Dermatology

TEXTME PSO text messages modestly improved activation and behaviors in psoriasis patients

In a single‑center RCT of 111 adults with dermatologist‑confirmed psoriasis, 6 months of four weekly texts increased Patient Activation Measure by 10.8 points versus usual care. The intervention improved Mediterranean diet adherence, medication adherence, psoriasis‑CVD knowledge, and weekly physical activity (adjusted +127.9 minutes). BMI fell modestly (adjusted mean difference -1.0) but there were no between‑group changes in lipids, HbA1c, smoking, psoriasis severity, or dermatology quality of life. This approach applies to adults in dermatology care as an adjunct to counseling, not as a substitute for medical cardiovascular risk management. 1

Topical ruxolitinib 1.5% improved clinical signs but not itch in anogenital lichen sclerosus

In this phase 2 randomized trial of 61 women with anogenital LS, twice‑daily 1.5% ruxolitinib cream for 12 weeks reduced total Clinical Lichen Sclerosus Score more than vehicle (-5.79 vs -3.03; P=0.019). The primary endpoint—≥4‑point itch improvement—was achieved similarly with ruxolitinib and vehicle (35.7% vs 40.0%; P=0.737). Application‑site reactions were infrequent and no serious adverse events were reported. Counsel patients that topical ruxolitinib may improve exam findings but may not provide superior itch relief over vehicle in short term. 2

Delphi consensus: routine, empathetic genital psoriasis assessment and age‑tailored care

A multidisciplinary modified Delphi panel reached ≥75% agreement on practical considerations for genital psoriasis across ages. Recommendations prioritize routine genital assessment, verbal consent, offering a chaperone, and empathetic discussions to reduce stigma and diagnostic delay. For children and adolescents, shared decision making with caregivers supports adherence; for adults and older patients, consider comorbidities, polypharmacy, and steroid‑sparing strategies. Implement simplified, access‑friendly regimens to improve adherence and minimize long‑term topical corticosteroid exposure in intertriginous areas. 3