What’s Evolving in Podiatric Dermatology: Research and Tools to Elevate Practice
Summary: This September 2025 article reviews emerging research and practical tools in podiatric dermatology to improve diagnosis/treatment of common foot conditions. It covers topical efinaconazole efficacy for onychomycosis (especially in older adults/with gel polish), Brannock device for detecting subtle foot length discrepancies causing nail trauma, nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) for early microvascular changes in diabetes (linked to nephropathy), and potential HPV involvement in recalcitrant intractable plantar keratosis (IPK). Emphasizes noninvasive, integrated approaches bridging dermatology, biomechanics, and systemic care for better outcomes in podiatric practice—no direct mention of Mirragen or synthetic matrices, but highlights need for advanced tools in diabetic foot complications.
Key Highlights:
- Onychomycosis: Efinaconazole 10% achieves higher cure rates in >65 age group; compatible with gel polish.
- Nail trauma: Brannock device identifies half-size differences for better footwear prevention of retronychia/pincer nails.
- Diabetes microvascular: NVC detects early capillary changes (tortuosity, comma-shaped) as noninvasive systemic marker.
- IPK: HPV DNA in persistent cases suggests antiviral options like cryotherapy/laser.
- Practice elevation: Multidisciplinary, early intervention focus for adherence and holistic foot health.
Keywords: onychomycosis, efinaconazole, diabetic microvascular, nailfold videocapillaroscopy, IPK, podiatric dermatology