Skin Conditions
Dr. Devorah Shagalov is a board-certified dermatologist. As a dermatologist she specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases and conditions that affect the hair, skin and nails. She can help you manage your skin conditions including such common conditions as acne, eczema, psoriasis and hives.
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions treated by medical dermatologists. It affects adolescents and adults alike due to hormonal changes in the body or genetics. Acne can cause redness, swelling and pimples which can be embarrassing for some individuals. Treatment for acne typically includes over-the-counter medications such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as well as prescription topical creams or antibiotics from your doctor. In more severe cases, other systemic medications such as spironolactone or isotretinoin are warranted.
Eczema is a group of conditions that cause dry, itchy and sensitive skin. 90% of people developed eczema before their fifth birthday. It is a chronic skin condition that can be difficult to treat. Common triggers for eczema flare-ups include stress, heat, contact with irritants such as soaps or perfumes and exposure to allergens like pollen or pet dander. Treatment options may involve topical medications and ointments as well as light therapy or antihistamines to reduce itching.
Atopic Dermatitis is a type of eczema that causes skin inflammation that causes dry, itchy skin. It’s most common in children but can occur at any age. Symptoms of dermatitis include redness and swelling of the skin, itching and burning sensations, blisters filled with fluid or pus, thickened patches of skin, and scaly skin. Atopic dermatitis may be caused by genetics or environmental factors such as allergens, irritants or pollution. Treatment typically involves moisturizers and topical medications to reduce inflammation and itchiness. In some cases, systemic medications may be prescribed to control symptoms. Dupixentâ and Rinvoqâ (a Jak Inhibitor) are two examples of FDA approved medications for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis
Contact Dermatitis is itchy rash that is triggered by contact with substances that irritate the skin such as poison ivy, nickel, latex, some soaps, fragrances, some medications and hair dye. More than 3,000 substances are known to cause contact dermatitis. Treatment involves avoidance of the offending allergen. To discover the offending allergen a test called patch testing can be performed. With patch testing, multiple allergens are applied on patches to the back for 48 hours. The patient is examined at 48 hours and again at 96 hours to assess for possible reactions. Based upon the results, the patient is then advised on which products to avoid.
Psoriasis is an inflammatory disorder that causes thick plaques of inflamed skin. While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it is believed to be triggered by environmental factors such as stress, cold weather or injury to the skin. Treatments for psoriasis may include creams or ointments containing corticosteroids, coal tar or synthetic forms of Vitamin D as well as light therapy. In more severe cases, there are many fantastic systemic medications available for the treatment of psoriasis.
Hives, also known as urticaria, are red welts on the skin that can be itchy and uncomfortable. Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to a medication, food or environmental factor. Treatment may involve antihistamines and avoiding triggers such as pet dander or foods that cause allergies. In some cases, hives may require steroids for treatment. In the most severe cases, systemic treatments such as Omalizumab may be required.
Warts are skin growths caused by infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear on hands, feet, face and other parts of the body where there is broken or irritated skin. Warts can range in size from very small to large. Common warts often have a rough surface with a grayish/brown coloration and may even have a cauliflower-like appearance. Treatment options for warts include topical treatments, cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy and surgical excision.
Fungal infections on the skin are caused by a variety of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts and molds. These infections can vary from mild to severe and may cause itching, burning, scaling or blistering. Common fungal skin infections include athlete’s foot, ringworm, candidiasis (yeast infection), tinea (ringworm) and jock itch. Fungal skin infections are usually treated with topical antifungal medications; however in some cases oral antifungals may also be necessary.
Skin growths are any abnormal lumps, bumps, or lesions that occur on the skin. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, diseases and infections, physical trauma, hormones, and certain medications. Skin growths may appear as moles, warts, cysts, skin tags, lipomas (fatty tissue), keratoses (non-cancerous skin lesions), fibromas (benign tumors composed of connective tissue), sebaceous adenoma or carcinoma (tumors arising from sweat glands), or melanocytic nevi (moles). Depending on the type and cause of the skin growths, treatment options may range from simple monitoring to the use of topical creams or lotions, or even surgery.
Contact Miami’s leading medical dermatologist Dr. Devorah Shagalov at her Miami office to schedule consultation and receive the correct diagnosis and all your treatment options. Dr. Shagalov is a board-certified dermatologist and a dual fellowship trained Mohs Surgeon and cosmetic dermatologist. Biscayne Dermatology is located in Midtown Miami on the border of Edgewater and Wynwood a few blocks from the Design District, Miami Beach, and Downtown Miami.
At a Glance
Dr. Devorah Shagalov
- Double Board-Certified Dermatologist
- Fellowship-Trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon
- Recipient of numerous dermatology awards
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