Pediatric Dermatology

Pediatric dermatology involves comprehensive diagnosis and treatment services for the unique skin of infants, children and adolescents. While children and adults experience many of the same skin conditions, certain conditions are more prevalent in younger patients and require special care that takes into account the growing needs of these patients. Children are often at risk for fungal and bacterial infections of the skin, as well as a wide array of other acquired and congenital conditions.

Our treatments are gentle yet successful, allowing children to engage in their everyday activities while efficiently managing their skin ailment. Children with healthy skin can also be seen by our doctor for regular examinations to learn about proper skin care, including adequate sun protection. Early examination by a dermatologist can promote a lifetime of healthy skin for our pediatric patients.

Our staff is highly skilled and experienced in treating pediatric skin conditions and strives to provide a comfortable, safe and worry-free experience for both child and parent. We take the time to educate parents about their child’s condition to help ensure proper treatment and home care so children can enjoy clear, healthy skin as they grow.

Some of the most common pediatric skin conditions we treat include:

Rashes

Rashes are areas of redness and inflammation that can appear on the skin after exposure to certain substances, including chemicals, soaps, cosmetics, poison ivy or other stimulants. There are many different conditions that cause rashes, which may be acute or chronic and tend to occur in young children.

Most rashes can be treated through simple home care practices such as avoiding soaps and bathing in warm water, while others may require moisturizing creams, prescription medications or more extensive treatment. Parents can help their child prevent rashes by avoiding the products that irritate their skin, washing hands frequently and receiving proper vaccinations.

Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, refers to a group of inflamed skin conditions that result in chronic, itchy rashes and affect 10 to 20 percent of all infants. Children with eczema often experience an itchy rash that appears on the forehead, cheeks, arms and legs for a short amount of time after exposure to a trigger such as harsh soaps, dust mites, food allergies and certain clothing materials.

Although there is no cure currently available for eczema, there are several treatments available to help relieve symptoms, including topical steroids, antihistamines, immunomodulators, cold compresses and other home remedies.

Birthmarks

Birthmarks are benign pigmented patches of skin that can range in color from tan and brown to red, pink or purple and are present at birth. Although they are usually harmless, some birthmarks may develop into cancer and should be monitored regularly. Depending on their size and location, some patients may be bothered by the appearance of birthmarks and seek treatment to remove them.

Treatment for birthmarks depends on the age of the patient and the type of lesion, but may include laser surgery, pulsed light therapy, microdermabrasion or surgical excision.

Acne

Acne involves an abnormality within the oil glands that causes skin cells to reproduce and develop pimples, whiteheads and other lesions on the surface of the skin. This may occur as a result of hormones, heredity, cosmetics, stress, bacteria or other factors. Acne is most common in teenagers, but can affect patients of all ages.

Almost all teenagers have at least some acne, and as many as one in three seek treatment to correct this condition. Treatment for acne can vary depending on the type, severity and location of acne lesions, but may include topical or oral medications, over-the-counter creams, laser treatments, cortisone injections or Accutane® (isotretinoin). Your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment for your child’s individual condition based on a thorough examination.

Please contact us at 919-876-3656 to learn more about Pediatric Dermatology or to schedule an appointment.

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