Actinic Keratosis/Sun Damage
Also called: Solar Keratosis
Actinic keratoses are precancerous lesions are typically found on the face, scalp and hands. They consist of persistent, scaly, rough, sandpaper like patches. Untreated, these can progress to squamous cell skin cancer. Outstanding treatments are available.
Hair Loss
This is a psychologically disturbing condition for many. Numerous forms of hair loss exist, most commonly male pattern balding and female pattern balding. Other causes include alopecia areata, scarring hair loss from folliculitis, lupus, and central centrifugal scarring alopecia as well as shedding from telogen effluvium. Dr. Singer has successfully battled his own male pattern balding.
Disorders of Pigmentation
This is an extremely common problem, especially in people of darker skin color. Darker pigmentation is often seen in conditions such as melasma and acne, whereas lighter skin color may be a result of vitiligo and tinea versicolor.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis consists of recurrent itchy rashes on various parts of the body from exposure to an allergen/chemical. Poison ivy is the classic example; however, some people are allergic to his/her personal care products or chemicals found at his/her occupation. Patch testing is often necessary to determine the underlying cause. ACDS 80 core panel patch testing is offered at Craig Singer MD Dermatology.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections of the feet (athlete’s foot) and ringworm of the body or scalp are extremely common. These are treatable through both topical and oral medications.
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune condition that may affect both internal organs such as the joints and kidneys, as well as the skin. It often presents with circular (discoid) red and discolored patches which may lead to permanent scarring on the face and scalp. Skin lupus may signal an internal problem in the body. Lupus is found more commonly in African American females than other ethnicities.
Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is an itchy rash characterized by red to purple colored, flat-topped papules often found on the wrists, ankles and lower back. It is not cancerous or contagious. The itch of lichen planus can be quite disturbing, but fortunately, excellent treatments are available.
Drug Rash
Certain medications, prescribed for a variety of medical problems, can produce skin rash. Sometimes these rashes are self-limited and resolve when the drug is discontinued and other times these medications may cause severe skin rashes, even blistering. A dermatologist is often consulted to determine the cause of the rash.
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Sexually transmitted diseases are a source of embarrassment for many, often with feelings of guilt. Common exposures include genital herpes, genital warts, syphilis and HIV. If you have concerns that you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted disease, it is important to consult with a dermatologist experienced in these conditions.