Chairs: L. Naldi (Italy)
Co-chairs: A. Braae-Olesen (Denmark) J.J. Grob (France)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Assesses the frequency of skin disease in the general population
2. Evaluating the impact of skin disease on morbidity and sufferer’s well being;
3. Indicate directions for preventative strategies

DESCRIPTION:
Skin diseases are very frequent in the general population and they deserve a public health approach. The session will focus on the “burden of skin disease.” The frequency of selected skin diseases, their impact on mortality, morbidity, well being and quality of life will be presented. The complexities of interventions to reduce the burden will also be discussed.

Chairs: L. Bruckner-Tuderman (Germany)
Co-Chair: E. Healy (UK) J. Hercogová (Czech Republic)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Know about the basic aspects of molecular biology and the skin.
2. Have insight into the molecular basis of skin diseases and diagnostic possibilities.
3. Understand practical aspects and new applications of the methodology

DESCRIPTION:
The use of molecular biology techniques increases continuously in dermatology. Beside research laboratories, where the molecular basis of skin disease can be elucidated using, for example, transgenic or knockout mouse models, molecular biology techniques can be applied to diagnostics in clinical practice. Mutation analysis is already available for many genodermatoses and also tumor diagnostics. It is likely that soon the new techniques, such as array technologies, will become a part of the diagnostic repertoire from many common, acquired dermatological disorders. This session will describe advances of the technologies and discuss their usefulness in practical dermatology.

Chair: S.Whittaker (UK)
Co-chairs: R. Gniadecki (Denmark) A. Ranki (Finland)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Have a basic understanding of the molecular abnormalities in CTCL
2. Understand the clinical relevance of these genomic abnormalities
3. Be aware of recent novel findings and future approaches

DESCRIPTION:
The molecular basis of CTCL is not fully elucidated but specific genomic abnormalities have been identified and their clinical relevance is now being studied. These abnormalities will influence treatment decisions and provide prognostic information. They may also form the basis for the development of future targeted novel therapies.

Chair: A.Y. Finlay (UK)
Co-chairs: T. Diepgen (Germany) J. de Korte (Netherlands)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Understand basic concepts of different types of quality of life measurement techniques used in dermatology.
2. Know how psoriasis affects the lives of patients and understand the relevance of this to clinical practice and practical management decisions.
3. Understand the major impact of chronic skin disease on quality of life and the implications for healthcare planning.

DESCRIPTION:
Dermatologists recognize that many of their patients’ lives are affected by skin disease. The different and still evolving methodologies for assessing this impact will be discussed. Initial major attempts have been made to establish the overall burden of skin disease across different European countries and findings from these studies will be presented. Much quality of life research in dermatology has focused recently on psoriasis, partly because many patients experience a major impact on their QoL. In addition the advent into clinical practice of biological therapies has given a new impetus to attempts to create guidelines, define severity and to measure outcomes from a patient-oriented perspective. The impact of psoriasis on patients and how an understanding of this can provide the basis for enhanced quality of care will be discussed. Recent work concerning QoL in other skin disease will be considered, and an attempt made to define further research objectives in this field.

Chair: A-A. Ramelet (Switzerland)
Co-chairs: L. Andreassi (Italy) M. de la Brassinne (Belgium)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Evaluate clinical aspects of leg ulcers, including arteriolosclerotic ulcers
2. Outline if drug and compression therapies are evidence based
3. Approach some new grafts techniques in leg ulcers

DESCRIPTION
Leg ulcers are a common and expensive medical burden, including high costs, up to 2% of national health budgets. In this session, some clinical aspects of leg ulcers will presented, focusing on arterial and arteriolar (hypertensive-ischemic) leg ulcers. Amazingly, most treatments commonly used in leg ulcers healing have not been yet evaluated according to the rules of Evidence Based Medicine. Data of drug therapy (as prostaglandins, pentoxifilline, or oedema protective agents) and compression therapy will be discussed. Grafts with skin equivalents are a fascinating new field in wound healing; some innovative techniques will be presented.

Chair: H. Williams (UK)
Co-chairs: B. Rzany (Germany) C-F. Wahlgren (Sweden)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES- Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. To introduce delegates to the three most important indicators of clinical trial quality.
2. To allow delegates to develop the skills in spotting whether these quality indicators have been adequately described in a clinical trial report.
3. To provide information to delegates on where they can find out more on critical appraisal of clinical trials.

