General Dermatology

The skin is the largest organ of the body, protecting internal organs from external pressures. Skin also plays a major role in your appearance. Taking care of your skin helps you to feel and look your best. Dr. Peter J. Muelleman and his staff offer a full range of general and surgical dermatologic services.

 

 

 

 

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Acne
 
Acne affects most teens, but it can affect people of all ages. Acne is not a life threatening condition though the lesions associated with the condition are upsetting and can be disfiguring. Mild acne can be treated with chemical peels. It is important to seek treatment for yourself or your teen as there are many options available to reduce the embarrassment and scarring associated with acne.

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Cold Sores
 
A virus called herpes simplex can cause blisters called cold sores. There are two types of the virus. Cold sores or blisters can occur around the mouth, nose, buttocks, genitals and depending on the condition other places. Treatment is available to control outbreaks and potentially prevent the spread of the infection.

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Eczema

The term Eczema is used to describe many red, blistering, oozing, scaly, brownish, thickened and itching skin conditions. Eczema is also called Atopic Dermatitis. This condition can occur at any age. It usually presents with an almost unbearable itching that can become severe at night. The itching causes patients to scratch, which can lead to infection. Any rash that does not resolve should be examined by a dermatologist and may be treated with topical, oral or light treatments.

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Hair Loss
 
The most common reason for hair loss is hereditary baldness, however, there are other conditions that can result in unexpected hair loss. Medications are available to decrease or reverse hair loss.

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Hives
 
Hives are itchy red swellings that occur in groups on any part of the skin. Sometimes hives sting or burn. Each hive generally lasts a few hours before decreasing in size and redness. Medication reactions and other allergies can cause hives.

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Itching
 
Itching can be due to many causes including skin conditions such as dry skin or dermatitis, medication allergies or other medical problems. A dermatologist can evaluate the skin and symptoms and start appropriate treatment.

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Hyperpigmentation
 
Hyperpigmentation may follow an eruption such as acne or eczema or it may be caused by burns or trauma. The treatments are similar to those used in Melasma, below. 

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Melasma

Melasma is also called "the mask of pregnancy" and is a type of hyperpigmentation. This generally occurs on the facial area and can appear as a mask over the nose and cheeks. The hyperpigmentation is a result of the body's production of an excess amount of melanin, which is the pigment portion of the skin. It results in brown spots, freckles or patches of darkened skin. Some common causes include sun exposure, hormonal changes because of pregnancy, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy and trauma to the skin caused by acne, burns or surgical procedures. Topical bleaching creams and or facial peels may be used to treat this condition.

 

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Nail Problems

Problems with fingernails or toenails could be an indication of other health problems. It is important to see a dermatologist if your nails are thick, hard, and painful, are scaly, have white spots, red lines, or brown and/or black streaks on them.

 

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Psoriasis or Rashes
 
Psoriasis is not always persistent and may go through periods of improvement or worsening. The skin forms red, thick patches covered by silvery scales. Topical treatment, light therapy and/or oral or injectible medication may be used to control the psoriasis.

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Skin Cancer
 
Dermatologists have special training in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer including Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Malignant Melanoma. Early detection and treatment can lead to a cure after removal with dermatologic surgery techniques. Sun exposure or tanning is one of the main causes of skin cancer. It is important to develop a regular routine to inspect your skin. Any growth, mole, sore or skin discoloration that appears suddenly or begins to change needs to be evaluated by a dermatologist.

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Spider Veins

Spider veins are small enlarged superficial blood vessels that appear red or blue. They commonly occur on the legs, but frequently occur on the face or elsewhere. These dilated blood vessels may be short, unconnected lines each about the size of a large hair, or connected in what looks like a spider web or tree branches. These veins can cause painful, throbbing or burning sensations. Treatment is available for unsightly or uncomfortable spider veins, including compression stockings, laser treatment, sclerotherapy and surgery.

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Vitiligo
 
This skin disease causes milky-white patches of skin on your face, lips, hands, arms, legs, and genital areas, but can occur anywhere on the body. The cause is uncertain. Treatment may include light therapy and/or topical ointment.

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Warts

Warts are a viral condition. Warts are usually skin-colored and feel rough to the touch. Warts can grow anywhere on the skin, but most often occur on the hands. Plantar (foot) and genital warts are also common. Treatment may include freezing or removing the wart, topical medications or injection. 

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