West Dermatology La Jolla UTC California

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of non-melanoma skin cancer caused by mutations in skin cell DNA, which then spreads to surrounding cells. SCC occurs in the squamous layer found at the top of the skin’s outer layer (the epidermis). Symptoms of SCC typically include a scaly, firm reddish nodule on the skin or a flat, crusty skin lesion. It usually develops where skin is frequently exposed to the sun, particularly the face, ears, hands, neck, and scalp. We know how apprehensive squamous cell carcinoma can make you. We urge you to undergo regular skin cancer screenings, especially if the above risk factors apply to you. If it is determined that you have squamous cell carcinoma, we offer an assortment of treatment options, including topical medications, superficial radiation therapy (SRT), excision surgery, electrodesiccation with curettage, photodynamic Therapy (PDT), and cryotherapy. West Dermatology - La Jolla/UTC 9339 Genesee Ave #350A, San Diego, CA 92121 (858) 943-4485 Get D

If you suspect that you have athlete’s foot , you should see your favorite neighborhood dermatologist for an evaluation. Several treatment options are available to you, such as foot-drying powders, antiperspirants, topical antifungal medications (e.g., ones with miconazole, clotrimazole, or tolnaftate), and oral antifungal medications with terbinafine, fluconazole, or itraconazole. We understand the painful itching that athlete’s foot causes can be unpleasant. As your neighborhood skin experts, we’re here to ease your concerns by providing answers to your questions about how to address this skin condition. Our experienced dermatologic specialists offer solutions customized to suit your needs and goals. We’ll be with you every step of the way as you deal with this issue. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you have symptoms of athlete’s foot and we’ll develop a treatment plant that suits your unique needs. West Dermatology - La Jolla/UTC 9339 Genesee Ave #350A, San Diego, C

Poison ivy is a common plant from the Toxicodendron species of plants. Symptoms can include continuous itching, skin irritation, and redness and inflammation. Most people know they shouldn’t scratch the rash, but the incessant itching makes it difficult to stop. Although scratching doesn’t cause the rash to spread, it can prolong the symptoms, delay healing. and even cause a secondary infection. Over-the-counter medications are usually enough to contain and relieve the itching and irritation caused by poison ivy, including calamine lotion, antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl), cool showers, a baking soda/water mixture for the skin, or OTC topical corticosteroids. Poison ivy symptoms usually run their course in about 2-3 weeks. although we recommend seeing a dermatologist before then. However, if the rash is located near your mouth, throat, eyes, or groin, we suggest seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible, as you may need a prescription oral corticosteroid or even injection. West Dermat

Most nail disorders are characterized as fungal infections, also called onychomycosis or tinea unguium, and both toenails and fingernails are vulnerable. Symptoms can vary, but typically include nail pain or soreness, thickened nails, a distorted appearance, nail darkening, yellowish streaks, separation of nail from nail bed, brittleness, or even foul smells. There are multiple treatments for nail disorders, including oral anti-fungal medications and topical anti-fungal medications are also available. An effective solution offered by our dermatologists is laser nail treatment, which treats the infection or disorder completely and almost painlessly. In other, more extreme cases, complete removal of the nail may be necessary. We realize that nail disorders can be unpleasant and sometimes even painful. We’ll be by your side throughout your journey, from diagnosis to treatment to aftercare, to ensure that you’re receiving the best dermatology care possible. West Dermatology - La Jolla/UTC

Mohs micrographic surgery is an extremely effective treatment for a variety of skin cancers. Due to its accuracy, high success rate and cosmetically appropriate outcomes, Mohs remains the gold standard for skin cancer removal. The surgical specialists at our center are highly trained to perform this precise surgery with skill and technique refined through years of experience and study. Our specialists can remove all vestiges of the tumor so you can have your life back and live it to the fullest. With Mohs, elimination of a tumor is precise and success is immediate and long-lasting. Under the expert guidance of our surgeons, Mohs surgery can provide complete tumor removal, including cancerous cells that are unseen (and therefore left behind) during other skin cancer removal procedures. Once skin cancer has been eliminated from your tissues, treatment is complete and you'll be 100% cancer-free, with no estimation or uncertainty. West Dermatology - La Jolla/UTC 9339 Genesee Ave #350A

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder in which your skin produces skin cells much faster than normal. This causes them to build up into thick, flaky, itchy, inflamed patches. There are several types of psoriasis , including plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, nail psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and several other types that are rare. Common areas of the body where psoriasis develops include the scalp, torso, arms, thighs, armpits, groin, under the breasts, between the buttocks, and on the fingernails and toenails. There’s also the very painful psoriatic arthritis, in which both the skin and the nearby joints are stiff and inflamed. Psoriasis is unpredictable. You may heal without warning only to have it return just as quickly or years later. Our psoriasis treatment options include topical medications (Vitamin D, steroids or retinol creams/gels), oral treatments, biologic treatments (pills that alter cell turnover or injectable medications), light therapy, and UVB light. West Dermatology -

Despite there being no known cure for this type of alopecia , there are ways to manage the loss of hair and/or help it grow back. Among the options are minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical lotion also offered in prescription strength; corticosteroids for immune system suppression; Anthralin, a topical medication that disrupts the immune system and promotes hair growth; and Diphencyprone, a topical medication that disturbs the immune system to stop hair loss and stimulate hair growth. There are also many new topical treatments for alopecia areata that your dermatologist can discuss with you. We realize the impact that gradual hair loss can have on both appearance and self-esteem. However, alopecia areata is a different type of hair loss, and as your neighborhood skin and hair experts, we’re here with answers to all your questions about this condition. Our practitioners customize your treatment, and you can turn to us for compassionate support and advice. West Dermatology - La Jolla/UT