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Update on Itch: Emerging Integrative Insights and Therapeutic Advances
Update on Itch: Emerging Integrative Insights and Therapeutic Advances
Apple Bodemer, MD +2

Chronic pruritus (itch) is one of the most burdensome symptoms in dermatology, significantly impacting patient quality of life across a wide range of skin disorders. Recent advances in our understanding of the neuroimmune pathways of itch have led to novel targeted therapies and improved management strategies. This session will provide dermatologists with an up-to-date review of the mechanisms driving itch, clinical assessment tools, and the latest therapeutic and integrative approaches for disease management. Practical case examples will highlight how to apply these advances in clinical practice. Following the lecture, we'll share information on our Integrative Dermatology Certificate Program (IDCP) and tips for advancing your integrative dermatology practice. If you have been thinking about next steps in your educational journey, join us for a fun evening of expert discussion and Q&A!

Learn more at get.learnskin.com/idcp

Learning Objectives:

  • Review the pathophysiology of itch with a focus on neural and immune signaling pathways.
  • Differentiate between common dermatologic and systemic causes of chronic pruritus.
  • Evaluate current, emerging, and integrative treatment options for itch.
  • Apply evidence-based strategies to assess and manage chronic pruritus in dermatology practice.

Faculty

User: Apple Bodemer
Apple Bodemer
MD

After finishing Medical School and Dermatology Residency at the University of Wisconsin, Dr. Bodemer completed a fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona. She was the first Dermatologist to be board certified in both Dermatology and Integrative Medicine and currently is the only Dermatologist to serve on the Integrative Medicine Board. She has authored academic texts and curriculum and has spoken widely on a variety of topics related to Integrative Dermatology. She has always been drawn to exploring how lifestyle choices impact skin health and disease and feels that the most powerful role a physician can play is as an educator and guide, empowering people to get healthy and stay healthy.

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User: peter.lio@dermveda.com
Peter Lio
MD

Dr. Peter Lio is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, completed his internship in Pediatrics at Boston Children's Hospital, and his Dermatology training at Harvard where he served as Chief Resident in Dermatology. Dr. Lio is the founding director of the Chicago Integrative Eczema Center and has spoken nationally and internationally about atopic dermatitis, as well as alternative medicine.

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User: Naana Boakye (naana@bergenderm.com)
Naana Boakye

Dr. Naana Boakye is a board-certified dermatologist, skincare formulator and author, based in New Jersey. She earned her M.D. from Temple University in 2004, followed by an M.P.H. in epidemiology from George Washington University. With over two decades of clinical experience, she founded her private practice (Bergen Dermatology) in Hackensack/Englewood Cliffs, NJ, where she offers both in-person and teledermatology services.

Her approach emphasises an integrative, lifestyle-informed dermatology: not only treating skin conditions but looking at the whole person, including factors such as diet, stress, environment and skin barrier health. She has a particular focus on melanated skin and skincare for people of color, helping patients with conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation and hair concerns in skin of color.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Boakye has developed skincare lines and collaborated with high-profile brands, authored a book (“Inside Out Beauty: Your Prescription for Healthy, Radiant and Acne-Controlled Skin”), and is active in education and advocacy around inclusive skincare.

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