Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a typically harmless substance. The immune system generally reacts to bacteria, fungi and viruses but sometimes reacts to other substances such as poison oak, shampoos or make up.
Blisters can be caused from insects, infections, genetic conditions and also immune mediated inflammation. Some examples of immune mediated blistering diseases are bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris and dermatitis herpetiformis.
Eczema is a common skin condition that can be chronic, inflammatory and itchy. Atopic dermatitis is a condition that is best managed with a specific plan for each patient. Atopic dermatitis is frequently seen in the pediatric population and these patients require special care.
Several conditions can cause nail changes including infections, internal disease and psoriasis. There are specific treatment options available for nail disease depending on the underlying problem.
Dermatologists are expert in the treatment of diseases of the hair. These conditions include hair loss, excess and unwanted hair and problems with the hair shaft.
Immune diseases such as lupus, scleroderma and dermatomyositis can affect the skin and may require specific treatment.
Leg ulceration can come from several different underlying causes including vascular compromise, infection and pyoderma gangrenosum.
Special care is provided for our younger patients. Treatments are available for several skin conditions in children including acne, eczema, genetic skin disorders, hemangiomas, warts and skin infections.
The color of the skin is determined by the amount of pigment or melanin distributed in the skin. Pigment disorders include vitiligo, where the skin lacks melanin-producing cells. In melasma, there is an increase in pigment in certain areas of the skin which is related to light exposure and hormonal influences.
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with a hereditary component. Psoriasis can cause red to pink inflammation, itching, irritation and silvery scales. Many new treatments are available to manage psoriasis with exciting advances still coming. Treatments may include topical therapy, light therapy and systemic therapies.
