Dermatology

What is Dermatology?

Dermatology is a branch of medicine that deals with the skin, hair, and nails. It involves diagnosing and treating various conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, and more. 

Dermatologists are medical doctors who have completed specialised training in the field. They may provide medical and surgical treatments for skin conditions and offer advice on skincare and preventive measures.

Dermatology in General Practice includes initial diagnosis and treatments. Where the condition requires specialist attention the general practitioner will refer you on.

Common Dermatologic Conditions

Dermatologic conditions are a diverse group of skin disorders affecting people of all ages and skin types. Some of the most common conditions our dermatologist may treat include:

  • Acne
  • Skin cancer
  • Eczema
  • Hair loss
  • Nail fungus
  • Psoriasis
  • Rosacea

These are just a few examples of the many types of dermatologic conditions. It is always best to consult our dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin, hair, or nails.

Acne

What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition characterised by pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the face, chest, and back. It can occur at any age but is most common in adolescents and young adults.

Risk Factors for Acne 

Risk factors for acne include:

  • Genetics: Acne can run in families
  • Hormonal changes: Acne can flare up during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause
  • Oily skin: People with oily skin are more likely to develop acne
  • Stress: Stress can trigger the production of hormones that can lead to acne
  • Cosmetics: Using heavy, oily makeup can clog pores and lead to acne
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as steroid hormones or lithium, can cause acne as a side effect

Causes of Acne

The primary cause of acne is the sebaceous glands' overproduction of oil (sebum). This excess oil can mix with dead skin cells and bacteria, clogging the pores and forming blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.

Symptoms of Acne

  • Pimples: red, swollen, and tender bumps on the skin
  • Blackheads: small, dark bumps on the skin
  • Whiteheads: small, white bumps on the skin
  • Cysts: large, painful bumps that can be filled with pus
  • Scars: marks left on the skin after the acne has healed

Treatments for Acne

Acne treatment depends on the severity of the condition and can include the following:

  • Topical medications: creams, gels, or lotions applied directly to the skin. These include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid.
  • Oral medications: antibiotics, birth control pills, and isotretinoin (Accutane)
  • Light or laser therapy
  • Chemical peels
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Extraction: a procedure that involves removing the contents of a blackhead or whitehead with a small, sterile tool
  • Injections: corticosteroids can be injected directly into cysts or nodules to reduce inflammation

Only a few treatments can work for everyone, and a combination of treatment methods may be used. Additionally, it's essential to have realistic expectations of treatment results and the time it will take to see improvement. Consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Skin Cancer

What is Skin Cancer? 

Skin cancer is a group of cancers that develop in the skin. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Causes of Skin Cancer

The leading cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. Other risk factors for skin cancer include:

  • Fair skin: People with fair skin are more susceptible to skin cancer
  • A history of sunburns: especially in childhood
  • A family history of skin cancer
  • A large number of moles or atypical moles
  • Immune system suppression due to organ transplants, HIV/AIDS, or other conditions
  • Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins, such as arsenic

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer, but some common signs include the following:

  • A new or changing mole or freckle
  • A sore that does not heal
  • A scaly or crusty patch of skin
  • A red or pink patch of skin
  • A firm raised bump
  • A flat, reddish spot with irregular borders
  • A lesion that is darker than the surrounding skin
  • An asymmetrical mole that has irregular borders or is multicoloured

Treatment for Skin Cancer

Treatment can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, but some standard options include the following:

  • Surgery: A surgical procedure to remove the cancerous tissue, the type of surgery will vary depending on the location and size of cancer.
  • Radiotherapy: Use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells
  • Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells
  • Photodynamic therapy: A treatment that uses a special light and medicine to kill cancer cells
  • Immunotherapy: Using drugs to help the body's immune system fight cancer cells
  • Topical treatments such as creams and gels that are applied directly to the skin

Early detection and treatment are critical to a successful outcome. If you notice any unusual changes to your skin, it is essential to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.