DESCRIPTION:
Interactive session using keypads.
Although clinical trials may sound a bit boring, they are the cornerstone on which most decisions on modern skin treatments are based upon. Just as all clinical dermatologists know how to diagnose lichen planus and perform a skin biopsy, so all clinical dermatologists should know how to read and clinically appraise a report of a clinical trial. In reality, many do not have a clue. This workshop is here to help you. Using dermatologic examples and a non-threatening approach with very little statistics, the workshop conveners will help the audience to develop the skills on how to tell a good clinical trial from a bad one. The course is suitable for clinical dermatologists at every level and less suitable for those who are involved in clinical trial research. Come and join us for an interesting, fun and interactive workshop on a neglected and crucial area for the clinical dermatologist.

Chair: E. Ernst (UK)
Co-chairs: A. Izzo (Italy) P. de Smet (Holland)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES- Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Know the basic concepts of complementary medicine.
2. Know which therapies are effective.
3. Know about adverse effects on complementary medicine.

DESCRIPTION:
Complementary medicine is used by many dermatological patients. This means healthcare professionals need to know about the essential facts related to this area. Reliable information is far from easy to come by. This session is an attempt to provide it.

Chair: J-H. Saurat (Switzerland)
Co-chairs: N. Mork (Norway) A. Vahlquist (Sweden)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. To review and update the retinoids currently available for dermatologists and the potential partners they can be used with
2. To analyse the mechanisms of action and mode of use of topical retinoids in current dermatological indications
3. To review the side effects related to retinoid use

DESCRIPTION
There are currently many retinoids available for the treatment of skin conditions. It is important that dermatologists understand the reasons for the choice of either, depending on activity profile, disease to treat and side effects. The workshop will provide an updated review on the retinoids currently available, covering oral use (psoriasis, acne, onco-dermatology) and topical (acne, rosacea, skin ageing, onco-dermatology). The use of retinoids in chemoprevention of basal cell carcinomas, as depigmenting agents, and in skin ageing will be detailed. A critical analysis of the side effects associated with oral retinoids will be presented.

Chair: C. Garbe (Germany)
Co-chairs: N. Gruis (Netherlands) J. Newton-Bishop (UK)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session the attendee will be able to:

1. Describe the clinical relevance of new molecular insights into melanoma.
2. Better identify persons at elevated risk for melanoma development.
3. Outline new approaches and targets of melanoma therapy.

DESCRIPTION
This session will include an overview on recent findings in the molecular biology of melanocytes and melanoma. These will be presented in a clearly basic fashion with easy to understand illustrations how cell functions are affected. Particular attention is drawn to clinical and molecular risk factors for melanoma development and the identification of persons at risk. Secondly, the principle steps to the malignant tyransformation of the melanocyte are demonstrated. Based on this, the molecular changes are pointed out which are responsible for the malignant behavior of the cell and which are simultaneously markers of the tumour progression. Finally, the prospects for the development of novel therapeutic approaches is critically discussed. Taking in mind the difficulties to transfer the knowledge from bench to bedside.

Chair: I.R. White (UK)
Co-chairs: P. Elsner (Germany) C. Liden (Sweden)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Be aware of the changes in European legislation affecting primary and secondary prevention of skin diseases.
2. The importance of epidemiological and clinical data in risk/safety assessments.
3. Know how to influence changes to European legislation.

DESCRIPTION
The dermatological community has been pivotal in providing epidemiological and clinical data that have had a profound effect on European legislation leading to the primary and secondary prevention of skin diseases and allergic contact dermatitis in particular. The role of national and European bodies in affecting these changes will be explored. The European Commission is required to respond to resilient data that indicates safety issues; the pathway of data provision, assessment and management of the concern will be discussed. Current and emerging problems will be demonstrated with an indication of how clinical and experimental dermatological science can influence the decision (evaluation) making processes.

Chair: G. Jemec (Denmark)
Co-chairs: E. Berardesca (Italy) G. Pierard (Belgium)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Understand the correlation between data obtained by established electrical devices and skin physiology/anatomy
2. Gain insight into the use of experimental electrical devices for skin examination
3. Recognise the potential of new electrically based techniques for skin examination

DESCRIPTION
Classical dermatology is heavily dependent on the interpretation of visual impressions by trained dermatologists. The introduction of more reproducible/objective data as well as measurement of non-visual qualities may however add depth to the interpretation of various pathophysiological changes in the skin.

