Introduction Topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) refers to a collection of adverse effects related to the cessation of topical corticosteroid use, especially with prolonged use or higher potency formulations. While TSW lacks official recognition and standardized diagnostic criteria, the topic has gained significant attention online. This study analyzes social media discussions surrounding TSW to gain an improved understanding of patient perspectives and assesses the accuracy and safety of the online discourse. Methods TSW-related content was retrieved from social media platforms Instagram and TikTok. Educational content and content specifically created by physicians were rated in accuracy, safety, and agreement by dermatology residents. From Reddit, TSW-related posts in the Subreddit r/eczema were extracted and then analyzed with a sentiment analysis tool. Results The majority of online discourse consisted of users sharing their personal experiences. Educational content consistently fell below the midpoint for accuracy, safety, and agreement on Instagram and TikTok, whereas physician-generated content averaged 4.25 out of 5 in all three categories. Online users discussed non-conventional treatments, including cold atmospheric plasma therapy and no moisture therapy, that present with limited evidence in the management of TSW. Dermatologist-generated content discussed the potential use of dupilumab, which has been utilized in case studies for the treatment of TSW. Conclusion The presence of unregulated and potentially harmful treatment advice in current discourse can pose risks to patient well-being. Establishing standardized diagnostic criteria, prioritizing research into TSW management, and increasing dermatologist involvement online are crucial steps in improving patient care and safety in the context of TSW.
Radiation induced cholecystitis is a known but rare complication of Yttrium90 (Y90) radioembolization of hepatic tumors due to nontarget embolization. Many documented cases of radiation induced cholecystitis have been treated with cholecystectomy, which is significant given the typical patient population undergoing radioembolization tends to be of higher surgical risk. Here, we present a case of a 68 year old male who developed radiation induced cholecystitis status post hepatic radioembolization that resolved with conservative management alone. This case highlights that radiation induced cholecystitis may be successfully and safely treated conservatively.
The rising prevalence of pediatric food allergies represents a growing public health concern, with hospitalizations for food-induced anaphylaxis on the rise. Early cutaneous manifestations, particularly in the setting of atopic dermatitis (AD), may indicate sensitization via the skin—a critical route for allergen exposure in early life. Pediatric food allergies can be IgE-mediated, non-IgE-mediated, or mixed, with each type presenting distinct pathophysiological and clinical features. IgE-mediated reactions often involve acute urticaria and angioedema, while non-IgE forms, such as food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), manifest with delayed gastrointestinal symptoms and limited skin involvement. AD is closely linked with food allergies, both in pathogenesis and symptom exacerbation, with a high prevalence of co-occurrence. Diagnosis primarily relies on clinical evaluation, supported by testing such as skin prick testing, serum IgE, and oral food challenges, though limitations exist in sensitivity and specificity. Management emphasizes allergen avoidance, symptom control, and multidisciplinary care. While many pediatric food allergies resolve with age, others persist or present chronically, necessitating long-term strategies. Coordinated management between allergy and dermatology is key to minimizing complications and supporting better long-term outcomes for affected children.
Solitary plasmacytoma of bone (SPB) is a rare plasma cell malignancy that most often presents with localized pain. This case describes a 70-year-old female with a pathologic humeral fracture due to a large, hypervascular SPB. The tumor was assumed to be a metastatic lesion, and preoperative embolization was performed to minimize intraoperative blood loss, followed by tumor debulking and total shoulder arthroplasty. The total estimated blood loss was limited to 100cc, and the patient was returned to baseline functional status with full shoulder range of motion at 6 months postop. Literature on embolization of appendicular plasmacytomas is sparse; however, this case supports its efficacy. We recommend considering preoperative embolization as an adjunctive therapy for all hypervascular bone tumors requiring surgical management, regardless of origin.
6 September 2026 in Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery