Many people know that dermatologists treat skin disorders. When you think about the skin conditions that people have you think of acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin cancer. There are many disorders they treat, that you may not be aware dermatologists treat. The variety of conditions are what keep dermatologists busy and are the reasons they need to be kept up-to-date on new treatments.
Types of Skin Disorders
Blistering bullous diseases – One blistering skin disorder is called Bullous Pemphigoid. This disease is an autoimmune disease. It develops as large and itchy blisters. Doctors can confirm by identifying antibodies. This is commonly treated with corticosteroids and immune suppressant drugs.
Burning mouth syndrome – This is a mouth disorder that is not caused by typical sores or abnormalities in the mouth. A burning, tingling, or numbing sensation occurs that may affect the tongue or the entire mouth. It is usually diagnosed by symptoms and a lack of sores. Treatments involve keeping the mouth moist.
Hives – These are red, itchy, slightly-raised red bumps that are pale in the center. It can eventually swell on the lips and tongue and throat area and cause problems with breathing. They are usually caused by an allergic reaction to a chemical, drug, or food. Treatment involves avoiding the trigger and use of corticosteroids and antihistamines if a reaction occurs.
Granuloma annulare – This is a small ring-shaped swelling under the tissue. Doctors believe that it is an immune response and it usually goes away on its own. However, some will prescribe corticosteroids or use laser therapy to help with the appearance of these rings.
Hyperhidrosis – People experience this skin disorder are prone to excessive sweating. Excessive sweating may be caused by skin infection or even cancer. Treatments can vary by using aluminum chloride deodorants or anticholinergic drugs. There are also surgical procedures that can be performed if necessary.
Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome – This is a rare, congenital syndrome where a limb has port wine stains, varicose veins, or even abnormal bone/soft tissue growth. The cause is unknown. Laser therapy is often used to help with the varicose veins. The port wine stain is not dangerous, but may be removed if it causes aesthetic problems for the patient.
Porphyria cutanea tarda – This skin condition causes blistering due to sun exposure. Excess iron build-up occurs in the liver, causing damage. Blood tests can diagnose this condition. Removal of blood is a form of treatment. Also, taking chloroquine can help to excrete porphyria.
Vasculitis – This condition can be caused by infections or unknown origins. Symptoms are usually fever or fatigue. Biopsies are performed to check for inflammation of blood vessels in the area. Treatment includes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation at the sight.
Vitiligo – This condition is characterized by a loss of melanocytes in the skin that cause white patches. Doctors diagnose this skin condition by visualization of the white patches on the skin. Corticosteroids can help with this condition, but usually phototherapy and even skin grafts are utilized to re-pigment the skin.
If you think you may be suffering from any of these skin disorders, call your Batesville, Arkansas dermatologist Dr. Patrick Hatfield for a checkup.