Expanding Our Horizons

I have recently been watching videos on various dermatology topics. One by the brilliant dermatologist Dr Peter Lio looked particularly appealing.¹ In this video, Dr Lio described integrative treatments, and my initial bias was that I have no use for these treatments.

One pearl Dr Lio presented in the video is using vitamin B12 in a pink paste formulation for atopic dermatitis. He pointed out that topical crisaborole is only approved to age 3 months and asked, “What do you do for dermatitis in a 1-month-old?” His answer? You can prescribe vitamin B12 in a moisturizer. However, I am deeply cynical by nature. It seems to me if a 1-month-old needs a treatment, it is better to use a drug proven safe and effective down to age 3 months than to use a treatment that has not been proven safe and effective at any age.

What is the attraction of nonconventional treatments that have not met the data standards to which drugs are held? Without a doubt, there is an attraction. Many patients want these treatments. Meeting patients where they are may be critical to getting them well.

There is a lot I do not know, and I am open to learning more. The studies Dr Lio references in his video are compelling. To further our understanding of integrative dermatology, we begin a new series in this issue that Dr Lio and Dr Sarah Taylor will lead. I hope you find it and our other offerings valuable.

Reference

1. Lio P. Integrative approaches in dermatology. November 9, 2022. Accessed March 28, 2023. https://www.vumedi.com/video/integrative-approaches-in-dermatology