PDS… unveils a new P. A. G. E. - Philippine Dermatological ...

To my dear colleagues,

It is an unbelievable honor to be the President of the Philippine Dermatological Society. Often times I always ask why I find myself in these

situations. Going back to a little history of my life, I also asked the same question when I found myself being interviewed as a candidate to assume the post of Chairman of the Department of Dermatology of Makati Medical Center.

In my life as a professional, things just land on my lap, responsibilities that I did not even dream would occupy my professional career. But I do not back out from a challenge and served as MMC Dept of Dermatology Chair for 9.5 years. I did not back out at the formidable challenge of being the President of PDS because I believe, that if you put yourself at the foot of the ladder of your priorities, and elevate to the summit the goals for the common good for everyone, things simply fall into place. In other words, be selfless.

I will admit, the reluctance in me as a greenhorn board member, matured and grew with the society and I simply just have a love affair now with the PDS. The PDS now occupies a place in my heart and has put meaning in my professional career.I would now like to present my roadmap for the next 2 years…

PDS… unveils a new P. A. G. E.

P is for Professionalism

Professionalism can be expressed by a physician’s commitment to continuously self-assess and improve the quality of the care provided.

How to achieve this:

1. Professionalize PDS by increasing the number of board certified dermatologists. Let us be bold enough to take the challenge of setting up training institutions to be scattered all over the country. I challenge our chapters with hospitals, particularly government institutions to start training programs. As you produce graduates who would return and share their skills in your own locales, you put more dots on the Philippine map representing professional, astute PDS dermatologists. Our ultimate goal would be to minimize the number of those who fail to get into residency programs.

2. With several training institutions particularly in the provinces, let us form a link of consortiums so that the weaknesses of the training programs can be supplemented by the strengths of the others.

3. Amend the constitution appropriately to enable it to be attuned to the

changes that have unfolded over the past few years.

4. Update and invigorate our Code of Ethics which will embolden instead of discourage our members to go public and have confidence instead of fear and retraction.

5. Reorganize the Board of Examiners – as the certifying body of our profession, the Board of Examiners should continue to have impeccable integrity and the board examinations must be aligned with international standards.

6. Develop and fund fellowship programs starting with subspecialties with existing strong footholds to give equal opportunities to those who are unable to go abroad.

A is for Advancement

1. Let us AUTOMATE

- Automate payment of annual dues- Automate payment of registration- Automate the annual convention

attendance- Streamline the secretariat to make it

a more effective organization in itself by adapting faster efficacious working methods

2. Let us maximize the power of our website and make it the repository of valuable messages and articles including our online JPDS and SkinContact with the ultimate goal of making them accessible in popular and intellectual search engines in the Asian region and worldwide.

President’s Message

Turn to page 2

PDS… unveils a new P. A. G. E.and a new President

Ma. Purita G. Paz-Lao, MD, FPDS

G is Give back

1. GIVE BACK – all of us are taking care of PDS. Let PDS take care of you now. We have members who are alone, one or very few in their provinces – Surigao…Zamboanga…Romblon…Batanes…Palawan… I want to know all of you. We shall formulate activities, funded by PDS to enable you to form bigger groups so you can all benefit from these, be visible and actively interacting with each other in your own locals

2. Modest Financial aids – to institutions needing additional funding for training programs and post graduate courses.

3. To appropriate modest budgets for the committees working for the upgrade of PDS services to further improve and expedite results.

4. I have been in preliminary talks with government officials and have plans of one yearly well-organized medical expedition in areas identified as having a big population of countrymen with skin diseases. This would be in conjunction with local officials who can provide adequate logistics and manpower.

5. In areas where it is only feasible to have a small community of dermatologists, not enough to form a chapter, start an association or a league which can be called an auxiliary or a satellite cluster of one the 4 main chapters. PDS will help you start.

E is enhance

1. Telemedicine – Through the wonders of telemedicine we can eventually target far flung provinces. This can very well be planned events or incorporated with the LEAPS and CMEs. Groups of dermatologists in provinces can

unite together to present cases, advise treatment, hold seminars and workshops. The nucleus will be the expertise of Manila based colleagues bridging the gaps brought about by our country’s architecture and sharing knowledge and skills.

2. Upgrade the accreditation process to traverse the process of application and approval

3. Regional and Global presence

- accept invitations to share in Asian conventions

- actively participate in programs offered by the AAD to Asian countries

- encourage residents to regularly submit abstracts, papers, posters to international conventions

- maybe we can start to consider if it’s feasible and safe to send a contingent of PDS derm in times of calamities within the Asian region

4. Develop the youth of the PDS thru formation of mentorship and leadership seminars with the ultimate goal of making them evolve into our leaders of tomorrow

Can we do this?? Of course we can.

I have identified 8 important plans from all these and have targeted completion or good implementation of all of these 8 plans in 100 days. My report shall come in the next 100 days.

Join me and let us all move forward with solidarity and sacrifice….

Your President,

Peachy

PDS… unveils a new P. A. G. E.and a new President

President’s Message

Continued from page 1

I have identified 8 important plans from

all these and have targeted

completion or good

implementation of all of these 8 plans in 100

days. My report shall come in the next 100

days.

Join me and let us all move forward with solidarity and

sacrifice….

2

From theBoardroom

REGIONAL CHAPTERSMa. Christina T. Javier, MD

Central Luzon Chapter President

Faith B. Kishi Generao, MD Northern Luzon Chapter President Lizelle Joselyn Lira Buenafe, MD Southern Luzon Chapter President

Divina Dy Prieto Go, MD Southern Philippines Chapter President

ANNUAL CONVENTIONFrancisco D. Rivera IV, MD

BOARD OF EXAMINERSCindy Jao Tan, MD - Chair

Edna A. Baello, MDMa. Angela T. Cumagun, MDGeorgina C. Pastorfide, MD

Noemie S. Ramos, MDPatricia T. Tinio, MD

Mia Angela C. Versoza, MD

BOARD OF ACCREDITATIONGuia R. Avecilla, MD

MonitoringJacqueline M. Cua MD

PlanningValerie F. Herbosa, MD

HUMAN RESOURCE GROUPMaria Jasmin J. Jamora, MD

EthicsJamie P. Nuñez, MD

MembershipChristene Pearl F. Arandia, MD

Membership AssistanceFrancisco D. Rivera IV, MD

SocialsSharon O. Lim, MD

Human Resource Development/yPDSIrene Gaile R. Vitas, MD

ACADEMIC CLUSTERNancy Garcia-Tan, MD

CMEChittina De Ocampo-Santiago, MD

SubspecialtiesNancy Garcia-Tan, MD

Contact Dermatitis and Environmental DermatologyMa. Angela T. Cumagun, MD

DermatopathologyGeorgina C. Pastorfide, MD

Dermatologic SurgeryStephen F. Lacson, MDImmunodermatologyEvelyn R. Gonzaga MD

Laser SurgeryBeatriz G. Carpo, MD

Corinne Mae Tiu-Dy, MDLeprosy

Ma. Teresita G. Gabriel, MD Benedict DL. Carpio, MDPediatric Dermatology

Marie Eleanore O. Nicolas MDPhotodermatologyPatricia T. Tinio, MD

Sexually Transmitted InfectionsGilbert C. Yang, MD

Roberto Antonio B. Pascual, MD

ResearchCamille B. Angeles, MD

Health Information & Disease Registry System (HIS)

Vanessa M. Carpio, MDLily Lyralin Laconico-Tumalad, MD

ADMINISTRATIVE CLUSTER

SecretariatMary Charmaine G. Castillo MD

Regional ChaptersBlossom T. Chan, MD

COMMUNICATION CLUSTER

Claudine Rae L. Javier, MDPublic Relations & External Affairs

Zharlah G. Flores, MDPublications & Library

Wilsie S. Walinsundin, MDWebsite/Social Media

Clarisse G. Mendoza, MDJPDS

Johannes F. Dayrit, MDSkin Safety CampaignNoemie S. Ramos, MD

Newsletter/SkinContactAenelle B. Dizon MD

SERVICE CLUSTER

Lonabel A. Encarnacion, MDOutreach

Nelizza Beatriz V. Jiao, MDSkinweek

Julie W. Pabico, MD

LEGAL CLUSTER

Legal AffairsArnold C. Yu, MD

Constitution & By-LawsRosalina E. Nadela, MD - ChairMa. Teresita G. Gabriel, MDMa. Angela M. Lavadia, MD

Maria Juliet E. Macarayo, MD

Truth in Commercial Product Advertising

Maria Pilar L. Leuenberger, MDSafe & Competent Practice

of DermatologyMaria Pilar L. Leuenberger, MD

Ad Hoc Committee on Physicians Act & External Affairs

Roberto Antonio B. Pascual, MDRelative Unit Values,

Philhealth, HMOsAbelaine Venida-Tablizo, MD

OTHER TASK FORCES

Ad Hoc Committee on InfrastructureFrancisco D. Rivera IV, MD Ma. Purita G. Paz-Lao MDClaudine Rae Javier, MD

Sunshine CommitteeMa. Teresita G. Gabriel, MD

Rosalina E. Nadela, MDMa. Purita G. Paz-Lao, MDFrancisco D. Rivera IV, MD

Cecilia R. Rosete, MDRoberto Antonio B. Pascual, MD

Board of Directors: (standing left to right) Claudine Rae L. Javier, MD, Arnold C. Yu, MD, Lonabel A. Encarnacion, MD, Nancy Garcia-Tan, MD, Maria Jasmin J. Jamora, MD, Blossom T. Chan, MD, Camille B. Angeles, MD. Officers: (Sitting left to right) Cecilia R. Rosete, MD, Ma. Angela M. Lavadia, MD, Ma. Purita G. Paz - Lao, MD, Mary Charmaine G. Castillo, MD, Francisco D. Rivera IV, MD

