Fall 2022 SKIN HEALTH REVIEW/ THE PORTABLE DERMOSCOPE

November 2022 SKIN ISSUE

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TECH REVIEW: THE SKLIP PORTABLE DERMOSCOPE

11/1 - A remarkable new medical-grade digital healthcare device has recently entered the skin care diagnostic market, streamlining the patient triage, consultation and collaboration process.  SKLIP is a portable and affordable alternative to the conventional handheld DERMATOSCOPE, providing skin cancer triage recommendations for medical professionals and health-conscious individuals about a concerning skin lesion.  Founded by practicing dermatologists Asst. Prof. Alexander Witkowski MD, PhD and Asst. Prof. Joanna Ludzik MD, PhD. (Portland, Oregon), this innovation offers high definition digital dermoscopy imaging from a pocket-sized adaptable solution for any smart phone.  News from Jan, 2022 announces that Sklip, Inc. has received a Breakthrough Designation Device status by the USFDA for the deployment of ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE as part of the next Sklip model.   As part of the company founder’s Dr. Witkowski's mission to “catch the inevitable, early,” a new partnership has developed with Prof. Giovanni Pellacani – President of the World Congress of Dermatology and Chair of the University of Sapienza Dermatology Department in Rome, Italy, who has joined the collaboration team as the lead scientific advisor for development of the hardware device and AI.   This partnership will help empower diagnosticians to better identify potential skin lesions of concern and increase referrals of pigmented skin lesions that require a biopsy.

From an exclusive interview with SKLIP Executive Paul Greer and Founder Dr. Alexander Witkowski, we received a firsthand perspective on the global need for this innovation. Originally launched and widely used in Europe, the SKLIP device is also actively being tested and used in dermatology offices and academic centers across the US.  The current model is the smartphone dermatoscope hardware - limited to scanning, uploading and forwarding of that image.  A major upgrade to the primary model will include software as a medical device (SaMD) AI mole scanning within the publicly available Sklip app and is expected to be available to professionals in 2023 pending FDA Clearance. 

The Sklip App currently allows the user to anonymously communicate dermoscopy images with a dermatologist - someone that actually reads the image for evaluation and then sends an EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION REPORT back. Artificial Intelligence changes that formula.  Dermatology providers can now use this lightweight, easily connected smartphone clip-on dermatoscope.  If there is concern about how to triage the skin lesion, Sklip AI, pending FDA Clearance, would evaluate the digital dermoscopy image based on the modified three-point checklist criteria and categorize the pigmented skin lesion into a suspicious or unremarkable category in under 7 seconds. Around the United States, Sklip can be very useful to nurse practitioners and physician assistants in dermatology and primary care, particularly in rural medical settings says Mr. Greer.

"Around the United States, SKLIP can be very useful to nurse practitioners and physician assistants in dermatology and primary care, particularly in rural medical settings", says Mr. Greer. "When identifying early signs of skin cancer based on dermoscopy features, such a device shows great promise in the triage confirmation process. In the case of MELANOMA skin cancers, they're not always painful and so people are unaware that they're there. Sometimes we call them the "ugly duckling" when they pop out, but they vary in their presentation. Sometimes the smallest melanomas can be really unassuming and that's the danger with some of them.  SKLIP was specifically designed to triage pigmented skin lesions and identify early signs of melanoma.   The combination of highly accurate triage and collaboration with a surgeon and oncologist has the promise to further improve precise high quality medical care for patients.” 

*For more information on the SKLIP technology, visit: https://sklipapp.com/products/

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PRE-TREATMENT SKIN PROBE STARTS WITH "EYEBALLING"

For all clinical offices as well as the aesthetics and MediSpa community, having an easy-to-use imaging device (like SKLIP) helps to encourage pre-care or exploratory probing. "This is often where people find unexpected or unforeseen disorders", states Mary Nielsen, aesthetics trainer and enhancement expert. "When conducting any skin checkup, we are taught to be aware of any potential growths in the ear, the neck, and some of the high risk point areas on the body of our patients. People often take the health of their skin for granted... The industry is just now growing to appreciate pre-treatment scanning like ultrasound to look for any occlusions or (what we call) land mines- this step can be a real life saving protocol. Devices like SKLIP are certainly another useful tool in the toolbox for us!"

