Medical Dermatology

Dermatologists are trained in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of problems of the skin.  Common conditions include acne, moles, skin cancer, dry skin, psoriasis, warts, skin discoloration, eczema, dandruff, and infections.  At Milam Bogart Dermatology, it is our pleasure to treat both adults and children.

Skin cancer refers to the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of skin cells. Some skin cancers, such as malignant melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are potentially life-threatening.  Risk factors for developing skin cancer include fair skin, family history of melanoma, age over 40, and regular sun exposure.  People of all races can develop skin cancer.

If you have any of the following cancer warning signs, you should be examined by a professional immediately:

• Unusual marks, bumps or growths on your skin
  
• A sore that has not healed in 3-4 weeks
  
• A wound that continually reopens or bleeds
  
• A growth that increases in size or appears translucent
  
• A mole with any of the following signs:
  
  
  • Larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 mm)
    
  • Rapidly changing in color, size or shape
    
  • Has multiple colors
    
  • Is located where it can not be easily monitored, such as on the scalp

Early intervention is essential to preventing the cancer from spreading. During your appointment, one of our providers will discuss the need for a biopsy, various treatment options, and the importance of prevention of additional skin cancers including the use of sunscreen and sun protective clothing.

Pre-skin cancers are known as actinic keratoses. These are typically red, scaly, sensitive bumps which occur on sun exposed areas. There are many different treatments for pre-skin cancer. One of the most beneficial treatments is photodynamic therapy (PDT). Patients who get pre-cancers, typically have multiple lesions in similar locations. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has the virtue of treating large areas at once. Previous treatments such as Efudex worked well but were typically found to be slow in effect, uncomfortable and unsightly to use. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has proven to be both efficacious and better tolerated. Our office has had significant experience in this technique and is adept in maximizing its benefits. Other treatment for actinic keratoses includes cryotherapy and curettage; these are especially beneficial for solitary lesions that are thick and scaly. Other topical treatments include Aldara and 5-Fluorouracil. Once again, the treatment is tailored to the circumstances of an individual patient.

A skin biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a small piece of skin is removed for analysis under a microscope. It is useful in the diagnosis of skin cancers and other dermatological diseases. Some types of biopsies may require a stitch.

Acne is a common diagnosis in both adults and teenagers. It is a disease of the hair follicles that commonly affects the face as well as the neck, chest, back and arms. Acne lesions may leave unsightly scars or blemishes. Although a harmless condition, acne can affect a person's confidence. Adult women are especially vulnerable to developing acne. It may be related to hormonal problems. There are a variety of effective prescription treatments and in-office procedures which help clear the skin of acne and the marks it leaves behind.

Acne rosacea is an adult form of acne which typically is hallmarked by the presence of pimples, redness and a tendency to flush. It is an “irritable” form of acne in that many things that people eat and are exposed to can make it worse. Avoidance of these trigger factors is helpful. Many treatments, both in the form of topical creams and pills are beneficial.