Organizational Structure 2019-2020

PDS Officers & Board of Directors 2019-2020President

Vice-PresidentSecretaryTreasurer

Directors

Immediate Past President

Ma. Purita G. Paz-Lao, MDFrancisco D. Rivera IV, MDMary Charmaine G. Castillo, MDCecilia R. Rosete, MD

Camille B. Angeles, MD Blossom T. Chan, MDLonabel A. Encarnacion, MDMaria Jasmin J. Jamora, MDClaudine Rae L. Javier, MDNancy Garcia-Tan, MDArnold C. Yu, MD

Ma. Angela M. Lavadia, MD

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From theBoardroom

From theBoardroom

5

PDS Chapter Officers 2019-2020

North Luzon ChapterFaith Kishi Generao, MD (Baguio City)Geraldine Ruth Cadacio, MD (Ilocos Sur)Louella Bascos, MD (Isabela)Marivic Florendo, MD (Cagayan)Liza Marie Paz-Tan, MD (Ilocos Norte)

Maximin Navarro, MD (Isabela)Cheryl Arevalo, MD (Nueva Viscaya)Gladys Maxima Rayos, MD (Pangasinan)Pamela Jane Go, MD (Pangasinan)Liberty Sumilang, MD (Pangasinan)

President:Vice President:

Secretary:Treasurer:


Board of Directors:

Central Luzon ChapterMa. Christina L. Tanciangco-Javier, MDVeronica D. Panganiban, MDLoreta David-Filoteo, MDMelody Lim-Ong, MDRoberto M. Manlapig, MD

Katrina M. Ayson, MDLorelei N. Baluyut, MDStephanie P. De Leon, MDSuzein Diano-Manalo, MDJocelyn Priela-Pizarro, MD




Board of Directors:

Divina D.P. Go, MDMarie Antoinette F. Cabahug, MDMaritess N. Custodio, MDAngeli S. Garcia, MDMarilou J. Ong, MD

Karen Lee P. Alabado, MDMaria Henedina E. Belicina, MDMa. Pacita S. Belisario, MDElvie A. Dofitas, MDDebbie G. Villanueva, MD

Southern Philippines ChapterPresident:

Vice President:Secretary:Treasurer:


Board of Directors:



Provincial Representatives:

Provincial Representatives:

Immediate Past President:

South Luzon ChapterLizelle Joselyn Lira Buenafe, MDRaul Olveda Ojeda, Jr., MDMariliza G. Javalera-Echivarre, MDTheresa Tumanggil Polintan, MD

Florence Ruiz Buenaventura, MD (Batangas)Ma. Lourdes Cruz Sarmiento, MD (Bicol)Cleopatra Patricia G. Guieb, MD (Cavite)Jeni Maunahan Pua, MD (Laguna)Ma. Theresa Agaab Carmona, MD (Quezon)

Anna Lou Castro Diaz, MDMa. Asuncion Prieto Quimlat, MD

Ma. Michellende Dolores G. Gatchalian, MD

6

DATE PDS ACTIVITIES DATE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES JANUARY 4-6 (Fri-Sun) Banaue Medical Mission 30 (Wed) CME by MMC/Research: “Oral Mucosal Medicine”, MMC Medical Auditorium

FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 21 (Thu) PDS Bigay-Puso, Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital 15-16 (Fri-Sat) 2nd Asian Eczema Masterclass, Shangri-La Fort 24 (Sun) Northern Luzon Chapter Skin Fair, Robinsons Place Tuguegarao 27 (Wed) CME by UST/PediaDerm: “Pedagogy-Role of the Dermatologist in the Health Delivery Network” UST Auditorium 28 (Thu) Test Construction Workshop

MARCH MARCH 14-15 (Thu-Fri) UST Postgraduate Course - “Synergy:Integrating Medical and Aesthetic Dermatology” 01-05 (Fri-Tue) 77th AAD Annual Meeting, Walter E. Washington UST CME Auditorium Convention Center, Washington, DC 20 (Wed) Southern Luzon Chapter LEAP, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa 18-20 (Mon-Wed) Dubai Derma 2019, Dubai International 27 (Wed) CME by EAMC/Photodermatology: “Paint me a Picture: A Picturesque Synapse of the Skin and Mind”, Lung Center of the Philippines 29 (Friday) Southern Philippines Chapter CME: “Dermatology & B-yond Beauty and Brains”, Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City 30 (Saturday) Southern Philippines Chapter LEAP, Davao CME, Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City APRIL APRIL 10 (Wed) SLMC Postgraduate Course - “Dermillennium: The In In Skin”, Henry Sy, Sr. Auditorium, SLMC-Global City 24 (Wed) CME by UP-PGH/Leprosy: “Dermatologic Emergencies, Primary Care, Health Economics, Philhealth”, Small Webcast Venue 26-28 (Fri-Sun) Central Luzon Chapter Midyear Convention : “From the Dermauthority: The Skinny Naked Truth”, Subic Bay Traveler’s Hotel

MAY MAY 8 (Wed) UP-PGH Postgraduate Course - “NOW: Connecting the Timeless and Timely in Dermatology”, 10-12 (Fri-Sun) Aesthetic Medicine World Congress Asia (AMWC)- Makati Diamond Residences Taiwan Dermatology Aesthetic Conference 5-8 (Sun-Wed) PCP Convention, SMX (TDAC), Taipei 14-17 (Tue-Fri) 112th PMA Annual Convention 2019, Davao 25-26 (Sat-Sun) Dermpath Review Course 29 (Wed) CME by SCFI/Dermsurg + Acne: “Medicolegal cases/laws and Medical Jurisprudence” SLMC Global City

JUNE JUNE 26 (Wed) CME by RITM/Immunoderm: “Relevant Government Requirements when 10-15 (Mon-Sat) 24th World Congress of Dermatology, Milan, Italy Starting and Maintaining a Practice”, RITM Meeting Room 27 (Thu) SCFI Postgraduate Course- “Skintegrate! Combine Therapies for Aesthetic Harmony”, Makati Diamond Residences 30 (Sun) Central Luzon Chapter LEAP, Park Inn Angeles

JULY JULY 5 (Fri) JRRMMC Postgraduate Course- “The Erudite: Strengthening Foundations in 25-28 Summer AAD – New York Medical and Aesthetic Dermatology”, Crowne Plaza Hotel 7 (Sun) PDS Board Exams (Written, Practical, Dermpath) 11 (Thu) UERMMMCI Postgraduate Course - “Headline: Dermatology”, Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas 14 (Sun) PDS Board Exams (Oral) 21 (Sun) Northern Luzon Chapter LEAP, Holiday Inn, Baguio 28 (Sun) Southern Philippines Chapter Skin Fair, Tacloban City 31 (Wed) CME by SLMC/Laser: “Governance, Leadership, Team-approach OR”, SLMC Global City

AUGUST AUGUST 09 (Fri) EAMC Postgraduate Course - “skINTELLECT: Focused Sessions on Skin, Hair, Nails, Procedures, and Beyond”, Luxent Hotel, QC 22 (Thu) South Luzon Chapter Skin Fair, Legaspi City 22-23 (Thu-Fri) RITM Postgraduate Course - “Skinology: Up Close and Personal (Real World Experiences in Dermatology)”, Bellevue Hotel, Alabang 28 (Wed) CME by OMMC/STI: “Art of Medicine Gender Sensitivity”, OMMC Meeting Room

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 01 (Sun) Central Luzon Chapter Skin Fair, Bataan 10-13 (Tue-Fri) 20th International Leprosy Congress in Manila 06 (Fri) SPMC Postgraduate Course - “Metamorphoskin: Skin Changes Across the Span of Time”, Garden Oasis, Davao City 22 (Sun) Southern Philippines Chapter Skin Fair, Butuan City 25 (Wed) CME by JRRMMC/Dermpath: “Dermatoses in Pregnancy, Value Education and Discernment, Medical Ethics”; Quiz Bee, Wack Wack GCC 26-29 (Thu-Sun) 40th Annual Meeting, International Society for Dermatologic Surgery, EDSA Shangri-la, Manila OCTOBER OCTOBER 03 (Thu) PDS Induction 9-13 28th EADV Congress, Madrid, Spain 09 (Wed) MMC Post Grad - “Multifaceted Dermalogy: A Current Holistic Approach”, Makati Diamond Residences 23 (Wed) CME by UERM/Contact derm: “Public Health and Health Policy Issues”, small venue 27 (Sun) Psorwalk

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 05-07 (Tue-Thu) PDS 42nd Annual Convention, in cooperation with the ASPCR: “Kaleidoscope of Pigmentary Disorders”, EDSA Shangri-la Hotel 17 (Sun) South Luzon Chapter Skin Fair, Laguna or Lucena

2019 PDS CALENDAR OF ACTIVITIESFrom theBoardroom

A strategic planning workshop was held last January 17, 2019 at Crowne Plaza Hotel participated by the PDS officers and Board members, Heads of clusters, committees, regional chapters and subspecialty groups. Mr Alex Salud conducted several group activities which helped in the

discovery of the different personalities of the PDS members present and made them understand how to work better with each other.

Our newly elected PDS president Dr. Peachy Lao presented her “DREAM” for PDS legacy by 2020 by unveiling her P.A.G.E. which stands for Professionalism, Advancement, Give back, Enhance. She shared her plans and targeted implementation or completion of some of these in 100 days. To help her achieve these goals, the different clusters were grouped accordingly which led to a very productive afternoon of presenting programs, action plans and targeted timelines. We are all looking forward and excited for the president’s DREAM for our beloved PDS.

by Dr. Aenelle B. Dizon, FPDS

PDS President Dr. Peachy Lao sharing herDREAMs and plans for PDS 2019-2020

Strategic planning 2019 unveiling P.A.G.E.

