin and key cellular junctions, with mnemonic tips to aid retention. In the main segment, Drs Brownstone and Osborne explore the fundamentals of topical formulation, including principles of localized drug delivery, ingredient selection, and the role of Fick’s law in product diffusion. Dr Osborne shares insights on formulation challenges, selecting the right solvents and excipients, and key considerations such as ingredient stability, packaging, and accurate measurement of actives. The episode wraps up with practical pearls for dermatologists interested in product development, including which ingredients to avoid. Tune in for a high-yield, practical discussion!

In this live-recorded episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Danielle Dubin, MD, assistant professor and assistant program director in the department of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Leena Ramani, MD, hair transplant fellow and dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, for a dynamic discussion recorded at the Real World Dermatology For Residents Conference at the Sahara Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.   They share key insights on how the APPLIED exam differs from the CORE Exam, offering strategies for tackling second-order, management-focused questions. The group also highlights their favorite study resources, including the Anki deck based on Review of Dermatology by Alikhan and Hocker, Boards University, and their preferred dermatopathology review resource. High-yield topics discussed include which question bank should be used, effective pathology study techniques, and tips for avoiding overstudying.  The episode wraps up with words of encouragement, and even a lighthearted chat about their ideal Vegas night out. Whether you’re preparing for the APPLIED exam or simply curious about the exam residents need to take to become board certified in dermatology, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider tips you don’t want to miss.

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Aamir Hussain, MD, to discuss high-yield strategies for dermatology exam prep. They start with a board review on contact dermatitis, covering key allergens like paraphenylenediamine, methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone, propylene glycol, and bacitracin. Dr Hussain shares a structured approach to studying allergens, including memorizing the last 5 years of "Allergen of the Year" and the T.R.U.E. TEST’s 36 most common allergens. They then break down exam timelines and study strategies, using insights from Dr Hussain’s recent publication. from the BASIC exam in PGY-2 to the 4 CORE board exams in PGY-3. They share tips on prioritizing sections and using the best textbooks, atlases, question banks, and digital tools, as well as touch on the value of in-person and virtual review courses and how to maximize free resident resources. Tune in to the episode for high-yield pearls and a structured approach to acing your dermatology exams!

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by dermatologist and dermatopathologist Michelle Tarbox, MD, to break down a crucial resident skill: dermoscopy. They kick things off with practical board review on the busy dermis and vacuolar interface patterns, covering how to build a differential, what features not to miss (hello, sneaky metastases), and how to work through normal-looking slides that may not be so normal after all. Then they dive into dermoscopy, discussing how to learn it, how to use it in clinic, and why it’s become the dermatologist’s equivalent of a stethoscope. Dr. Tarbox shares real clinical cases—including melanoma masqueraders, foreign body imposters, and heart-shaped seborrheic keratoses—with image-by-image insights on what to look for and why. Whether you're prepping for boards or aiming to sharpen your day-to-day diagnostic skills, this episode is packed with high-yield pearls and a few great analogies, too.

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Theo Alkousakis, MD, to discuss an important topic not covered in dermatology training: how residents can navigate opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry. They explore career pathways in industry, from medical affairs to R&D, and why some dermatologists make the transition. They also share practical ways to get involved, including advisory boards, speaker programs, and clinical trials, while offering guidance on building credibility, networking at conferences, and finding mentors, even in programs with industry restrictions. Additionally, they highlight how to align industry opportunities with personal values and clinical practice to make ethical career decisions. Finally, they break down what industry looks for when selecting dermatologists to work with and share strategies for positioning yourself for future opportunities. Tune in to the full episode to learn how to start engaging with industry now—so you're ready to take advantage of opportunities post-residency!

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Naiem Issa, MD, for an in-depth discussion on topical therapies in dermatology, covering both traditional treatments and the latest innovations, focusing on tapinarof and roflumilast. The episode begins with a board review of eczematous and papulosquamous diseases, including CARP, asteatotic eczema, nummular dermatitis, and pityriasis rosea, highlighting key diagnostic clues, treatment approaches, and must-know information for residents. They then explore the role of topical therapies in treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, emphasizing patient expectations, positioning treatments effectively, and the balance between topicals and systemic options. They provide insights into newer agents like tapinarof and roflumilast, discussing their mechanisms of action, clinical use, and combination strategies for enhanced efficacy. The episode wraps up with practical pearls for residents, including how to navigate access issues, gain hands-on experience with new therapies, and stay updated on emerging therapies. Tune in for a high-yield discussion packed with clinical takeaways!

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes James Del Rosso, DO, to discuss the value of dermatology residents engaging with professional societies and how it can benefit their careers and patients. They begin with a board review on topical and systemic retinoids, highlighting the common applications of the topicals tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene as well as an overview of systemic options like isotretinoin and acitretin. They then discuss how residents can leverage professional societies, such as the American Acne and Rosacea Society and the National Psoriasis Foundation, to access networking opportunities, research grants, educational resources, and more. They explore how involvement in societies can support residents, provide resources for patients, and help dermatologists build connections and advance their careers. Tune in to the full episode to learn how professional societies can support your journey through residency and beyond!

