Virtual conferences of dermatology during the COVID-19 pandemic

Virtual conferences and e-learning in dermatology during COVID-19 pandemic: Results of a web-based, global survey

During the pandemic, virtual conferences became the norm. We conducted a cross-sectional global study to assess dermatologists’ responses to virtual conference and e-learning program attendance, as well as to discuss the status of such events during the pandemic. This web-based, global survey included 733 dermatologists. Primary outcomes are percentages of responders answering questions. Assessment of the relationship between two categorical variables was performed with the chi-square test. A substantial percentage of responders were willing to attend a virtual meeting (70.6%) or webinar (80.2%), or to conduct a webinar (47.3%). Among participants who provided resident or fellow training before the pandemic, 38% responded that they did not have any teaching systems in place during the pandemic. Virtual conference attendance was significantly associated with video conference attendance before the pandemic, webinar attendance, teledermatology (TD) use during the pandemic, future TD use, having training systems in place for residents or fellows (P < .001 for each), and North American location of participant (P = .001). Webinar attendance was associated with North American location, conducting webinars (P < .001 for each), and future TD use (P = .024). This pandemic has had a profound effect on dermatology conferences and e-learning programs. Attending video conferences and webinars or other online training was associated with TD use and future use, which indicates that these technologies are all here to stay.

Global impact on dermatology practice due to the COVID-19 pandemic

This contribution focuses on the effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on dermatology practice. We discuss the impact on practice volume and procedures and on the considerable increase in teledermatology use. We also describe the important roles that dermatologists have played in enhancing infection prevention and on the frontline. During the crisis, dermatologists have faced the challenge of a shortage of resources, such as personal protective equipment, in the health care system. In addition, they have been involved in managing cutaneous manifestations related to COVID-19 and occupational disease caused by personal protective equipment. Dermatologists have made a diligent effort to identify melanoma and to ensure the treatment of high-risk skin cancers. Safety guidelines have been suggested to minimize the potential risks associated with the systemic use of immunosuppressant agents and immunomodulators in patients with severe inflammatory skin disease during the pandemic. Finally, social distancing necessitated that dermatology conferences take place virtually and teaching via e-learning increased.

The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Pandemic on International Dermatology Conferences in 2020

To limit the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) outbreak, humans have been significantly restricted in their ability to travel and interact with others worldwide. Consequently, dermatology conferences were forced to adapt to such changes. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on international dermatology conferences. We retrospectively investigated decisions made for international dermatology conferences scheduled for 2020. Thirty-three major conferences were analyzed. Their data were obtained from their respective websites (data was accessed 2 June 2021). Among 33 conferences analyzed, 13 (39.4%) were conducted as scheduled, nine (27.3%) were canceled, eight (24.3%) were postponed to 2021 or 2022, and three (9.1%) were delayed but conducted in 2020. The number of the cancellation (44.4%) and postponement (75%) was the largest in the second quarter of the year. During the fourth quarter, most conferences were held on schedule (70%) but were run virtually. Eight out of 13 virtual conferences shortened their duration (61.5%). Most (90.9%) conferences have decided on the schedule of their meetings for 2021 or 2022 while three (9.1%) remain undecided. Twelve (40%) are planned to run virtually, eight (26.7%) have opted for a hybrid form, five (16.7%) are planned to run in-person, four (13.3%) have not decided on the format, and one (3.3%) has been canceled. Virtual and hybrid conference formats have facilitated people to share knowledge despite the travel restrictions posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Such formats are environmentally friendly, are able to attract a large audience, and save delegates time and costs involved in attending. Therefore, virtual platforms should continue to be integrated within conferences in the post-pandemic era.

The Antiviral Properties of Cyclosporine. Focus on Coronavirus, Hepatitis C Virus, Influenza Virus, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infections

This review updates current knowledge regarding the risk of viral infections, including COVID-19, in patients treated with cyclosporine. We also shortly refer to bacterial infections and parasitic infestations in patients treated with cyclosporin. Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive drug, which is widely used in medicine, including in the treatment of autoimmune skin diseases in dermatology, rheumatology, ophthalmology and nephrology, and in organ transplantation. A usual concern associated with immunosuppressive treatment is the potential risk of infections. Interestingly, several data indicate a relatively low risk of infections, especially viral infections, in patients receiving cyclosporine. It was shown that cyclosporine exerts an inhibitory effect on the replication of some viruses, or may have a potentially beneficial effect on the disease course in infections. These include hepatitis C, influenza virus, rotavirus, human immunodeficiency virus and coronavirus infections. Available data indicate that cyclosporine may have a beneficial effect on COVID-19, which is caused by the coronavirus SARS-COV2.