Shawn Kwatra, MD

Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color

SOCS EP 1 Itch in Skin of Color Second Intro

07:48 - Practice Pearls for Evaluating Itch

Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color,

 the official podcast of the Skin of Color Society, produced by HCPLive. Hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders, this podcast delves into the latest research, clinical insights, and culturally competent care practices in dermatology. From groundbreaking studies to practice-changing insights, we’re here to empower healthcare providers with expert perspectives on treating patients with skin of color.

In this, the podcast’s inaugural episode, SOCS board members Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, vice chair for Diversity and Inclusion for the Department of Dermatology and professor of Clinical Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Shawn Kwatra, MD, associate professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, explore the topic of Itch in Skin of Color.

Itch, or pruritus, in patients with skin of color presents unique challenges that are often overlooked in clinical practice. One significant issue is the lack of visible erythema, which can make it harder for clinicians to identify and assess the severity of the condition. During the conversation, Dr. Alexis emphasized that patients with darker skin tones often face delays in care due to these diagnostic challenges and cultural barriers that may prevent them from fully communicating the impact of their symptoms. He shared that targeted questions—such as asking whether itch disrupts sleep or daily focus—can be critical in uncovering the true burden of the condition.

Kwatra highlights the need for a more tailored approach to treatment, noting that conventional therapies may not always address the specific needs of patients with darker skin tones. Topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and other standard treatments are often prescribed, but they may not fully resolve itch in certain cases, particularly when underlying conditions like atopic dermatitis or lichen planus are involved.

Alexis also shared his experiences with integrating newer therapeutic options, such as topical JAK inhibitors, which have shown promise in reducing itch and inflammation in this population. Together, the conversation underscored the importance of cultural competence, thorough patient history-taking, and exploring innovative therapies to address the unique challenges of itch in skin of color.

Relevant disclosures for Alexis include, Leo, Novartis, Menlo, Galderma, Pfizer, Sanofi-Regeneron, Dermavant, Unilever, Celgene, Beiersdorf, Valeant, L’Oreal, BMS, Menlo, Scientis, Bausch health , UCB, Foamix , Cassiopea, and Arcutis, among others. Relevant disclosures for Kwatra includeAbbvie, Amgen, Arcutis, Aslan Pharmaceuticals, Cara Therapeutics, Castle Biosciences, Celldex Therapeutics, Galderma, Incyte Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, Leo, Regeneron, and Sanofi, among others.

Podcasts

In the inaugural episode of Skin of Color Savvy, Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, and Shawn Kwatra, MD, discuss diagnosis and management of itch in skin of color. 

Skin of Color Savvy: Itch in Skin of Color, with Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, and Shawn Kwatra, MD

SOCS Teaser Video

, a new podcast from the Skin of Color Society!

 on the 1st and 15th of each month! This podcast will become your go-to resource as a healthcare provider to expand your knowledge on the art and science of treating patients with skin of color.

In this teaser clip, leading experts in dermatology and Skin of Color Society board members Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, vice chair for Diversity and Inclusion for the Department of Dermatology and professor of Clinical Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Shawn Kwatra, MD, associate professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, highlight the upcoming episode where they explore the latest advancements and clinically impactful takeaways for management of itch in skin of color. 

Future episodes will explore a range of critical topics, featuring thought leaders in dermatology. Subscribe now to ensure you never miss an episode! The first episode drops next week and will be available on all major podcast platforms.

Discover practical insights and advance your practice with 

Videos

Introducing Skin of Color Savvy, the Official Podcast of the Skin of Color Society!

Key Takeaways and Future Directions in CSU Care

Video content above is prompted by the following:

What advice do you have for dermatologists for managing CSU based on your experience and the data available?

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) management requires a comprehensive approach, integrating both clinical experience and current data. Dermatologists should prioritize patient education, emphasizing the importance of adherence to treatment plans and lifestyle modifications. First-line treatment typically involves non-sedating H1-antihistamines, with dosage adjustments based on patient response. For refractory cases, omalizumab or cyclosporine may be considered. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor treatment efficacy and adjust strategies as needed. Collaboration with allergists or immunologists can enhance patient outcomes, especially in complex cases.

Panelists discuss their advice for dermatologists managing chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), emphasizing the importance of individualized treatment plans, and staying updated on emerging therapies and clinical guidelines.

Unmet Needs in CSU Management

What are the unmet needs in CSU management? How is the field evolving?

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) management faces several unmet needs, including the need for more effective treatments and better understanding of disease mechanisms. Current therapies often fail to provide complete symptom relief, and there is a significant demand for novel therapeutic options. The field is evolving with advancements in biologics and personalized medicine approaches, aiming to improve patient outcomes. Research is focusing on identifying biomarkers for better diagnosis and treatment stratification. Additionally, there is an emphasis on improving patient quality of life through comprehensive management strategies.

Panelists discuss the unmet needs in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) management, highlighting the evolution of the field toward more personalized and effective treatment strategies to address refractory symptoms.

Shawn Kwatra, MD

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