Efficacy and safety of excimer light (308 nm) in the treatment of pityriasis lichenoides chronica.

INTRODUCTION: Pityriasis lichenoides chronica is the chronic end of the spectrum of pityriasis lichenoides which have several forms of papulosuamous conditions. Several treatments obtained complete clearance of the condition including phototherapy and specifically narrow band ultraviolet B. The Excimer light 308 is a monochromatic light that acts within the ultraviolet B wavelength and used as a targeted phototherapy in several skin conditions. METHODS: Thirty-four patients with histopathologically diagnosed pityriasis lichenoides chronica underwent treatment with biweekly sessions of excimer light 308 nm. Treatment continued until complete clearance was obtained or to a maximum of 48 sessions (24 weeks). RESULTS: Thirty-one patients obtained complete clearance with no recurrence till the end of the study period, two patients had partial response and only one patient showed poor response to treatment. CONCLUSION: Excimer light can be a safe and effective treatment of pityriasis lichinoides chronica in different ages and genders.

Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes: Consensuses and Controversies.

Exercise is widely considered beneficial for cardiovascular health. However, on rare occasions, athletes experience sudden cardiac death without any preceding symptoms. The devastating nature of these events necessitates us to understand the underlying causes. In younger athletes (age <35), the underlying causes are usually hereditary/genetic, whereas in older athletes (age >35), coronary artery disease is prevalent. Sudden cardiac death in athletes can occur regardless of the presence of any structural abnormality in the heart. Despite divergence between guidelines, the majority of cardiology societies recommend at least taking a comprehensive history and performing physical examinations for initial screening for all athletes. This article reviews the consensuses and controversies regarding the incidence, causes, and prevention of sudden cardiac death in athletes.

Alumni survey of a combined doctor of pharmacy/graduate certificate in aging studies program.

INTRODUCTION: The Certificate in Aging Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University allows students to study gerontology while completing their doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) or graduate pharmaceutical sciences degree concurrently. The objective of the study was to evaluate alumni satisfaction with the Certificate in Aging Studies program, its application, and its perceived usefulness. METHODS: Alumni of the program (n = 49) were emailed an anonymous electronic survey about their perceptions of the program. The survey was emailed three times. Responses to eight multiple choice questions were summarized using descriptive statistics. Two free response questions were qualitatively analyzed for themes by two investigators. RESULTS: The response rate to the survey was 59.2% (n = 29). Most respondents practice in hospital settings (24.1%) and did not undertake additional postgraduate clinical training (44.8%) or earn additional geriatric certifications (69%). The majority (65.5%) reported using the dual program in their career and would recommend the Certificate in Aging Studies to others (96.6%). Most (59%) alumni indicated that the best part of the program was the interprofessional interaction, and 69% suggested no further areas of improvement for the program. CONCLUSIONS: A PharmD-Gerontology dual program is one way to enhance the workforce to care for the growing older population. This partnership approach should be considered by schools of pharmacy that also offer degree programs in gerontology.

2018 American Society of Consultant Pharmacists Annual Meeting & Exhibition.

Poster abstracts are evaluated based on the following criteria: significance of the problem to healthy aging or medication management; innovativeness of ideas, methods, and/or approach; methodological rigor of methods and approach; presentation of finding; implications identified for future research, practice, and/or policy; and clarity of writing. Submissions are not evaluated through the peer-reviewed process used by The Consultant Pharmacist. Industry support is indicated, where applicable. Presenting author is in italics. The poster abstract presentation is supported by the ASCP Foundation.