SKIN HEALTH AWARENESS FROM THE FIRE SERVICE

As OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS go, first responders carry some of the highest risks in cancer exposures due to some of the most horrible toxins incendiary compounds 'on the job'. But the real danger is the negligence and lack of awareness - especially when it comes to the #2 cancer that plagues fire rescuers: skin cancers and melanoma.  Retired Firefighter (and cancer survivor) Lt. Dave Dachinger runs a national podcast called RESPONDER RESILIENCE where he and his guests from the rescue community describes the term "SALTY" as the toxic soot from every fire call.  Enough exposure to these toxins can prove to be deadly, especially with extended contact with the skin, eyes and breathing passageways. "Where EARLY DETECTION & PREVENTION are our best defense, devices like SKLIP can greatly add to helping us identify skin anomalies, growths and potential time bombs- especially when time is of the essence!"  (see complete report)

DOCS 'DEEP DIVE' INTO MED-TECH REVIEWS
A new wave of clinically dedicated evaluations of non-invasive medical innovations are published in the 2022 HEALTH TECH REPORTER series- and the work of Dr. Roberta Kline.  Her contributions to wellness advocacy include the use of her expertise as an ObGYN in her insightful review of the ELITONE device (incontinence management).  As a clinical researcher, Dr. Kline also launched the primer report of a most inspiring strategic assessment of a Brain Optimizer/Meditation device called BRAINTAP.   Her next report is on the performance of SKLIP from both a personal and professional  performance review. "Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and the number of cases is rising dramatically. Basal cell and squamous cell cancers are the most common, but melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. When detected early, skin cancer is much easier to treat and cure." (read Dr. Kline's complete SKLIP Review)

DERM-NEWS 2022: TOXINS IN THE SKIN By: Dr. Robert L. Bard According to the CDC, DERMAL ABSORPTION happens when a chemical goes through the skin and travels into the body. Many chemicals used in the workplace or even from home (ie. pesticides and organic solvents) can wreak havoc on and under the skin, damage internal organs and also the immune system if they penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. Most efforts to address chemical hazards have been focused on breathing, digesting or drinking chemicals rather than what's being absorbed through skin. Because of this, there are far fewer methods and campaigns dedicated to assessing skin exposures to toxins - UNTIL NOW.   HEALTH ALERT: SKIN REACTIONS POTENTIALLY LINKED TO HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION Heavy metal poisoning can occur from a significant exposure to certain metals in the air, water or digested materials. Heavy metals including ARSENIC, LEAD and MERCURY are recognized to cause a wide range of health issues and even death and others. Poisoning can happen if you eat or drink something tainted with heavy metals or if you breathe in contaminated dust or fumes.  Inorganic arsenic is a confirmed carcinogen and is the most significant chemical contaminant in drinking‐water globally...and are highly toxic. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), people are exposed to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic through drinking contaminated water, food preparation and irrigation of food crops, industrial processes... and is used industrially in the processing of glass, pigments, textiles, paper, metal adhesives, wood preservatives, ammunition, and, to a limited extent, in pesticides, feed additives and pharmaceuticals. (source: http://dermalscannyc.com/)

FAQ: WHAT IS MELANOMA? 

Malignant melanoma, one of the most lethal cancers, is increasing at an alarming rate. It is the leading cause of death in women aged 20-43 years. Importantly, only 1 out of 33,000 moles are malignant and sonography may prevent unnecessary biopsies. The chance of aggression is related to the tumor depth. Tumors less than 1 mm are often cured by biopsy. Disease greater in penetration is readily imaged by 3D Volumetric probes and non-palpable foci of tumor extension or lymph node (glands) involvement are visible in the scanned area. The metastatic potential is measured by the 3D Doppler study and follow up of distant tumor spread may be correlated with serial sonography. Some invasive surgical diagnostic procedures may be avoided by using high resolution imaging since scans detect tumor nests as small as 2 mm in the lymph nodes. This means that a sonogram guided needle biopsy may avoid the necessity of a massive radical operative dissection of otherwise healthy tissues. (See complete review on all Skin Cancers)

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Nutrition & the Skin: Choosing the Path of a Certified Nutritionist

By: Mary Nielsen

The skin performs incredibly complex and vital functions for survival. It’s the first line of defense in protecting the body from infection, allergens, and irritants. Secretions of sebum keep the skin soft, supple, moisturized and hydrated. Touch receptors affect our ability to feel pressure, pain and pleasure. The skin’s surface absorbs whatever is applied to it and an exchange of oxygen occurs through the superficial capillaries of the circulatory system. The skin also synthesizes Vitamin D through the absorption of ultraviolet light.

  Although we’ve intuitively known this, there is now mounting scientific research that the relationship between a person’s overall health and what their skin reveals is strongly connected. For the skin to function optimally, it needs the right nutrients. There are vitamins, minerals, amino acids, proteins and more that specifically nourish the skin and regulate the release of hormones and enzymes that optimize its functions. And, all of this is tied to how our individualized DNA affects skin aging, moisture levels, UV reactions, and collagen production, for example. 

