.” To me, it is actually only an incredibly natural cooperation. I was the 1st foot doctor to accomplish a fellowship in podiatric dermatology over 24 years back. I was actually incredibly lucky to possess folks who relied on me in the skin care globe as well as in the podiatry world to do that.
As well as ever since, I’ve shaped a course to combine the 2 globes, and the dermatology planet has had incredibly available arms along with me,” said Tracey Vlahovic, DPM, in an interview along with Dermatology Times at the 2024 Society of Skin Care Physician Representatives (SDPA) Loss Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.Vlahovic, a board-certified podiatrist and also lecturer of podiatry at the Samuel Merrit University University of Podiatric Medication in Oakland, California, offered “Nail Problems 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Medical diagnosis and also Treatment” and also “Intermediate Insights and Management Tactics” at SDPA. Vlahovic additionally reviewed in her job interview the demand for collaboration one of skin care as well as podiatry, and also the perk of a conference including SDPA bringing together specialists all over specialties.To stay on par with all meeting insurance coverage from SDPA Fall, click on listed below. To get updates as well as top knowledge from the conference, subscribe to our eNewsletters for scientific gems directly to your inbox.Addressing the Gap in Toenail Ailment EducationVlahovic highlighted a crucial gap in medical education: the limited interest provided nail conditions at professional conferences.
She stressed the necessity for structured, practical approaches to detecting and also dealing with onychomycosis, some of the most usual nail conditions. According to Vlahovic, approximately fifty% of nail issues derive from onychomycosis, while the various other half might entail disorders like lichen planus, psoriatic nails, or even alopecia-related changes.By diving into literature-based formulas, Vlahovic supplied guests with actionable actions for identifying reckoned fungus diseases. She additionally stressed the usefulness of acknowledging overlapping discussions in nail disorders, which can lead to analysis problems.
As an example, while dermoscopy and also research laboratory examinations like fungus lifestyles are actually important, understanding the scientific distinctions continues to be vital.Beyond Onychomycosis: Nail Conditions in FocusIn addition to onychomycosis, Vlahovic elucidated less commonly reviewed conditions, like onychomadesis (nail losing), retronychia, and the “fading away nail bed.” She kept in mind that these problems are often encountered in practice yet might go unnamed due to an absence of familiarity. Vlahovic highlighted the mental impact of offering people with a prognosis, also when helpful therapies are limited. Naming the condition, she claimed, verifies individuals’ expertises as well as promotes a feeling of understanding.The Podiatry-Dermatology CollaborationVlahovic has been actually a trailblazer in connecting podiatry and also skin care, becoming the initial podiatrist to accomplish a fellowship in podiatric dermatology over 2 years ago.
This combination, she explained, is actually natural, given the overlap in conditions influencing nails, plantar skin layer, and also lower limbs. Conditions including plantar skin psoriasis as well as atopic eczema, for example, often demand expertise coming from both styles to make sure exact diagnosis and management.Additionally, Vlahovic encouraged for stronger collaborations in between podiatry as well as skin care medical professionals, particularly in professional tests and also joint publications. She highlighted options for mutual understanding, where podiatry medical professionals could benefit from skin care clincians’ know-how of skin conditions and also dermatology medical professionals from podiatry clinicians’ skills in nail and also feet surgery.Engaging Along with the SDPA CommunityVlahovic revealed her respect for the SDPA conference, defining it as a well-organized event along with engaged as well as excited guests.
The collaborative setting as well as well thought-out concerns coming from medical professional associates (PAs) underscored the attendees’ devotion to advancing their scientific knowledge. She complimented the appointment for assisting PAs both educationally and politically, cultivating a room where doctor experience empowered to enrich client care.Advocating for Toenail Problem EducationAs a member of the Council for Nail Conditions, Vlahovic is actually dedicated to boosting recognition as well as education and learning regarding nail ailments. She emphasized the broad as well as collaborative spirit within the nail treatment community, promoting mentorship and also knowledge-sharing.
Inspired through dermatologists like Dr. Antonella Tosti, she promotes the concept that “nails make good friends,” encouraging doctor passionate concerning nail problems to connect, discover, as well as collaborate.ConclusionVlahovic’s presentations at the SDPA appointment highlighted the important demand for better education and collaboration in managing nail disorders. Through tiding over between podiatry and also dermatology, she has actually broken the ice for additional comprehensive client care.
Her importance on interdisciplinary partnership, patient-centered medical diagnosis, and mentorship emphasizes the importance of combining expertise to resolve complex problems. Through online forums like the SDPA and associations like the Council for Toenail Conditions, Vlahovic remains to inspire specialists to accelerate their expertise and passion for nail health.