Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 4-Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives are flesh toned to red colored bumps that are classily itchy. Hives are known to appear quickly and disappear just as fast. They can change shapes, and disappear from one area only to appear in another. Urticaria is a condition that be transient or can last years.

Some of the know causes of urticaria are food allergies, medications, insect bites, infections, environmental allergens, a certain physical stimulation (such as sun exposure, water, heat, cold, pressure/touch, and exercise induced). In some cases, a true cause of the hives is not identifiable.

Treatment it aimed at avoiding aggravating factors if it is able to identified. 

Most cases are treated with OTC and/or prescription antihistamines for a period of time until hives resolve. Some cases require oral anti-inflammatory medications. If hives are recurrent or don’t go away, sometimes allergy testing is used to pinpoint cause of urticaria.


Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Common Rashes of the Skin : Part 3- Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor (TV) is a common fungal infection affecting mostly adolescents and young adults.  The condition is seen most often in tropical regions where the weather is hot and humid.  Despite the name, TV is not in the same family as ringworm (tinea). Also unlike ringworm, it is not contagious from one person to the next.  Tinea versicolor is caused from a fungus that naturally already lives on many people’s skin, but only causes TV in some individuals.

The term “versicolor” refers to the various skin color changes that may be seen with this condition, including light patches, dark patches, pinkish patches, or a combination.   There may be small scales on the patches, and mild itching may be present.  TV is seen most commonly seen on the trunk, upper arms, and upper legs.

Factors that contribute to development of TV include exposure to hot and humid weather, excessive sweating, and usage of skin oils.  TV is not caused by poor hygiene.

Treatment consists of topical or oral antifungals.  TV responds well to therapy, however it does have a tendency to reoccur.  If TV recurs frequently, preventative measures with washes and/or creams can be used. After treatment, the skin may take months to return to its normal color.

This week blog was written by Quynh-Dao Tonnu , PA Student from Nova Southeastern University

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 2- Tinea Coporis (AKA Ringworm)

Tinea corporis is a type of fungal infection occurring on skin sites other than the face, hands, feet, or groin.  It is collectively known along with other types of tinea as “ringworm.”  The fungus may be acquired via direct skin contact with a person, animal, or surface that is infected.  It can also be spread from other sites of infection (i.e. hands, feet).  Tinea corporis outbreaks can often be seen among wrestlers or other athletes who have skin to skin contact.

Tinea corporis typically begins as an itchy, scaly, red circular or oval patch that spreads outwardly.  The center subsequently clears, leaving a raised border, thus creating the look of a “ring.”  Occasionally, multiple plaques may join together or there may be pustules.

The diagnosis of tinea corporis is usually obtained  a fungal culture or biopsy.  Treatment consists of either topical or oral antifungal drugs.

Some tips to preventing fungal infections are to always wear sandals or shoes at the gym, pool, and public showers.  Do not share sports gear, unwashed clothes, or towels with others.  After exercise, be sure to wash with soap, and change socks and underwear at least once a day.  Lastly, always dry yourself well after showering or swimming.
Blog written by Quynh-Dao Tonnu, PA Student from Nova Southeastern University

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Common Rashes of the Skin :Part 1- Hand Dermatitis

Also known as hand eczema, hand dermatitis is a common condition involving inflammation of the skin on the hands.  It occurs when the skin becomes irritated in response to a “trigger,” such as contact with harsh soaps, raw fruits/vegetables, and chemicals.  Environmental and genetic factors both play a role, although those with long term exposure to “wet work,” such as food handling, healthcare work, and hairdressing are at highest risk. Signs and symptoms include redness, itching, thickening of the skin, scaling, cracks, and even erosion and bleeding.   

In recent years, overuse of hand sanitizer has been associated with hand dermatitis, seen particularly in hospital workers.  Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can disturb the natural pH and barrier of the skin, leaving skin vulnerable to allergens which can penetrate beneath the surface and trigger an autoimmune reaction.  It is this reaction which causes reddening, itching, blisters, swelling, peeling, and cracking.  In severe cases, the condition can become persistent.  

Prevention of hand dermatitis involves avoidance of irritants, which varies between individuals but may include detergents & soaps, foods, metals, plants, cement, topical medications, gloves, cosmetics, as well as prolonged exposure to water.  Washing hands with lukewarm (not hot) water with a mild unscented soap, immediately followed by a heavy hand cream will help to keep hands moisturized and protected.  After washing, hands should be gently pat dry in order to not irritate the skin.  Additionally, gloves should always be worn (vinyl generally preferred over latex or rubber) before coming into contact with possible irritants.  If a patient is already experiencing hand dermatitis, corticosteroids may be prescribed to control the inflammation, followed by prevention strategies to avoid 
re-occurrence. 
This weeks blog written By Quynh-Dao Tonnu , PA Student from Nova Southeastern

Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Provider Spotlight: Shanah Cyr, Aesthetician


Shanah Cyr is one of our aestheticians. She provides aesthetic services to clients in our Cape Coral and Fort Myers offices. She is a licensed Facial Specialist who received her schooling at the Florida Academy of Massage and Skin Care.

What inspired you to pursue a career as an aesthetician?
When I started working for Florida Skin Center, I quickly saw how happy all the aesthetic patients were. They would talk about their skin and how much improvement they had seen. I knew I wanted to be able to bring about those results in patients.

What are some of the highlights of your career? 
The biggest highlight would be helping the patient. When I see the results of my work - their increased self-confidence because they are not afraid to show their skin - it makes me feel satisfied. I made a difference in their life for the better, and that brings me joy.

What are three things a patient can do to maintain healthy skin?
Cleanse, Exfoliate and Protect with SPF of 30 or more

What do you include in your own skin care regimen? 
I make sure I exfoliate regularly. As I get older, I see how quickly the texture of my skin changes if I don't regularly remove the dead skin.

What are the most common procedures you perform? What are the ones you most commonly recommend?   
The most common procedure performed as well as recommended would be Chemical Peels. They effectively help with such a wide range of concerns such as acne, fine lines, pore size, and uneven skin tone. If I have a patient with more specific needs, I may recommend microneedling or Exilis treatments.

What do you like to do for fun? 
I like to be with friends, or craft (always working on something new). But a good night in with my family is the best.

What do you like most about working at FSC? 
I enjoy the people the most. They are smart and funny and have a clear idea of who they are and where they want to be. This is a growing and successful business and I am grateful to be a part of that growth and success.