Rosacea is a baffling skin condition, characterized by skin redness, sensitivity, acne-like papules and pustules, that can progress to a condition called rhinophyma, an overgrowth of tissue on the nose or even affect the eyes. It has a genetic component and is often seen in people of Nordic descent. People who have an infectious process due to the h.pylori bacteria, which can cause stomach ulcers, are often prescribed a medication, defined as a proton pump inhibitor. This is the same medication people take for acid-reflux. Uniquely, people who have rosacea and acid-reflux who are prescribed medication for their acid-reflux notice an improvement in their rosacea symptoms. New recommendations for treating rosacea include having the client take a proton pump inhibitor, intended to reduce acid-reflux.  Once I read about this study, I was hooked! The connection between the gut and the skin is undeniable. 

There is a protein growth hormone called Brain-Derived-Neurotrophic Factor, or BDNF, that functions in the process of learning new information and memory. Some brain disorders, like depression and Alzheimer’s Disease, have been linked to low levels of BDNF. Curcumin is the active ingredient in the spice turmeric. Multiple studies have shown that supplemental curcumin increases levels of BDNF which could lead to potential in treating these disorders.[2]

1 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29996790/#:~:text=therapy%20for%20rosacea.- ,H.,in%20the%20development%20of%20rosacea.
2 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31279955

I’m a late bloomer and an early adapter. That’s why I’ve decided to add to my skillset and become a certified nutritionist. I was in my 40’s when I decided to chuck the nursing career and attend esthetics school. Despite an initial substantial income loss, following my heart and my gut is a decision I have never regretted. I was in my 50’s when I decided to jump into the deep end of the entrepreneur pool. My successful medspa transitioned into owning an esthetics school and empowering others to success in their career passions. And, now in my mid-60’s, I’ve enrolled in an online college program that will guide me to a stronger understanding of nutrition, hormones and DNA. And I plan to build that knowledge into a stronger esthetics program because I believe that an understanding of the connectedness of our skin to every other function in our body is the future of professional skincare. 

So, I am confident that getting certified in nutrition is going to create a stronger esthetics program. Skincare professionals need to have a knowledge of nutrition and I want to create a protocol for a skincare consultation that includes probing deeper into our clients’ genetics and diets and creating individualized treatment plans based on that data.  I don’t believe esthetics education is about beauty. Its about health. Nutrition plays a significant role in homeostasis in our bodies. When our bodies are out of balance, it is evident in the skin. The truth is that we are what we eat!

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CONTRIBUTORS

LESLIE VALLE MONTOYA (Integrative Functional Medicine) - After medical school, Dr. Montoya focused on managing chronic disease starting with its links to poor nutrition and then introducing them into the world of energy frequencies.  She expanded her training in biological medicine at the Swiss Biological Medicine Academy (Switzerland) where she combined this with the nutritional aspect. Dr. Montoya supports the enaction of lifestyle medicine as part of her comprehensive programs including those specific for cancer patients- mostly based on the emotional and nutritional components of cancer.  She explores and includes non-invasive modalities such as: frequency therapies (including biofeedback), PEMF, proper detoxification, nutritional guidance and binaural beats as needed.

MARY NIELSEN (Founder/ Faculty Director - Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics) - Mary established and manages a certified aesthetics institution in Portland Oregon supporting the academic leadership and technical ability to grow a med spa profitably. Through collaborative relationships with evolving aesthetics business, her programs (Fearless Beauties and Cascade Aesthetic Alliance) functions to help the esthetician, whether newly licensed or a veteran with education and networking. She is also a published author of best selling textbooks in aesthetic wellness including ADVANCED AESETHETICS and FEARLESS BEAUTIES. Mary is dedicated to bringing change to the esthetics/beauty industry through comprehensive education and empowerment through knowledge.  

ROBERT L. BARD, MD  (Diagnostic Imaging Specialist) - Having paved the way for the study of various cancers both clinically and academically, Dr. Robert Bard co-founded the 9/11 CancerScan program to bring additional diagnostic support to all first responders from Ground Zero. His main practice in midtown, NYC (Bard Diagnostic Imaging- www.CancerScan.com) uses the latest in digital Imaging technology has been also used to help guide biopsies and in many cases, even replicate much of the same reports of a clinical invasive biopsy. His most recent program is dedicated to the reporting of mental health diagnostic and innovative solutions including the use of modern neuromagnetic technologies and protocols in his MEDTECH REVIEWS program. 

BOBBI KLINE, MD (Educational Dir. /Women's Diagnostic Group) - Dr. Kline is a board-certified ObGyn physician, Integrative Personalized Medicine expert, consultant, author, and educator whose mission is to change how we approach health and deliver healthcare. She helped to create the Integrative & Functional Medicine program for a family practice residency, has consulted with Sodexo to implement the first personalized nutrition menu for healthcare facilities, and serves as Education Director for several organizations including the Women’s Diagnostic Health Network, Mommies on a Mission. 

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