Do Anti-TNF Agents Increase Risks for Malignancy and Infection?
Two groups found potential toxicity accompanying anti-TNF therapy. In patients treated for rheumatoid arthritis, anti-TNF agents raised the risks for lymphoma 2.5%-3.8% above expected rates, although the authors did not believe that causality had been proven. In patients living in an area of endemic coccidioidomycosis fungal infection, authors identified infection associated with infliximab and etanercept treatment. These data raise concern about long-term anti-TNF therapy for dermatologic disease. New symptoms or findings should be thoroughly evaluated. http://dermatology.jwatch.org/cgi/content/full/2004/714/3 Fractional Resurfacing: New and Improved Laser Skin Resurfacing? Fractional laser resurfacing is an exciting new approach to reversing sun-induced skin damage. Although it is still early in its development, this outpatient, short-downtime procedure appears to improve lentigines and dyspigmentation, fine and medium-depth wrinkles, and overall skin texture. Time will tell just how
