Pediatric dermatologists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions in children. Children's skin is quite different from adult skin, and it requires a higher level of care and attention. Pediatric dermatologists have received ample training in identifying and managing a wide array of skin problems in infants, children, and teenagers.
Some of the most common skin conditions that pediatric dermatologists treat include eczema, acne, warts, birthmarks, and skin infections. More serious conditions like psoriasis, skin cancer, and genetic skin disorders also fall within their expertise. Pediatric dermatologists work in tandem with other healthcare specialists to curate personalized treatment plans that can address the child’s unique issues.
When a child refers to a pediatric dermatologist, the doctor carries out a comprehensive assessment of the child's current skin condition and medical history. This may also include ordering diagnostic tests to identify some of the potential causes of their issues. Based on the data found, the pediatric dermatologist will come up with a treatment plan that may consist of a combination of medications, topical creams, and other treatments. The goal of every pediatric dermatologist is to improve the child's skin health and overall quality of life.
Common Skin Conditions in Children
Pediatric dermatologists are medical professionals who have extensive training in treating skin, hair, and nail conditions in children. They have a great wealth of knowledge on both common and rare conditions that may afflict children from when they are toddlers to their teenage years.
These are some of the most pervasive skin conditions that pediatric dermatologists are certified to treat:
Eczema
Eczema is an uncomfortable skin condition that is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. It most often develops in infants and young children, but it can affect adults as well. Eczema can be triggered by various factors, such as allergens, irritants, and stressors (both physical and emotional). It is usually recommended that eczema sufferers moisturize their skin, avoid their known triggers, and use topical medications to reduce any inflammation and itching.
Acne
Acne is an incredibly common skin condition that usually manifests in our adolescence. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, causing us to break out in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Treatments for acne can include topical medications, drugs (such as Accutane), and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Those with cystic acne (a more severe form of the condition) see great benefit from cutting allergens (sugar, gluten, dairy, etc) from their diets.
Warts
Warts are small, raised growths on the skin that are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can develop on any area of the body and are commonly found in children. Warts are most often treated with topical medications, freezing, or surgery.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks are defined as colored spots or patches on the skin that a patient is either born with or develops soon after being born. They come in either a vascular or pigmented form. Vascular birthmarks are the result of abnormal blood vessels in the skin, while pigmented birthmarks are the result of an overgrowth of pigment cells. Ultimately, the treatment approach taken with a birthmark will depend on its location and size. In many cases, they are addressed with laser treatments.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that is characterized by red, scaly patches of skin. It doesn’t discriminate by age, affecting both children and adults alike. The most common treatments for Psoriasis include ointments, oral drugs, and light therapy. Changes in diet can also have a positive impact on the condition.
What is the takeaway?
There are various skin issues that pediatric dermatologists are licensed to treat. A pediatric dermatologist is dedicated to treating any and all skin issues that a child may be struggling with. Fortunately, science and medicine have brought us to the point that these upsetting conditions no longer have to plague us. We have dermatologists in Cherry Hill, Lakewood, Easton and more, ready to assist you. Find a dermatologist here at Certified Dermatology today with our Location Finder.
