Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis: Virtual Sessions on Optimizing Patient Care

In this feature Q&A with Dr Jonathan Silverberg, he discussed how he hoped physicians gained a better understanding of the latest research and familiarity with newer therapies and approaches when treating atopic dermatitis during the Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis (RAD) virtual session that took place December 10, 2023. Another in-person RAD session will take place in mid-2024, with updates to be provided on the official RAD website; until then, viewers can see the December program online, available for 30 days after the live date.

Jonathan Silverberg, MD, PhD, MPH, is an associate professor of dermatology and director of the patch testing clinic at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, DC. He is also the director of clinical research and contact dermatitis. His area of expertise is in inflammatory skin disease, focused on atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis.

What is RAD and how does it aim to educate physicians on atopic dermatitis?

Dr Silverberg: RAD is a multidisciplinary, global annual conference that is devoted to increasing the understanding and education around atopic dermatitis, including how to improve and optimize management when treating the condition. It’s really catering to dermatologists, allergists, and a variety of other health care providers who take care of patients with atopic dermatitis.

What topics did the conference cover regarding atopic dermatitis?

Dr Silverberg: We had a jam-packed agenda for the RAD virtual session in December. Many new data updates have come out now for the field. It was really trying to keep up with novel approaches in both the assessment and monitoring of patients with atopic dermatitis and then diving deep into updates on the newer topical therapies, oral systemic therapies, and biologics.

We really had some of the best leaders in the world on their content area, with the focus of how we use this practically in our toolbox and improve the quality of care that we provide for patients. We touched upon some of the newer treatment guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology and other guidelines groups that help us put it into perspective and implement this every day.

What do you hope physicians took away from the virtual meeting?

Dr Silverberg: I think the most important thing that physicians took away from the meeting is a better understanding on managing the disease and being up to date on all the cutting-edge data. Also, having a greater perspective on when and how to use all the newer therapies and assessment approaches that are out there. Most importantly, how to incorporate these feasibly into our practice in a way that doesn't slow us down, but on the contrary, speeds us up and makes us better doctors with happier patients.

Are there any additional insights you would like to share with your dermatologist colleagues regarding RAD?

Dr Silverberg: RAD is a tour de force and it's something that is not only taking place every year, but we now have our mid-year update meeting. We have our next in-person meeting that is 2 days coming up in mid-2024. On top of having outstanding content, we have the beauty of that in-person interaction and cross discussion where we’re getting to interact with folks and network. So, it's a lot of fun, and we certainly look forward to seeing all of you there.

Register here and enter code RAD23HMP for a discount to access presentations.