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A dermatologist is a doctor whose job is to diagnose and treat various skin lesions. This specialization, i.e. dermatology, deals with various skin diseases and its functioning. For this reason, the dermatologist often deals with diseases of the hair and nails. What tests can you order from us?
A dermatologist is a doctor who deals with skin conditions. During a medical visit, he examines the skin in search of possible changes and abnormalities in its appearance. The role of a dermatologist is to assess whether any changes are a defect of the skin itself or a symptom of other internal diseases, such as allergy, infectious diseases, and even cancer.
Dermatology is a broad specialization. It is generally divided into two specialties:
- clinical dermatology – a dermatologist deals with the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases,
- experimental dermatology – a dermatologist examines the skin, its structure and functions.
Today, however, there are numerous other specializations related to dermatology that are associated with various functions and skin diseases. In this case, it is worth mentioning, for example:
- pediatric dermatology – a dermatologist examines changes typical for childhood,
- aesthetic medicine – a dermatologist uses drugs and dermatological treatments to improve the appearance and rejuvenate the skin,
- cosmetology – in this case, cosmetics and less invasive cosmetic treatments are used to improve the appearance and rejuvenate the skin.
During the first visit, the dermatologist first carefully examines the disturbing skin lesions with the naked eye and using a dermatoscope. The dermatoscope is a device with a lamp that enlarges the field of view and works like a magnifier. It allows you to look closely at skin lesions and the surrounding skin. The dermatologist uses this device mainly to study pigmented lesions.
If the dermatologist suspects that the examined lesion has a bacterial origin, he or she orders a skin smear, and if mycosis is suspected, microbiological tests. If the situation requires it, he or she may refer the patient to hormone tests (e.g. in the case of acne) or even allergy tests, or even a referral to an allergist right away.
Also read: Skin problems and e-visit to a dermatologist. When is it worth opting for on-line consultations?
Dermatologist – diagnosed diseases
Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions. They identify changes in the skin or mucous membranes, but they can also identify abnormal conditions of the hair or nails. The most common diseases diagnosed by a dermatologist include:
- skin problems (e.g. acne, broken capillaries),
- bielactwo,
- wszawice,
- seborrheic dermatitis,
- AZS,
- psoriasis
- scabies,
- excessive hair loss,
- dandruff,
- eczema,
- moles,
- shame,
- erythema,
- various forms of herpes,
- excessive sweating,
- mycoses of the skin and nails,
- bedsores,
- warts,
- stretch marks,
- skin cancer.
At a dermatologist, we can also diagnose diseases such as scabies, HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.
As part of the National Health Fund, you need a referral to arrange a dermatological visit. Without a referral to a dermatologist, you can make an appointment for a private consultation, but then you have to pay for the visit and any tests ordered by the doctor.
A referral to a dermatologist may be issued by a primary care physician, but also by another specialist physicianwho determines that there are indications for a dermatological consultation, e.g. an allergist, gynecologist or urologist.
Check: How much is a research referral valid?
Dermatologist – methods of treatment
The dermatologist selects the treatment method according to the diagnosed disease. He or she may order pharmacological treatment, such as antibiotic therapy for acne, antiviral medications for herpes, or topical ointments for mycosis. The dermatologist can order laser discoloration treatments and will give us advice on the care of the affected skin and suggest which cosmetics to use.
A dermatologist may also refer you to have moles that may become malignant. Unwanted skin changes are also removed by curettage, freezing and electrocoagulation.
Read more: Removal of moles (birthmarks) – indications, laser, surgical, price
Dermatologist – the course of the visit
A visit to a dermatologist usually begins with a medical history. A specialist doctor asks questions about when disturbing skin changes appeared, whether their appearance is always the same or whether they are accompanied by some other ailments. Then the dermatologist looks at the changes with the naked eye, and then uses a dermatoscope, i.e. a magnifying device with a built-in lamp. The dermatoscope is used in particular to assess pigmented lesions.
If there are suspicions that the skin lesions may be fungal in nature, a microbiological test is ordered, and a smear is performed if bacterial infection is suspected. The dermatologist may also refer the patient to blood tests, hormone tests, or allergy tests.
After performing all the necessary examinations, the specialist doctor makes a diagnosis and then prescribes the appropriate treatment. Treatment methods are closely related to the type of disease. For example, your dermatologist may recommend antibiotics, creams, ointments, gels, or other topical preparations. In special cases, laser therapy or surgery are also recommended. Sometimes, for example in the case of pigmented lesions, it is only recommended to check regularly that the lesion does not grow or change shape.