Frequently Asked Questions

 

1.        What different types of skin problems are treated at the Dermatology Clinic? 

Dermatologists are specialized, trained Doctors of Medicine with expertise in treatment of all aspects of diseases of the hair, skin, and nails.  A variety of such conditions as psoriasis, eczema, hair loss, and acne are treated in addition to skin cancer. 

2.                  Are skin cancers fatal? 

In 1999, there will be an estimated 1.2 million cases of skin cancer in United States.  The vast majority of these, approximately 85%, are basal cell carcinomas.  These are rarely fatal and are usually a slow-growing, localized tumor that can be treated most commonly by surgery or other techniques.  The second most common type of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States is squamous cell carcinoma.  An estimated 300,000 cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin will be diagnosed.  This is probably an under representation of the actual number.  It is unlike basal cell carcinoma.  Squamous cell carcinoma can metastasize or spread elsewhere in the body.  Several thousand people die in the United States from squamous cell carcinoma of the skin due to its spread.  Most common treatments for squamous cell carcinoma of the skin would include surgery, occasional radiation therapy, and other modalities.  Finally the most serious form of skin cancer is malignant melanoma.  In the United States, malignant melanoma is increasing at a faster rate than either other form of cancer.  There will be close to 40,000 cases of malignant melanoma diagnosed in the United States this year.  It is estimated that over 9,000 people will die from malignant melanoma in the United States this year.  Again the key to diagnosis and treatment of malignant melanoma is early check of any change in moles and to have any suspicious mole removed as early as possible. The treatment of choice for malignant melanoma is surgery. However, there are now new treatments available that include systemic chemotherapy and other modalities.

3.                  Do you provide lab services in your offices? 

Yes, we do.  We have a completely CLIA approved and certified clinical laboratory in our office.  This allows us to do routine blood testing such as blood counts, liver, kidney, and other testing of blood specimens in our office.  This allows for rapid diagnosis of conditions and rapid report to patients. In addition, routine fungal cultures and routine examination of skin specimens for fungus, bacteria, and viruses can be provided on the spot.  Furthermore, we have a complete certified histopathology lab.  We have two board certified dermatopathologists on staff.  All skin biopsies are processed through our own in-house histopathology lab and read by our staff dermatopathologist. 

4.                  What are treatment options for nail fungus?

Over half the people that have problems with their nails developing thickness, crumbling, or debris underneath the nail may be caused by a fungus.  There are several treatments available.  If this is a solitary nail, it could always be surgically removed.  However, the treatment of choice now are oral anti-fungal drugs.  Many of these medications are highly effective and a very safe alternative.  Depending on which drug is used it may carry cure rates between 50 and 75%.

5.                 Do you treat nail and hair problems as well as skin?

Yes.  Dermatologists are board certified in the diagnosis and treatment of all disorders for the hair, skin, and nails.  We have two board-certified dermatologists on staff as well as professionally trained physician assistants to treat such problems.

6.                  How are moles removed?

Depending on the type of the mole, the size of the mole, and the location, there are many different modalities for mole removal.    More commonly than not moles are surgically removed.  Again this depends upon the size and location but may be excised in a way with or without suturing. 

7.               What type of treatment is available for acne?

Treatments for acne depend on the age of the patient, the severity of the acne, and the location of the acne.  The most common treatments are either going to be topical creams that may be applied that will improve mild-to-moderate acne and/or the use of oral medications.  Oral medications may include antibiotics, hormonal drugs, or a drug called Accutane.

8.               Do you treat acne with Accutane?

Yes.  Accutane is a synthetic derivative of Vitamin A that is highly effective in treatment of severe cases of acne.  Unlike all other treatments for acne, Accutane can actually cure acne in upwards to 50% of the patients that take it.  Over 95% of patients that take Accutane have a dramatic improvement in their complexion.  Because of potential for side effects with Accutane, it is necessary to be closely followed with office calls and lab work. 

9.              Is allergy testing done at the Dermatology Clinic?

Yes.  We perform what are called allergy patch testing to determine contact sensitivities.  This involves applying strips of tape containing certain compounds to the back of the patient or to the arm.  With this noninvasive testing, we can test for allergies to metals, nickel, leather, rubber, and a variety of perfumes, fragrances, preservatives, etc.  We do not do testing for respiratory allergies such as hay fever, rag weed, pollens, etc., or foods.

10.              What is the best makeup to use?

We recommend our patients use Allercreme Matte Finish, Almay, Revlon Natural Wonder Oil Control, or Clinique Translucent Pore Minimizer.

11.              What type of soap do you recommend?

Often patients use soaps that are harsh or irritating to their skin.  If you have oily skin it is okay to use an antibacterial soap such as Lever 2000.  However, if you tend to be more dry or have sensitive skin, we recommend such soaps as Dove or Cetaphil. 

12.              What type of moisturizer do you recommend?

There is a wide variety of moisturizers available, over-the-counter, through our office, or by prescription that can help with anything from mild to very severe dry skin.  Over-the-counter moisturizers we often recommend to our patients include Moisturel, Cetaphil, Nutraderm, or Lubriderm.  If these over-the-counters are not effective, we usually move to prescription items.

13.              How is poison ivy spread?

Poison ivy develops from contact with the oil from the plant usually from direct contact with the leaves of the plant brushing against the skin.  It can sometimes be contacted through animals that have had the oil deposited on their skin.  The oil resin quickly oxidizes.  Though it can be spread from touching one area to another, that is only in the first few hours of actual exposure.  A common misconception is once a person has developed poison ivy that the fluid within the blisters will cause it to spread, and that is not true. 

14.              Are warts contagious?

All warts no matter the location are caused by a family of viruses called human papillomavirus.  This causes all warts to be contagious.  They spread, it is thought to be, through direct contact or other means. 

15.              Is a fungus contagious?

By definition, all fungal infections are contagious.  There is a variety of different fungi that people may acquire effecting their skin, hair, and nails.  The most common type is called a dermatophyte fungus infection.  It is the major cause for jock itch, ringworm, athlete’s foot, and nail infections.  There are other types of fungal infections such as yeast that may also be acquired and considered contagious.

16.              What are your recommended sunscreens and what SPF should I use?

We recommend sunscreens with SPF of 15 or higher, preferably 30+.  Sunscreens should be used daily and generously---apply every two to three hours while outdoors.  Waterproof formulas should be used but still need to be applied multiple times if in the water.  When choosing a sunscreen look for one of these ingredients: Z-Cote or Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Parsol 1789 or avobenzone.    Suggested brands include (but READ LABELS to ensure required ingredients) Pre Sun, Shade UVA/UVB, Iguana, Oil of Olay Complete UV Protective Moisture Lotion. For around the eyes, use a “stick” sunscreen as it is waxy and will not run into the eyes.  For best protection, use sunscreen in conjunction with protective clothing--wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves.

17.              What products are available to help reduce discoloration of my skin?

Discoloration of the skin can be caused by many different causes.  Treatments include creams that my lighten and fade the dark areas.  This may be gradual and take quite a long time.