Mr. Alex Salud conducting Strategic Planning Workshop

From theBoardroom

7

GLUTATHIONE PRODUCTS AS SKIN WHITENING AGENTS: THE PHILIPPINE SITUATION

Glutathione supplements were developed originally as nutritional support for patients with illness (ex. high oxidative stress states) and presumably depleted glutathione levels in their tissues.

In the Philippines, the use of glutathione products for skin whitening is widespread, with unregulated nonstandardized dosages of systemic (oral and intravenous) preparations despite the disapproval of the Philippine Food and Drug Administration of glutathione as a skin lightening agent and the release of extensive public warnings and advisories. The glutathione “whitening” hype is intensified by marketing strategies of pharmaceutical companies, rampant advertising in print, TV, radio and the internet, unregulated proliferation of glutathione spa and drip clinics, and accessible online availability of glutathione products. Sadly, these preparations can be obtained without a medical prescription and are being injected even without a physician’s supervision.14

In the study done by Dofitas et al, an extensive online search for glutathione distributors from February to March 2008 was done to find out claims on the efficacy and safety of glutathione-containing supplements or IV glutathione and a comprehensive search of electronic databases were surveyed to September 2008 for any human clinical trials or reports of adverse events. This study reported that the Philippines has the widest variety of brand names of glutathione supplements with the most commonly reported beneficial effect of skin whitening.15 There had been an increase in the number of reported brands of intravenous glutathione, which has increased from 2008 with 2 injectable glutathione products16 to 42 IV glutathione brands and 30 brands of glutathione intravenous drips based on an extensive online search as of October 2018.

Glutathione intravenous drips are a combination high dose of glutathione, antioxidants and amino acids which claimed to lighten the skin and boost immunity.

Alolod and Dofitas et al in their unpublished systematic review showed the following results (a) that glutathione infusion has vasodilatory effects in the coronary circulation; (b) that glutathione supplementation has a potential for pharmacologic application in the prevention of diabetes in healthy subjects; (c) that it can be used in other obstructive airway diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease because of significant peak flow improvement associated with glutathione inhalation; (d) that large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm and verify claims of the effect of glutathione on the skin due to limited evidence available in the literature; and (e) that glutathione can also be used as a neuroprotectant, although its role in neurodegenerative diseases has yet to be proven.16

MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS ADVISORY

Davids et al (2016) conducted a MEDLINE search (to September 2015) of glutathione-containing products used for skin lightening, including 2 systematic reviews of IV glutathione used for preventing chemo induced toxicity- 9 RCT’s identified from two systematic reviews identifying IV glutathione’s use to reduce chemotherapy-induced toxicity (6 cisplatin, 2 axaliplatin, 1 platinum) – neuropathy, improved depression, emesis, neurotoxicity, hair loss, shortness of breath and 1 clinical trial for its use as an adjuvant therapy for Parkinson’s disease.5

The indications approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India are: 1)alcoholic fatty liver, 2) alcoholic liver fibrosis 3) alcoholic liver cirrhosis and 4) alcoholic hepatitis. The Philippine FDA has approved its use as an adjunctive treatment to reduce neurotoxicity associated with platinum chemotherapy.2

Prescribing indications for glutathione-containing products among Filipino dermatologists, members of the Philippine Dermatological Society, were reported in the cross sectional survey of Asuncion et al, Filipino Dermatologists 202/852 (23.70%), majority from the Luzon region (78.7%), predominantly female (92%) and mostly in private practice (83%).7

• One hundred forty three (143) of the 202 respondents (70.8%) have prescribed glutathione-containing products and among these respondents, adverse drug events were observed in 49 patients.

o Prescribing indications for Glutathione were mostly for skin whitening (34%), skin rejuvenation (25%), pigmentary disorders (20%) and disease conditions (10%). Inflammatory disease conditions indicated for glutathione use were mostly for atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and liver disease (fatty liver or elevated liver enzymes).

o Fifty-nine dermatologists (29.2%) did not prescribe glutathione-containing products. Majority of the non-prescribers (n=49) cited lack of evidence-based studies that affirm glutathione supplementation effects of lightening skin, anti-aging and anti-oxidant effects. Other common reasons were: reluctance due to the side effects that it can cause (n=17) and some did not believe in its beneficial effects (n=12).

EVIDENCE OF IV GLUTATHIONE’S EFFICACY AS A SKIN WHITENER: INSUFFICIENT

At present, there is insufficient evidence supporting the efficacy of intravenous glutathione in skin lightening further flawed by associated adverse effects. Indeterminate dose and duration of intravenous injections, preparations such as intravenous glutathione drips giving glutathione dosages at high doses at a

by Glutathione Advisory Committee 2018Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, FPDS, Dr. Eleonor B. Asuncion, FPDS and Dr. Ma. Katrina Carmina Nisce-Anisco, FPDS

Glutathione as a “Skin Whitening” Agent

8

From theBoardroom

Turn to page 8

From theBoardroom

9

given time, has insufficient evidenced-based studies regarding its treatment effects and safety profile.3

AN EVIDENCE-UPDATE ON GLUTATHIONE AS A SKIN-LIGHTENING AGENT

IMPORTANT POINTS OF THE CURRENT EVIDENCE ON EFFICACY (Table 1):3-7, 18-22

There are no high-quality human clinical trials and no convincing evidence to support claims of skin whitening due to glutathione-containing products.3

• All clinical trials had small sample sizes with methodological issues on investigator and patientreported outcome measurement and risk of bias issues such as randomization, allocation concealment, blinding of participants, providers and outcome assessors, attrition bias and other biases such as potential conflict of interest.3

IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATIONS:

Recommendations for larger studies that are needed to assess efficacy and safety of topical, oral and intravenous glutathione for skin whitening.

a. With emphasis on future research addressing issues on randomization, allocation concealment and blinding, attrition rates, identification, control and documentation of variables, choice of comparators and length of time for intervention and monitoring.3

b. Superiority trials comparing glutathione products with placebo or vehicle are needed to establish efficacy i.e. head to head studies with established skin lighteners (e.g. hydroquinone) or methods of sun-protection (e.g. sunscreen use).3

c. There is also a need for validated objective and subjective outcome measurements. Validated methods for investigator and patient-assessed skin whitening provide measurements for skin color change visible to the naked eye should be developed.3

In summary, more randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials with larger sample size, long-term follow-up and well-defined efficacy outcomes are warranted to establish the relevance of this compound in disorders of hyperpigmentation and skin lightening.3-5

SAFETY PROFILE OF GLUTATHIONE:

The adverse effects caused by intravenous glutathione have led the Food and Drug Administration of Philippines to issue a public warning on its use for off-label indications such as skin lightening.

May 12, 2011 – “The use of glutathione IV as a skin whitener is not approved by the FDA. The public is strongly warned to refrain from using glutathione for this purpose in light of potential harm associated with its use”11.

Pooled data from the 7 clinical trials and observational studies revealed adverse events (total 69) including muco-cutaneous effects (30 of 69 or 43%) and systemic adverse effects (39 of 69 or 57%). Majority of adverse effects were skin reactions including a moderate grade vasculitis and a severe generalized morbilliform eruption with urticarial and angioedema. The most severe systemic adverse effect was acute renal failure after 3 years of weekly intravenous glutathione. Systemic adverse reactions were mostly gastrointestinal (13 of 39 or 33%) and neurologic (13 of 39 or 33%). Other adverse effects were endocrine-metabolic (4 of 39 or 10%), nonspecific (3 of 39 or 8%), hematologic (2 of 39 or 5%), cardiac (2 of 39 or 5%), renal (1 or 39 or 2.6%).3

In the cross-sectional survey done among dermatologists prescribing glutathione in the Philippines, about 20% of the respondents experienced the occurrence of adverse events occurring in 49 patients with 51 adverse events reported, these are most commonly reported among oral preparations (50.9%) followed by intravenous preparations (40.8%).7

Transient adverse reactions were reported in a Philippine clinical trial, three (3) adverse events: one case of mild chest discomfort followed by transient headache; two cases of myalgia and “tired feeling” for two days after injection, and an increase in SGOT.22

One cross-sectional study in the Philippines, among healthy Filipino subjects, 21 to 50 years of age, taking oral or intravenous glutathione, with prevalence of abnormal thyroid function and appearance of thyroid nodules in 19 participants23.

As a topical lightening agent, glutathione preparations are very well tolerated, with the following reported adverse events: Asuncion et al reported 2/51 (3.9%) – Allergic (1) and irritant contact dermatitis (1).7 In the study by Watanabe et al – there was 1 reported whole face erythema occurring on day 2 and 3 of application with resolution even without treatment.20

Uppsala monitoring center, is a center for international scientific research that receives reports of suspected adverse reactions to medicinal products from National Centers in countries participating in the WHO pharmacovigilance network-WHO Programme for International Drug Monitoring. The information is stored in VigiBase, the WHO international database of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs), which tabulated an increasing number of reported adverse drug reactions from 1982 (2) to 2016 (654), these are from different indications of glutathione-containing products given for sick patients.8

Glutathione as a “Skin Whitening” AgentContinued from page 7

Turn to page 9

From theBoardroom

Asia is the region cited with the greatest number of ADRs reported with China having the most number of ADRs (2,218) 96.3% followed by Korea. Reported ADR’s include chest discomfort, dyspnea, chills, pruritus, nausea, rash, pyrexia, palpitations, dizziness, cough, vomiting, hyperhidrosis, flushing, hyperpyrexia, tachypnea, cardiac flutter, anaphylactic reaction, asthma, anaphylactoid reaction and headache. General disorders and administration site conditions comprise the number of ADR cases (1,019, 44.2%) followed by respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders (619, 26.9%) and the skin and subcutaneous disorders (445, 19.3%). Most commonly associated ADR count in terms of brand used are generally unknown glutathione brands.8

In summary, the safety of topical and systemic products on individuals who desire skin whitening has not been established. Test per preparation, phase 1 clinical trials, dosing studies and post-marketing surveillance are needed to address this outcome.3

ADVISORY FOR MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS REGARDING IV GLUTATHIONE USE

Members of the Medical Society/ PDS/Medical Practitioners are advised to heed the warning of the FDA for the following reasons:

1. Legal issue - For the past years, IV glutathione products have been distributed and used in the Philippines even without FDA approval. Prescribing or administering unlicensed drugs is considered illegal. Injections or IV infusions administered by non-physicians without the order of a physician is also considered illegal.

