Medical Dermatology

“Acne” is a condition that can affect people of all age groups but is particularly common among adolescents. It occurs due to increased sebum production, bacterial growth, and hormonal factors. Factors such as stress, dietary habits, medications, skincare routines, exposure to certain occupational substances, and the use of cosmetics and makeup products can directly or indirectly influence the pathways involved in acne development. Acne is not a contagious disease, but because it is more common during adolescence, it can affect a patient’s psychology and lead to consequences like depression, withdrawal, and social phobia. It can also leave scars and marks. For all these reasons, it is important to treat the condition.

Acne can be treated with topical medications, and in cases recommended by a dermatologist, oral treatments may also be used. The treatment of acne scars and marks should be considered after the primary acne treatment.

The concept of eczema is indeed quite broad. It can be caused by factors related to substances that come into contact with the skin, as well as substances that enter the body through the mouth (such as foods, medications, etc.). Eczemas triggered by contact can occur in the area of contact, but they can also manifest in other parts of the body. Sometimes, metal allergies, stress, and fungal infections can also contribute to eczema. Because eczema has many different subtypes, it is essential for the diagnosis to be determined through a dermatologist’s examination, possibly supported by tests when necessary, to identify the specific type of eczema in question.

Psoriasis is a disease characterized by red, scaly patches covered with white scales, especially on the knees and elbows of adults. It can also occur in children and may affect the nails and joints. The disease has several forms and is not contagious. Treatment options include topical creams, oral medications, injections, and light therapy known as phototherapy. Since the condition is chronic, it’s important for the patient to continue treatment patiently and not miss regular check-ups.

Vitiligo is a skin condition that can affect both adults and children. Its exact cause is not known. Treatment options for vitiligo include topical creams, phototherapy (light therapy), and, in cases of rapid progression, oral medications are available. While it does not pose a health barrier, the disease in visible areas can have a negative impact on a patient’s psychological well-being.

Fungal infections, often seen between the toes and on toenails in adults, can also affect the body and hair in young children. Diagnosis is typically made easily by a dermatologist without the need for additional testing. Treatment for nail and hair fungal infections usually involves oral medications, so it may be necessary to check for medication suitability and investigate medication side effects during the treatment process. Treating toenail fungus can take up to three months. To prevent fungal growth on the body, it’s essential to shower frequently and thoroughly dry the skin afterward to ensure it remains dry. Even if you follow these practices, there is still a risk of contracting a fungal infection in shared spaces like shopping centers, hospitals, gyms, and swimming pools.

Lichen planus is a disease characterized by purplish, shiny, flat-topped, and itchy bumps. It is often accompanied by itching. While the exact triggering factor is not known, stress is a common cause, and it can be associated with certain viruses like hepatitis C and B. Treatment options include topical medications, light therapy, and oral medications. There is also a distinct form of lichen planus called “lichen planopilaris,” which specifically affects the scalp.

Male pattern baldness is responsible for more than half of hair loss in men and is often of genetic origin. Hair initially enters a stage called “miniaturization,” where it becomes shorter and finer. During this phase, the hair color can also turn yellowish-golden. Subsequently, these thinned hairs begin to fall out. Treatment options for male pattern baldness include topical sprays, oral medications, hair mesotherapy, hair PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatments, exosome and stem cell applications, and ultimately, hair transplantation. The most appropriate treatment method and the recommended follow-up schedule depend on the stage of the disease and the patient’s age, and these decisions are made by a dermatologist.

Skin conditions in childhood are important because children cannot describe sensations like itching or pain until they learn to speak. The same condition can manifest with different clinical features in children compared to adults. Therefore, a thorough examination of the child’s skin surfaces and the observations of parents or caregivers throughout the day are crucial for making a diagnosis. Skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (childhood eczema), scalp fungal infections, and nail disorders are relatively more common in children.

The cells that produce nails have a high capacity for rapid replication, which means that various factors like stress, fever, skin conditions, trauma, medications, vaccinations, and other factors can lead to nail abnormalities. Even activities like manicuring and frequent handwashing can cause nail disorders. People who manipulate the skin around the nails, whether by hand or with teeth, may develop horizontal grooves in the nails. Additionally, using certain medications can lead to changes in the nails. In diagnosing nail diseases, the patient’s medical history, what they report, and observations are of great importance.

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can negatively impact a person’s social life. Sometimes, it may be associated with underlying conditions like thyroid disorders, so an evaluation in this aspect may be necessary before treatment. Treatment options for excessive sweating include topical creams, iontophoresis, surgical methods, and botulinum toxin injections.

This condition is usually observed in individuals who tend to sweat a lot, particularly during the summer months, those who may not dry themselves well after bathing, and people who frequently swim in the sea or pools. It typically appears as round patches on the sides of the neck, shoulders, upper back, and underarms. These patches may vary in color, sometimes appearing dirty white, pinkish, or brownish. Besides causing cosmetic concerns, this condition generally doesn’t present any other symptoms. The treatment mainly involves topical creams and medicated shampoos, which are usually sufficient. In cases of widespread or severe conditions, short-term oral medication treatments may be used.