Medical Treatments

Lets learn the ABCDE's of melanoma

Common Medical Treatments

Have you had your yearly full body skin exam? If you have been to a dermatologist I can guarantee they have offered this exam, or you were there for one! This is when a dermatologist examines you from head to toe, examining all moles and any abnormalities of your skin. Did you know that a mole that is larger than the size of a pencil eraser should be examined as it will be considered suspicious? A very uncommon place that is also a red flag for suspicion is having a mole on the sole of your foot. Let us quickly review the ABCDE rule of moles.

The ABCDE's of Melanoma

  1. Asymmetry. It is uneven, and one side does not match the other.
  2. Border. The outside border is jagged, blurred or uneven.
  3. Color. The color is not consistent.
  4. Diameter. The spot is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
  5. Evolving. It has changed! Size, shape, color or elevation.

Different types of medical treatments offered by a dermatologist are topical, oral, light therapy and skin exams (as mentioned above). Depending on what condition you are being seen for, the severity and your medical history are taken into consideration when offering treatment options. Acne is a common condition that is treated by dermatologist. Treatment for this can vary from topical retinoids, antibiotics to Accutane (for severe acne cases), or blue light therapy. Eczema and psoriasis are also very common conditions treated. I refer to these two as 'jerks' because they leave people feeling so incredibly uncomfortable. Dermatologist may use corticosteroid creams, immunosuppressants, biologics or light therapy.