“The FDA approved indication for glutathione injection is to ameliorate some adverse reactions of patients

to Cisplatin chemotherapy. The use of glutathione assystemic skin whitening agent has no

approval from the FDA”– FDA Public Advisory March 28, 20142.

2. Patient safety issue - The quality and safety of unlicensed drugs cannot be assured. The risk of adverse events increases due to fake, adulterated or contaminated glutathione products. We also have to warn the public that the risk of harmful effects increases when non-physicians inject glutathione. Proper patient information regarding treatment options should be emphasized. Patients should be informed that IV glutathione is NOT a standard drug for lightening the skin and is currently undergoing scientific investigations regarding its effect on skin pigmentation. Patients should be properly informed about the standard treatment options, the licensed products for skin whitening and that basic sun protection measures and sun avoidance also lead to skin lightening.

3. Ethical issue and Off-label use of IV glutathione-

Physicians do have freedom to prescribe or use certain drugs for medical indications other than the FDA-approved uses. The physician should clearly inform the patient that IV glutathione is NOT a standard treatment for skin whitening. More so, the physician should also inform the patient that its efficacy and safety have yet to be established. The patient has to be thoroughly informed about the documented adverse effects of IV Glutathione.3,7 The Code of Ethics of the Philippine Dermatological Society censure the use of non BFAD approved drugs 12 this is further reinforced by the Pharmacy Law (RA 5921)10 and the FDA Act of 2009 (Section 10 RA 9711)13. Nonetheless, it is up to the physician’s discretion in the utilization any medication primarily for the patient’s greater benefit with significant consideration to their safety.

4. Pharmacovigilance and Guidelines on Reporting Health products without FDA Authorization and suspected adverse drug reactions (ADR)

o Consumers can check the registration of any health product with the FDA by visiting the FDA website – www.fda.gov.ph and reporting of unregistered, banned or illegal health products can be done by health professionals and the general public through email via [email protected]

o To report continuous sale or distribution of unregistered health products, one can email via [email protected] or contact (02)-8078275.11,13

o Health professionals are advised to be alert and report experienced side effects to any glutathione-containing product to [email protected] via the Philippine Dermatological Society and to FDA using the link for the report form: http://www.fda.gov.ph/industry-corner/downloadables/265-suspected-adverse-reaction-form or www.fda.gov.ph/adrreport-new or report through phone call at 809-5596.13

o In the interest of protecting public health and safety, physicians should not contribute to the importation, use and proliferation of unregistered non-BFAD registered products. “All establishments are hereby warned against dispensing products identified above and anyone found selling the said products will be penalized”13

IV Glutathione is a good drug with many potential use and promising benefits, however we should resolutely explore IV glutathione’s uses primarily for medical rather than cosmetic purposes and prioritize patient’s safety and welfare and constantly search for the establishment of the efficacy and safety of IV glutathione for future therapeutic use.

Glutathione as a “Skin Whitening” Agent

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Continued from page 8

From theBoardroom

REFERENCES

1. Food and Drug Administration, Center of Drug Regulation and Research. Data accessed June 2017 and October 2018. www.fda.gov.ph.

2. Food and Drug Administration. May 12, 2011. Public Advisory. https://ww2.fda.gov.ph/attachments/article/38960/Advisories_cosmetic_DOH-FDA%20Advisory%20No.%202011-004.pdf

3. Glutathione for skin whitening: A systematic review and meta-analysis (Abstract). Toledo, Ma. Socorro and Dofitas, Belen. Dept. of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, 2016 (unpublished).

4. Glutathione for skin lightening: a regnant myth or evidence-based verity? Sonthalia, Sidharth, Abhijeet K Jha… and Deepak Jakhar. Dermatol Pract Concept. 2018 Jan; 8(1): 15-21. Published online 2018 Jan 31.

5. Intravenous glutathione for skin lightening: Inadequate safety data. LM Davids, JC van Wyk, NP Khumalo - South African Medical Journal, 2016 - ajol.info

6. Efficacy of intravenous glutathione vs. placebo for skin tone lightening. Zubair S, Hafeez S, Mujtaba G. J Pak Ass Dermatol. 2016; 26:177–181.

7. Adverse effects observed by Filipino-Dermatologists among patients using glutathione containing products: an exploratory study. Asuncion, Eleonor and Dofitas, Belen. Department of Dermatology, St. Luke’s Medical Center 2011 (unpublished)

8. Upssala Monitoring Centre. Food and Drug Administration. Center of Drug Regulation and Research. Data accessed June 2017

9. Glutathione supplements and the skin: An exploratory study and review of the best current evidence. Belen L. Dofitas, Eileen Vizconde Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society. November 2008; Vol. 17 (2) : p. 98-102 (Journal)

10. Republic Act 5921. https://ww2.fda.gov.ph/attachments/article/29044/RA%205921%20-%20Pharmacy%20Law..pdf

11. Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009 Section 10 RA 9711. https://ww2.fda.gov.ph/attachments/article/69138/FC2013-008.pdf

12. The Philippine Dermatological Society Code of Ethics 2012

13. Food and Drug Administration. November 15, 2016. Public Advisory. https://ww2.fda.gov.ph/attachments/article/381213/FDA%20Advisory%20No.%202016-133.pdf

14. Glutathione, glutathione supplements, and the skin: The basic facts. Author(s): Belen Lardizabal-Dofitas Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society. May 2009; Vol. 18 ( 1 ) : p. 37-40 (Journal)

15. Glutathione supplements and the skin: An exploratory study and review of the best current evidence. Belen L. Dofitas, Eileen Vizconde Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society. November 2008; Vol. 17 (2) : p. 98-102 (Journal)

16. Effects of Glutathione Supplementation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Alolod M, Alonte A, and Dofitas B. St. Luke’s Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Metro Manila, Philippines, 2009 (unpublished).

17. CDSCO list of approved drug from 01-01-2011 to 31-12-2011. [Accessed on April 26, 2017]. http://www.cdsco.nic.in/writereaddata/LISTOF-APPROVED-DRUG-FROM-2011.pdf

18. Glutathione as an oral whitening agent: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Arjinpathana N1, Asawanonda P.J Dermatolog Treat. 2012 Apr; 23(2):97-102. doi:10.3109/09546631003801619. Epub 2010 Jun 5

19. Sriharsha M, Reddy KN, Darsini TP, Reddy KS. Glutathione as a whitening agent in the treatment of melanosis of the face. Int J Pharm Drug Res 2015; 5(1):16.

20. Skin-whitening and skin-condition-improving effects of topical oxidized glutathione: a double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial in healthy women. Watanabe F, Hashizume E, Chan GP, Kamimura A. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2014; 7:267–274. [PMC free article] [PubMed]

21. Handog EB, Datuin MS, Singzon IA. An open-label, single-arm trial of the safety and efficacy of a novel preparation of glutathione as a skin-lightening agent in Filipino women. Int J Dermatol. 2016; 55:153–157. [PubMed]

22. Intravenous Glutathione as a depigmenting agent: A pilot study on its efficacy and safety. . Katipunan, Kathleen Kwan and Villafuerte, Lilian. Journal of the Philippine Dermatological Society 2011 Nov; 20(1):37-41.

23. Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among patients taking glutathione supplementation: A crosssectional study preliminary report. Author(s): Danivic J. Ramirez, Jade C. Vergara-Villaluz, Maria Pillar Lagdameo-Leuenberger, Gabriel V. Jasul Jr., Joselynna S. Añel-Quimpo; Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine. October 2010; Vol. 48 ( 3 ) : p. 1-6 (Journal)

For the Board of Directors:

Glutathione Advisory Committee 2018

Belen L. Dofitas, MD, FPDSEleonor B. Asuncion, MD, FPDS

Ma. Katrina Carmina Nisce-Anisco, MD FPDS

Dr. Ma. Angela Medina-Lavadia, MD, FPDSPresident, Philippine Dermatological Society

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Members of the PDS Pediatric Dermatology Core GroupLeft to Right- Dr. Jennifer Aileen Ang-Tangtatco, Dr. Wilsie Salas-Walinsundin, Dr. Maria Victoria Dizon, Dr. Angela Medina-Esguerra, Dr. Donna Marie L. Sarrosa, Dr. Cindy Jao-Tan, Dr. Marie Eleonore O. Nicolas (Chair), Dr. Maria Lourdes H. Palmero, Dr. Gisella U. Adasa

Innovative learning, breakthrough knowledge springing from basic understanding and firsthand

experiences, these were few of the acquired knowledge after the recently concluded Atopic Dermatitis Summit 6.0. Galderma Philippines, in cooperation with the Philippine Dermatological Society together with the Pediatric Dermatology and Immunodermatology subspecialty core groups, embarked on a conference that discussed very relevant cutaneous conditions besetting the pediatric population. The event was even more outstanding and impressive as the summit invited an outstanding Pediatric Dermatologist from Malaysia, Dr. Leong Kin Fon. He has authored more than 20 publications internationally, as well as reference books in atopic dermatitis and Epidermolysis bullosa (EB). His knowledge and practice pearls were specially appropriate and relevant in the Philippine dermatological setting in terms of skin type, available resources and expertise in the field.

