title: Comparative effectiveness of topical drugs in dermatologic priority diseases: geometry of randomized trial networks.
abstract: This commentary explores the fundamentals of network theory, a branch of applied mathematics that has numerous applications in many fields. Maruani et al. (2014) used network theory to analyze the geometry of the evidence base for dermatologic treatments. This is a prime example of the innovative nature of network theory: the mapping of a complex system into an abstract geometry for easier analysis. The interpretation rests upon the two concepts of diversity and co-occurrence. The mathematical foundation of these concepts is briefly reviewed. In addition, examples of the application of network geometry in other dermatologic settings as well as in science and technology are presented.
authors.affiliation: Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA.
authors.forename: Chante
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Karimkhani
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA; Department of Dermatology, Denver Veterans Administration Hospital, Denver, Colorado, USA. Electronic address: robert.dellavalle@ucdenver.edu.
authors.forename: Robert P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Dellavalle
mesh_terms: D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents