The Role Of The Pediatric Dermatologist
Many people think of dermatologists as those who diagnose and treat skin cancer. While this is an important job requirement of a dermatologist, these types of doctors do much more. Pediatric dermatologists specialize in treating children, and deal with a myriad of skin conditions. Pediatric dermatologists also work with patients and their parents to keep skin healthy and reduce the risk of skin cancer and other problems.
Diagnosis of Skin Conditions
One of the primary responsibilities of a pediatric dermatologist is to diagnose chronic skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. A pediatric dermatologist also diagnoses skin conditions that appear suddenly, such as hives or contact rashes.
Monitor Skin Conditions
Once a pediatric dermatologist has diagnosed your child with a specific skin condition, you'll make future appointments so the doctor can keep an eye on your child. This is important because it allows the physician to take immediate notice of changes in your child's skin so more or different treatments can be used. Changes in certain types of skin conditions, such as moles, is important for preventing more serious health problems, such as skin cancer, later in life.
Prescribe Medication and Other Treatments
Another key job requirement of a pediatric dermatologist is to treat any type of skin condition a child has, and that often includes some type of medication or prescription topical treatment. If, for example, your child has been diagnosed with eczema, the pediatric dermatologist might recommend a specific brand or type of lotion or write a prescription for a topical ointment designed to reduce symptoms. Other skin conditions might require an oral medication, which a pediatric dermatologist can prescribe for your child. The doctor will also work with you to create an effective medication schedule that works for your child.
Perform Surgery and Biopsies
While a pediatric dermatologist won't be able to perform major surgery in the office, she can perform minor types of surgery, such as removing a wart from your child's skin. Most pediatric dermatologists also do mole removal in the office, either by shaving off or punching out a suspicious mole. Along the same lines, this type of doctor can also put in two or three stitches to close up a minor surgical site. If your child has a worrisome mark, such as a changing mole, a pediatric dermatologist can also do a skin biopsy, which involves removing a small part of skin, to determine if further treatment is necessary.
For more information, contact Southwest Dermatology Institute or a similar location.
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