GENERAL DERMATOLOGY

Full-Body Skin Exams

Full-body skin exams are an important tool in screening patients for benign or cancerous lesions that one may not detect or recognize on self-examination. We will inspect your skin from head to toe for any suspicious growths. This quick and painless preventive measure is an invaluable tool in the early detection of skin cancer, abnormal moles, as well as many other dermatologic conditions.

Skin Cancer Screening Treatment

The incidence of skin cancer is on the rise. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. Annual skin exams and skin cancer screenings can help detect suspicious moles,abnormal growths, precancerous spots, and skin cancer. Due to extensive sun (UV) exposure most of us have had, we are at an increased risk for skin cancer. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer will improve cure rates and ensure the best outcome. Skin cancers found and removed early are almost always curable. We, at Westport Dermatology, will perform a step-by-step skin exam and educate you on what to look out for.

Moles/Dysplastic Nevi

A common mole is called a nevus. A small, well circumscribed, pink, tan, or brown bump on the skin. Most people have them, and most are benign. If a mole begins to change color, shape, size, or become symptomatic (i.e. itchy, painful, bleeding) it needs to be evaluated.

A Dysplastic Nevus is a mole with unusual features. It is usually larger, has irregular colors and borders, and is asymmetrical. People who have had multiple dysplastic nevi are at a higher risk for developing melanoma skin cancer.

At this time, the only way to diagnose melanoma is with a thorough skin exam and removal of suspicious lesions for laboratory examination.

Please schedule your full body skin check/mole check today!

Rosacea

Rosacea is a common, acne-like condition that causes redness and pimples on the face.  Although rosacea can occur in anyone, it most commonly affects middle-aged women who have fair skin.

Left untreated, rosacea tends to worsen over time. Rosacea signs and symptoms may flare up for a period of weeks to months and then diminish before flaring up again. Rosacea can be mistaken for acne, an allergic reaction or other skin problems.

While there’s no cure for rosacea, treatments can control and reduce the signs and symptoms. If you experience persistent redness of your face, see your doctor for a diagnosis and proper treatment.

Signs and symptoms:

• Flushing and redness of the face
• Broken blood vessels (spider veins/ capillaries)
• Burning and sensitive skin
• Ocular symptoms (irritated or
  swollen eyes)

Treatments include topical and oral medications, as well as laser therapy