Medical Dermatology

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are common skin lesions caused by years of sun exposure. They are considered the earliest stage in the development of skin cancer. These lesions can easily be treated.

This involves the removal of abnormal skin lesions, such as moles, warts, or cysts. Skin growths may be benign or cancerous, and removal is often performed for diagnostic purposes or to prevent discomfort and irritation.

These are conditions affecting the moist tissues that line areas such as the mouth, nose, and genitals. Common mucous membrane disorders include lichen planus and pemphigus, which can cause painful sores, inflammation, or ulceration.

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where your sweat glands become overactive and cause excessive sweating. The condition can be better managed with the help of a recommended course of treatment from a dermatologist.

Skin infections are caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. They can lead to redness, swelling, and discomfort. Examples include cellulitis (bacterial), athlete’s foot (fungal), and herpes simplex (viral).

Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin, which can cause itching, redness, and swelling. Common types include atopic dermatitis (eczema) and contact dermatitis, which can result from an allergic reaction or irritation.

Nail diseases are distinct from diseases of the skin with their own signs and symptoms that may relate to other medical conditions. Nail conditions that show signs of infection or inflammation require medical assistance of a dermatologist.

Acne is an extremely common skin condition that develops when hair follicles on the face become clogged with dead skin cells and oil.

The National Psoriasis Foundation describes psoriasis as an immune disease affecting approximately three percent of the American population. Immune diseases stem from faulty signals in the body that typically have no known cause and result in widespread inflammation. The most obvious signs of psoriasis are scales on the skin and raised plaques. The appearance of plaques can be considerably different based on skin tone and type of psoriasis.

Rosacea is a common skin disorder involving the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead or eyelids. It may appear as redness, prominent spider-like blood vessels, swelling or skin eruptions similar to acne.

Eczema is a common skin condition that also goes by the names atopic eczema, dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. The condition, which is especially common in children, causes red patches to appear on the skin that are scaly, itchy, and dry.

Many factors can affect the pigment in your skin. Some conditions can cause areas of your skin to appear darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation) than your natural skin tone.

The most common cause of hair loss is a medical condition called hereditary hair loss. About 80 million men and women in the United States have this type of hair loss. Most causes can be stopped or treated, most frequently by a dermatologist.

Cutaneous lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the skin’s lymphatic system. It may present as red or scaly patches, raised bumps, or thickened plaques. This condition requires both dermatologic and oncologic care.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin disorder that can be easily treated. Causing a red, scaly, itchy rash, this condition most commonly develops on the scalp, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids and middle of the chest. Other areas, such as the navel, buttocks, underarms, breasts and groin, may be involved.

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that arises in the basal cells of the skin. It often appears as a small, shiny bump or red patch, primarily on sun-exposed areas. Although it grows slowly, it can cause significant damage if untreated.

Moles are common. Almost every adult has a few moles. It is normal for new moles to appear during childhood and adolescence. Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are irregular moles that can be larger, have uneven borders, or show multiple colors. While typically benign, they can sometimes develop into melanoma and are often monitored closely.

Melanoma is a serious and potentially life-threatening form of skin cancer. It usually develops from moles or pigmented skin cells and can appear as a dark, irregularly shaped lesion. Early detection and treatment are critical to prevent spread.

Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that originates in the squamous cells of the skin’s outer layers. It often presents as scaly red patches, open sores, or wart-like growths, and may spread if not treated.

The most common cancer, skin cancers account for more than two million diagnoses each year in the United States alone. Most Americans are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.