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Category: Dermatology

Advancements in Skin Cancer Treatment

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From minimally invasive surgical technologies to innovative approaches to rehabilitation and beyond, new research in the medical field is optimizing care for patients and doctors alike. Read on to discover the latest in revolutionary treatment options. Mohs surgery is a highly effective treatment option for skin cancer.

 

Doctor looking through microscopeUnderstanding Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States and is caused by a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, age, and immune function. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma are the three most common types of skin cancer, and are highly treatable when caught early.

 

New Solutions

Mohs micrographic surgery, pioneered by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs several decades ago, is a specialized surgical technique for the treatment of skin cancer that involves removing and examining layers of skin until only cancer-free tissue remains. It is the only specialty in medicine where the surgeon is also the pathologist, and boasts the highest cure rates of any cancer treatment for BCC, SCC, melanoma, and other rare forms of skin cancer. Fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons have significant experience with complex skin cancer management and reconstruction.

 

What to Expect

Mohs surgery is an awake procedure. You will first receive local anesthesia to numb the operative site. During the procedure, a thin layer of skin will be removed and thoroughly examined under a microscope. Your surgeon will repeat this step until the cancer is completely removed. After the cancer has been cleared, the removal site will be reconstructed during the same appointment. Surgery typically takes two to three hours, and the majority of this time will be spent waiting comfortably in a room while the tissue is prepared for analysis.

 

Benefits to Patients

Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates among skin cancer treatments and minimizes the risk of recurrence. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, it can effectively cure up to 99% of skin cancers that haven’t been treated before and 94% that have returned after initial treatment. Both surgery and reconstruction conveniently take place in a single, outpatient visit, and most patients can return to work the next day.

 

An Expert Weighs In

“Although a sophisticated skin cancer treatment, the goals of Mohs surgery is simple: keep you comfortable, get the cancer out, and leave you with the least amount of scarring. After performing thousands of Mohs surgeries and complex reconstructions, our team at Uderm is setting the bar for the highest quality skin cancer therapies.”

Jonathan Miller, MD, FACMS, FAADDermatologist and Mohs Surgeon, Uderm

 

Written by Rachel Studebaker & Kristen Dee

This blog post was originally published in HealthScope® Magazine and on HealthScopeMag.com and has been reposted here with permission for informational purposes only. All credit for the content belongs to the original author and source. While we strive to share accurate and valuable information, we do not claim ownership of this material and are not responsible for any changes, updates, or interpretations made since the original publication. For the most up-to-date version, please visit healthscopemag.com.

Eczema Awareness Month; What is Eczema?

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Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that is characterized by inflammation, itching, and redness of the skin.  It can affect people of all ages, from infants to adults, and can vary in severity.  Here are some common symptoms and treatment options for eczema:

COMMON SYMPTOMS:

  • Itching (Puritus):  Intense itching is a hallmark symptom of eczema and is often the most distressing for individuals with the condition.
  • Redness (Erythema):  Affected skin may appear red or inflamed, particularly during flare-ups.
  • Dry Skin:  Eczema often causes the skin to become excessively dry, leading to flaking or peeling.
  • Rash:  A rash may develop, characterized by small, raised bumps that may ooze or crust over when scratched.
  • Swelling: Inflammation can lead to swelling in the affected area.
  • Cracking and Peeling: The skin can become rough, cracked, and scaly.
  • Pain or Discomfort: In severe cases, eczema can be painful and cause discomfort.

There are numerous treatment options which include emollients, moisturizers, topical steroids, antihistamines, biologics, and allergen testing.  Stress management is also a treatment option since stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms.  Learning stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can be beneficial.

It is crucial to note that eczema management is individualized, and what works for one person may not work for another.  A dermatologist should evaluate and create a personalized treatment plan for everyone with eczema.  Additionally, ongoing skincare routines and lifestyle modifications are essential for long-term eczema control.

Eczema on mans hands

Alopecia Areata Awareness Month; What is Alopecia Areata?

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Alopecia areata is an autoimmune skin disorder that leads to hair loss, typically in small, round patches on the scalp and other areas of the body. In this condition, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, which are the structures from which hair grows. This attack causes the hair follicles to become smaller and enter a dormant state, leading to temporary hair loss.

The exact cause of alopecia areata is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. It can affect people of all ages and genders, and its severity can vary widely from person to person. Sometimes, the condition can progress to more extensive hair loss, involving larger areas of the scalp or even the entire scalp (alopecia totalis) or the entire body (alopecia universalis).

Alopecia areata is not a contagious or life-threatening condition, but it can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life, as hair is often considered an important aspect of one’s appearance. There is no known cure for alopecia areata, but various treatments are available to help stimulate hair regrowth and manage the condition. These treatments include topical corticosteroids, topical immunotherapy, oral medications, and in some cases, hair transplant procedures.

If you or someone you know is experiencing hair loss, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and explore appropriate treatment options.

Alopecia areata

Vitiligo Awareness Month; What is Vitiligo?

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Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes patches of the skin to lose their pigmentation. It affects about 1-4% of the population worldwide and is more common among people with a family history.

Vitiligo is not contagious, and the exact cause is not yet known. Some experts believe it can be an autoimmune disorder which occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. Other potential causes include sunburn, genetics, stress, and certain medications.

Treatment for vitiligo can vary depending on the severity of the condition and can include topical steroids, ultraviolet light therapy, oral medications, topical creams, and camouflage makeup.

Vitiligo on hands and wrists

What To Expect With Mohs Surgery

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Known as the gold standard in treating skin cancers, micrographic Mohs surgery is a highly effective treatment for the removal of the most common types of skin cancers. It is actually named for the medical student who perfected it back in the 1930s, but has since been modified to today’s standards. If your dermatologist has recommended this procedure to treat your skin cancer, here is what to expect with Mohs surgery.

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Understanding The Different Types Of Acne

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Whether you have “not so fond” memories of acne breakouts as a teen, you continue to have blemish problems even as an adult, or you have a teen suffering with it now, acne is embarrassing and can be painful. Understanding the different types of acne will help you know how to treat it as an adult or with your own teen, and when to see Uderm.

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