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11/16/2025
Derm Index: The Essentials of Azathioprine
Azathioprine (AZA) is an immunosuppressive agent commonly used in the management of various dermatologic conditions, particularly those that involve autoimmune or inflammatory processes. AZA exerts its effects by inhibiting DNA synthesis, thus suppressing immune responses.
Mechanism of Action
AZA is a prodrug that is metabolized in the body to its active form, 6-mercaptopurine. The active metabolite interferes with the synthesis of guanine nucleotides, one of the building blocks of DNA. This results in reduced DNA production and a suppression of T and B lymphocyte proliferation, which are involved in the pathogenesis of many dermatologic diseases. By modulating the immune response, AZA helps control the inflammation and tissue damage seen in autoimmune skin disorders.
Indications in Dermatology
Some of the most common conditions treated with azathioprine include:
Pemphigus Vulgaris: Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune blistering disorder in which the immune system targets the epidermis. AZA has been shown to be effective in reducing disease severity and achieving remission when combined with corticosteroids.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): In SLE, a chronic autoimmune disease, AZA is used to manage skin manifestations. It is particularly useful in patients with resistant/relapsing disease and with contraindications to high-dose steroids.
Download the full PDF:https://oasisderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Azathioprine.pdf
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11/11/2025
Derm Index: Xanthelasma
What to know about Xanthelasma, also known as xanthelasma palpebrarum, is a benign dermatological condition characterized by the presence of well-defined, yellowish, flat or slightly elevated lesions, typically located around the eyelids. These lesions are composed of cholesterol deposits that accumulate under the skin, primarily in the superficial dermis. Xanthelasma is the most common form of xanthoma, a condition involving the deposition of lipid material in various tissues. While xanthelasma is generally asymptomatic, it can be a source of cosmetic concern for affected individuals. Although it is not harmful in itself, the presence of xanthelasma may indicate underlying metabolic abnormalities, such as dyslipidemia, and, in some cases, may be linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Etiology and Pathophysiology
Xanthelasma lesions arise from the accumulation of cholesterol and other lipids in the skin. The underlying mechanism involves the infiltration of macrophages into the dermis, which then ingest lipid particles, leading to the formation of foam cells that deposit cholesterol. These deposits typically accumulate in the eyelids or the periorbital area, though they can occur in other parts of the body, such as the tendons or joints, in the broader category of xanthomas.
Download the full PDF:https://oasisderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Xanthelasma.pdf
Image Source: dermnetnz.org
11/11/2025
Today, we pause to recognize the strength and sacrifice of all who have served.
Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice inspire us every day.β€οΈπ€π
From all of us at Oasis Dermatology Group, thank you, veterans, for your service and dedication.π
11/10/2025
Skin cancer can hide β but we help you find it.
π Early detection saves lives. Our thorough skin exams leave nothing unchecked.
β Trusted dermatologists
β Full-body skin checks
β Peace of mind starts here
π Schedule your exam today.
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11/07/2025
Derm Index: All About Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania, often referred to as a hair-pulling disorder, is a psychological condition characterized by an irresistible urge to pull out oneβs own hair from various areas of the body. The most commonly affected areas are the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes, but hair-pulling may also occur in other regions such as the p***c area, chest, limbs, and underarms. Although similar behaviors such as hair tugging or twisting may be part of normal habits, trichotillomania leads to noticeable hair loss, which can have substantial physical, psychological, and social consequences for the affected individual.
Etiology and Pathophysiology
The exact cause of trichotillomania remains unclear, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Neurobiological factors, particularly imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, are thought to contribute to the disorder. These imbalances can affect the brainβs reward system, which plays a role in impulse control and compulsive behaviors. There is also evidence to suggest that individuals with trichotillomania may have differences in brain structure and function, specifically in areas involved in emotional regulation and impulse control.
Environmental factors such as stress, trauma, or abuse can also play a role in the onset and exacerbation of trichotillomania. Family history is an important risk factor, as genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing the disorder. Trichotillomania commonly begins in childhood or adolescence, with the average onset occurring between the ages of 11 and 13. Gender differences are also significant, as females are more frequently affected than males.
Download the full PDF:https://oasisderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Leiomyoma.pdf
Image Source: dermnetnz.org
11/06/2025
"A+ on the service at Dermatology Clinic of McAllen. The front staff was extra nice, and the physicians were so informative and helpful with my situation."
Weβre so grateful for your kind words and trust in our care! π
At Oasis Dermatology Group, our mission is to make every visit comfortable, informative, and tailored to your skin health needs.