A bipartite program, the first part catered to dermatologists and discussed

Phototherapy in children (Dr. Cindy Jao-Tan, FPDS), Blistering disorders in Children (Dr. Marie Eleanore O. Nicolas, FPDS), Epidermolysis bullosa Updates (Dr. Leong Kin Fon), The Genetics of Epidermolysis Bullosa (Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-Dela Paz, FPPS) and Wound care for EB patients (Dr. Glenn Angello S. Cutiongco). This part of the program was concluded by a Case-based approach on Wound management and was facilitated by Dr. Jennifer Aileen Ang-Tangtatco, DPDS.

The second part of the summit invited dermatologists and pediatricians as audience and discussed various cutaneous diseases common in the neonate and pediatric population. Lectures on Neonatal Dermatology (Dr. Donna Marie L. Sarrosa, FPDS), Papulosquamous skin disorders (Dr. Maria Victoria C. Dizon, FPDS), Hypoallergenic Moisturizers, Skin Cleanser and Beyond (Dr. Julie Wong Pabico, FPDS) and of course Atopic Dermatitis Updates by Dr. Leong Kin Fon were among the lectures which garnered approval and kudos from the attendees. The panel discussions

were mind stimulating though very practical. Exchanges of views from both pediatricians and dermatologists were indicative of an amicable co-existence between the two specialties.

The event was filled with a plethora of topics filled with learning and abundance of information from the esteemed speakers. Indeed, it was a day filled with learning for dermatologists and pediatricians.

Dr. Leong King Fon, Pediatric Dermatologist from Malaysia, sharing

his knowledge and practice pearls on

Epidermolysis Bullosa

Members of the PDS Pediatric Dermatology Core Group

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LearningCurves

LearningCurves

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In the practice of dermatology, contact dermatitis is encountered on an almost daily basis. Despite its commonality, it is actually

a disease that requires careful consideration and critical investigation. As we see cases of contact dermatitis from unregulated products, our role as dermatologists grows from being just a doctor, but to being influencers and active players in the public health landscape. Hence, as part of the Philippine Dermatological Society’s Continuing Medical Education (CME) series, the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital, in partnership with the PDS Contact Dermatitis and Environmental Dermatology Subspecialty Core Group, conducted SAFE SKIN: Vigilance and Social Accountability in Contact Dermatitis. The CME was held at Dr. Enrique Garcia Auditorium of the Lung Center of the Philippines, on October 24, 2018. The sessions were moderated by Dr. Mae N. Ramirez-Quizon.

Dr. Ma. Lorna F. Frez, Chief of Section, opened the event on how it was going to be filled with learning and pearls for daily dermatological practice. A case presentation on allergic contact dermatitis to an unregistered topical whitening product by Dr. Jay-V James G. Barit started the program, revealing mercury and thimerosal as the offending allergens. Analysis of the product in question revealed levels of mercury 6400 times above the legal amount in our country.

Dr. Lonabel A. Encarnacion, Chief of the Environmental Dermatology Unit in St. Luke’s Quezon City, elucidated more on contact dermatitis to mercury and thimerosal as well as tips on management and surveillance. As numerous personal care products, cosmetic products, and traditional Chinese medications may contain mercury or thimerosal, it is recommended that mercury and thimerosal be added to the baseline series for Philippine patch testing for suspected allergic contact dermatitis to topical products.

Dr. Charmaine Vanessa S. Chamberlin, Dr. Jay-V James G. Barit and Dr. Mae N. Ramirez-Quizon, FPDS

UP-PGH Dermatology consultants, alumni and residents Members of the PDS Contact Dermatitis and Environmental Subspecialty Core Group

Prompting dermatologists beyond just diagnosis and management, the documenting and reporting of adverse reactions to medications was emphasized through the lecture of Dr. Ma. Angela M. Lavadia. Recently, PDS has launched a task force on skin safety and one of its projects was to advocate active reporting of side effects from topical products, especially unregistered ones, among PDS members. She went through the currently reported data to PDS, the relatively painless process of online reporting through the FDA website and vigilance as a characteristic and responsibility that distinguishes a PDS dermatologist. Everyone in the PDS community is encouraged to report all adverse reactions to medications to the FDA (https://ww2.fda.gov.ph/index.php/adrreport-new) and to email a copy of this report to PDS through [email protected].

Dr. Hanna Lucero-Orillaza, newly minted from her fellowships in environmental dermatology in the US and advanced medical dermatology in Canada, gave a thorough discussion on the global updates in contact dermatitis. Highlights included the Allergen of the Year for 2018, propylene glycol, found as a humectant, emollient and preservative for a lot of daily-use products. Other emerging allergens were surfactants (cocamidopropyl betaine, found in no-tear shampoo, soaps, and other skin care products), argan oil, and metal allergies due to implants. She also proposed a Philippine version of the US Contact Allergen Management Plan (CAMP) database which

can help patients sift through the countless products available in the market, knowing their patch test result.

The second half of the program dealt on the science and art of patch testing, heralded by Dr. Lillian Villafuerte, Chair of the Contact Dermatitis Subspecialty Core Group. At this point, seats were almost full and had 189 online attendees in the webcast, the highest so far for 2018. The basics of patch testing was covered by Dr. Clarissa V. Cellona, underscoring that patch testing is the standard of care for the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), and that patch testing should be performed in every case of chronic and/or recurrent eczema or lichenification whenever a possibility exists that ACD may be the cause or complication of the disease. This was followed by Dr. Encarnacion’s lecture on the interpretation and relevance of patch test results. Important in patch test reading is to determine whether the reaction is allergic or irritant; and if allergic, to determine relevance (whether present, past or unknown). Lastly, Dr. Heidi Chan discussed some important do’s and don’ts after knowing the patch test result, such as knowing the allergen and its cross-reactants, teaching the patient to read product labels, and so on.

A hands-on patch test workshop led by members of the core group followed, demonstrating the proper way of preparing and applying the allergens for patch testing. The fruitful afternoon was closed with words of compliments, good wishes, updates for the PDS community, and upcoming celebrations by PDS president, Dr. Angela Lavadia.

Facilitators from the Contact Dermatitis Subspecialty Core Group and participants during the patch test workshop proper

Facilitators from the Contact Dermatitis Subspecialty Core Group and participants during the patch test workshop proper

SAFE SKIN: Vigilance and Social Accountability in Contact Dermatitis

Continuing Medical Education

LearningCurves

Here are the winners of the NON-EXPERIMENTAL category:

1st: Prevalence of mucosal and cutaneous disorders among HIV/AIDS adult patients 16-80 years old seen in a tertiary hospital in Makati City Rahina Galvez, MD (MMC)

The 26th PDS Annual Residents Research Forumby Dr. Mia Angela Celis-Verzosa, FPDS

Chair, PDS Research Committee

The winners of the EXPERIMENTAL category are:

1st: A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled clinical trial of the effects of Vitamin D supplementation among diagnosed atopic dermatitis patients.

Fatima Jacinto-Calimag, MD (EAMC)

The poster winners are the following:

1st: “The Great Pox of the Fungal World” Mucocutaneous histoplasmosis in a 57-year-old HIV-negative Filipino male: A case report

Maria Vinna N. Crisostomo, MD (SPMC)

2nd: Steel magnolias: Erythemainduratum in a mother and child Brent B. Amurao, MD (UERM)

3rd: Tale of the Red Skin: Sezary Syndrome Marie Claudine Francesca B. Perlas, MD

(RITM)

The judges were very much impressed with the quality of research everyone presented. Our thanks to the judges for the experimental category: Dr. Loverne Suratos (chair), Dr. Nida Fontanilla, Dr. Cecilia Maramba. Likewise to the judges of the non experimental category: Dr. Teresa Tolosa (Chair), Dr. Spencer Watanabe and Dr. Maricel Gler. Poster judges were Dr. Alma Amado, Dr. Ethel Yu and Dr. Yohanne Luzano.

Aside from the contest, we had the E-poster category where we received a total of 108 papers. From these, there were 91 local submissions and 17 international submissions all from Indonesia.

It is truly heartwarming to see everyone supporting their fellow residents and cheering them on. Congratulations to our winners and we look forward to what 2019 will bring!

Some of the Poster Competiton entries were on display

2nd: Culture proven skin and soft tissue infections among patients admitted at a tertiary hospital from 2013-2017: A five year review Lauren Margaret Hao, MD (USTH)

2nd: The efficacy and safety of 6% gabapentin topical formulation in the treatment of pruritus in adult hemodialysis patients: a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study

Teresa Monette Aquino, MD (SCFI)

3rd: The efficacy and safety of 75% garlic (Allium sativum) lipid extract versus curettage in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum: A randomized controlled trial

Jo Faustine Manzano, MD (SPMC)

3rd: Quality of life of bullous pemphigoid patients and its association with disease severity: a 3 year single hospital study

Eunice Kaye Rayos-Lopez, MD (RITM)

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This year’s Annual Residents Research Forum took place on November 7-8, 2018 at the Marquee Tent of EDSA Shangrila Manila. It was well attended and had the five best papers of the year being presented for each category.

LearningCurves

The PDS Dermatologic Surgery Core Group successfully hosted a workshop on chemical peeling

entitled “Jumpstart Your Practice Through Chemical Peeling” last October 12, 2018 at the Unilab Hall in Mandaluyong.

The workshop highlighted practical tips and personal experiences of each speaker with an aim to help attendees, especially our younger colleagues, gain confidence in doing the different types of chemical peels.

The morning session started off with an overview of chemical peels, with the basics and need-to-know (Dr. Allan Pua) followed by practical peel techniques that can be done in the clinics (Dr. Barbara Uy) and dealing with post-peel expectations and handling possible complications (Dr. Krisinda Dim-Jamora). New and upcoming peeling techniques were elaborated as well (Drs. Ma. May Jasmin Yason and Gaile Robredo-Vitas).

Drs. Lucia Fores and Claudia Samonte gave extensive lectures on the newest peeling solutions during the lunch symposium.

The afternoon session was focused on video presentations of actual peeling procedures courtesy of Dr. Theresa Marie Cacas (Yellow Peel on Acne Patients) and Dr. Mabelle Colayco (Body Peeling).

The organizing committee (Drs. Jeanne Marie Marquez, Theresa Marie Cacas, Dell Kristie Castillejos, Charlene Ang-Tiu, Dimples Navalta) was overwhelmed with the enthusiastic support from the 147 registrants who stayed up to the very end of the workshop. Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to our supportive sponsors namely Unilab, Eiskin, D’Mark and Dermskin. Till the next workshop!!

by Dr. Dell Kristie O. Castillejos, FPDS

DERM SURGERY CORE GROUP Workshop

Members of PDS Dermatologic Surgery Core Group with guest speaker Dr. Barbara UyL-R: Dr. Stephen Lacson, Dr. Charlene Ang-Tiu, Dr. Krissy Dim-Jamora, Dr. Dimples Navalta, Dr. Barbara Uy (guest speaker), Dr. Ma. Angela Lavadia (PDS President), Dr.Jeanne Marquez,

Dr. Dell Castillejos, Dr.Jasmin Yason, Dr. Tess Ferrariz, Dr.Therese Cacas

Dr. Krissy Dim-Jamora “Handling Post-peel Expectations and Complications”

Dr. Lucia Fores“New Chemical Peeling Solutions”

Dr. Barbara Uy “Practical Peel Techniques in the Clinic”

Dr. Ma. May Jasmin Yason “Chemical Peel Applications

The workshop highlighted practical tips and personal experiences of each speaker with an aim to help attendees, especially our younger

colleagues, gain confidence in doing the different types of chemical peels.

Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas“Upcoming Trends in Chemical Peels”

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LearningCurves

The recently concluded 41st Annual Convention was a true collaboration from two long-time societal friends in

the vast world of dermatological societies, the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and the International Society of Dermatology (ISD). Aptly themed, “Conquering Diversity: Joining Forces in the Advancement of Dermatology”, the convention was held at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel last November 7-9, 2018.

WELCOME CEREMONIES, MEMORIAL LECTURE & THE SKIN MUSEUM OPENING. The Traditional March of our esteemed PDS officers and Board of Directors, Heads and Chairs of PDS institutions and PDS Chapters, marked the commencement of the convention.

The very “Welcoming” messages from the Presidents of the two societies, Dr. Ma. Angela Medina-Lavadia of the PDS and Dr. George Terry Reizner of the ISD

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41st PDs AnnuAl ConventionBy Dr. Carolina A. Carpio, FPDS

Highlights of the

Dr. Filomena Legarda-Montinola, the Perpetuo

Gutierrez Memorial lecturer

together with that of Dr. Ma. Purita Paz-Lao, Vice-president and Over-all Convention Chair, officially opened the annual conference.

“The Dermatology I Know”, delivered by this year’s Perpetuo Gutierrez Memorial Lecturer, Dr. Filomena Legarda-Montinola, enthralled the listeners, as she journeyed back in time and delighted the audience with her anecdotal experiences, memoirs and lessons learned.

The SKIN MUSEUM was also formally opened by the PDS Officers and Board Members at the SM Megamall, with the ISD Officers and international speakers bearing witness to this PDS project meant for public awareness and consumption.

CONVENTION PROPER. For three days, the delegates were immersed with a broad range of interesting topics from Male Aesthetics, Pediatric Dermatology,

Dermatologic Potpourri and Pearls and Professional Development. The society was honored by the presence of brilliant local and foreign speakers. ISD was represented not only by its President, Dr. Reizner, but also by its Executive Vice President, Dr. Marcia Ramos-e-Silva, Secretary-general, Dr. Nellie Konnikov, and Immediate Past President, Dr. Evangeline B. Handog, all of whom delivered talks on their fields of expertise. The other foreign speakers who graced our conference were Dr. Pin-Chi Chiu, Chair of the Department of Dermatology of the National Taiwan University and Dr. David Luk Chi Kang, President of the Hong Kong Paediatric Society and of the Hong Kong Paediatric & Adolescent Dermatology Society.

Our partners from the pharmaceutical industry also paved the way to several symposia on cosmetic dermatology, lasers and dermatologic surgery.

PDS Council of Advisers

(from left to right) ISD officers: Dr. Nellie Konnikov (Secretary-General), Dr. Evangeline Handog (Immediate Past President), Dr. George Reizner (President), Dr. Marcia Ramos-e-

Silva (Vice President)

PDS Training Institution Chairs

PDS Executive Committee

PDS Board of Directors

FELLOWSHIP NIGHT. A PDS Fellowship Night is a celebration not to be missed. For this year, it was another commemoration of our cultural heritage celebrated with songs, dances and local delicacies. It was indeed a feast for the senses! Delegates and guests, in their best modern Filipiniana attire, filled the entire ballroom. Multi-talented students from the Philippine High School for the Arts based in Mount Makiling, Laguna indulged everyone to a night of wonderful music and graceful balletic dances. Topping the

performances, however, were several gifted PDS members who surprised the audience with their marvelous song, dance, and instrumental numbers. This celebration marked another unforgettable comradeship among the society members and its friends.

ANOTHER BEGINNING. 2017-2018 PDS Officers and Board Members/ Chapter Officers and Board Members. The present set of leadership has paved the way for PDS to shine within

the community of local and international medical and dermatological societies. It has planted seeds that led to good harvests. It has put our society to a pedestal to be reckoned with.

With the election of the new set of officers for 2019-2020, PDS is looking forward to another term filled with good and brilliant men and women. New ideas to propel the society to new heights! New frontiers to explore and make the brilliance of PDS shine more!

Fellowship Night

LearningCurves

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The Makati Medical Center (MMC) Department of Dermatology in cooperation with the Philippines

Dermatological Society (PDS) and PDS Research Committee jumpstarted this year by hosting the first Continuing Medical Education (CME) for 2019 entitled “The Oohs and Aahs of Oral Mucosal Medicine and Professionalism & Ethics in Dermatology” last January 30, 2019 at the auditorium of Makati Medical Center.

The event was hosted by Dr. Celia Theresa Lim-Layson and began with welcome remarks by Dr. Esther C. Leynes, the head of the CME committee of the Makati Medical Center Department of Dermatology. Dr. Mary Charmaine Castillo then took the stage to introduce the different Dermatology training institutions as well as welcome the newly appointed residents of each institution.

The program proper started shortly after with Dr. Rowena F. Genuino speaking about the evolution of doing research through her presentation entitled “Navigating the digital highway: Road map for Dermatology Researchers.” She

by Dr. Philip Cedrick L. Lorena

made sure to keep the listeners up their toes as she surprised everyone with a pop quiz accessible via a QR code with a prize waiting for the lucky winner announced near the end of the program.

Afterwards, the program delved into the field of Oral Mucosal Medicine as guest speaker, Dr. Eugenio Herbosa, an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon who trained and is currently practicing in St. Louie, Missouri, USA, talked about a variety of oral mucosal membrane lesions. His lecture, entitled “Potpourri Of Oral Mucosal Membrane Lesions” provided a number of mucosal membrane pearls we, as dermatologists, should keep in mind when examining our patients.

The in-depth lecture was followed by a presentation by Dr. Claudine C. Malaca, second year resident of the MMC Department of Dermatology, of a case of a venous malformation in the oral mucosa. To emphasize how a multidisciplinary approach is ideal in the care and management of such a case, Dr. Joseph Ray Cedeño of Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Donna Marie Leelin-Sarrosa of Dermatology, and Dr. Benjamin Herbosa (with his fellow Dr. Bello filling in

for him) for Plastic Surgery gave their inputs on the case.

For the last portion of the program, Dr. Jamie P. Nuñez, a graduate of Makati Medical Center, lectured on Professionalism and Ethics in the field of Dermatology emphasizing the importance of giving respect to our patients and upholding human dignity.

Dr. Valerie Herbosa, the chair of MMC Department of Dermatology, took the stage to award the certificates to the guest speakers and thereafter, Dr. Ma. Purita “Peachy” Paz-Lao, the current President of PDS, was called to officially close the program. The entire crowd joined the MMC Dermatology residents in greeting Dr. Lao a very happy birthday, along with a colorful bouquet of flowers and cake. Dr. Peachy Lao, closed the program with warm words of gratitude to all the attendees, the consultants staffs, the residents, and everyone who made the event as fruitful and meaningful as it can be. The success of the event would surely light a fire and pave way to more engaging CME programs in the coming months.


The Oohs and Aahs of Oral Mucosal Medicine, and Professionalism & Ethics

in Dermatology

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LearningCurves

Makati Medical Center, Department of Dermatology

Members of the PDS Southern Philippines Chapter (PDS SPC) and Psoriasis Foundation of

the Philippines Inc. (PFPI) came together last October 2018 to show that psoriasis

Done the PDS Southern Philippines Chapter Way by Dr. Cecille Serrano, FPDS and Dr. Hope Valerie Solano, DPDS

Dr. Ma. Angela Lavadia supports the Psoriasis Day Event

PDS in Davao

PDS in action: Free skin clinic in Cebu

PDS in Cebu

PDS together with the Davao Regional Medical Center and Psoriasis Patients in Tagum

PDS in action: Lecture in Tagum

WORLD PSORIASIS DAY!