Eczema

What is Eczema? 

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Risk Factors for Eczema

  • Having a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
  • Having a personal account of allergies or asthma
  • Having dry or sensitive skin
  • Being exposed to certain irritants or allergens such as soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics
  • Being exposed to stress or changes in temperature or humidity

Symptoms of Eczema

  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Small, raised bumps on the skin
  • Crusting or scaling of the skin
  • Dark, discoloured patches of skin
  • Thickened or rough skin from scratching

Treatment for Eczema

Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and can include the following:

  • Topical medications: such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and topical immunomodulators
  • Oral medications: such as antihistamines, antibiotics, and immunomodulators
  • Moisturisers: Keeping the skin moisturised is an essential part of managing eczema
  • Light therapy: can be used to treat moderate to severe eczema
  • Avoidance of triggers: such as irritants and allergens that can worsen eczema
  • Stress management: stress can worsen eczema symptoms, so it's essential to find ways to manage stress

Eczema is a chronic condition with no cure, but with a suitable treatment plan and management, it can be controlled, and the symptoms can be reduced. Consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Hair Loss

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is hair loss from the scalp or other body parts. Hair loss causes, including genetic factors, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and certain medications, can vary.

Symptoms of Hair Loss

Symptoms of hair loss can include thinning hair, receding hairline, and complete baldness.

Treatments for Hair Loss

  • Medications such as minoxidil, finasteride, or dutasteride
  • Hair transplant surgery
  • Scalp micropigmentation
  • Platelet-rich plasma therapy
  • Low-level laser therapy

Nail Fungus

What is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the nails of the fingers and toes. It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes and can be contracted through contact with contaminated surfaces or skin-to-skin contact.

Symptoms of Nail Fungus

Symptoms can include thickened nails, discoloured nails, and nails that have a foul odour.

Treatment for Nail Fungus 

  • Topical antifungal medications such as terbinafine or amorolfine
  • Oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine, itraconazole, or fluconazole
  • Surgical removal of the infected nail

Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an immune system problem.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Symptoms of psoriasis can include red, scaly patches on the skin, itching, and burning.

Treatment for Psoriasis

  • Topical creams or ointments, such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, or retinoids
  • Light therapy, such as UVB or PUVA
  • Oral or injectable medications, such as methotrexate, acitretin, or biologics
  • Moisturisers to keep the skin hydrated

Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the face. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Rosacea

Rosacea symptoms include redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and small, red bumps or pustules.

Treatment for Rosacea

  • Topical medications such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin
  • Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline or doxycycline
  • Isotretinoin
  • Laser therapy
  • Avoidance of triggers such as alcohol, spicy foods, and hot drinks

All the above conditions are chronic, and treatment plans are tailored to the individual's specific case and symptoms. Consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

What Types of Procedures Do Dermatologists Perform?

Dermatologists are trained to perform a wide range of procedures, including:

  • Skin biopsies: A small skin sample is removed and examined under a microscope to diagnose skin conditions.
  • Cryotherapy: Using liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove abnormal growths such as warts, actinic keratoses, and skin cancer.
  • Excision: A surgical procedure to remove skin cancer or other growths by cutting them out along with a margin of surrounding healthy tissue.
  • Electrodesiccation and curettage: A procedure to remove skin cancer or other growths by scraping them off with a curette and then cauterising the area with an electric current.
  • Laser therapy: The use of laser beams to treat various skin conditions, including acne, age spots, and broken blood vessels.
  • Chemical peels: Applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove the outer layers and improve the appearance of fine lines, acne, and age spots.
  • Botox and filler injections: The injection of botulinum toxin (Botox) or fillers to smooth out wrinkles and plump up the skin.
  • Hair removal: Removal of unwanted hair through electrolysis, laser hair removal, or waxing.
  • Liposuction: The removal of fat deposits through a small incision using a cannula and suction.
  • Sclerotherapy: The injection of a solution into varicose veins to shrink them and improve their appearance.
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