Insulin pumps may cause contact dermatitis
Cases of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) caused by adhesives in insulin pumps are proving a challenge for clinicians and patients.
Dermatologists in Sweden have reported three cases of suspected ACD in users of the Omnipod insulin pump, which they say were likely caused by isobornyl acrylate (IBOA).
They noted the time between first use of Omnipod and first symptoms of red eczematous patches was at least six months, while subsequent exposures on non-damaged skin resulted in dermatitis after only one day – strongly suggestive of sensitisation and elicitation of ACD.
They advised patch testing with dipropylene glycol diacrylate (DPGDA) for suspected ACD, but said diagnosis and management was a challenge as the substances used in pumps changed over time.
“A question should be raised as to whether these low molecular weight acrylates should be used at all in devices constantly worn on the skin,” they wrote in the British Journal of Dermatology.
Action plan for neuroendocrine cancers
NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia has launched a five-year Action Plan which identifies critical areas of need across awareness, advocacy, education, support and research.
The first National Action Plan for Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs) 2022 – 2027 calls for more specialist NET telehealth support nurses in Australia and better access to a coordinated NET medical team.
“Increasing clinical awareness of NETs and their treatment is critical to ensuring that patients with NETs receive an earlier diagnosis,” the action plan said.
Professor Rodney Hicks from the University of Melbourne said about 60% of people with neuroendocrine cancer have advanced disease at the time of diagnosis
“Early diagnosis will not only help patients, but it will also alleviate the burden on the Australian healthcare system, one which is already under considerable strain,” he said.
The action plan also calls for funding for the PLANET registry, more Centres of Excellence and targeted funding for NET research.
Medical Board seeks endocrinologist
The Medical Board of Australia is seeking an endocrinologist to sit on panel hearings for practitioners who have been subject to notifications.
The Board, supported by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), convenes panels for health matters and for performance and conduct issues of medical practitioners. It says it is now seeking expressions of interest from endocrinologists for appointment to the Board’s List of approved persons for panel hearings for a period of up to three years.
According to the Board, panels are convened infrequently, on an as-needed basis, and include practitioners from all state and territories except NSW .
“Time commitments vary significantly depending on the matter and the allegations. If called on, panel members are remunerated for preparation time and for time sitting at the hearing,” it says.
For more information or to express your interest, please email [email protected] before Sunday 14 November 2021.