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TouchingLives

awareness and initiatives are flourishing in Visayas and Mindanao. Under the leadership of PDS SPC President Dr. Marilou Ong and PFPI President Dr. Victoria Guillano, World Psoriasis Day was celebrated simultaneously in 4 key cities: Cebu City in Cebu, Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental, Davao City in Davao del Norte and Tagum City in Davao del Sur.

Noteworthy events were a Psoriasis Summit for municipal health workers in Davao City, zumba dancing in Cebu with the participation of the Cebu Flakers Club, and cooperation from the Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum where a total of 157 patients were treated. All the cities had informative lectures, fun games and free clinics.

These activities reflect PDS’ continued advocacy to “Treat PSOriasis SERIOUSly.”

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This year’s theme, “PsoSerious: Treat Psoriasis Seriously, Our Lives Depend On It” aims not only to raise awareness

about psoriasis as a condition, but to also educate on the additional physical, psychological and economic burden of the disease. This campaign hopes to urge health authorities to give more attention to the treatment of psoriasis and improve access to therapies for all patients.

The day started with an early morning walk around Marikina Sports Center participated by different PDS institutions together with their PsorClub members. It was then followed by the recognition of individuals who made a special impact in the psoriasis community: Patients’ Choice Award, Doctors of the Year and Hero of the Year Awards. Other activities were Zumba

by Dr. Lily Lyralin Laconico-Tumalad, FPDS

PDS as one in Treating Psoriasis Seriously

In celebration of the World Psoriasis Day, the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) in partnership with Psoriasis Philippines (PsorPhil) once again led a memorable PSORWALK activity last October 28, 2018.

PDS leading the Psorwalk in Marikina Sports Center

The Psorclub participants Parading in their costumesPDS Residents together with Drs Peachy Lao, Ma. Angela Lavadia and Dr Teresita Gabriel

Hero of the Year Awardee: Dr Francisco Rivera and Dr. Ma. Angela Lavadia

L-R: Drs. Ma. Angela Lavadia, Teresita Gabriel, Lorna Frez, Elizabeth Tianco

exercises and exciting games participated by representatives from different institutions.

It was a day full of heartwarming recognition and solidarity. But more than our participation, may we live up to the message that this event conveys. Let us continue to support patients with psoriasis and move towards providing them better care and access to treatment. Let us treat psoriasis seriously – because lives depend on it.

Patients’ Choice Award was given to doctors whom the patients believe helped them greatly in caring for their members in their PsorClub Chapters: Dr. Samantha Nadela (RITM resident), Dr. Maria Isabel Belizario (RITM resident), Dr. Val Constatine Say Cua (UP-PGH resident), Dr. Jawn Pe Llamdo (Ospital ng Maynila resident), Dr. Natividad

Sandra Dy- Chua, FPDS (SLMC), Dr. May F. Gonzales, FPDS (Region One Medical Center, Pangasinan) and Dr. Ayan Magno (Marikina City Health Office).

Doctors of the Year Award was given to chosen doctors who helped a lot of patients and took an extra mile in taking care of them: Dr. Berrnadette Heizel Reyes (PRA Past President), Dr. Ma. Rhea Lombos-Serondo (Bacolod PDS Member) and Dr. Nina Dionisio (RMC resident).

Hero of the Year Award was given by patients to individuals who helped a lot in PsorPhil’s psoriasis advocacy: Dr. Ma. Angela Medina Lavadia, FPDS (PDS President), Dr. Francisco Rivera IV, FPDS (Chair, RMC Dept. of Dermatology) and Cong. Enrique ‘Joet’ Garcia (District 2, Bataan).

TouchingLives

True to its mandate as the DERMAuthority in the Philippines, the Philippine Dermatology Society

(PDS) in partnership with the Department of Health celebrated the 19th The National Skin Disease Detection and Prevention Week (SKINWEEK).

SKINWEEK is an annual nationwide campaign launched in November 2000 by the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS). This nationwide annual activity is mandated by the government through proclamation No. 395 issued by former Philippine President Joseph Ejercito

Estrada. And it was officially endorsed by then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo through Proclamation No 110 in 2001. Its advocacy is to uplift the skin health of Filipinos, through education and early disease detection, treatment and prevention. It was the recipient of the PMA award for Most Outstanding Project by a Specialty Society given during the Annual PMA Convention on May 29, 2016 at the Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City.

For this year, majority of the SKINWEEK clinics were held in government hospitals, barangay health centers and correctional

facilities. With the efforts of our dedicated volunteers, we had a total of 101 clinics serving an estimated 12,000 patients. It is with great pride that we report an increase in free clinics and patients served for this year. There were 54 clinics from Metro Manila, 12 from North Luzon, 6 from Central Luzon, 11 clinics from South Luzon, 7 clinics from Bicol/Visayas and 11 clinics from Mindanao.

We thank our Volunteer members for participating in this annual activity and we look forward to more members joining the SKINWEEK next year.

TouchingLives

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by Dr. Joshua A. ArcairaSecond Year Resident, Makati Medical Center

T he Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), in cooperation with the Good News Clinic and Hospital (GNCH) and the

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), held it’s 18th Annual Derm Surg Mission in Banaue, Ifugao from January 4-6, 2019

As a novice to a dermatologic surgery mission and to Banaue, my excitement went through the roof when I learned about my participation in this year’s mission. Our journey began with a grueling 12-hour drive from the traffic stricken streets of Manila to the windy roads of Banaue. We arrived in the foggy town of Tam-an just in time for dinner, where Dr. Antonio Ligot, Medical Director of GNCH and his lovely wife Mrs. Sylvia Ligot, welcomed us into their charming home. We caught up with other volunteers from PDS and colleagues from Hungary over a sumptuous meal. With our tummies full and bodies tired from the trip, we headed to our hotel to rest in preparation for the

mission following day.

Starting the day early was always a bit of a struggle living in the city, but in the mountainous “area” of Banaue, rising before the break of dawn was a breeze when you wake up with such a serene view – lush greenery, the natural beauty of the rice terraces, flowing water of from the nearby river, and the sunrise peeking through the mountain tops. After a filling breakfast, we were ready to face the task at hand: to help as many people as possible.

The mission began with an orientation and introduction by Dr. Ida Tiongco, board-certified dermatologist from the New York-Presbyterian/ Weill Cornell Medical Center and one of the founders of the mission. The volunteers were divided into two groups, the first one attending to outpatient consults and the second for day surgeries. I was included in the latter and proceeded to the operating room complex

on the second floor of the hospital. Before the procedures began, we were oriented again to the flow of surgeries and the equipment. I was first to volunteer and supervised by Dr. Johannes Dayrit, began with an excision of a pigmented dermatofibroma on the right leg of a brave young man. It was here where I learned about a pulley stitch and the Olsen-Hegar needle holder, along many other Derm Surg pearls.

Lunch followed suit and my fellow volunteers and I continued with outpatient consults in the afternoon. We were seeing patients after patients and before we knew it, the day was almost over…and the mission almost over, serving about 400 patients.

It was an exhilarating experience I will forever remember - doing my job as a dermatology resident - outside my comfort zone - but in the lush countryside of our beautiful BANAUE ! .

What better way can we begin the year than

giving back to our fellow Filipinos in a warm-

spirited medical mission?

Placing final stitches after an excision

All smiles from everyone who made this year’s Derm Surg mission possible

All smiles on day 2 of the Derm Surg missionRepresentatives from Makati Medical Center, I, together with Dr. Peachy Paz-

Lao and Dr. Corazon Mella

Bittersweet end to a wonderful mission – all the participants together with the breathtaking Banaue Rice Terraces

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22

We welcome forty new diplomates, 25 fellows, 5 life fellows and 1 life associate

as they were inducted during the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) Commitment and Induction Ceremonies. This momentous occasion was attended by the PDS Officers, members of the PDS Advisory Council, Board of Directors, Board of Examiners, and Chairs and Training Officers of the 11 PDS-accredited training institutions.

The Filipino heritage exuded this year’s Commitment and Induction Ceremony as the inductees proudly wore their Filipiniana together with the PDS Inabel Sablay as they intently listened to two inspirational speakers namely Reverend Joseph C. Mauk and Dr. Jaime Nuñez during the commitment ceremony.

The Induction Ceremony was graced by no less than the Department of Health Secretary, Dr. Francisco Duque, Philippine College of Physicians President Dr. Chad

October 11, 2018, Wack Wack Golf and Country Club, Mandaluyong City

by Dr. Christene Pearl Fernandez-Arandia, FPDS

2018 PDS Commitment and Induction:Ceremonies to Welcome the New Members

PDS Officers with newly inducted diplomates and fellows

Rey Carungin, and Philippine Medical Association President, Dr. Jose Santiago, who encouraged the diplomates and fellows to be passionate about their careers and highlighted the role of a dermatologist in our society. Dr. Rosalina E. Nadela, a past president of the society, was the inspirational speaker for that afternoon and gave an insight into her remarkable dermatologic journey. Finally, Dr. Catherine Go-Teodosio, 2018 board topnotcher, spoke on behalf of the inductees. Over-all, it was a celebration for the newly inducted diplomates and fellows’ journey to become a Board Certified Dermatologist and now their journey as a PDS Dermatologist who aims to be the recognized and respected leader in dermatology by pursuing excellence in skin health with the highest ethical standard.

