SweatSolutions.org: Annual Dermatology Meeting Full of Hyperhidrosis Pearls

March/April 2006 Table of Contents:

» Can Antiperspirants Cause Alzheimer’s? An Expert Answer

» “Teen Sweat 101” Provides Info, Fun & Support

» Woman Dies After Bogus Botox Injections

» Annual Dermatology Meeting Full of Hyperhidrosis Pearls

» More Opportunities for Teens to Get Botox Treatment

» View Events

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Annual Dermatology Meeting Full of Hyperhidrosis Pearls

(March/April 2006) From slick steering wheels to slippery hands and feet that make yoga or martial arts nearly impossible, our readers know that hyperhidrosis severely affects people in many ways. Research and anecdotes presented at the American Academy of Dermatology’s (AAD) Annual Meeting (in early March in San Francisco) confirmed this and showed the benefit to both patients and society of treating hyperhidrosis early and effectively.

At a special AAD press briefing, International Hyperhidrosis Society board member, Dr. Dee Anna Glaser spoke to nearly 30 members of the media about the damaging effects of hyperhidrosis on teens and the prevalence of the condition in teenagers. To put hyperhidrosis in perspective, Dr. Glaser highlighted research indicating that hyperhidrosis’ effect on quality of life is more severe than that of other, more frequently discussed dermatology issues including severe acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Students with hyperhidrosis can suffer long-term set-backs and effects, Dr. Glaser explained, because they don’t raise their hands in class and may settle into unhealthy habits such as failure to exercise. Severe repercussions can include social isolation, social anxiety, depression, and paranoia.

Dr. Glaser also provided three-year data showing that Botox injections for hyperhidrosis improves work and productivity. Such statistics are of particular importance to employers and workers who are considering advocating for their workplace health plans to cover Botox for hyperhidrosis.

With 87 percent of hyperhidrosis sufferers saying that over-the-counter antiperspirants don't provide sufficient relief, it’s very important that dermatologists and other physicians be well-versed in the options available to treat excessive sweating. A three-hour hyperhidrosis symposium at the AAD Annual Meeting was an important venue for this sort of education. At the symposium (which nearly 100 people attended), International Hyperhidrosis Society board members (Dr. Dee Anna Glaser, Dr. Adelaide A. Hebert, Dr. Nowell J. Solish, and Dr. David M. Pariser) were joined by other experts (Dr. Joel L. Cohen, Dr. Kevin C. Smith, Dr. Lewis Peter Stolman, and Dr. James M. Swinehart) to share practical tips and pearls related to the diagnosis of hyperhidrosis, the condition’s impact on quality of life, treatment plans, and specific treatment methods including topical agents, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections, and local surgical techniques such as liposuction and curettage. Of particular interest was a step-by-step discussion of how to use ice to provide adequate pain relief for Botox injections in the hands and feet.

The diagnosis and treatment of hyperhidrosis in children was also discussed with a focus on beginning with the least invasive options (which is always recommended) and the potential – through treatment – to help children affected by excessive sweating to perform better in school, enjoy more extracurricular activities, and feel more comfortable in social situations. In her discussion on this topic, Dr. Hebert brought home the importance of treating pediatric hyperhidrosis sufferers when she reminded attendees how often children hold hands (such as to cross the street or as part of games) and how embarrassing or stigmatizing sweaty hands, even in the youngest patients, can be. She also showed pictures of children’s school work that had been ruined by sweat and discussed how common, popular activities – such as football, cheerleading, and computers – can be out of reach for kids with excessive sweating.

Physicians interested in helping pediatric and adolescent hyperhidrosis patients should visit the newly-launched “Teen Sweat 101” area on www.SweatHelp.org and direct their young patients to it, as well. It’s a great resource for kids interested in learning more about sweat – what’s normal, what’s excessive, and how to get treatment. Young sweating patients will find fun, accurate information and engaging workbook exercises on “Teen Sweat 101”. Also available is a free “Teen Sweat 101” workbook (50 colorful, informative pages!). Teens can order the book by e-mailing info@SweatHelp.org and physicians can contact the International Hyperhidrosis Society for information about obtaining workbooks for their offices. Learn more about “Teen Sweat 101” in the related story in this issue of SweatSolutions.

From practical treatment tips to the latest quality of life impact statistics and pediatric research, the AAD hyperhidrosis symposium was not to be missed. That said, if you missed it, don’t worry, physicians can get the same in-depth information AND MUCH MORE at upcoming International Hyperhidrosis Society Saturday CME Symposiums.

Join us in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on September 16th and in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 14th for a full day of hyperhidrosis treatment information, live demonstrations of Botox injection and iontophoresis techniques, and questions-and-answers from leaders in the field. Watch this newsletter for CME registration information or contact us today.