Foreword from the Editor-In-Chief

Our June 2022 Dermatology Collection covers a range of important dermatological issues, from the novel to the common and some in between.

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked global havoc, impacting the physical and mental health of those affected. Skin changes, including maculopapular eruptions, chilblain-like eruptions and urticaria, have been reported in up to 20% of patients with the disease. Such dermatological changes may indicate early infection, occur later in infection or be a sign of more severe disease.

With new treatments for severe atopic dermatitis recently available on the PBS, refresh your knowledge on diagnosing and managing this common, chronic and often debilitating condition.

Viral exanthems are another common presentation to the GP clinic. Read about the presentation, diagnosis and management of these diagnostically challenging rashes.

Although increased skin pigmentation is protective against UV radiation, the risk of developing certain skin conditions is higher, and prognostic outcomes of some skin cancers worse, for those with darker skin. This has particular relevance for improving outcomes for Indigenous patients.

Finally, test your diagnostic skills in two dermatology quizzes. What are the differential diagnoses and causes of the lesions in these case presentations?

Gayle Fischer OAM, MB BS, FACD, MD
Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Sydney
Medical School – Northern, The University of Sydney,
Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, NSW.