Before Your Visit...
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Skin cancer is the most prevalent of all cancers. More than one million Americans develop skin cancer every year. Excessive exposure to sunlight (including tanning) is the main cause of skin cancer, especially when sunburns and blisters occur. Less important risk factors include family history, arsenic or repeated x-ray exposure, and scars from burns. Fair-skinned people who sunburn easily are at particularly high risk for skin cancer. Dr. Patout has extensive training in both the diagnosis and surgical treatment of skin cancers.
For more information, visit the Skin Cancer Foundation: http://www.skincancer.org/
The majority of moles (“nevi”) are harmless skin growths that can be flat or raised, vary in color from pink flesh tones to dark brown, and appear anywhere on the skin. The number a person develops depends on genes and sun exposure. Some moles are atypical (“dysplastic nevi”) and resemble or develop into malignant melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Moles that are asymmetric, have irregular borders, uneven color, or are wider than a pencil eraser should be evaluated by a dermatologist. If a mole bleeds or changes in color, size, or shape, it should be examined promptly.
For more information, visit the American Melanoma Foundation: http://www.melanomafoundation.org/prevention/abcd.htm
Acne is caused by pores that become clogged with oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. There are many medications that control outbreaks of acne. While not a life-threatening condition, acne can be upsetting and disfiguring. When severe, it can lead to permanent scarring. For acne sufferers whose skin has become resistant to medications, or for those who simply want to eliminate the use of oral antibiotics or Accutane, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Photofacials, alone or as part of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) with Levulan, offer a safe and non-invasive alternative.
For more information, visit the Academy of Dermatology: http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/acne/
Rosacea (rose-AY-sha) is a long-term skin condition that causes facial redness and swelling. Many people with rosacea notice a tendency to flush or blush easily, which eventually leads to permanent redness. Pimples may develop and are effectively treated with creams and antibiotics, however, laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments are the only effective answer for the redness.
For more information, visit the National Rosacea Society: http://www.rosacea.org/
Psoriasis is a non-contagious, lifelong skin condition that affects over 2% of the population. It appears as red, scaly areas and may affect any part of the skin. Over 10% of people with psoriasis may develop associated arthritis of their joints. Although there is currently no cure, many therapies can reduce the symptoms.
For more information, visit the National Psoriasis Foundation: http://www.psoriasis.org/
Eczema is a general term encompassing various inflamed skin conditions. One of the most common forms of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Approximately 10-20% of the population is affected by this chronic, relapsing, and very itchy rash at some point during childhood. Fortunately, many children with eczema find that the disease clears and often disappears with age.
For more information, visit the National Eczema Association: http://www.nationaleczema.org/
Alopecia areata (al-oh-PEE-shah air-ee-AH-ta) is the loss of hair caused by an autoimmune disorder that affects over 1% of the population. The immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles and stops hair growth. It usually starts with a small round bald spot on the scalp and may spread.
For more information, visit the National Alopecia Areata Foundation: http://www.alopeciaareata.org/
Warts are non-cancerous growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are usually skin-colored and feel rough to the touch, but they can be dark, flat and smooth. The appearance of a wart depends upon where it grows.
For more information, visit the Academy of Dermatology: http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/warts/