Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift für Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete
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Since 2017, there have been several reports of artificial intelligence (AI) achieving comparable performance to human experts on medical image analysis tasks. With the first ratification of a computer vision algorithm as a medical device in 2018, the way was paved for these methods to eventually become an integral part of modern clinical practice. ⋯ Deep learning has a history of remarkable success and has become the new technical standard for image analysis. The dramatic improvement these models brought over classical approaches enables applications in a rapidly increasing number of clinical fields. In dermatology, as in many other domains, artificial intelligence still faces considerable challenges but is undoubtedly developing into an essential tool of modern medicine.
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In recent years, many medical specialties with a visual focus have been revolutionized by image analysis algorithms using artificial intelligence (AI). As dermatology belongs to this field, it has the potential to play a pioneering role in the use of AI. ⋯ The latest developments in this field show the enormous potential of AI-based diagnostics and follow-up of dermatological clinical pictures by means of an autonomous computer-based image analysis. These noninvasive, optical examination methods provide valuable additional information, but dermatological interaction remains indispensable in daily clinical practice.
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Chronic pruritus (CP) is a highly prevalent, difficult to treat, and burdensome condition. Nowadays, multiple substances are available for the treatment of CP. Systemic therapies play a pivotal role in modern CP therapy, particularly in severe cases and those refractory to general antipruritic measures. ⋯ Of note, monoclonal antibodies, neurokinin‑1 receptor antagonists, Janus kinase inhibitors, and opioid receptor modulators are on the frontline of innovative CP treatment. Other promising targets include structures of the peripheral and central nervous system, e.g., histamine 4 receptors, which are involved in itch signaling. This review provides an overview of currently available systemic therapies for CP and their indications and discusses novel innovative agents and promising new targets in CP.
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Apart from endogenous factors, hand eczema is often caused by irritant or allergic contact dermatitis related to occupational or non-occupational exposure to skin hazards. This enables several complementary approaches on the level of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. A high priority is set on identification and subsequent reduction or elimination of causative exposures. ⋯ Even though evidence-based proof of effectiveness is limited, preventive measures are considered of particular importance for avoidance of occupational hand eczema and its adverse sequelae. Therefore, a complex, step-wise approach to occupational skin diseases has been established in Germany. In recent years, the positive impact of secondary and tertiary preventive measures of this approach has been demonstrated.
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Herpes zoster (HZ) is caused by the reactivation of varicella zoster virus. The incidence of herpes zoster and associated problems increases with age. With a life-long prevalence of 30%, every second 85-year-old person experiences HZ once in his lifetime. ⋯ HZ vaccination represents a substantial improvement in terms of prevention of herpes zoster and reduction of long-term complications, such as PHN. The permanent vaccination commission of the Robert Koch Institute recommends vaccination with dead virus for all persons over the age of 60 years. Risk groups like immunosuppressed patients are advised to be vaccinated starting at the age of 50 years.