Editor’s note: The 2024 AAP National Conference & Exhibition will take place from Sept. 27-Oct. 1 in Orlando, Fla. For more coverage, visit https://bit.ly/AAPNationalConference2024 and follow @AAPNews on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.
Knowing how to diagnose and treat itchiness, rashes and skin infections is necessary for the overall health of children.
Marissa J. Perman, M.D., FAAP, section chief of pediatric dermatology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, will present two sessions on dermatology at the 2024 AAP National Conference & Exhibition.
Dr. Perman will present “Tips for Managing Atopic Dermatitis” (S2508) from 5-6 p.m. EDT on Saturday, Sept. 28 in room W304AB of the convention center. The session will repeat (S3109) from 7:30-8:30 a.m. EDT on Sunday, Sept. 29 in room W303.
“I think (dermatologic) issues have become more common, particularly atopic dermatitis,” Dr. Perman said. “They certainly garner more attention as we recognize that visible differences in children can have significant stigma and affect the well-being of a child.”
Some skin issues may flare up in dry, colder weather, while atopic dermatitis may worsen with warm, humid weather, said Dr. Perman, a member of the AAP Section on Dermatology. Pediatricians can identify atopic dermatitis by looking for “itchy” skin on patients.
“Many children do not have one specific ‘trigger’ that caused their atopic dermatitis,” she said. “There is a complex interplay between genetics, environment, proteins in the skin, etc. Often, families want to know what caused the atopic dermatitis and how to remove it, but it’s not that simple, unfortunately.”
Dr. Perman also will present “Dermatologic Issues in Athletes” (S5202) from 9-10 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, Oct. 1 in room W312.
“Different sports lend themselves to different dermatologic issues,” Dr. Perman said. “We will review these different issues and what to look out for.”
With any skin issue, Dr. Perman suggests pediatricians ask detailed questions about a patient’s skin care routine, which often can uncover clues that might lead to a diagnosis or treatment. These questions can include which moisturizers, soaps or fragrances they use. Environmental factors also may play a role, such as which pets are kept in the home and hobbies a child may have.
“Ideally, primary care providers should start with simple management like gentle, fragrance-free skin care products such as topical steroids,” Dr. Perman said. “Often, their patients return within a few months to see how they are doing. If they aren’t responding, then consider escalating therapy. If the patient is still flaring, it might be time to see a specialist.”
During each session, Dr. Perman will share simple management guidelines that every primary care provider can use in the office, including in infants. She also will discuss how to safely prescribe appropriate quantities of topical steroids.
“I will also review some newer therapies and share my experiences on using these medications,” Dr. Perman said.
Browse the full conference schedule at https://aapexperience24.eventscribe.net/.
