Cutaneous Miscellaneous: The Dermatology Residents Podcast

What Worked, What Didn't: APPLIED Exam Preparation 17.06.2026 17m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Mohs fellow Justin Marson, MD, and cosmetic fellow Saira Agarwala ,MD, for a special live discussion recorded at the Real World Dermatology for Residents 2026 Conference on preparing for the APPLIED Exam. Sharing their own experiences and study strategies, they offer practical guidance on how APPLIED differs from the CORE Exam, what resources they found most valuable, and how residents can approach preparation without overcomplicating their study plans. The conversation covers high-yield resources, the role of dermatopathology, how to prioritize study efforts in the months and weeks leading up to the exam, and the importance of trusting the clinical foundation developed throughout residency. Tune in to the episode to hear practical exam-preparation advice, learn which study resources recent test-takers found most useful, and gain insights into approaching the APPLIED Exam with confidence.

From Exhibit Hall to Emerging Data: A Resident’s AAD Annual Meeting Playbook 13.05.2026 44m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Danny Zakria, MD, to recap highlights from the 2026 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Denver, with a focus on how residents and early-career dermatologists can make the most of the experience. They begin with a board review of UV light and sunscreen fundamentals, covering key distinctions between UVA and UVB, mechanisms of photoprotection, and counseling points that resonate with patients, including framing sunscreen use around photoaging prevention. In the main part of the episode, they discuss how to approach AAD strategically, from navigating the exhibit hall and planning sessions to identifying high-yield scientific content. They highlight emerging data across dermatology, including updates in acne, alopecia areata, dermatomyositis, and psoriasis, while also sharing practical tips for networking, evaluating products, and engaging with industry and peers. Tune in to the episode to hear practical guidance on navigating AAD, key clinical updates from this year’s meeting, and how to turn the conference experience into a meaningful step in your dermatology career.

Psoriasis Biologics: A Case-Based Guide to Getting It Right 15.04.2026 44m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Erin Boh, MD, for a case-based discussion on selecting and managing biologics for psoriasis in a rapidly expanding treatment landscape. With more than a dozen biologic and oral options available, treatment selection increasingly requires a balance of clinical evidence, patient factors, and individualized strategy. Through 3 practical cases, they walk through first-line biologic selection, management of incomplete or waning response, and common pitfalls encountered by residents and early-career dermatologists. A central theme is the role of personalized medicine, including genomic tools like the Mind.Px test, which evaluates gene expression patterns to help identify the most appropriate therapeutic class. The conversation highlights how these tools can reduce trial-and-error prescribing, support payer discussions, and improve patient confidence in treatment decisions. Tune in to the episode to hear how experienced clinicians integrate clinical judgment with precision testing, navigate real-world complexities, and approach biologic selection with a more personalized, patient-centered framework.

Beyond the Prescription Pad: The Clinical Power of OTC Skin Care 04.03.2026 31m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Peter Lio, MD, to examine the role of over-the-counter (OTC) skin care in everyday practice. They discuss evolving perceptions of “drugstore” products, explore what “sensitive skin” may actually represent clinically, and review emerging data on polymer-based cleansing technologies designed to support barrier integrity. The conversation also highlights formulation science, including research evaluating moisturizers that combine hyaluronic acid, natural moisturizing factors, and essential lipids, as well as data suggesting improved quality of life when lightweight adjunctive moisturizers are paired with acne regimens. They also examine clinical findings from a study assessing structured OTC regimens before and after procedures and their impact on tolerability and irritation. Tune in to the episode for an evidence-informed framework for recommending OTC products with confidence and elevating everyday patient care as a resident or early-career dermatologist.

From Residency to Real Life: Avoiding Burnout Before It Starts 07.01.2026 38m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Vinh Chung, MD, dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, for a thoughtful conversation on burnout, physician well-being, and becoming the kind of doctor you want to be. They explore why burnout often emerges early in training, driven by workload, time pressure, and administrative demands, and how it can manifest as emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished fulfillment. Dr Chung reframes burnout as something that can develop through neglect rather than inevitability, emphasizing the importance of supportive teams, shared purpose, and meaningful work. The discussion also touches on moral injury, the role of autonomy in professional satisfaction, and the value of aligning career decisions with personal values rather than prestige or compensation alone. Tune in to the episode to reflect on who you want to become as a physician, how to evaluate culture and leadership when choosing your next step, and how long-term perspective, humility, and human connection can help sustain fulfillment in dermatology.

