Does Dermatology Address More than Just the Skin?

The field of dermatology is concerned, first and foremost, with your skin. However, to say that it is just about the skin can be misleading. Many common health concerns are first evident through symptoms involving the skin. In other words, by assessing and preserving the health of your skin, dermatology protects your overall physical well-being.

Skin and Cardiovascular Health

It is important to consider that what seems like a skin condition may also be part of a cardiovascular concern. Many cardiovascular concerns initially present skin-related symptoms, and seeking care from a dermatologist can be an important first step toward accurate diagnosis and treatment. Examples of skin conditions may include:

• Calciphylaxis is a disease wherein calcium accumulates in the small blood vessels of the skin and fat tissues. It can lead to blood clots, skin ulcers that encourage infections, and death. Often, the initial symptoms will be evident to a dermatologist, allowing for prompt intervention.
• Cellulitis begins as a bacterial infection of the skin but can spread to the bloodstream and lymph nodes. When left untreated, it can become life-threatening. A dermatologist can ensure early detection and expedient treatment.
• Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES) refers to a group of blood disorders where excess white blood cells enter and damage various tissues and organs, including the skin. A skin rash is one of the most common indications that your dermatologist can identify and diagnose.

Dermatology and Cancer

A dermatologist evaluation can identify early signs of cancer, and not just skin cancer.

Cancer can spread throughout the body, and skin cancer is no exception. Going to a dermatologist for skin cancer exams, biopsies, and treatments can stop the spread and save your life. A dermatologist can also identify the telltale signs of Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL), a rare cancer that begins in the white blood cells and causes them to attack the skin. Symptoms include rash-like redness, scaly round patches of skin, and potential skin tumors, all caused by the white blood cells attacking the skin. Through early diagnosis, there is a much higher likelihood of effective treatment.

Seek Whole-Body Care From A Dermatology Professional

Dermatology is focused on the health and vitality of your skin, but the health of your skin is tied to the health of your whole body. Take the first step toward holistic care by making a dermatology appointment today. If you are in The Woodlands or Conroe, TX, seek more information from Perri Dermatology.