Electrical devices have been used for objective DESCRIPTION of physiological and patophysiological phenomena in the skin for many years. The devices are commercially available, and are frequently used in studies. The devices are usually very simple to use, but the correct interpretation of data obtained by these methods still require an understanding of the measurement principles, physiological correlations and sources of error. This workshop aims to provide the attendee with a better grasp of the potential of these methods, and their scope for future development.

Chair: H. Hönigsmann (Austria)
Co-chairs: N. Gibbs (UK) O. Larkö (Sweden)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Know about the basic aspects and mechanisms of phototherapy, photochemotherapy and excimer laser treatment.
2. Have more insight in the state of the art of the various clinical phototherapy regimens.
3. Understand practical aspects, new applications, and risk-benefit evaluation.

DESCRIPTION
The use of UV radiation with conventional light sources and more recently with excimer lasers has changed many concepts in dermatological treatment. Photomedicine has evolved as an important subdiscipline in our specialty, which is not only dealing with therapy but also, perhaps even more importantly, with prevention of skin disease. This session will provide information on well-documented phototherapeutic techniques for a variety of dermatoses, such as psoriasis, vitiligo and cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Also treatment variants (Bath-PUVA, Cream-PUVA) and combinations with other topical and systemic treatment modalities that enhance efficacy will be discussed. Newer perspectives will be presented in the use of narrowband UVB and UVA1 radiation as well as of monochromatic (304nm) laser light.

Chair: J. McGrath (UK)
Co-chairs: S. Karpati (Hungary) H. Shimizu (Japan)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Be updated on recent discoveries in blistering genodermatoses and the ichthyoses.
2. Understand the significance of genetic discoveries for patients in the clinic.
3. Appreciate the implications and limitations of current genetic skin disease research.

DESCRIPTION
This course will focus on recent genetic research in the blistering genedermatoses and the ichthyoses. The talks will provide an update on gene discoveries linked to inherited skin disease as well as how these new findings impact on patients in the clinic. The clinical benefits include better and quicker diagnosis, improved genetic counseling and the possibility of DNA-based prenatal diagnosis, if appropriate. Basic genetic research is helping to improve understanding of disease mechanisms, simplify classification of many genodermatoses, as well as providing new ideas about treatment, using existing or new technology. Gene discovery does not immediately lead to gene therapy and cure, and so the talks will also outline the limitations of current knowledge and the on-going global efforts to improve clinical care and to develop newer forms of more effective treatment that have a real impact on the lives of people living with fragile or scaly skin.

Chair: T. Schwarz (Germany)
Co-chairs: J.D. Bos (Netherlands) G. Ogg (UK)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Understand the pathogenesis of autoimmune dermatoses
2. Understand the pathogenesis of immunologically mediated dermatoses
3. Understand new therapeutic concepts

DESCRIPTION
New insights into the molecular basis of immune reactions have significantly increased our understanding of the pathogenesis of immunologically mediated and autoimmune dermatoses. The main focus of this session will be new therapeutic strategies which have been developed from the new pathogenetic concepts. Dermatoses to be discussed include psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, bullous autoimmune dermatoses and contact dermatitis.

Chair: K. Andersen (Denmark)
Co-chairs: F. Brandao (Portugal) S. Wakelin (UK)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Assess allergen exposure
2. Improve your test techniques
3. Recommend the best protective gloves

DESCRIPTION
This workshop is aimed at participants with some basic knowledge of patch testing. Practical information will be provided on a range of subjects including assessment of allergen exposure, choosing protective gloves, testing botanical materials and the methods of evaluating immediate contact cutaneous reactions. The use and availability of internet sources of data on environmental allergens and occupational chemicals will also be discussed.

Chair: J. Serup (Denmark)
Co-chairs: A. Rougier (France) M. Schmelz (Germany)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Understand the key functions of the skin barrier, and implications for the clinician
2. The barrier in normal and diseased skin, threats
3. Therapeutic interventions and barrier, including skin pharmacology

DESCRIPTION
A main function of the skin is to act as a structural and functional interface between the water-based body core and the ambient air. The skin protects against threats coming from outside and supports numerous body functions. Skin diseases may impair the barrier. Topical drugs are designed to penetrate the barrier. Light may be both harmful and helpful depending on source, dose and penetration level. The workshop shall illustrate and exemplify the panorama of interactions between environment and body across the skin integument and support the general understanding of the clinical dermatologist.

