Faculty Bibliography

Reactive infectious mucocutaneous eruption (RIME) was recently proposed to replace the term Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP)-induced rash and mucositis to account for the fact that non-MP pathogens may also cause rash and mucositis. In this report, we describe a unique case of recurrent RIME featuring a total of three episodes. As two of the episodes demonstrated contemporaneous infection with MP and group A streptococcus or influenza B, this case lends further support to use of the term RIME. In addition, although RIME typically involves at least two mucous membranes, this case shows that recurrent episodes may fall into the rare exception in which mucositis is limited to one site.

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a disease caused by certain toxigenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus. While the classic severe phenotype is widely recognized in children, SSSS in fact exists on a spectrum with mild and moderate variants. Misunderstanding the phenotypic spectrum of SSSS may result in misdiagnosis of an otherwise treatable condition. To increase awareness of the heterogeneity of SSSS, we report four cases that together represent a range of clinical presentations.

Scoring systems are emerging in dermatology to help guide clinical decision-making. This article discusses 4 scoring systems that help prognosticate cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis, screen for psoriatic arthritis, differentiate cellulitis from pseudocellulitis, and determine the appropriateness of Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS).

Despite the number of on-label and off-label uses for combined oral contraceptives (COCs) in dermatology, research suggests that dermatologists underprescribe COCs. With the intention of familiarizing dermatology residents with COCs, this article discusses ways to assess patient eligibility, select a COC, counsel on use, and manage risks and side effects.

The contents of a dermatology resident's on-call bag can make or break their inpatient experience. This article explores 4 outside-the-box items to carry when on call (or in clinic): a hemostatic powder, antimicrobial marker, portable Wood lamp, and substitute for Michel solution.

Iodinated contrast (IC) often is overlooked as a cause of delayed drug reactions. As a result, patients may continue to be readministered these agents, experiencing preventable morbidity. We report an illustrative case of a delayed cutaneous reaction to IC and review the literature on the epidemiology and management of this underrecognized phenomenon.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: First recognized in 1974, eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a fibrosing disorder of the fascia with characteristic cutaneous and hematologic manifestations. This review discusses recent trends in the diagnosis and treatment of EF. RECENT FINDINGS: Although fascial biopsy has classically been considered the gold standard for making a diagnosis of EF, radiologic imaging, particularly magnetic resonance imaging, has been increasingly used for both diagnosis and monitoring of treatment response. Systemic corticosteroids remain the first-line treatment for EF; however, their often prolonged use in the treatment of EF has prompted a search for adjunctive therapies. Methotrexate has emerged as the leading corticosteroid-sparing agent for EF. Since EF was initially described over 40 years ago, important diagnostic and therapeutic progress has been made. Future efforts should be directed at the pursuit of prospective studies including clinical trials and evidence-based guidelines.