Skin Examinations
What are skin checks? Dermatologists perform a full-body professional skin exam to evaluate for cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions. These examinations are critical for persons with a history of skin cancer, patients on some immunosuppressive medications, and may be appropriate if you have multiple areas of concern or a history of multiple severe or blistering sunburns. […]
History of Skin Cancer
What is skin cancer? Skin cancers are abnormal, out-of-control growth of the cells of the epidermis and dermis, the different layers of the skin. These growths are usually the result of DNA damage from ultraviolet light exposure from the sun. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, […]
Spots of Concern
Why see a dermatologist for spots of concern? Skin lesions of concern may be new, growing, tender or bleeding, or may have recently come to your attention. Harmless moles, vascular changes, age-related keratoses, and inflammatory spots like acne may be lesions of concern. While many irregularities in the skin are benign, the expertise of a […]
Atypical Moles
What are atypical moles? Atypical (dysplastic) moles are benign (non-cancerous) growths that may be unusual looking on exam and have irregular features when examined under the microscope. Although they are not cancerous, individuals with a large number of atypical moles may have a higher risk of developing melanoma. Why see a dermatologist for atypical moles? […]
Aging Skin
What are some signs of aging skin? There are many signs and symptoms of aging skin, including pigmentation changes, increased wrinkling or laxity of the skin, loss of volume, fragility, and easy bruising. Why see a dermatologist for aging skin? A dermatologist can help identify benign (harmless) changes associated with skin aging and diagnose any […]
Acne
What is acne? Acne is a common disorder that can affect patients of all ages and is characterized by inflammatory red pimples, pustules, and occasionally painful cysts on the head and body. Why see a dermatologist for acne? It is important to diagnose and treat acne early to prevent permanent scarring and minimize its psychosocial […]
Eczema
What is Eczema? Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and dry patches on the skin. These patches may appear on various parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and elbows. Treatment for eczema depends on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of each individual patient. […]
Hair Loss
What is alopecia? Hair loss is known in dermatology by its clinical name, alopecia. Alopecia is a group of conditions characterized by hair loss that can affect both men and women. Why see a dermatologist for alopecia? Dermatologists can assess and diagnose alopecia by examining the patient’s scalp, evaluating their medical history, and considering their […]
Nail Disorder
What are Nail Disorders? Dermatologist are experts in diseases of the nail unit as well as the skin. Diseases of the fingernails and toenails may be the result of infections, inflammatory conditions, cancers of the skin or nail unit, as well as a result from trauma. Why see a dermatologist for nail disorders? It is […]
Psoriasis
What is Psoriasis? Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disease that causes inflammation in the body and is characterized by raised scaly plaques on the skin. While any area of the skin may be affected, psoriasis plaques are commonly found on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. The inflammation from psoriasis can also affect the joints, […]