Teamwork Makes the Skin Work: Your Guide to Clinic Culture 10.12.2025 33m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Erik Domingues, MD, for a conversation on why practice culture matters and how residents and early-career dermatologists can start thinking about it long before they run their own clinic. The episode opens with a boards review on vitiligo, covering common triggers, genetic associations, major clinical subtypes, important mimickers, notable associated conditions, and core medical and surgical treatments every resident should know. In the main part of the episode, the discussion focuses on how practice culture develops and its direct impact on patient care, staff morale, and clinical efficiency. Dr Domingues shares perspective on communication, leadership behaviors, team dynamics, and the habits that contribute to a positive clinical environment, offering concepts residents can begin applying even during training. Tune in to the episode for insights that can help residents recognize healthy practice environments, understand their own role in shaping team culture, and prepare for the responsibilities that come with building a supportive, patient-centered practice.

Light Work: PDT Made Simple for Residents 12.11.2025 29m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Shannon Trotter, DO, for a discussion on photodynamic therapy (PDT), a treatment many residents may receive limited exposure to during training. Dr Trotter shares how PDT fits into both preparing for board exams and clinical use, highlighting its versatility and importance in dermatology. They open with a board review of PDT fundamentals, including the activation of aminolevulinic acid (blue light) and methyl aminolevulinate (red light), and why understanding protoporphyrin IX and its absorption spectrum matters. They also cover key uses along with adverse effects such as phototoxicity and pigment alteration. In the main segment, they explore actinic keratosis as a chronic disease, the importance of field therapy, and how to set expectations. Dr Trotter also shares practical pearls for optimizing outcomes and tailoring PDT in clinic. Tune in to hear how Dr Trotter integrates PDT into daily practice and empowers residents to expand beyond traditional training to confidently incorporate this helpful therapy.

Hedging Your Bets: A Resident’s Guide to Hedgehog Inhibitors for laBCC 15.10.2025 33m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Meenal Kheterpal, MD, Associate Professor of Dermatology at Duke University School of Medicine, for a comprehensive look at locally advanced basal cell carcinoma (laBCC) and the role of Hedgehog inhibitors (HHIs), a must-know topic for dermatology residents. Dr Brownstone opens with a board review of basal cell carcinoma, including risk factors, clinical variants, treatment selection, and when to consider Mohs surgery. He breaks down the Hedgehog signaling pathway, explaining how vismodegib and sonidegib work and their common side effects. In the main segment, Dr Kheterpal discusses how to identify and define laBCC in clinical practice, select appropriate candidates for HHI therapy, and integrate these agents into neoadjuvant treatment strategies. She shares practical pearls on counseling patients, managing adverse effects like muscle cramps, alopecia, and dysgeusia, and addressing teratogenicity concerns in reproductive-age patients. The episode also highlights tips for communicating treatment expectations confidently and applying clinical judgment beyond textbook definitions. Tune in to the full episode for board-focused insights and real-world takeaways for your future clinics.

Hitting the JAKpot: New Frontiers in Alopecia Areata 24.09.2025 41m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, speaks with Natasha Mesinkovska, MD, about diagnosing and managing alopecia areata (AA) with a focus on JAK inhibitors. Dr Mesinkovska shares diagnostic pearls, including full-body exam essentials, dermoscopy tips, recognition of key comorbidities, and the impact of AA on mental health. They also touch on less common subtypes such as diffuse AA and the ophiasis pattern, as well as the role of the SALT score.The conversation then turns to treatment, with insights into the 3 FDA-approved JAK inhibitors for AA: baricitinib, ritlecitinib, and deuruxolitinib. They discuss mechanisms of action, dosing, boxed warnings, and counseling strategies, while offering guidance on treatment selection and building confidence without head-to-head trial data. The episode closes with a discussion of GLP-1–associated skin considerations that may become increasingly relevant for board exams, along with key points on body contouring procedures that are seeing greater demand as GLP-1 use rises. Tune in to the full episode to sharpen your diagnostic skills, gain confidence in prescribing JAK inhibitors, and stay ahead on emerging board topics in alopecia areata and beyond.

Beyond the Basics: A 102-Level Look at Pediatric AD Biologics 10.09.2025 39m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes pediatric dermatologist Lisa Swanson, MD, for a deeper look at advanced systemic therapy in pediatric atopic dermatitis (AD). They begin with a board review of transient skin diseases of the newborn. They cover key conditions including erythema toxicum neonatorum, transient neonatal pustular melanosis, congenital milia, neonatal cephalic pustulosis, eosinophilic pustulosis folliculitis, and the miliaria variants, highlighting cytologic findings, distinguishing features, and treatment considerations. In the main segment, they explore AD biologics in a “102-level” discussion for residents. Dr Swanson reviews patient identification, differences between pediatric and adult treatment decisions, counseling strategies for families, and the impact of AD on growth and quality of life. She also discusses the mechanisms and use of dupilumab, lebrikizumab, tralokinumab, and nemolizumab, offering practical advice on selecting, switching, and discontinuing biologics, as well as insights into building confidence with advanced therapies. Tune in to the full episode for both a high-yield board review and real-world guidance on incorporating systemic therapies into pediatric dermatology, equipping residents with tools for managing complex cases.

Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: From Clinical Suspicion to Confirmed Diagnosis 13.08.2025 58m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Ryan Svoboda, MD, for an in-depth review of cutaneous lymphomas. They begin with a boards review of the four primary cutaneous B-cell lymphomas—two indolent (follicle center, marginal zone) and two aggressive (diffuse large B-cell, intravascular B-cell). The discussion covers prognostic differences, biopsy strategies, key immunostains, helpful mnemonics for BCL markers, and notable associations such as Borrelia infection. In the main segment, the focus shifts to cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, particularly mycosis fungoides. Dr Svoboda shares diagnostic challenges, strategies to improve biopsy yield, and a practical scoring algorithm to interpret inconclusive pathology reports. They also review tips for diagnosing Sézary syndrome and highlight relevant NCCN guidelines. Tune in to the full episode for high-yield insights on recognizing, diagnosing, and managing both B-cell and T-cell cutaneous lymphomas in clinical practice.

Foundations of Formulation: Compounding in Dermatology 16.07.2025 42m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes David Osborne, PhD, an industry expert in topical drug formulation, for an in-depth discussion on formulations and compounding in dermatology. Dr Brownstone begins with a board review on the structure and function of the epidermis, covering the 5 layers of the skin and key cellular junctions, with mnemonic tips to aid retention. In the main segment, Drs Brownstone and Osborne explore the fundamentals of topical formulation, including principles of localized drug delivery, ingredient selection, and the role of Fick’s law in product diffusion. Dr Osborne shares insights on formulation challenges, selecting the right solvents and excipients, and key considerations such as ingredient stability, packaging, and accurate measurement of actives. The episode wraps up with practical pearls for dermatologists interested in product development, including which ingredients to avoid. Tune in for a high-yield, practical discussion!

Inside the APPLIED Exam: Resident-Tested Tips and Tools 11.06.2025 14m

In this live-recorded episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by Danielle Dubin, MD, assistant professor and assistant program director in the department of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Leena Ramani, MD, hair transplant fellow and dermatologist at Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, for a dynamic discussion recorded at the Real World Dermatology For Residents Conference at the Sahara Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. They share key insights on how the APPLIED exam differs from the CORE Exam, offering strategies for tackling second-order, management-focused questions. The group also highlights their favorite study resources, including the Anki deck based on Review of Dermatology by Alikhan and Hocker, Boards University, and their preferred dermatopathology review resource. High-yield topics discussed include which question bank should be used, effective pathology study techniques, and tips for avoiding overstudying. The episode wraps up with words of encouragement, and even a lighthearted chat about their ideal Vegas night out. Whether you’re preparing for the APPLIED exam or simply curious about the exam residents need to take to become board certified in dermatology, this episode is packed with practical advice and insider tips you don’t want to miss.

From BASIC to Boards: How to Prepare for Every Dermatology Exam 14.05.2025 44m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Aamir Hussain, MD, to discuss high-yield strategies for dermatology exam prep. They start with a board review on contact dermatitis, covering key allergens like paraphenylenediamine, methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone, propylene glycol, and bacitracin. Dr Hussain shares a structured approach to studying allergens, including memorizing the last 5 years of "Allergen of the Year" and the T.R.U.E. TEST’s 36 most common allergens. They then break down exam timelines and study strategies, using insights from Dr Hussain’s recent publication. from the BASIC exam in PGY-2 to the 4 CORE board exams in PGY-3. They share tips on prioritizing sections and using the best textbooks, atlases, question banks, and digital tools, as well as touch on the value of in-person and virtual review courses and how to maximize free resident resources. Tune in to the episode for high-yield pearls and a structured approach to acing your dermatology exams!

Dermoscopy Decoded 16.04.2025 1h

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, is joined by dermatologist and dermatopathologist Michelle Tarbox, MD, to break down a crucial resident skill: dermoscopy. They kick things off with practical board review on the busy dermis and vacuolar interface patterns, covering how to build a differential, what features not to miss (hello, sneaky metastases), and how to work through normal-looking slides that may not be so normal after all. Then they dive into dermoscopy, discussing how to learn it, how to use it in clinic, and why it’s become the dermatologist’s equivalent of a stethoscope. Dr. Tarbox shares real clinical cases—including melanoma masqueraders, foreign body imposters, and heart-shaped seborrheic keratoses—with image-by-image insights on what to look for and why. Whether you're prepping for boards or aiming to sharpen your day-to-day diagnostic skills, this episode is packed with high-yield pearls and a few great analogies, too.

