Evaluation and Treatment
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.Diagnosis and Treatment
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 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
- 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
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.
We offer Blue light PDT with Levulan as well as Red light PDT with Amelusz.
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.
