As of March 3, 2025, several noteworthy developments have emerged in the field of dermatology. Here's a summary of the latest skin disease news:

1. Melioidosis Outbreak in Australia
Australia is currently facing an outbreak of melioidosis, a potentially fatal disease caused by the Burkholderia pseudomallei bacterium. The outbreak has resulted in over 90 confirmed cases and 15 deaths in Queensland this year. The bacteria typically inhabit soil and freshwater, becoming airborne during heavy rainfall. Infection can occur through cuts, contaminated water, or inhalation. Symptoms include fever, headache, difficulty breathing, and potentially pneumonia. While it mostly affects individuals with weakened immunity, it is rare in healthy adults and children. Treatment involves a regimen of intravenous and oral antibiotics. The outbreak may be tied to recent heavy rains and flooding. 
ADELAIDENOW.COM.AU

2. Actor Liam Fox's Skin Cancer Journey
 Initially misdiagnosed as flakey skin or Solar Keratosis, his condition was later identified as carcinoma in January 2024. Following successful surgery in February 2025, Fox emphasizes the importance of persistence in seeking medical attention for unresolved health concerns. 
THESUN.IE

3. Emergence of Valley Fever Due to Climate Change
Valley fever, a fungal infection originating from soil in arid regions, is emerging as a new health threat due to climate change. Increasing incidences of extreme weather patterns, such as long droughts followed by heavy rains, create ideal conditions for Valley fever, leading to a potential spread outside the western US to places like Idaho, Montana, and the Dakotas. Underdiagnosis is a major issue, with symptoms often mistaken for other respiratory infections. The economic burden of Valley fever could reach $18.5 billion annually by 2090. This highlights the critical need for comprehensive research to understand and address the impacts of climate change on health. 
VOX

4. Discovery of a New Skin Disease
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have utilized an innovative diagnostic platform to identify a previously undescribed skin disease. This breakthrough underscores the potential of advanced diagnostic tools in uncovering and understanding new dermatological conditions, paving the way for targeted treatments. 
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND

5. Advancements in Treatment for Lichen Planus
Mayo Clinic researchers have identified a targeted therapy that could bring relief to people living with lichen planus, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the skin, hair, nails, mouth, and genitals. Their findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, describe a first-in-human, phase 2 clinical trial that shows promise for this patient population. 
NEWSNETWORK.MAYOCLINIC.ORG

These developments highlight the dynamic nature of dermatological research and the continuous efforts to improve skin health worldwide.

References:

1. The Advertiser. (2025, March 3). What is melioidosis? The deadly disease spreading in Australia. Retrieved from ADELAIDENOW.COM.AU

2. The Sun. (2025, March 1). Retrieved from THESUN.IE

3. Vox. (2025, February 27). Retrieved from VOX

4. University of Maryland. (2025, February 27). Innovative Diagnostic Platform Reveals New Skin Disease. Retrieved from UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND

5. Mayo Clinic News Network. (2025, February 1).  Retrieved from NEWSNETWORK.MAYOCLINIC.ORG