Dermatology Conference Highlights Innovations in Patient Care

At the Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) 2025 Fall Conference held in San Antonio, Texas, significant discussions took place regarding the evolving role of physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) in dermatology. Cynthia Trickett, MPAS, PA-C, a renowned presenter and practitioner at North Dallas Dermatology Associates, shared her insights on the changing landscape of dermatological care and the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals.

Trickett highlighted the conference’s focus on fostering partnerships between industry and practitioners. She noted that this year marked a notable shift in how industry representatives approach PAs and NPs, emphasizing their desire to listen to their perspectives. “Every single time an industry partner has said, ‘What can we do, and what could we be doing more?’ I thought, ‘Wow, that’s a shift from how it’s been in the past,'” Trickett remarked. This change underscores the growing recognition of PAs and NPs, who are increasingly becoming a significant part of the dermatology workforce.

Advancements in Psoriatic Disease Treatment

During her interview, Trickett discussed recent advancements in the treatment of psoriatic disease. She noted that new data indicates improved clearance rates in skin conditions and the establishment of new benchmarks for acceptable treatment of psoriatic arthritis. “It’s awesome for our patients,” she stated, emphasizing that faster skin clearance and improved joint health are critical outcomes.

Furthermore, Trickett pointed to the emergence of new treatment options, including innovative oral medications and enhanced topical therapies. These advancements, she believes, represent a pivotal moment for patient care. “These are exciting times,” she added, highlighting the potential benefits for those suffering from psoriatic conditions.

Trickett also addressed the ongoing conversation regarding the use of topical steroids in treatment. She pointed out that there has been a paradigm shift away from long-term use of these medications due to their associated side effects. “Long-term use of topical steroids was never the proper way to treat chronic inflammatory diseases,” she explained. The adverse events linked to prolonged steroid use, such as the development of stretch marks, have led to a reevaluation of treatment protocols.

Exploring New Therapeutic Options

Trickett expressed optimism about the introduction of advanced topical treatments that can be used safely over extended periods. These newer options, which allow for once-daily application and can be utilized in sensitive areas, have the potential to revolutionize patient care. “Having these advanced topicals… has been revolutionary, in my opinion,” she stated.

Discussing the phenomenon of topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), Trickett acknowledged its existence but emphasized the need for a balanced understanding. “We probably don’t ask about it as much as we could,” she said, indicating that while it is a concern, it is not frequently encountered in her practice. She urged practitioners to be mindful of patients’ total exposure to steroids, noting that they may receive these medications from various sources, including over-the-counter options.

Regarding topical JAK inhibitors, Trickett praised their role in treating atopic dermatitis, highlighting their potential to reduce reliance on steroids. “It’s high time that we learn about topical steroid stewardship,” she remarked, advocating for a more responsible approach to managing chronic inflammatory diseases.

The discussions at the SDPA 2025 Fall Conference reflect a broader commitment within the dermatological community to enhance patient care through collaboration, education, and innovative treatment options. As the role of PAs and NPs continues to evolve, the focus on patient outcomes remains paramount.