Chair: S. Barton (UK)
Co-chairs: P. Kohl (Germany) W. van der Meijden (Netherlands)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Understand the extended range of genital dermatovenereological conditions.
2. To be aware that patients may affect the appearance of their own genitals.
3. To make no assumptions.

DESCRIPTION
This session will cover the range of conditions that can occur when patients need to change the appearance or physiology of their genitals. Sometimes this is iatrogenic and sometimes not. We will also cover the issue of genital plastic surgery.

Chair: C. Rowland Payne (UK)
Co-chairs: F. Camacho Martinez (Spain) L. Marini (Italy).

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Know about the basic aspects of getting started in cosmetic dermatology.
2. Have more insight into the philosophy and practicalities of cosmetic dermatology.
3. Understand practical aspects and risk-benefits of various simple cosmetic dermatological techniques.

DESCRIPTION
Cosmetic dermatology is the fastest growing aspect of dermatology. This session will provide information about getting started in cosmetic dermatology. Dermatologists are particularly well equipped by their training and experience to work in this field to the benefit of patients.

Chair: F. Poot (Belgium)
Co-Chair: C. Bridgett (UK) U Gieler (Germany)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Outline the impact of skin disease and coping mechanisms on patients and families.
2. Help to manage medically unexplained symptoms.
3. Describe the use and management of antidepressant medication for dermatologists.

DESCRIPTION
The workshop will explore the differing aspects of psychodermatology, particularly concerned with impact and influence of family in skin disease. It will also address in details the psychosocial consequences of skin diseases, how the psychotherapy is helping for dermatological patients, and a review of the use of antidepressant medication suitable for dermatological practice.

Chair: B. Cribier (France)
Co-chairs: H. Kutzner (Germany) B. Zelger (Austria)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Update their knowledge on adnexal and ungueal lesions
2. Deal with new molecular techniques in dermatopathology
3. Recognise the various forms of cutaneous borreliosis and new patterns in drug reactions

DESCRIPTION
This session will include presentations of various specialised topics in dermatopathology: adnexal tumours, nevus sebaceus, melanonychia and differential diagnosis, new patterns in drug reactions and cutaneous borreliosis. New insights will be presented, as well as update on available knowledge on these conditions. Part of the session will be dedicated to molecular biology in dermatopathology: which techniques? which use? for which purpose?

Chair: G. Burg (Switzerland)
Co-chairs: H. Granlund (Finland) P. Rubegni (Italy)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Describe the obstacles and chances of teledermatology
2. Outline practical approaches in Teleconsulting, Teledermoscopy and Teledermatopathology.
3. Comparing quality of face-to-face vs. teledermatologic consulting.

DESCRIPTION:
Teledermatology opens a new dimension in Dermatology, with respect to patients care, consulting as well as teaching and continuous medical education. However, there are still many obstacles slowing down the implementation process of Telemedicine within conventional medicine.

Chair: J. Sterling (UK)
Co-chairs: N. Dupin (France) M. Munoz-Perez (Spain)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able to:

1. Consider the presentation of viral diseases affecting skin and mucosa
2. Be aware of new developments in the understanding of viral infections
3. Look forward to the development of future treatments for viral infections

DESCRIPTION
Diseases caused by viruses may be difficult to diagnose but often more difficult to treat due to paucity of specific anti-viral treatments. With more sensitive methods for detection of viruses, the wide range of manifestations of virus infections are rapidly becoming apparent. More effective treatments are needed for many of these diseases, some of which are currently in development. This workshop will update and refresh knowledge of viral infections which can affect both skin and mucous membranes.

09.45

Chair: C. Archer (UK)
Co-chairs: C. Condon (Ireland) M. Verschoore (France)

LEARNING OBJECTIVES - Following this session, the attendee will be able:

1. To offer a diagnosis and treatments of granulomatous and scarring problems in black skin.
2. To offer a diagnosis and treatment suggestions for scalp and hair problems in individuals with black skin.
3. To give advice regarding diagnosis and treatment options in patients with various causes of hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation.

DESCRIPTION
This interactive session will adopt a problem-based approach to skin, scalp and hair problems in individuals with black skin. Topics for discussion will include: an overview of skin diseases in black skin, garnulomatous and scarring disorders (e.g. sarcoid, keloids), scalp and hair problems, and altered pigmentation of the skin: problems and treatments. We will also consider cosmetics designed for Ethnic skin. Preventative aspects and early treatment of skin problems will be emphasised.