Serving The Wichita Area for 90 Years

Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in skin diseases and injuries. They can handle cosmetic problems, medical problems, and also conduct surgery, if necessary. The most common dermatologic problems that people go to see the dermatologist for are acne, various types of dermatitis, psoriasis, hair loss (alopecia), and skin cancer.

Acne

Acne is the most common skin disorder in the US. In fact, according to the Harvey Street Dermatology Clinic, acne affects over 85% of the world's population. It is caused by hormonal changes that can block hair follicles and oil glands in the skin. It leads to pimples, blackheads, cysts, and nodules. Acne is often treated with topical acne creams. However, there are prescription pill acne treatments that are used for severe cases.

Dermatitis

Dermatitis covers a broad range of diseases and disorders. It means skin ("derma-") inflammation ("-itis"). Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common form of dermatitis that leads to dry, itchy, and scaly skin. It usually occurs in early childhood, but can affect adults, too. Topical steroids are used to treat it.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that leads to patches of dry, itchy, and scaly skin. It can also cause joint inflammation – a condition referred to as "psoriatic arthritis" which needs additional treatment from a rheumatologist. There are multiple types of psoriasis that result in different types of rashes. It is a chronic condition that can be a lifelong disorder. It is treated with various topical ointments, and the arthritis is treated with various anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen.

Alopecia

Alopecia is hair loss. There are multiple forms of alopecia, including androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness. Dermatologists can help prevent worsening hair loss, but there are no medical treatments to grow back lost hair. Catching it early is vital to prevent fully going bald.

Skin Cancer

Any form of cancer is scary, and skin cancer is no exception. However, if the cancer is caught early, and a dermatologist can help put together a treatment plan to effectively treat it and stop it from spreading. Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma are the most common forms. BCC is easy to treat and rarely spread. SCC and melanoma are more severe, with melanoma being the most life-threatening. This sort of cancer may be surgically treated along with chemo or radiation therapies.

These are just a few of the types of skin conditions a dermatologist may help with. Each disease presents itself differently on different individuals, so it's important to not jump to conclusions when you see a rash on your skin. Only a medical professional can help you diagnose it. If you are experiencing symptoms of a dermatologic condition, contact The Dermatology Clinic, P.A. We offer a variety of services, including cosmetic dermatology, medical dermatology, phototherapy, and more. Call today to schedule an appointment!