Rosacea
Rosacea
is a chronic skin disease affecting about 14 million Americans.
It causes redness and breakouts on the face and also occasionally
the chest, neck. It can also affect the eyes, causing
redness and irritation. Although it can affect anyone,
rosacea typically appears in light-skinned, light-haired
adults aged 30-50. Symptoms range from pimples, red lines
and visible blood vessels to dry, burning, or sensitive
skin and a tendency to flush easily. Although it is not
yet known what causes rosacea and the condition is not
curable, it can be treated in many ways, including topical
and oral medications, intense pulsed light therapy and
laser surgery. Early detection and intervention are essential
to achieve the most effective results, and to reduce the
severity of symptoms if rosacea has already progressed.
Rashes, Allergies,
& Irritations
There are
a variety of skin irritations including common problems
such as poison ivy or reactions to various environmental
irritants. A dermatologist is trained to identify these
ailments and provide medical relief. Atlantic Shore Dermatology
can perform patch testing to help determine possible contact
allergens.
Psoriasis
A disease which affects
the skin and joints. It commonly causes red scaly patches
to appear on the skin. The scaly patches caused by psoriasis,
called psoriatic plaques, are areas of inflammation and
excessive skin production. Skin rapidly accumulates at
these sites and takes a silvery-white appearance. Plaques
frequently occur on the skin of the elbows and knees,
but can affect any area including the scalp and genitals.
Psoriasis is hypothesized to be immune-mediated and is
not contagious.
The disorder is a chronic
recurring condition which varies in severity from minor
localised patches to complete body coverage. Fingernails
and toenails are frequently affected (psoriatic nail dystrophy)
- and can be seen as an isolated finding. Psoriasis can
also cause inflammation of the joints, which is known
as psoriatic arthritis. approximately 25% of patients
with psoriasis have psoriatic arthritistis. Atlantic Shore
Dermatology offers the latest in biologic treatments (Embrel,
Humira and others) as well as traditional therapies.