Thursday, April 30, 2009

Melanoma skin cancer

Skin cancer is a serious problem and it can occur in different forms; the most common skin cancers are basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer, and melanoma. In fact, any type of skin cancer should not be taken lightly and it must be treated timely so that it will not get out of control.
Alone in USA, more than one million cases of skin cancer is treated each year. More to say, one in five Americans develop skin cancer. The most deadly type of skin cancer ismelanomaand it is the leading cancer in adults-25-30 years old. Melanoma is described by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells and may appear on the skin suddenly without warning or develop on an existing mole.
In treating skin cancer, researchers hope that topical treatments like imiquimod may be used to lower the seriousness and the cost of treating the disease as well as limit scars from surgery, and most importantly improve patient care.
However, doctors stress that the best way to catch skin cancer early is through screenings. Regular skin screenings are recommended for everyone, especially those over 40 years of age, and individuals at higher risk for skin cancer, those with a fair complexion, sunburn easily, have numerous moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, and by occupation, recreation or use of tanning salons, get significant sun or ultraviolet rays exposure, regardless of age or race.
During a screening, a dermatologist will check moles, birth marks and other pigmentations for signs of cancer, which include abnormal size, color, shape or texture.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Treat your rashes right away to avoid serious illness


Rashes are a very common problem that can occur to anyone men, women or children at any stages of life. A rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin. It might be red and itchy, bumpy, scaly, crusty or blistered. Rashes are a symptom of many different medical conditions. Things that can cause a rash include other diseases, irritating substances, allergies and your genetic makeup.
There are various causes of rashes. However, contact dermatitis is a common cause of rashes. It causes redness, itching and burning where you have touched an irritant, such as a chemical, or something you are allergic to, like poison ivy.
Rashes can be mild, moderate or severe. Some rashes develop immediately. Others form over several days. But some rashes, especially combined with a fever, can be signs of serious illnesses. Hives, also called urticaria, also can be serious because they can be a sign of an allergic reaction and the person may need immediate medical attention. If you scratch your rash, it might take longer to heal. The treatment for a rash usually depends on its cause. Options include moisturizers, lotions, baths, cortisone creams that relieve swelling, and antihistamines, which relieve itching.
Rashes are seldom dangerous self diagnosis is not a good idea. The proper evaluation of a rash should be done by a doctor. A doctor can determine what type of rash you have and prescribe proper treatment.

Dermatology Acne treatment


From teenagers and adults, to women and men, everybody suffer from acne problem. Acne is not only a skin problem, but can often turn into a psychological hang-up. Treatments range from topical to oral, depending on the extent of the condition.
Acne is moderate when pimples (blackheads , whitehead, and comedones) cover approximately half of the face. If you have moderate acne, consult a dermatologist in order to quickly get a handle on your situation. Although acne can be very depressing for those that suffer from it, doctors say that most acne is completely treatable.
When acne is severe, the symptoms will be very obvious to the individual suffering from it. Pimples and zits become deep, inflamed and cyst-like. Usually a lot of scarring and damage to the skin occurs, causing feelings of sadness and depression. Remember though that you can find acne treatment and, as much as possible, should be sought before the acne has reached this level.
Dermatologists will use very aggressive treatments to try to prevent the progression of severe acne. They will try to stop it in its tracks while at the same time, work to prevent permanent scarring. Oral antibiotics and medications such as accutane, may be used at this stage as well as drainage techniques and surgical incision, also known as Acne Surgery.
Other acne treatments such as injections of corticosteroids can be used. This is primarily used to melt cysts over a period of a few days. The acne therapy chosen by your dermatologist will be matched to the severity of the condition affecting your skin.