Hot Topics in Research and Patient Care in Dermatology and Venereology, 2019

In 2019, dermatology and venereology saw advancements in diagnostic imaging techniques, with the development and increased use of dermatoscopy, RCM, OCT, HFUS, and RSOM, particularly for skin cancer. Studies on tumor biology, specifically PD receptors and ligands, improved understanding of malignant melanoma, noting gender-specific differences in prognosis. New treatments for striae distensae and advances in biologics for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis were significant, with drugs like secukinumab, ixekizumab, tildrakizumab, guselkumab, and dupilumab showing effectiveness. Research linked psoriasis to increased cardiovascular and metabolic risks, and a study suggested early emollient treatment could prevent atopic dermatitis in high-risk infants. The microbiome's role in skin diseases was explored, identifying specific patterns in hidradenitis suppurativa. Venereology research included new guidelines for sexually transmitted infections and found no link between finasteride use for androgenetic alopecia and sexual dysfunction. Public health discussions covered skin diseases in refugees and atopic dermatitis in sub-Saharan Africa, while safety concerns about cosmetic ingredients called for updated regulations.