11/06/2025
Derm Index: Insights into Leiomyoma
Leiomyomas are benign tumors that arise from smooth muscle tissue and can develop in any organ or structure that contains smooth muscle, including the skin, eyes, uterus (commonly known as fibroids), bladder, and gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. In the skin, leiomyomas are classified according to their site of origin: angioleiomyomas (which arise from blood vessel walls), dartoic/genital leiomyomas (which originate from the muscles of the genitalia and erectile tissue of the ni**le), and pilar leiomyomas (which develop from the arrector pili muscles in the skin). The arrector pili muscles are small, involuntary muscles that attach to hair follicles within the dermis. They contract in response to cold or emotional stimuli, causing hair to stand upright, a phenomenon commonly known as βgoosebumps.β
Types of Leiomyomas and Their Presentation
Pilar leiomyomas, which arise from the arrector pili muscles, are the most common cutaneous form of leiomyoma. These tumors typically present as well-circumscribed, smooth, firm, reddish-brown nodules, ranging in size from 2 to 15 millimeters. They may be solitary or multiple and are commonly located on the face, neck, trunk, and extremities. A hallmark feature of pilar leiomyomas is the presence of pain, which can range from a burning sensation to sharp, stabbing pain. The discomfort may occur spontaneously or be triggered by external factors such as touch, pressure, or exposure to cold. The exact etiology of the pain remains unclear, but it is believed to be due to either the contraction of smooth muscle fibers or the presence of dense nerve fibers within the tumor.
Download the full PDF:https://oasisderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Leiomyoma.pdf
Image Source: dermnetnz.org
11/03/2025
Up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds, meaning your skin is still at risk of damage.
Protect your skin daily with dermatologist-recommended SPF!
β Daily sunscreen tips
β Personalized skin care plans
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11/02/2025
Derm Index: Aplasia Cutis Congenita
Letβs learn about Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the absence of skin in certain areas of the body, most commonly over the scalp. This condition affects approximately 3 in 10,000 births and presents as localized skin defects, typically involving the midline of the vertex of the scalp. Although these defects are often isolated, they may also occur in multiple locations, including the face, trunk, and limbs.
Clinical Features
ACC lesions are typically non-inflammatory, well-demarcated, and vary in size, ranging from 0.5-10 cm. The lesions are most commonly seen as single defects over the scalp, particularly in the midline, but can also present symmetrically or in multiple areas across the body. The lesions may have a circular, oval, linear, or stellate shape, and the degree of skin involvement can vary.
Superficial Lesions: In cases where only the epidermis is involved, the lesion is generally shallow and often heals with scarring before birth, without significant complications.
Deeper Lesions: Lesions that extend into the dermis or subcutaneous tissue, or occasionally the skull, may present with ulceration and increased risk of complications such as infection.
Download the full PDF:https://oasisderm.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Aplasia-Cutis-Congenita.pdf
Image Source: dermnetnz.org
10/31/2025
π Scare away the skin troubles, not just the ghosts! π» Book your Halloween glow appointment at Oasis Dermatology Group today.
π Call (956) 971-0404 or visit www.oasisderm.com to book your appointment. π
10/30/2025
Derm Index: Understanding Darier Disease
Darier disease (also known as keratosis follicularis or Darier-White disease) is a rare, genetically inherited dermatologic disorder characterized by the development of multiple dark, scaly, and pruritic lesions, most commonly on the chest, back, ears, forehead, scalp, neck, and groin. These wart-like lesions, which can become disfiguring, may be associated with an unpleasant odor and are often accompanied by changes in the nails and mucous membranes. While the severity of the disease fluctuates over time, it is considered a chronic condition that persists throughout life. Importantly, Darier disease is not associated with an increased risk of skin cancer.
Etiology and Genetic Basis
Darier disease is primarily caused by mutations in the ATP2A2 gene, which encodes the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase type 2 (SERCA2) protein. This protein plays a crucial role in calcium homeostasis within cells, and mutations in ATP2A2 disrupt cellular processes involved in epidermal differentiation and the maintenance of skin integrity. The disease follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, meaning that an affected parent has at least a 50% chance of passing the mutation to their offspring. In some cases, however, the disease may occur sporadically without a family history.
Though ATP2A2 mutations primarily affect the skin, there is evidence suggesting that Darier disease may be associated with behavioral disorders, such as anxiety and depression, and, in rare instances, intellectual disability.
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Dr. Rick Lin is a board certified dermatologist practicing in McAllen, Texas since 2006. He is the only board certified Mohs Micrographic Surgeon in the Rio Grande Valley region.
As a leader in the field of dermatology, he previously served as the President of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. He is also the member of the Board of Trustees of the Texas Osteopathic Medical Association and the President for District 14. Dr. Lin also serves on several advisory boards for different pharmaceutical companies and contributes his opinion to the development of new medications.
As a researcher in the field of dermatology, Dr. Lin has been active in dermatologic research and has published in peer reviewed journals such as the Archives of Dermatology and the Journal of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. He is a member in good standing of American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, American Osteopathic Association, Texas Osteopathic Medical Association, Society for Pediatric Dermatology, and American Society for Mohs Surgery.
As an educator and speaker, Dr. Lin is the program director for the Rio Grande Valley Dermatology Residency Program operated in conjunction with Corpus Christi Medical Center. he is also the dermatology curriculum coordinator for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) School of Medicine Family Practice and Internal Medicine Residency Program. He is currently a Clinical Associate Professor for both the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth and the Western University of Health Sciences β College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific. He is also a clinical preceptor for the University of Texas Pan American School of Nursing β Nurse Practitioner Program and Physician Assistant Program. Dr. Lin had given lectures to the Valley Advanced Practice Nurse Association, UTPA Nurse Practitioner Program, Physician Assistant Program, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Family Practice Residency Program, and American Osteopathic College of Dermatology Annual Conference.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Rick Lin at Oasis Dermatology Group, PLLC, call us at 956-971-0404!