Survey of Dermatologic Procedures in Transgender Adults.

BACKGROUND: Dermatologists have the opportunity to provide medically necessary procedures, including laser hair removal, to transgender patients for gender affirmation. Further research is required to better assess the unique dermatologic needs of this population. OBJECTIVE: To examine the prevalence of dermatologic procedures among transgender people in the context of gender-affirming treatment. METHODS: This cross-sectional study examined survey responses from 696 transgender persons enrolled in the Study of Transition, Outcomes, and Gender cohort. Prevalence of self-reported dermatologic procedures was examined and compared across participant subgroups. RESULTS: Electrolysis was the most commonly reported procedure (32.9%). Transfeminine patients were more likely to use dermatologic procedures compared with transmasculine patients. Only 19 participants (2.8%) reported the use of dermal filler injections. CONCLUSION: Differences in utilization of dermatologic procedures were noted in transgender populations. Motivations, barriers, and optimal timing for gender-affirming dermatologic procedures among transgender persons should be examined in future studies.

Interactive Session for Residents and Medical Students on Dermatologic Care for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Patients.

Introduction: Despite increasing emphasis on LGBTQ health in medical education, evidence-based training on LGBTQ patient care in dermatology is lacking. We designed an interactive online didactic session on dermatologic care of LGBTQ patients for medical students and dermatology residents. Methods: Session content was based on continuing medical education articles and incorporated preexisting LGBTQ-inclusive policies, environments, and videos. We implemented the session via a web-based videoconferencing platform as part of a preexisting resident lecture series. We began with a 90-minute lecture on LGBTQ health care disparities and dermatologists' roles, best practices for providing inclusive care, and dermatologic health concerns and screening recommendations in LGBTQ populations. To solidify knowledge and promote practice of learned skills, a 30-minute interactive role-playing session followed where participants acted as observer, patient, or provider in three distinct clinical scenarios pertaining to dermatologic care of LGBTQ patients. Participants completed baseline and follow-up surveys, which included a psychometrically validated clinical skills scale and an ad hoc knowledge assessment. Results: Baseline and follow-up scores from the clinical skills scale increased overall (0.7; 95% CI, 0.5-0.9; p < .001), in self-reported clinical preparedness (1.1; 95% CI, 0.5-1.6; p = .001), and in basic knowledge (0.8; 95% CI, 0.3-1.4; p = .003). Discussion: An online interactive didactive session on dermatological care of LGBTQ patients increased participants' clinical preparedness and basic knowledge. Implementation of similar sessions at other institutions can improve gaps in preparing residents and medical students in dermatological care of LGBTQ patients.

Acne and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender Teenager.

Although most teenagers experience acne, for sexual and gender minority teenagers, acne could be more challenging and require specific psychosocial considerations. Acne may be more strongly associated with mental health issues in sexual and gender minority adolescents. Acne development during puberty may trigger gender dysphoria in transgender patients. Transgender and gender nonbinary patients receiving testosterone therapy may experience new or worsening acne. Comprehensive care for moderate to severe acne in sexual and gender minority adolescents should include culturally competent discussions about sexual behaviors, contraception, and/or gender-affirmation treatment plans.

Self-reported tattoo prevalence and motivations in transgender adults: a cross-sectional survey.

PURPOSE: To assess the prevalence and motivations for obtaining tattoos among transgender persons. METHODS: A survey of 696 transgender persons recruited from the Study of Transition, Outcomes, and Gender (STRONG) cohort evaluated the prevalence of tattoos and motivations for acquiring tattoos. RESULTS: Transmasculine persons were more likely than transfeminine persons to have tattoos (66.5% versus 24.0%, P<0.05). Most commonly reported motivators were personal preference, aesthetics, and/or symbolism (61.8%). Scar coverage and replacement of anatomic features accounted for 10.2% of responses. CONCLUSION: Future studies should look into the relationship between tattoos and health status in the transgender population.