Specialties of an Elmhurst Clinic Dermatologist
The dermatologists at the Elmhurst Clinic diagnose and treat the following skin disorders and diseases:
Acne — This skin condition includes has plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), inflamed pimples (pustules) and deeper lumps (nodules). Acne occurs on the face, as well as the neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Often, acne clears up after several years, even without treatment. Untreated acne can leave permanent scars that may be treated by your dermatologist in the future. To avoid acne scarring, treatment is important.
Hair loss — There are several prescription and non-prescription programs for treatment of hair loss. Re-growth of hair is now often possible.
Moles — Moles are very noticeable and can be raised from the skin. They may be flat, contain dark hairs or be dangerous. A dermatologist can examine and remove the mole if necessary.
Nail disorders — There are a variety of nail disorders, with fungal infection being the most common. In 80 percent of fungal infection cases, the toenails are affected. With proper treatment, most damaged nails can re-grow into healthy nails.
Psoriasis — Psoriasis is a fairly common disease that affects 3-4 percent of the population. For most people, it manifests as a scaly patch on the scalp, elbows or knees and can be effectively treated with cortisone creams supplemented by retinoids (derived from Vitamin A) and calcipotriene (derived from Vitamin D). The dermatologists at the Elmhurst Clinic also perform UVB therapy and use new biologic agents to treat more severe psoriasis.
Skin Cancer
How do I know if I have skin cancer?
Although there is much educational material about skin cancer available in magazines, newspapers, on TV and on the Internet, it is not appropriate for a non-expert to determine what is or is not skin cancer. If you have a spot that changes or a sore that does not heal, it should be examined by a dermatologist. If you are concerned about skin cancer for any other reason, see your dermatologist.
What causes skin cancer?
The vast majority of skin cancer is caused by sun exposure. Other causes are exposure to carcinogenic chemicals, radiation therapy, nuclear radiation or certain viruses.
How is skin cancer treated?
Skin cancer is usually destroyed or cut out. There are several different ways to destroy skin cancer. Additional testing or surgery is sometimes necessary for certain types of skin cancer.