Atopic dermatitis and Acne 1

This course offers a detailed examination of atopic dermatitis and acne vulgaris, providing healthcare professionals with the tools to diagnose and treat these common skin conditions effectively. Divided into two core units, the course covers the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and therapeutic approaches for each condition.

Unit 1: Atopic Dermatitis
This unit begins with an introduction to atopic dermatitis, emphasizing its early onset in infancy and its progression through childhood and adulthood. The unit explores the diagnosis, which is often clinical, and provides visual examples of dermatitis presentations at different stages of life. It explains the key contributing factors, including skin barrier impairment and allergic responses. The course covers treatment methods such as emollients, topical steroids, wet wrap therapy, and phototherapy, alongside the use of systemic drugs like corticosteroids and immunosuppressants for severe cases​.

Unit 2: Acne
This unit focuses on acne vulgaris, a prevalent condition affecting individuals during adolescence and occasionally in adulthood. Participants will learn about the four-step pathogenesis of acne, including sebum production, keratin blockage, bacterial colonization, and inflammation. The unit also addresses various acne presentations, from comedonal to nodular and cystic forms, highlighting the importance of early treatment to prevent scarring. Therapeutic options include topical retinoids, antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and systemic treatments like isotretinoin for severe cases​.

This course is ideal for general practitioners seeking to expand their dermatological knowledge and improve patient outcomes in managing atopic dermatitis and acne.

1. Plan safe treatment of general dermatology patients in a clinical setting.
2. Categorise, evaluate and make treatment decisions for atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis. 
3. Assess and plan treatment for pruritus and acne. 
4. Detect patients that should be referred to others.

All degree qualified medical practitioners.