Show Notes
In Episode 22, we’re diving into Immunology with a practical, clinic-ready breakdown of BMS (blistering mucosal syndromes) and other chronic blistering dermatoses. We connect the “why” (autoantibodies, target antigens, inflammation pathways) to the “what you do next” (how they present, how to confirm the diagnosis, and how to treat effectively without overcomplicating the workup). You’ll get a clear framework for differentiating common blistering disorders, choosing the right tests (and biopsy technique), interpreting immunofluorescence patterns, and building treatment plans that balance speed of control, safety, and long-term maintenance. We also cover newer FDA-approved options and evolving therapeutic strategies, including where they fit in your step-up/step-down approach and which patients may benefit most.
More from Derm Boot Camp Updates
Derm Boot Camp Week 26 wraps up the series with a focused discussion on local anesthesia, key dermatologic surgery principles, and bonus case reviews designed to bring everything together. The episode concludes with high-yield bonus cases that integrate procedural decision-making with core dermatology knowledge, reinforcing clinical reasoning and surgical judgment. It’s a comprehensive and practical finish to the 26-week Derm Boot Camp journey.
In Week 25 of Derm Boot Camp, we take a closer look at some of the most clinically nuanced and high-yield dermatologic conditions. This episode covers rashes around the mouth, including key differentials and management strategies for perioral presentations you can’t afford to miss. We then dive into cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) — recognizing early findings, understanding diagnostic pitfalls, and knowing when to escalate care. Finally, we explore diseases of the mucous membranes, breaking down inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic processes.
Week 24 dives into high-yield pathology every dermatology provider needs to recognize with confidence. This episode focuses on tumors not to miss—the critical lesions that demand early identification to prevent morbidity and mortality. We break down distinguishing clinical and histologic features, red flags on exam, and the practical pearls that help you separate benign mimickers from dangerous malignancies. The discussion also expands into less common dermal diseases, clarifying patterns of presentation and how to approach them systematically in both board prep and real-world practice. We review macrophage-driven disorders, unpacking their pathophysiology, immunologic mechanisms, and characteristic cutaneous findings. To round out the episode, we cover additional skin tumor types that frequently appear in testing and clinic alike, emphasizing morphology, diagnostic strategy, and management principles. If you’re preparing for boards or sharpening your diagnostic acumen, Week 24 delivers concise, high-yield insight designed to make complex dermatopathology more approachable and clinically actionable.
In Episode 23, we break down lichen planus from the classic presentation to its many variations including cutaneous, oral, genital, scalp/lichen planopilaris, nail, hypertrophic, actinic, and pigmentosus so you can recognize patterns quickly, confirm the diagnosis when it’s subtle, and avoid common look-alikes. We also address the clinical reality that there is no FDA-approved treatment specifically for lichen planus, and walk through how clinicians build practical, stepwise management plans focused on symptom control, inflammation reduction, and preventing flares—plus how to counsel patients on expectations. Finally, we connect the dots on errors in metabolism and metabolic derangements that can complicate inflammatory skin disease and influence your differential, workup, and long-term strategy—so you’re not just treating the eruption, you’re treating the whole patient.
Week 21 of Derm Boot Camp focuses on disorders of pigmentation and the clinical reasoning behind diagnosing and managing them. This episode covers vitiligo, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation, and other disturbances of pigmentation, with an emphasis on pathophysiology, visual recognition, and patient counseling. We also discuss phototherapy when to use it, how it works, and where it fits into treatment plans—along with practical considerations for setting expectations and improving patient experience. This episode is designed to help learners confidently differentiate pigmentation disorders and understand evidence-based management approaches in real-world dermatologic practice. A must-listen for anyone building a strong foundation in dermatology