Again, Congratulations to our new members!

...it was a celebration for the newly

inducted diplomates and fellows’

journey to become a Board Certified

Dermatologist and now their journey as a PDS Dermatologist

who aims to be the recognized and

respected leader in dermatology by

pursuing excellence in skin health with the highest ethical

standard

CelebratingAchievements

22


It was an evening of happy endings and new beginnings. Elegantly decked out in black and white, the Edsa

Shangri-la’s Garden Wing ballroom set the stage for the PDS’ 10th Presidential Awards Night and Induction of Officers and Board of Directors last November 28, 2018. Red rose centerpieces, candlelight, a sumptuous buffet spread, overflowing bubbly and music from the Rule’s band provided the night’s stylish yet relaxed mood. PDS dermatologists in attendance came in their elegant best – monochrome black and white outfits and gowns that were red carpet-worthy.

Amidst this celebration and glamor was great purpose - it was Dr. Ma. Angela Lavadia’s opportunity to acknowledge and thank those who contributed to her presidential term’s projects and achievements.

Dr. Lavadia gave out special Presidential Award Trophies to the PDS Board of Directors, Board of Examiners, and chairs of committees, task forces and accreditation. The training institution chairs and organizing committee for the

by Dr. Raissa Francisco-Pasion, FPDS

The 10th PDS Presidential Awards Night and Induction of Officers:

A Night of Glamor and Purpose

Outgoing president Dr. Ma. Angela Lavadia

Awarding of the Training Institution Chairs

PDS annual convention for 2017 and 2018 were also recognized. Special awards were given to Dr. Clarita C. Maaño as Esteemed Adviser for 2017-2018 and to Dr. Christene Pearl Arandia, Chair of the Membership

Committee, for her dedication and readiness to respond to the needs of PDS members. She thanked each individual for their support, sacrifice and hard work for the advancement of PDS. The outgoing president also thanked pharmaceutical and industry partners that supported her during her term.

For the second part of the evening, PMA President Dr. Jose Santiago gave his inspirational message. Together with Dr. Lavadia, he also inducted the new set of PDS Officers and Board of Directors for 2019-2020. Dr. Lavadia performed the ceremonial handing over of the PDS seal to the incoming PDS President Dr. Ma. Purita Paz-Lao. The Regional Chapter Officers for the Central Luzon, Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon and Southern Philippines chapters were also inducted. Dr. Paz-Lao gave a gracious acceptance speech- promising to continue the advancements of her predecessor‘s term and highlighting the exciting plans she has for PDS’ future. In the hands of such capable leaders, there is no doubt that PDS will continue to shine.

24


The 10th PDS Presidential Awards Night and Induction of Officers:

A Night of Glamor and Purpose

Handing over of the PDS seal from Dr. Lavadia to Dr. Paz-Lao

Dr. Lavadia presenting Dr. Maano with

her Esteemed Adviser awardDr. Lavadia presenting Dr. Arandia

with her special award

A toast from the Board of Directors for 2019-2020

Inducting the PDS Regional Chapter Officers 2019-2020

Drs. Lavadia and Lao with PMA President Dr. Jose Santiago

Elegant PDS members in attendance

All PDS Presidents - Drs. Paz-Lao, Lavadia, Nadela PDS Socials Committee - Drs. Singzon, Lim, Banate and Pasion

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Let’s Hear from Our Colleagues: Highlighting Dermatological Diseases

Dr. Luisa Ticzon Puyat, Dr. Gilbert Yang, Nina Corpuz

In one of the sought-after appearances of our esteemed Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) dermatologist-venereologist, Dr.

Gilbert Yang, the viewers of the DZMM teleradyo Reseta ni Dok @ GoodVIBES, were treated to an informative afternoon of a discussion on syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

According to Dr. Yang, syphilis has three stages – primary, secondary and tertiary. It is a bacterial infection that has an incubation period from 9-90 days from sexual contact (oral, anal or vaginal).

The primary stage of syphilis involves a painless ulcer on the genital area which may or may not be noticed or reported by the patient. If left untreated, after a few weeks, the primary stage will progress to the secondary stage of syphilis, now with a skin rash, described as non-pruritic, and more commonly seen on the palms, soles and the trunk of the patient. This must be properly managed. Again, if left untreated, the bacterial infection may reach the systemic circulation into the third stage of this disease, the tertiary stage of syphilis, which will further affect other systems, such as the

The World Leprosy Day, celebrated last January 27, 2019, focused on the stigma of the disease. To increase awareness on Leprosy,

GoodVibes ABS CBN hosts Ms. Nina Corpuz and our very own Dr. Luisa Ticzon Puyat, interviewed Dr. Abelaine Venida Tablizo, a graduate fellow in Infectious Diseases from Germany.

The interview emphasized the following key points:• Leprosy is curable.• A patient is non-infectious after finishing 1 pack

of MDT, but it is very important that a patient completes the specified number of MDT packs for complete cure.

• MDT MB is given for free in health centers and some hospitals.

• We must urge patients to go to the hospitals or centers for proper management if with signs and symptoms of leprosy.

• Stigma exists. That is why we must be aware.• Together we can achieve a #zeroleprosyph.

Dr. Luisa Ticzon Puyat, Dr.Abelaine Venida Tablizo, Nina Corpuz and Ally Venida Tablizo

Member’s In The News

The Basics of Syphilisby Dr. Nicole Therese A. Laluces

At present, syphilis is considered to be one of the most common STIs seen among Filipinos. Dr. Yang encourages all to be vigilant in identifying the very early symptoms to avoid further complications of this illness.

Dr. Gilbert Yang is the head of the STI Committee of the Philippine Dermatological Society.

cardiovascular and the neurologic.

Dr. Yang advised any person who may identify early symptoms of syphilis to come and get treated. This infection is easily curable with antibiotic injections. Of late, the incidence of patients reaching tertiary syphilis has already declined and it is uncommon to reach this stage of the disease without seeking treatment.

Leprosy: The Stigma of the Diseaseby Dr. Abelaine Venida Tablizo, FPDS

26

Member’s In The News

Announcements

27

In this age of digital revolution, a common denominator for an organization’s success is its ability to adapt. As we usher PDS into the digital age, we welcome 2019 with Skin Contact’s first all digital issue.

We hope that you will continue to journey with us as we aim to keep PDS members connected and informed about the latest developments and events in our society.

We would love to hear from you, our dear readers! What would you like to read more (or less of) in SkinContact? Would personal interest stories or experiences from our members be of interest to you? Please let me [email protected] or Dr. Aenelle [email protected] know your thoughts.

- Raissa

PDS and SKIN CONTACT...moving forward and evolving!!It is of great pleasure to share the exciting news that SKIN CONTACT newsletter

is moving from a printed to digital publishing. This transition will definitely help us to have easy access to our newsletter anytime thru our website at pds.org.ph

Skin Contact remains to be the chronicle of our society’s events and achievements and it is our aim to increase and be able to sustain our members’ interest in reading it. We join our newly elected president Dr. Peachy Lao’s P.A.G.E. as we advance to going digital.

I would like to thank Dr. Juliet Macarayo, my immediate predecessor for entrusting a great responsibility to me and my team for leading SKIN CONTACT. I am extremely grateful to my team of Associate editors for accepting this commitment to serve our society thru SKIN CONTACT. Looking forward to achieving our goals as we evolve and continue to move forward and join in this advancement.

Always grateful.

- Aenelle

This is my third year in skincontact and as we complete this issue, I realize that our dear PDS has always been there to spread its advocacy. I feel so blessed that thru skincontact, I am helping PDS reach out and remind its members that we are truly the recognized and respected leaders in dermatology with the highest ethical standards. I hope that you will enjoy browsing this issue!!

- Carla

Happy 2019 everyone and Happy Valentines.One of the constant things in my life this new year is succession planning. Three

important things I want to share are: preparedness, trainings and evaluation.Preparedness: Whether your colleagues leave to start retirement life or plans

to begin their own lives, having a succession plan in place will help you quickly identify which colleagues will take over your groups , open positions so your group can continue to run as normal.

Trainings: Finding future leaders reveals the strengths within your workgroup, and it also uncovers the weaknesses that your organization must work for growth. We need trainings that will help improve everyone’s performance.

Evaluating workgroups in preparation for succession planning gives everyone a great perspective of the talent in your organization. Knowing who should fill the space of another will help the group better understand the day-to-day happenings of the work.

Have a pleasant year ahead.

- Alma

Dear PDS colleaguesI hope you are all enjoying this first ever digital edition of Skin Contact. Im

hoping that through reading all the news and featured articles in this newsletter, we may feel more connected with each other. We hope that you will like this new modern and interactive format. Thank you very much for your continuous support

- Berna

Lay-out Artist: Larry Laconsay

PDS Secretariat: Rm 1015 South Tower, Cathedral Heights Building Complex, St. Luke’s Medical Center, E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines 1102

Telefax +632-7277309 • Website: www.pds.org.ph • Email: [email protected]

Editors’ PageEditorial Box

Aenelle B. Dizon, MDEditor-in-Chief

Editorial Box

Christina Raissa F. Pasion, MDAssistant Editor-in-Chief

Associate EditorsAssociate Editors

Maria Carla Perlas-Pagtakhan, MD

Ricky H. Hipolito, MD

Bernadette Lou G. Caluya, MD

Coreen Mae G. Capuyoc, MD

Bernadette C. Angustia, MDAlma Gay Concepcion T. Amado, MD

Tanya Perez-Chua, MD

Maria Assumpta Cecilia R.Serrano, MD

Hester Gail Y. Lim, MDPatricia Valle- Tin, MD

Patricia Pontejos-Canivel, MD

Heidi P. Chan, MD

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