Dermatology is a field of medicine focusing on diagnosing and treating skin conditions and addressing cosmetic concerns. As with other branches of healthcare, there have been various advancements in dermatology, including diagnostic methods and treatment techniques.
Diagnostic innovations in dermatology include dermoscopy, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Dermoscopy, a non-invasive method, magnifies skin structures for precise visualization. It aids in identifying and distinguishing between benign and malignant skin lesions, contributing to effective treatment monitoring. PCR and NGS enable pinpointing genetic markers linked to particular dermatological conditions, advancing identification and understanding in the field.
Advancements in treatment include fractional laser resurfacing, intense pulsed light (IPL), and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Fractional laser resurfacing, or lasabrasion, precisely removes skin layers, promoting tighter, youthful-looking skin through cell regeneration. IPL aids in addressing wrinkles, spots, and undesired body hair. IPL treatments target age spots, sun damage, freckles, birthmarks, varicose veins, wrinkles, and hair removal. Last, PDT utilizes specific drugs, known as photosensitizing agents, in combination with light to eliminate cancer cells. These drugs only work when activated with specific light types.
Other innovations include telemedicine, skin-checking apps, and artificial intelligence (AI). Telemedicine helps connect patients with dermatologists using internet-enabled devices, helping them get consultations online. Skin-checking apps use sophisticated algorithms that can, for instance, detect certain skin conditions. Lastly, AI uses machine learning, an advanced computer algorithm, to perform tasks such as skin imaging and diagnosing conditions such as skin cancer.
It is important that patients with concern about their skin contact their primary care providers to assess the skin problems. Primary care providers will do referral to dermatologist if indicated.
