Open Microcomedone Extraction Facilitated by Polarized Dermoscopy

Microcomedonal lesions can be aesthetically and psychologically displeasing. The burden of comedones increases when considering their frequency and demand for time‐consuming attention. The objective of the current study was to describe a novel technique to facilitate open microcomedone extraction. The instrumentation used includes smartphone photography with dermatoscopy. The dermatoscope is an effective tool for diagnosing a broad range of dermatologic conditions. The polarized dermatoscope can facilitate execution of cutaneous procedures whenever magnification and optimal illumination are necessary. Its connection to a smartphone with a unique adapter enabled single‐handed examination of microcomedones. Under magnification with this unit, the involved lesions are photographed to clearly demonstrate the condition and achieve informed consent. The complete procedure can be recorded on video for documentation. In this case, four separate lesions of the left auricle of a young man were treated using direct pressure extraction. The procedure undertaken was rapid, convenient, and completed without any adverse sequelae. This procedure is recommended for similar cases using the dermatoscope, which does not require additional specific training and is readily available at no extra cost. This technique could be used in various dermatologic conditions.     

Perceived HIV Treatment Norms Modify the Association Between HIV-Related Stigma and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among Persons Living with HIV in Baltimore,Maryland

AIDS and Behavior - Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is associated with reduced HIV-related morbidity/mortality and ongoing transmission; however, the extent to which this association is...