Medical Dermatology
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with an estimated 1 in 5 Americans developing it each year. Three major types of skin cancers are: Basal cell carcinoma(BCC), Squamous cell carcinoma(SCC), and Malignant Melanoma.
If detected early, these skin cancers can be treated with great success. Methods of treatment include surgery, chemotherapy topical creams and curettage.We strongly encourage regular skin exams and skin cancer screenings, using sunscreen and other sun-protective methods (hats, UPF clothing, lip-balm). Avoid the sun during peak hours, and avoid burns. Perform monthly self skin checks at home.
Some risk factors for developing skin cancer include:
• History of severe sunburns
• Fair skin
• Use of tanning beds
• Hobbies with high sun exposure (golf, tennis, skiing and lifeguarding)
• Working outdoors
• Family history of skin cancer
If detected early, these skin cancers can be treated with great success. Methods of treatment include surgery, chemotherapy topical creams and curettage.We strongly encourage regular skin exams and skin cancer screenings, using sunscreen and other sun-protective methods (hats, UPF clothing, lip-balm). Avoid the sun during peak hours, and avoid burns. Perform monthly self skin checks at home.
Some risk factors for developing skin cancer include:
• History of severe sunburns
• Fair skin
• Use of tanning beds
• Hobbies with high sun exposure (golf, tennis, skiing and lifeguarding)
• Working outdoors
• Family history of skin cancer
Moles
Moles are a cluster of melanocytes in your skin that produce the pigment melanin. They can be flat or raised, and round or oval in shape. Moles can present in various colors including tan, pink or brown. Some moles can become atypical. When these cells become cancerous, melanoma develops.
Some warning signs of melanoma include: (ABCDE)
Some warning signs of melanoma include: (ABCDE)
Asymmetry: two sides are different in size or shape
Border: uneven borders around the mole
Color: different colors present within a mole (red, blue or black)
Diameter: greater than 6mm or the size of a pencil eraser
Evolving: changing in size, shape, color, elevation; or becoming itchy, bleeding, or painful
Acne
Acne is a condition of the skin where the pilosebaceous unit (or “pores”) become clogged, eventually developing into whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and deeper nodules and cysts. Acne most often involves the face, neck, chest, back. Acne is not only limited to teenage years, but can be a common and often frustrating problem in adulthood as well. Acne can result in scars which can also be quite bothersome.
We are well-aware of how frustrating acne is, and we believe early treatment is critical. There are many treatments for acne, including prescription topical creams, oral antibiotics, birth control pills or other hormonal medications, chemical peels, laser treatments. Often, a combination of treatment methods will be used to achieve the best results.
At OhioDerm, we are experts at diagnosing and treating acne. Our providers have advanced specialty training in treating acne in a safe and effective way. We will recommend appropriate cleansers, products, moisturizers and make-up to help optimize your acne treatments. Regardless of treatment, our acne plan will be customized to you and your needs.
We are well-aware of how frustrating acne is, and we believe early treatment is critical. There are many treatments for acne, including prescription topical creams, oral antibiotics, birth control pills or other hormonal medications, chemical peels, laser treatments. Often, a combination of treatment methods will be used to achieve the best results.
At OhioDerm, we are experts at diagnosing and treating acne. Our providers have advanced specialty training in treating acne in a safe and effective way. We will recommend appropriate cleansers, products, moisturizers and make-up to help optimize your acne treatments. Regardless of treatment, our acne plan will be customized to you and your needs.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes pink, flaky rashes at the elbows, knees, scalp and other areas. Psoriasis can also be associated with arthritis/joint pains and nail changes. Although Psoriasis is a chronic condition, it can be controlled. Treatment typically includes prescription medicated creams, Phototherapy treatments in the office at OhioDERM, and oral and injectable medications.
Treatments:
Topical medication typically includes corticosteroid creams, Vitamin D-based creams, and keratolytics (creams, ointments or lotions that help exfoliate excess skin). Phototherapy includes Narrowband UVB (NBUVB). Phototherapy is safe and effective with minimal side effects but requires 2-3 treatments a week. Oral medications include: Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Otezla. Injectible medications are called “Biologics' and include: Enbrel, Humira, Stelara, Cosentyx, Taltz.
At OhioDERM, we are experts in diagnosing and treating Psoriasis. Our providers specialize in finding the appropriate treatment for you to help clear your skin. We identify safe, effective and practical options for you. We also often collaborate with Rheumatologists in addressing any arthritis concerns.
Treatments:
Topical medication typically includes corticosteroid creams, Vitamin D-based creams, and keratolytics (creams, ointments or lotions that help exfoliate excess skin). Phototherapy includes Narrowband UVB (NBUVB). Phototherapy is safe and effective with minimal side effects but requires 2-3 treatments a week. Oral medications include: Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Otezla. Injectible medications are called “Biologics' and include: Enbrel, Humira, Stelara, Cosentyx, Taltz.
At OhioDERM, we are experts in diagnosing and treating Psoriasis. Our providers specialize in finding the appropriate treatment for you to help clear your skin. We identify safe, effective and practical options for you. We also often collaborate with Rheumatologists in addressing any arthritis concerns.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that can result in redness of the face, easy flushing, pimples and broken blood vessels.This condition can sometimes affect the eyes by causing them to be dry, discomfort and irritation. Rosacea can also cause sensitive skin and is likely caused by multiple factors. Treatments ranging from prescription medicated creams, oral medications and laser treatments.
Eczema
Atopic dermatitis (sometimes referred to as eczema) is an inflammatory condition of the skin that can cause severe itchiness.It can be associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It can affect young children and often improve with age, but can also persist into adulthood. Diligent skin care is important to control eczema.For flares, treatment can include a combination of prescription medicated creams, moisturization, and other treatments.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition that causes pigment to be lost from the skin, resulting in patches that appear as white spots. This unique condition can have genetic susceptibility and may be autoimmune in nature, but can also be progressive if untreated and potentially associated with other internal diseases.Treatments for vitiligo include prescription topical creams, phototherapy and excimer laser treatments.
Warts
Warts (Verrucae) are common growths that are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). These can commonly involve the fingers, hands, feet, while certain strains can cause genital warts. Warts can be spread to others with direct contact, they can also grow and persist for months to years if not treated.
Some common treatments for warts include:
• Paring
• Liquid nitrogen Cryotherapy
• Immunomodulatory Creams like Imiquimod
• Injection of medication to the location of the warts
Some common treatments for warts include:
• Paring
• Liquid nitrogen Cryotherapy
• Immunomodulatory Creams like Imiquimod
• Injection of medication to the location of the warts
UVB Phototherapy
Ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for many skin conditions, including Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Dermatitis, and Cutaneous Lymphoma.NarrowBand UVB (NBUVB) is a focused wavelength of Ultraviolet B light, and is a highly effective therapy for skin conditions with minimal side effects. UVB phototherapy can be a companion treatment while using other medications.NBUVB light is anti-inflammatory and can also help with itch. Treatments are typically 2-3 times a week, last only a few short minutes, and are safe for all ages.