Pediatric Dermatology

Pediatric Dermatology describes the practice of medicine which deals with the skincare for children of all ages. This includes the diagnosis and treatments of skin diseases and cosmetic problems around the body (skin, nails and hair).

A regular dermatologist will usually treat common skin problems such as acne, contact dermatitis (a group of skin conditions that exhibit a rash when exposed to irritants) and scalp conditions. However, the practice of dermatology also includes treatments for more serious skin conditions such as psoriasis, warts, tumors caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) and different type of fungal infections. A dermatology oncologist specialist will also be responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

Skin Disease Treatments for Children

The importance of the 'pediatric dermatology' field was validated in 2004 when this medical subspecialty became board-certified. Treating children's skin conditions is different from treating adults and it requires extra training from the doctor. After the dermatologist has completed his dermatology residency, he will also have to complete a pediatric residency followed by a pediatric dermatology residency, in which they study and learn about childhood skin disorders and the way they affect children differently than adults.

As the pediatric population has special dermatologic needs, the field has grown to meet them with advanced research and clinical care. Pediatric dermatologists diagnose and treat a wide range of skin conditions, the most common being bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. They also perform many removals of skin growths; provide patients with treatments for skin outbreaks such as acne and warts and deal with the management of birthmarks.

Due to the nature of children, they are often at a higher risk of allergic skin reactions and contact dermatitis, as skin reactions can be associated with food, environmental factors and medication allergies. Pediatric dermatologists inspect rashes, hives, sores, and other skin breakouts, determine the causes and treat the condition. If needed, a pediatric dermatologist can also perform different types of surgery which include growth removals, cosmetic procedures, biopsies, tissue expansion, and laser treatments of hemangiomas and blood vessel abnormalities (also known as 'vascular malformations').

Pediatric Dermatology Abroad

If a situation has risen in which your child requires dermatology treatments or surgery, TicketMed has pediatric dermatology specialists who will be happy to assist you in gathering all the information you need and also schedule treatments in dermatology clinics around the globe. Contact us or ask for a quote.

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Pediatric Dermatology FAQ

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Are there skin diseases that are more common in young ages?

The answer is yes. As children are much more active and less aware of themselves then adults, they are more prone to allergic skin reactions. Additional common childhood skin diseases include: different kinds of fungal infections, diaper dermatitis, warts and, herpes simplex.

How can I help my child that is undergoing dermatological treatments?

Surgery or different skin treatments can be frightening for children and the parents and supporting family should help create a calm and even enjoyable environment. When being admitted going to the hospital or clinic, try to bring your child's special "security item" (blanket, stuffed animal, etc.) with them – the more to remind them of home, the better and safer they will feel.

What is a pediatric dermatologist?

A pediatric dermatologist is a doctor who treats children's skin diseases. In addition to his regular medical studies, they have completed two additional training residencies. After graduating from medical school, these physicians have to participate in up to 6 years of residency and fellowship training in both dermatology and then pediatric dermatology. They will start with a 3-4 year residency in dermatology followed by a couple of years of fellowship training in pediatric dermatology.

When should I take my child to a pediatric dermatologist?

Patients will usually go see a pediatric dermatologist upon referral from their regular pediatrician. However, it is also possible to approach one on your own, without referral. You should consider going to see a pediatric dermatologist when you notice abnormalities in your child's skin, nails, scalp and hair.

Why are children more prone to skin diseases?

The first reason is that, being children, they are naturally more active and less aware of themselves. They encounter more environmental factors that they can be allergic to or harm their skin. A second reason is that skin diseases tend to develop in warm, dark, moist places and kids have a lot of warm, dark, moist places – especially at a younger age when still in diapers or in those "folds" babies have. A third reason is that there is a lot of contact between them and other children, as they tend to spread these skin diseases around by 'contact'.

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