GENERAL DERMATOLOGIST practice of Rhode Island Dermatology and Laser Medicine

For over twenty years, Rhode Island Dermatology and Laser Medicine has treated the skin problems of young and old alike. Rashes, Acne, Psoriasis, Rosacea, Eczema and skin cancers are some of the more common conditions that we encounter. For some of the more common problems, it is tempting to try over the counter medications, which you have seen in advertisements or had recommended by friends. However, a dermatologist can often offer more specific treatments and medications, which can better treat these conditions.

ACNE – almost everyone has suffered from acne, most likely during his or her teen-age years. Acne is caused by a blockage of the skin pores of the hair follicles and a build-up of debris and oil in the pore. This causes inflammation and redness. Acne can be very difficult to treat. Antibiotics and Accutane are often prescribed for difficult cases. We also offer Blu-U therapy and ALA-PDT therapy for acne, new cutting edge technologies for acne therapy. See Results

Actinic Keratosis – this is a precancerous skin growth usually caused by sun exposure. It occurs most commonly in fair skin, especially in the elderly and in young individuals with light complexions. The growths occur in sun-exposed skin areas. The growths begin as flat scaly areas that later develop a hard wart-like surface. They are classified as precancerous growths. If left untreated, approximately 10% of actinic keratoses develop into squamous cell carcinoma. Cryogenic surgery and ALA-PDT therapy can be used to treat this condition. See Results

Basal Cell Carcinoma – BCC may appear as a translucent or “mother of pearl” bump, or may be a red patch that doesn’t go away. Basal Cell Carcinomas are typically, but not always, on sun exposed skin. Treatment is usually surgical but BCC is sometimes treated with radiation or topical chemotherapy. BCC rarely metastasize but can spread and be very destructive if not treated. The cure rate is very high, especially when diagnosed early and when treatment is properly selected. Recurrences can occur but usually respond to a second round of treatment.

Cold Sores or Herpes Simplex – can cause blister-like sores almost anywhere on a person’s skin. There are two types: one usually occurs around the mouth and nose and the other often appears on the buttocks and genitals. Early diagnosis and treatment can ease the discomfort and limit the duration and frequency of the attacks.

Contact Dermatitis – People can be sensitive to a variety of chemicals in the environment including soaps, metals in jewelry, medications, perfumes, wool and lanolin. These substances can cause rashes and irritations. Usually, the inflammation and discomfort can be alleviated with topical medications. If necessary, we can perform patch testing to determine what substances may be causing the skin irritation.

Eczema or Dermatitis – Eczema, which can affect children and adults, is an inflammation of the skin. In people with eczema, the inflammatory response to irritating substances overacts, causing itching and scratching. The causes generally fall into two types: an externally triggered “contact” rash or an internally triggered skin reaction. Rashes are extremely common. Many people start with dry, chapped areas that later become red, scaly, and inflamed. Some skin reactions are often inherited.

Hives – are pink swellings called wheals which can be seen on any part of the skin. Each wheal lasts a few hours but may last longer before fading away, leaving no trace. When hives form, they are usually very itchy, but may also sting or burn. Allergic reactions to chemicals in food or medications can cause histamine to be released and form hives.

Melanoma – The most severe malignant skin cancer is a melanoma. Examples of lesions that may be melanoma include skin growths that are changing with irregular pigmentation, irregular borders of colors. Early diagnosis and treatment is important in this more aggressive type of skin cancer.

Psoriasis – Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by defects in the immune system. In psoriasis, skin cells mature 4-5x faster than normal cells and pile up rather than shedding, which causes skin lesions. It is a chronic condition requiring lifelong therapy to control the symptoms. More on Psoriasis...

Rosacea – Rosecea is a chronic condition characterized by a tendency to blush easily which progresses to persistent redness, pimples and visible blood vessels in the face. If can also affect the neck, chest, eyes and back. Early diagnosis and treatment is important in controlling this disease. Topical prescription medications may help. For persistent cases, the V-Beam laser can reduce the redness and visible blood vessels. See our Results Section. SkincarePhysicians.com. also has More on Rosacea.

Skin Cancer – Most skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Sun exposure is responsible for most of the ultraviolet radiation, so good sun protection is important to minimize your risk of skin cancer. You are at higher risk if you have fair skin, if you are blue –eyed, red or blond haired, if you burn easily and tan poorly and if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer. Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is the next most common. Actinic Keratosis is a pre-cancerous growth that can turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. Melanoma, the most deadly skin cancer, is the third most common skin cancer, and the incidence is increasing.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – SCC is a malignant cancer that requires treatment. It accounts for about 16% of the skin cancers detected each year. It can arise from actinic keratoses (pre-cancers).SCC may appear as a raised bump, a sore or a red scaly patch. Typically, squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and can metastasize. SCC has a very high cure rate when diagnosed early and properly treated.

Warts – are caused by a viral infection of the cells in the top layer of the skin. The four most common warts are found on hands and feet, or on the genitals. Flat warts are common on the face and legs, are skin-colored, and feel rough. Warts can be treated with cryosurgery, immunotherapy with squaric acid, or with the V-Beam laser.