Exploring the Intersection of Mind and Skin: A Comprehensive Review of Psychodermatology

Psychodermatology examines the relationship between psychological factors and skin conditions. This overview introduces clinicians to key psychodermatologic disorders and their theoretical foundations, clinical presentations, and treatment approaches. Although theoretical support for various treatments is abundant, randomized controlled trials are limited due to funding challenges for generic medications. Despite this limitation, this article presents the most valuable and widely used treatment options for these conditions.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Describe the major categories of psychodermatologic disorders
• Recognize clinical features that suggest psychogenic or stress-related dermatologic conditions
• Identify evidence-based treatment strategies that address both dermatologic and psychological components

A Clinical Update on Ulcerative Colitis for Primary Care

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of chronic, relapsing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by mucosal inflammation of the colon and rectum. Symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fecal urgency significantly affect patient quality of life. Early recognition of UC is critical to facilitate specialist referral and initiate management. Recent advances in the therapeutic landscape include the introduction of novel biologic agents, small molecules, and biosimilars, which have expanded access to effective and affordable treatment options. Clinicians must remain informed of updates and indications for both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions, as treatment selection is based on disease severity, location, and individualized patient needs. Adjunctive therapies also play a role in comprehensive care and health maintenance. Optimizing therapy is essential for inducing and maintaining remission, promoting mucosal healing, and preventing disease progression. A multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care clinicians, gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, dietitians, and mental health professionals, is essential for delivering individualized care and improving long-term outcomes.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Recognize the hallmark features of UC and their impact on quality of life
• Utilize appropriate diagnostic evaluation to differentiate UC from similar conditions, including Crohn disease
• Describe how aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, biologics, and small molecules are used in mild, moderate, severe, and acute severe UC
• Summarize the roles of nonpharmacologic management, surgical intervention, primary care, preventive care, and health maintenance in UC

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