James Del Rosso, DO gave an excellent summary of acne treatment, combining his own experience with a presentation of clinical data, highlighting several useful tips.
The possible dual mechanism of action of clindamycin was discussed, with data suggesting potential anti-inflammatory properties of the drug in addition to its better-understood antimicrobial properties. Dr. Del Rosso imparted important clinical pearls regarding use of the drug, including that antibiotic resistance can be circumvented with concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and that clindamycin used in combination with topical tretinoin provides superior efficacy when compared to either agent alone.
Another interesting point attendees gleaned from Dr. Del Rosso’s presentation concerns newer data regarding laboratory monitoring in patients maintained on oral isotretinoin: a recent meta-analysis showed that the proportion of patients with laboratory abnormalities was low and not likely after 8 weeks. Thus, it is possible that we might see some coming changes in the recommended approach to laboratory monitoring in this patient population: stay tuned!