Navigating Industry: What You Won’t Learn in Residency 19.03.2025 37m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Theo Alkousakis, MD, to discuss an important topic not covered in dermatology training: how residents can navigate opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry. They explore career pathways in industry, from medical affairs to R&D, and why some dermatologists make the transition. They also share practical ways to get involved, including advisory boards, speaker programs, and clinical trials, while offering guidance on building credibility, networking at conferences, and finding mentors, even in programs with industry restrictions. Additionally, they highlight how to align industry opportunities with personal values and clinical practice to make ethical career decisions. Finally, they break down what industry looks for when selecting dermatologists to work with and share strategies for positioning yourself for future opportunities. Tune in to the full episode to learn how to start engaging with industry now—so you're ready to take advantage of opportunities post-residency!

The Next Generation of Topical Treatments: Clinical Pearls for Residents 12.02.2025 44m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Naiem Issa, MD, for an in-depth discussion on topical therapies in dermatology, covering both traditional treatments and the latest innovations, focusing on tapinarof and roflumilast. The episode begins with a board review of eczematous and papulosquamous diseases, including CARP, asteatotic eczema, nummular dermatitis, and pityriasis rosea, highlighting key diagnostic clues, treatment approaches, and must-know information for residents. They then explore the role of topical therapies in treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, emphasizing patient expectations, positioning treatments effectively, and the balance between topicals and systemic options. They provide insights into newer agents like tapinarof and roflumilast, discussing their mechanisms of action, clinical use, and combination strategies for enhanced efficacy. The episode wraps up with practical pearls for residents, including how to navigate access issues, gain hands-on experience with new therapies, and stay updated on emerging therapies. Tune in for a high-yield discussion packed with clinical takeaways!

Networking, Education, and More: Why Residents Should Join Dermatology Societies 15.01.2025 35m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes James Del Rosso, DO, to discuss the value of dermatology residents engaging with professional societies and how it can benefit their careers and patients. They begin with a board review on topical and systemic retinoids, highlighting the common applications of the topicals tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene as well as an overview of systemic options like isotretinoin and acitretin. They then discuss how residents can leverage professional societies, such as the American Acne and Rosacea Society and the National Psoriasis Foundation, to access networking opportunities, research grants, educational resources, and more. They explore how involvement in societies can support residents, provide resources for patients, and help dermatologists build connections and advance their careers. Tune in to the full episode to learn how professional societies can support your journey through residency and beyond!

The Future is Now: How AI Can Help Dermatology Residents 11.12.2024 38m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes guest Stephanie Fabbro, MD, to explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in dermatology, with practical applications for residents and early-career dermatologists. They begin with a board review on cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) and its most common form, mycosis fungoides (MF), highlighting key diagnostic features, histological findings, and hypopigmented variants in skin of color. They explore treatment options and clinical pearls for CTCL variants like Sézary syndrome and lymphomatoid papulosis. The discussion then transitions to AI’s potential to enhance the residency experience. Dr Fabbro shares insights on using AI for clinical differentials, board prep, and residency candidate selection. She offers practical tips on leveraging AI for time management, staying current with dermatologic research, and simplifying tasks like clinic notes and contract reviews. Tune in to learn how AI can transform your residency experience and support your journey into dermatologic practice!

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Embracing New Dermatology Tools and Therapies 13.11.2024 27m

In this episode of Cutaneous Miscellaneous, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, welcomes Brad Glick, DO, to cover to an essential topic for residents and early-career dermatologists: practical approaches for incorporating the latest therapies and technologies into clinical practice. They begin with a board review on psoriatic arthritis. Dr Glick highlights the importance of early evaluation and preventive therapies, shares practical tips on critical questions to ask in clinic, and emphasizes utilizing screening tools to aid in diagnosis. The conversation then shifts to integrating new therapies and technologies into clinical practice. Dr Glick shares insights on adapting to advancements, from targeted biologics to precision tools like the Mind.Px patch, which uses molecular profiling to help dermatologists select the most effective psoriasis treatments for a given patient. Tune in to the full episode for an in-depth look at the evolving landscape of dermatologic care, from board review essentials to real-world strategies for residents looking to adopt breakthrough therapies and tools.