Understanding medical dermatology
Medical dermatology is commonly overlooked as most people think of dermatology as a cosmetic practice. Dermatologists are physicians who specialize in treating damaging conditions of the hair, nails and skin in both children and adults. This role can vary because cosmetic dermatology is also a part of their practice. Medical dermatology is your best option when it comes to diagnosing and treating skin-related health problems. Read on to learn about the valuable services that you can receive from a board-certified dermatologist.
Diagnosing skin disorders
As we mentioned above, dermatologists are trained to diagnose and treat skin conditions. Treatment cannot start without a comprehensive examination of the skin, and diagnosis of all accompanying health symptoms. Some conditions are easily diagnosed by visual examination, and there are conditions that may require a combination of skin biopsies and/or blood tests. A few of the skin conditions that dermatologists treat include:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Dermatitis
- Fungal infections
- Skin cancers and suspect birthmarks
Management of chronic conditions
For conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, there is no cure, but dermatologists provide medical management of many chronic skin diseases that are incurable but treatable. The dermatologist will help their patient to adapt through treatments, topical creams, systemic drugs, or phototherapy light treatments. Medical treatment can also be combined with some cosmetic procedures that will improve the overall appearance of the skin. For example, dermabrasion can remove layers of skin to make it appear more radiant, or to remove skin discoloration and thin veins.
Surgical procedures
Dermatologists employ a variety of techniques to treat disorders and skin irritations. It is sometimes necessary to take skin scrapings, biopsy, mole removal, and collecting tissue samples. Samples are examined under a microscope, or biological and chemical tests are used to determine the best course of treatment for the patient.
Medical dermatology and skin cancer screening
It is imperative that everyone has regular skin cancer screening by their medical dermatologist, as one in five adults will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some point their life. Most skin cancers can be resolved. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. When skin cancer screening leads to early diagnosis, this is your best chance to limit long term consequences from skin cancers.
Board-certified medical dermatologist in south Charlotte
Residents in or near the South Charlotte NC area can experience full-service dermatology, including medical, surgical, cosmetic and Mohs micrographic surgery at Metrolina dermatology. Dr. Sasha Haberle and her staff offers customized care for the specific treatment of patients of all ages and skin conditions. Dr. Haberle is recognized as an expert in all areas of dermatology, including medical, cosmetic, and surgical care. She is a Board-Certified dermatologist and Fellowship trained Mohs surgeon. Call the friendly staff at Metrolina Dermatology today to schedule appointment. They welcome new patients and will help you develop a plan for treatment through medical dermatology.
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