Der­ma­tol­ogy

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells that often develops on skin exposed to the sun.

The most common types of skin cancer are:

• Basal cell carcinoma, usually found on sun-exposed areas such as the neck or face. Signs of this cancer include flat lesions that are flesh-colored or have a scar-like appearance, as well as a sore that won’t heal.
• Squamous cell carcinoma, this type of cancer might appear on ears or hands. Signs of this cancer might include a flat lesion with a scaly and crusty surface.
• Melanoma, can occur anywhere on the body.

Early detection of skin cancer plays a critical role in recovery and survival. At Central Coast Dermatology, our dermatologist recommends annual visits to examine your skin and identify any concerns such as moles or growths. Our specialists can detect, and in some cases remove cancer before serious complications develop.

Courses of treatment

Results may vary depending on the type of skin cancer.

• Liquid nitrogen (Cryotherapy)
• Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)
• Topical therapies

Skin Lesions

Skin lesions are a part of the skin with an abnormal growth or appearance compared to the skin around it. Skin lesions can include but are not limited to warts, moles, and nodules.

Courses of Treatment

• Cryotherapy
• Topical treatments

Acne

Acne is a common skin condition when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples, although acne is most common among teenagers, it can affect people of all ages. Acne can be self-treated with over-the-counter medications and self-care remedies, but if you struggle with persistent and severe acne, Central Coast Dermatology can help.

Courses of Treatment

• Various topical treatments & systemic
• Accutane

Hidradenitis

Hidradenitis is considered a severe form of acne that occurs deep in the skin in areas of the body with sweat glands, such as the groin or armpits. Hidradenitis is characterized by a combination of blackheads and red lesions that break open and drain pus, which may cause itching or sweating.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and swelling on the face and can also affect the scalp, neck, ears, chest, back, and even around the eyes. Treatment for rosacea can include oral and topical, lifestyle modifications, laser, and light therapies.

Courses of Treatment

• Treatment is based on the severity and type of rosacea
• Topical
• Systemic

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema is used to describe a range of skin conditions characterized by rashes, itchiness, and redness. One of the most common types of Eczema is Atopic Dermatitis, which usually starts during childhood and may disappear or become much milder by adulthood. Linked to allergies, many people with this condition also suffer from hay fever and asthma.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Systemic

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can be long-lasting and is noncontagious. Psoriasis is characterized by patches of abnormal skin that are red, pink, or purple, dry, itchy, and scaly. There is no known cure for psoriasis, but various treatments can help control your symptoms. Let the team at Central Coast Dermatology help you manage your psoriasis symptoms.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Systemic
• Multiple visits might be necessary

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic is a common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp and can cause scaly patches, inflamed skin, and stubborn dandruff. Seborrheic can be treated with medicated shampoo and may go away without treatment; however, if symptoms persist, Central Coast Dermatology can help.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Systemic

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives are an outbreak of pale red bumps or welts on the skin that appear suddenly. Hives can be caused by an allergic reaction, chemicals in certain foods, insect bites, sunlight, or medications. Hives are manageable without a medical professional; however, we recommend consulting with your specialist at Central Coast Dermatology.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Systemic
• Appropriate referral to allergist or co-manage

Rash or Unknown Rash

A rash is any area of irritated or swollen skin on your body. Rashes are often itchy and painful and can appear differently on different skin tones. Rashes have a variety of causes. Seek medical attention if home remedies do not help, or if you have symptoms such as fever or dizziness.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Systemic
• Biopsy

Hair Loss

Hair loss can be the result of heredity, stress, medications, or an underlying condition. In some cases, hair loss just affects your scalp, but it can also affect your entire body. Anyone can experience hair loss at any age. Treatments vary and depending on the cause of hair loss our team might be able to help determine the cause and establish an appropriate treatment plan.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Short-term or long-term treatment needed

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that is not always related to heat or exercise. Hyperhidrosis occurs when the perspiration is excessive and when temperature regulation triggers do not exist.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Short-term or long-term treatment needed
• Botox – last resort injections must be approved by insurance

A Total Skin Exam is a thorough examination of your skin from head to toe. We analyze the health of your skin and check for skin conditions or spots that may be of concern. Covered by insurance, yearly exams are recommended, but if skin cancer 3-6 months.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Systemic
• Biopsy treatment modalities

Skin Cancer

• Electrodesiccation and Curettage (ED&C)
• Surgical Excision
• Slow Mohs – “Slow Mohs” is a variation of the Mohs surgery procedure.

Benign Skin Growths

Benign but symptomatic skin growth such as cysts, lipomas, and other abnormal skin growths.

Warts

Warts are small skin growths caused by a viral skin infection. Some warts can go away with over-the-counter medications, but be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or a specialist at Central Coast Dermatology.

Courses of Treatment

• Topical
• Procedural

Abscess

An abscess is a collection of pus surrounded by a wall of tissue. An abscess is similar to a pimple, but larger and deeper under the skin, and can be painful.

Courses of Treatment

• Incision and Drainage
• Systemic