Patient Center > Common Conditions & Diseases
Nickel Allergy
Acne
- Acne is a disorder of the hair follicles caused by the clogging of pores by dead skin cells and oil produced by the sebaceous glands.
- It is most prevalent among teenagers, whose increased hormone production leads to more oil secretions and faster skin-cell turnover; however, acne can occur at any age.
- Acne is also common in young women experiencing the rise and fall of hormone levels associated with the menstrual cycle.
- There is evidence of a genetic predisposition for acne among some families.
- Stress may significantly affect acne.
- There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that sugary and high fat foods cause acne.
Dermatitis/Eczema
- Although the terms are often used interchangeably, dermatitis and eczema encompass a wide range of skin inflammations and irritations.
- Dermatitis and eczema are characterized by a recurring itchy rash, usually flaring up in the presence of external triggers. These triggers are not the same for every person.
- Approximately 10 to 20 percent of the world's population is affected by dermatitis or eczema at some point during childhood.
- Though an estimated 15 million people in the United States are afflicted with some type of eczema or dermatitis, most cases clear up between the ages of five and 15.
- Eczema is not contagious and currently cannot be cured.
- The cause of eczema and dermatitis is not known, but studies have shown that many people with a family history of allergies are afflicted.
Moles & Warts
- Moles and warts are skin lesions that can be benign or malignant.
- Moles are the most common skin growth seen on humans. They can be present at birth or can develop throughout life
- Warts are caused by a virus and are recurring. They appear most often on the hands.
- Removal of skin lesions for cosmetic reasons is one of the most common procedures performed by dermatologists.
- Warts and moles can be removed by surgical excision, cryotherapy (freezing) or repeated application of special creams.
- Suspicious skin lesions, especially moles, should be biopsied for evaluation. Some moles can be evidence of skin cancer.
Psoriasis
- Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease characterized by skin lesions and discomfort.
- The skin lesions caused by psoriasis are red and elevated, overlaid with thick, silvery scales.
- Psoriasis currently affects more than five million people in the United States.
- There is evidence of a genetic predisposition for psoriasis.
- Triggers other than genetics can include stress, strep infection and some medications.
- Psoriasis can lead to the development of arthritis.
Congratulations
Steven Rosenberg, MD, Palm Beach - elected vice-chair of the Florida Board of Medicine and Chair of the Board of Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine's Joint Committee on Medical Marijuana.
Ralph Massullo, MD, Lecanto - successfully elected to the Florida House of Representatives in November 2017 and serves in House District 34. This district includes all of Citrus County and a portion of Hernando County.