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes guest Stephanie Fabbro, MD, to explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in dermatology, with practical applications for residents and early-career dermatologists. They begin with a board review on cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and its most common form, mycosis fungoides (MF), highlighting key diagnostic features, histological findings, and hypopigmented variants in skin of color. They explore treatment options and clinical pearls for CTCL variants like Sézary syndrome and lymphomatoid papulosis. The discussion then transitions to AI’s potential to enhance the residency experience. Dr Fabbro shares insights on using AI for clinical differentials, board prep, and residency candidate selection. She offers practical tips on leveraging AI for time management, staying current with dermatologic research, and simplifying tasks like clinic notes and contract reviews. Tune in to learn how AI can transform your residency experience and support your journey into dermatologic practice!

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Brad Glick, DO, to cover to an essential topic for residents and early-career dermatologists: practical approaches for incorporating the latest therapies and technologies into clinical practice. They begin with a board review on psoriatic arthritis. Dr Glick highlights the importance of early evaluation and preventive therapies, shares practical tips on critical questions to ask in clinic, and emphasizes utilizing screening tools to aid in diagnosis. The conversation then shifts to integrating new therapies and technologies into clinical practice. Dr Glick shares insights on adapting to advancements, from targeted biologics to precision tools like the Mind.Px patch, which uses molecular profiling to help dermatologists select the most effective psoriasis treatments for a given patient. Tune in to the full episode for an in-depth look at the evolving landscape of dermatologic care, from board review essentials to real-world strategies for residents looking to adopt breakthrough therapies and tools.

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, Dr. Nicholas Brownstone welcomes Dr Peter Lio, founding director of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Center, to discuss the 3 FDA-approved biologics for atopic dermatitis, focusing on the latest addition, lebrikizumab. With more options for atopic dermatitis come new challenges for clinicians. Dr Lio offers practical insights on differentiating dupilumab, tralokinumab, and lebrikizumab, all targeting the IL-4/13 pathways but with distinct binding and dosing characteristics. He explains his decision-making process for starting biologics, discusses patient education on safety, and provides valuable strategies for navigating insurance. For residents, Dr Lio shares tips on gaining hands-on experience with biologics, staying updated on upcoming treatments like OX40 inhibitors, and key board review topics, including the differences in binding sites, side effects, and dosing protocols of these agents. Tune in to the full episode for high-yield information and clinical pearls for dermatologists navigating the evolving landscape of atopic dermatitis treatments! Need help keeping track of all the approved medications discussed in this episode? Check out our quick-reference chart that includes essential details on FDA-approved ages, dosing, and mechanisms of action for biologics in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

In episode 30 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes April Armstrong, MD, Professor and Chief of Dermatology at UCLA, for a detailed discussion on oral therapies for psoriasis and their continued relevance in today's treatment landscape. They begin with a board review of 2 classic therapies, methotrexate and cyclosporine, breaking down their mechanisms of action, dosing protocols, key adverse effects, and important monitoring guidelines. They then explore methotrexate’s continued use, particularly for uninsured patients, and cyclosporine’s role as a short-term “bridging” therapy for patients in crisis. They review acitretin, discussing its risks, chemopreventive benefits, and lab monitoring requirements; apremilast, highlighting its safety and lack of required lab monitoring; and deucravacitinib, a TYK-2 inhibitor noted for its unique mechanism, long-term efficacy, and suitability for challenging psoriasis types. Tune in to hear expert guidance on navigating these oral therapies, practical tips for residents, and updates on how each therapy fits into modern psoriasis care!

In episode 29 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, our host, Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by dermatologist Graham Litchman, DO, and Tobin Dickerson, PhD, chief scientific officer and cofounder of Mindera Health, to explore an innovative technology in psoriasis management. Drs Brownstone and Litchman begin with a board review on HPV and warts, highlighting key HPV types, their associated warts, and helpful mnemonic devices to aid memorization. They then discuss Tobin Dickerson’s development of the Mind.Px dermal patch, a groundbreaking tool designed to optimize treatment decisions for psoriasis patients. Dr Litchman shares his approach to selecting biologics and how the Mind.Px test integrates into clinical workflows, from improving prior authorization to enhancing patient outcomes. The episode concludes with a look at the MATCH1 and STAMP2 studies validating this technology and advice for residents on getting involved with this cutting-edge tool. Tune in for essential board review tips and to learn how the Mind.Px dermal patch is shaping the future of psoriasis treatment! References: Strober B, Bukhalo M, Armstrong A, et al. Interim clinical utility findings of a transcriptomic psoriasis biologic test demonstrate altered physician prescribing behavior and improved patient outcomes. SKIN J Cutan Med. 2022;6(6):458-462. doi:10.25251/skin.6.6.2   Bagel J, Wang Y, Montomery P III, et al. A machine learning-based test for predicting response to psoriasis biologics. SKIN J Cutan Med. 2021;5(6):621-638. doi:10.25251/skin.5.6.5

