Dermatology is a medical specialism focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the skin, hair and nails. It involves the diagnosis and treatment of dermatological, infectious, allergic, autoimmune and neoplastic conditions. Dermatological treatment also addresses problematic aesthetic skin conditions, such as acne, discolouration and signs of ageing.
These include conditions resulting from an excessive or abnormal inflammatory response by the body. They include, amongst others, eczema and folliculitis. They are characterised by erythema, pruritus, the presence of papules, oozing lesions and periodic flare-ups of the condition.
Moles, discolouration, vitiligo, papules and nodules of various origins require dermatoscopic assessment and differentiation between benign lesions and those that should be removed.
They can be caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites. The most common examples include cold sores, impetigo and scabies, which present with redness, itching, blisters or skin lesions and require appropriate treatment.
These may include benign and malignant lesions, including melanoma. Early detection and surgical treatment are crucial.
These include changes resulting from injuries, inflammation or exposure to high temperatures.
A chronic inflammatory condition of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles, most commonly affecting the face, back and chest.
Immune system reactions triggered by contact with allergens, the consumption of certain foods, or hypersensitivity to light (photodermatitis).
Hair loss of inflammatory or hormonal-genetic origin. In folliculitis, there is chronic inflammation damaging the hair follicles, whilst androgenetic alopecia causes gradual thinning of the hair in the frontal and parietal regions under the influence of androgens.
These include inflammation and infections of the skin around the nails, often associated with injuries, fungal infections or improper nail care.
Histopathological examinations
Dermatoscopic assessment of moles and skin lesions
Cryotherapy for localised lesions
Laser therapy
Laser treatment for acne
Laser removal of skin lesions
Removing warts with acid
A visit to a dermatologist begins with a medical history, during which the doctor asks about symptoms, the course of the condition, any cosmetics and medicines used, and your general state of health. The doctor then carries out a thorough examination of your skin, hair or nails. If necessary, they may order further tests, such as a dermatoscopy, cultures, allergy tests or a skin biopsy.
An initial appointment with a dermatologist usually lasts around 20 minutes – this allows time for a thorough assessment of any skin conditions and to discuss the treatment plan. Follow-up appointments are generally shorter and last between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the type of treatment.
It is advisable to see a dermatologist if you experience skin changes such as a rash, itching, acne, discolouration, unusual-looking moles, flaky skin or excessive hair loss. Long-term nail problems or suspected contact allergies are also reasons to seek a consultation.
Most dermatological procedures are painless or cause only minor discomfort. For treatments such as cryotherapy, laser therapy or the removal of skin lesions, the doctor administers a local anaesthetic, ensuring that the patient feels no pain.
Yes. The dermatologist sees both adults and children. For the youngest patients, they treat, amongst other things, atopic dermatitis (AD), allergies, teenage acne, warts, pigmented lesions and other skin problems typical of childhood.
Many skin conditions can be completely cured, especially if they are diagnosed early enough. Some conditions, such as psoriasis or atopic dermatitis, are chronic in nature; however, thanks to modern treatments, it is possible to effectively alleviate their symptoms, prolong periods of remission and prevent relapses.
Regular visits to a dermatologist are particularly important for people with numerous moles, skin discolouration, skin problems or a family history of skin cancer. An annual check-up with a specialist enables the early detection of changes requiring treatment.
