Skin Cancer
Our most common skin cancers arise because of the sun we are exposed to and that which we were exposed to in our youth.
We perform full skin examinations, checking your moles and other spots for skin cancer.
If skin cancers are found, these may be treated surgically and occasionally by other methods.
Eczema
Dry, red, itchy, scaly, weeping skin. There are several types. Atopic eczema often appears in babies. Allergic contact eczema appears any time due to contact with things such as nickel, Band-Aids, perfume. Varicose eczema occurs around the ankles in people with varicose veins.
ACNE
It typically presents in teenage years and varies from very mild to severe and if untreated may cause extensive scarring. It can also present or persist into adult life. Acne can be very distressing and affect one’s self-esteem, however there are various topical and systemic treatments which are very effective.
Psoriasis
A very scaly eruption that maybe present in other family members and often causes much embarrassment. There are new treatments available for the very severe cases.
Rosacea
A flushing red face or nose, ‘the curse of the Celts’. Come and discuss management of this frustrating condition.
Hair Thinning
Alopecia can be the loss of hair in small round patches or it can be diffuse. There can be an underlying cause but often no cause is found. Treatments are available.
Nail Disorders
The most common nail disorder in a fungal nail infection. Nail clippings are taken to culture the fungus and appropriate tablets are prescribed.
Skin cancers can effect the nail apparatus including melanoma and squamous cell cancer.
Pigment Loss
Vitiligo is thought to be an auto immune disorder and can be associated with other auto immune disorders. Pigment loss may also be due to fungal infections or even leprosy.
Other Rashes
There are many, many causes of rashes including infection, infestation (such as scabies) and connective tissue diseases such as lupus erythematosis. Firstly a diagnosis is needed. This may require a skin biopsy. Then treatment maybe started.
For information about various skin conditions you may like to go to the public pages of our College website and check out the 'A – Z of Skin'. There is some great information there at www.dermcoll.asn.au.