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Welcome to module 12 where we'll review Microbiome & Functional Medicine Testing!
The Skin Microbiome
The skin is colonized by diverse microorganisms which can influence the local immune responses. Skin microbiome homeostasis helps maintain skin health and various skin disorders have been associated with disruptions in the microbiome. In this course you will learn about the main organisms that inhabit the human skin and the changes in the microbiome associated with different skin disorders.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Identify the main organisms that make up the skin microbiome
- Describe the influence of the skin microbiome on skin health and disease
- Discuss the effects of topical probiotics on atopic dermatitis
The Gut-Skin Axis
In this course you will learn about gut skin axis, including the role of the microbiome, lipidome, and nutrition in relation to the skin.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Describe the basics of the gut microbiome and the gut-skin connection
- Identify how the gut microbiome and nutrition can affect skin health
- Diagram the role of oral probiotics on skin disease
Functional Medicine Testing: Stool Tests and OATs (Non-CME)
While dermatological diseases such as eczema have complicated pathologies, there is abundant evidence that part of the underlying root cause of these conditions is connected to gut microbiome dysfunction. This course presents the latest published research on the gut/skin connection including commensal bacteria, pathogenic bacteria, fungal organisms, and intestinal hyperpermeability. It will also review how to use functional medicine tests, like stool tests and organic acid tests, to determine and treat the root cause of dermatological disease.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- List the basic components of a stool test and recognize which specific bacterial strains, markers, and patterns are most helpful for analyzing dermatological problems
- List the basic components of an organic acid test and recognize which specific markers and patterns are most helpful for analyzing dermatological problems
- Summarize research on the changes in the gut microbiome in patients with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis compared to healthy controls
- Analyze research on how gut dysbiosis contributes to the pathophysiology of skin diseases
Introduction to Naturopathic Medicine
This introductory course presents an overview of naturopathic medicine. Participants will uncover the core principles guiding naturopathic doctors and their unique, holistic approach to treating dermatological conditions. Beyond merely distinguishing naturopathic medicine from functional medicine, this presentation illuminates practical case examples, showcasing the effectiveness of naturopathic treatments in managing common skin issues. Prepare to expand your understanding of alternative medical treatments and their valuable contribution to holistic patient care.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Review the Foundations of Naturopathic Medicine Gain by defining what naturopathic medicine entails, including its guiding principles and the comprehensive education and training of naturopathic doctors
- Recall the Therapeutic Order and its critical role in structuring patient care within naturopathic practice
- Define Naturopathic Principles to Dermatology and how to approach dermatological conditions from a naturopathic perspective, emphasizing holistic treatment strategies that prioritize patient well-being
Faculty
Dr. Raja Sivamani is a board-certified dermatologist and practices as an integrative dermatologist at Pacific Skin Institute. He is an Adjunct Associate Professor of Clinical Dermatology at the University of California, Davis and Director of Clinical Research and the Clinical Trials Unit.He is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the California State University, Sacramento and an Associate Professor of Dermatology at California Northstate University, College of Medicine.He engages in clinical practice as well as both clinical and translational research that integrates bioengineering, nutrition, cosmetics, and skin biology. With training in both Allopathic and Ayurvedic medicine, he takes an integrative approach to his patients and in his research.He has published over 100 peer-reviewed research manuscripts, 10 textbook chapters, and a textbook entitled Cosmeceuticals and Active Cosmetics, 3rd Edition with a passion for expanding the evidence and boundaries of integrative medicine for skin care.
Dr. DeJarra K. Sims, known by her patients as Dr. DJ, is a Naturopathic Doctor, published author, and prolific speaker. She received her Bachelor's in Biology from Prairie View A&M University, in Texas, and she completed her doctorate at Sonoran University of Health Sciences in Phoenix (formerly SCNM). She has served as an Assistant Professor and Core Faculty at Bastyr University California teaching Dermatology and Business Practices and as a former Adjunct Clinical Professor at Sonoran University.
Dr. DJ established her virtual clinic Superhero SkinCare to remind women of their identity and bring out the adventurous, gorgeous superhero that exists within them. To do this, she provides personalized treatment plans to improve the skin, reset the liver, balance hormones, and support digestion.
Dr. DJ is a well-known keynote speaker, who has given talks at medical conferences and even Comic-Con! Her training in improvisational comedy at The Finest City Improv in San Diego and The Second City in Hollywood has helped her create lively and energetic presentations that keep audiences engaged as they learn.
