A pediatric dermatologist is a doctor who focuses on children’s skincare. To become a pediatric dermatologist, a doctor must complete training in both dermatology, which treats skin conditions, and pediatrics, which is a branch of medicine that focuses on the needs of children and young adults. Pediatric dermatologists work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, and they provide a variety of services to their patients.
Patients are usually referred to a pediatric dermatologist by their primary care physicians. A pediatric dermatologist’s appointment usually begins with a discussion of why the patient is there, and if the patient’s chart has been transferred, the pediatric dermatologist will look over it to learn more about the patient and identify any areas of concern. To learn more about the situation, the doctor will examine the skin problem that brought the patient to the office and may order tests such as skin scrapings and blood tests.
Because children are so active, they are more likely to have allergic reactions to things like poison oak and poison ivy, which sometimes necessitate treatment. Contact dermatitis caused by allergens, as well as skin reactions caused by food and medication allergies, can be problematic. Rashes, hives, sores, and other skin breakouts can be examined by a pediatric dermatologist to determine the cause and make treatment recommendations.
Pediatric dermatologists can remove skin growths, discuss birthmark management options, and treat skin outbreaks ranging from acne to warts. Other doctors may be consulted on occasion in order to provide the most comprehensive care. If a pediatric dermatologist suspects that a rash is allergic in origin, the rash can be treated and the patient can be referred to an allergy specialist who can run tests to determine what the patient is allergic to.
Young patients may struggle with compliance because they don’t understand the importance of finishing a course of medication, avoiding certain substances, or taking other steps to make treatment easier. A pediatric dermatologist’s job entails communicating with patients in a way that is both accessible and helpful to them, as well as relaying information to the patient’s caregivers so that the patient’s treatment at home is carried out correctly. Patients, particularly young children who have been in treatment for a recurring skin problem and are tired of being poked and prodded, can raise vociferous objections to pediatric dermatologists. These medical professionals must have the ability to put young patients at ease.