In episode 28 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, our host, Nicholas Brownstone, MD, gets to know Anthony Rossi, MD, dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and founder of his own skin care line Dr. Rossi DERM MD®. They start with a board review on Mohs surgery, covering critical indications and the appropriate use criteria from the American College of Mohs Surgery. They also discuss patient characteristics that favor Mohs surgery and when to consider antibiotic prophylaxis. They then discuss starting a skin care line post-residency. Dr Rossi shares insights on creating a dermatologist-approved line, weighing the pros and cons of starting from scratch versus private labeling. He provides strategies for differentiating in a saturated market, observing trends, and developing a business model that focuses on repeat customers. Tune in to the full episode for Dr Rossi ‘s valuable pearls and pitfalls for dermatologists interested in launching their own skin care lines and how to blend business acumen with dermatologic expertise!

In episode 27 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, our host, Nicholas Brownstone, MD, speaks with Stephen Lewellis, MD, PhD, FAAD, founder and owner of Above & Beyond Dermatology based in Wisconsin.  The episode begins with board review on the diagnosis and treatment of adult and pediatric pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP). Dr Brownstone offers a helpful way to remember the different pediatric forms of diseases.  Dr Brownstone then asks Dr Lewellis to discuss the topic of direct care dermatology. Dr Lewellis discusses the theory behind direct care dermatology, the principles behind this care model, and the advantages and disadvantages. Dr Brownstone asks Dr Lewellis about his personal experience transitioning from an employed position to a direct care practice and offers advice for others considering the same.

In episode 26 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, our host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, chats with Harrison Nguyen, MD, MBA, MPH, FAAD, FACMS, Managing Director of Houston Skin and Ahuva Cices, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in front of a live audience during the Real World Dermatology For Residents Conference at the Sahara Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Dr Brownstone asks for advice on preparing for the APPLIED exam. Dr Nguyen discusses his perspective on preparing for the exam while Dr Cices offers her favorite resources. The group also discusses how to prepare for the Kodachromes and the dermatopathology portion of the exam. Dr Brownstone asks Dr Nguyen specifically about infectious disease and pharmacology on the APPLIED exam and how to handle the JAAD CME articles. Dr Nguyen and Dr Cices then discuss their exam preparation schedules. The episode continues with many more high-yield pearls on preparing for the APPLIED exam along words of encouragement from the special guests. The episode ends with the panel discussing their favorite things about a trip to Las Vegas! Listen now for high-yield tips on how to ace the APPLIED exam!

In episode 25 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, our host, Nicholas Brownstone, MD, chats with Charlie Dunn, MD, board-certified pediatrician and Chief Dermatology Resident at KCU-GME Consortium / ADCS Orlando Dermatology Residency Program in Orlando, FL. The episode begins with board review on epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Dr Brownstone briefly highlights board review pearls on transport media used in dermatopathology. Next, Dr Dunn and Dr Brownstone discuss high-yield board review facts on the genetics, onset, diagnosis, morphology, associated clinical features, and prognosis of all the major subtypes of EB simplex, junctional EB and dystrophic EB. Dr Dunn and Dr Brownstone then discuss everything Camp Discovery. Dr Brownstone asks Dr Dunn about the history of Camp Discovery and which types of patients are eligible. Dr Dunn discusses a typical day at Camp Discovery including which activities are available and the kinds of counselors who staff the camp. Finally, Dr Dunn provides detailed information on how to refer a pediatric patient to the camp, which is completely free for the camper and their family! Year after year, there are open spots at Camp Discovery. Listen now to learn about this amazing experience for your pediatric patients with skin disease and how you can make a referral! General information on Camp Discovery from the AAD https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/camp-discovery Apply to be a Camp Discovery Volunteer https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/camp-discovery/volunteer Camp Discovery Patient Referral Form https://www.aad.org/public/public-health/camp-discovery/referrals For questions or more detailed information, please contact Janine Mueller at jmueller@aad.org or call (847) 240-1737.

In episode 24 of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, our host, Nicholas Brownstone, MD, sits down with Sandra Lee, MD, aka Dr Pimple Popper. The episode focuses on the state of the art concerning social media and dermatology and how resident dermatologists can create and improve their social media presence. Dr Lee discusses how to build a successful social media presence, including tips on the best kind of content to post and how to make the content compelling for your audience. Dr Lee and Dr Brownstone then focus on the issue of misinformation on social media within dermatology and skin care and how to address this problem. Dr Lee also discusses how to address and prevent criticism or counterattacks on social media and gives her thoughts on engaging in social media didactics during residency. The episode ends with Dr Lee giving clinical tips on how to perform tumescent anesthesia for resection of large skin lesions in clinic and advice on learning new procedures after graduating residency. You can’t miss hearing from one of the biggest stars in dermatology!