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Welcome to module 6 where we'll review Pigmentary Disorders!
Melasma: Pathophysiology and Therapeutics
This course provides a review of melasma, its etiology, different types of melasma and treatment options.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Define hyperpigmentation, hypermelanosis, discoloration and dyschromia
- Describe the clinical presentation of melasma along with its etiology
- Review the standard of care of melasma
- List integrative treatment options in the management of melasma
Vitiligo: Pathophysiology and Therapeutics
This course will provide a review of the pathogenesis and etiology of vitiligo. The course will also outline conventional as well as integrative therapeutic approaches to treatment.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- List the types of vitiligo
- Describe the clinical manifestations of vitiligo
- Review the course, prognosis, and differential diagnosis of vitiligo
- Recall traditional treatment options for vitiligo
- Review integrative treatment option for vitiligo
Other Pigmentary Disorders (Tinea Versicolor, Pityriasis Alba): Pathophysiology and Therapeutics
This course provides a review of pigmentary disorders and their pathophysiology and treatment options.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Recognize common pigmentary disorders
- Review basic pathophysiology of pigmentary disorders
- Identify and list treatment options for common pigmentary disorders
The Role of Nutrition, Supplements and Microbiome in Melasma and Vitiligo
This course provides an overview on the role nutrition, supplements and the microbiome play in melasma and vitiligo.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role of nutrition in vitiligo and melasma
- Recall the role of the microbiome in vitiligo and melasma
- Summarize the use of supplements in melasma and vitiligo
Beyond Sunscreen: Topical and Systemic Approaches to Sun Protection
Photoprotective strategies extend beyond simply blocking sunlight with clothing and sunscreen. Photoprotection means supporting all of our innate systems that absorb, extinguish, and repair the damaging effects of sunlight. In addition to filtering an appropriate amount of light with physical methods, photoprotection involves modulating our inflammatory signaling cascades and optimizing the antioxidant and repair systems. The goal is to live in harmony with sunlight so that we might obtain the benefits of sunlight while minimizing the damaging effects.
After completing this activity, participants will be able to:
- Define photoprotection
- Describe the approaches to photoprotection
- Review the types of sunscreen and outline current concerns
- Discuss topical and systemic options for photoprotection
- Briefly discuss the role of nutrition and the microbiome
Faculty
Valerie A Stern, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C is a board certified, SDPA Dermatology Diplomate Fellow practicing integrative dermatology. Valerie has specialized in dermatology for over 20 years and practices general, surgical, cosmetic and laser dermatology from an integrative standpoint.
Valerie received her degree in Physician Assistant Medicine from Keck, USC School of Medicine, she then obtained her masters degree in dermatology from the University of Nebraska Medical School followed by doctorate degrees in medical science with emphasis on dermatology and physician assistant education from Lynchburg University in Virginia.
Valerie lectures and teaches at USC Keck School of Medicine, Department of Physician Assistant Studies as well as acting as an expert in legal case testimonial during malpractice litigation involving advanced practice providers. Valerie has been an international laser trainer, educator and lecturer for two large laser companies over the past 15 years.
Valerie is passionate about providing the highest quality care to each and every patient she sees. She believes that internal optimization is key to overall health which manifests outwardly onto the skin. Understanding root cause etiology plays a significant role in keeping the skin at its best.
In her free time, Valerie loves to study, learning all she can about environmental interactions and genetic predisposition, focusing on such factors as toxins in our homes, the foods we consume, and the products we put on our skin daily, all of which impact our overall health and well being.
Valerie’s goal is to provide each patient with the education and comprehensive care they deserve through quality interactions using a team approach, helping to achieve success in their skin health goals.
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. Rahbar is a board certified physician dermatologist and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. She received her undergraduate training at the University of Pennsylvania and Emory University. Prior to entering medical school, she worked as an English teacher in Argentina before traveling through South America to learn Spanish. After completing four years of medical training at Vanderbilt Medical School she underwent residency training in dermatology at the University of Virginia. She has practiced dermatology in New York, Virginia and is planning to start her practice in Charleston SC in 2025. In her free time she enjoys running, yoga, surfing and ceramics with her family.
Katherine Varman, MD is a dermatologist who works in private practice in Northern California. She graduated from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, during which she completed an additional year as a Doris Duke Clinical Research Fellow at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. After an intern year in Chattanooga, TN, she returned to UNC-CH for dermatology residency. Dr. Varman specializes in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis with a unique blend of conventional and functional medicine practices. She also has a passion for photo-immunology and seeks to revitalize phototherapy as an indispensable tool in dermatology. She is also a homesteader and enjoys an active farm life with her husband and children.
