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Dermatomyositis

Dermatomyositis is a rare disease that causes a skin rash and muscle weakness. The skin rash can present reddish to purplish, dusky discoloration and swelling of the eyelids, particularly the upper eyelids (heliotrope rash). A red rash may also appear on the chest, shoulder, neck or back. Affected individuals may develop pinkish purplish papules over the joints of the hands (Gottron papules) and ragged cuticles with associated nailfold redness. The scalp may be involved with inflammation, scaling, itching and thinning of the hair.

The muscle weakness typically affects the muscles closest to the trunk, manifesting as difficulty getting up from a seated position, climbing stairs, raising arms above the shoulders (to brush or wash hair), and difficulty swallowing. Dermatomyositis is more common in women and Black Americans. Though it can be seen in children (juvenile dermatomyositis), the peak age group in adults is between the ages of 40 and 60. Adult onset dermatomyositis has a strong association with cancer and affected individuals should be screened for an underlying cancer. Treatment options include topical medications, systemic steroids, and other immune modulating or immune suppressing medications.

Skin Care — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

How to Use Topical Retinoids

March 29, 2024
Topical retinoids are available in many over the counter skin care products as well as prescription strength medications. They work to treat a variety of skin care problems ranging from fine lines and wrinkles to acne breakouts and psoriasis. Common side effects of using topical retinoids include: dryness, scaling, peeling, irritation, redness, burning, stinging, itching, and sun sensitivity. Below are some general tips on how to use a topical retinoid, but individual needs may vary. Follow your doctor’s guidance for how you should use a topical retinoid.
Skin Tags — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

Skin Tags

March 29, 2024
Skin tags are very common, benign, skin growths. They present as fleshy outgrowths of the skin, at times extending from a stalk or stem. They are frequently found in areas of high friction such as around the neck, in the axilla (armpits), or in the groin folds. They are usually flesh colored, but can also be darker in color. They can vary in size, from a couple of millimeters to a few centimeters in size. Though harmless, skin tags can be removed if bothersome or symptomatic.
Melanoma — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

Melanoma

March 29, 2024
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer originating from the pigment producing cells in the skin called melanocytes. Though not as common as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, it is more deadly because of its ability to spread to other parts of the body. Melanomas can have various appearances. The ABCDEs and Ugly Duckling Sign are two commonly used methods to help identify melanomas. The ABCDEs is a mnemonic used to remember warning signs for melanoma:
Rosacea — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

Rosacea

March 29, 2024
Rosacea is a common skin condition which presents with redness of the face, small visible blood vessels on the nose and cheeks, and pimple-like breakouts. Rosacea can also affect the eyes (ocular rosacea) presenting with symptoms such as dryness, redness, burning, and itching of the eyes. Rosacea most typically affects middle-aged women. Though the cause is unknown, treatment options are available including: prescription topical medications, prescription oral medications, and laser therapy.
Dermatomyositis — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

Dermatomyositis

March 29, 2024
Dermatomyositis is a rare disease that causes a skin rash and muscle weakness. The skin rash can present reddish to purplish, dusky discoloration and swelling of the eyelids, particularly the upper eyelids (heliotrope rash). A red rash may also appear on the chest, shoulder, neck or back. Affected individuals may develop pinkish purplish papules over the joints of the hands (Gottron papules) and ragged cuticles with associated nailfold redness. The scalp may be involved with inflammation, scaling, itching and thinning of the hair.
Moles — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

Moles (Nevi)

March 29, 2024
A mole, also known as a nevus (plural: nevi), is a very common skin growth. Moles develop as a result of clusters of melanocytes (pigment producing cells) in the skin. Although a mole can be present at birth (called a congenital nevus), most nevi appear during childhood and adolescence. Most people have between 10-40 moles. Moles can vary in size, shape, and color. Common moles are typically round or oval in shape. Though they can be various colors (pink, flesh colored, tan, brown, blue or black), most moles are uniform and homogeneous in color. Moles can be flat or raised and occur anywhere on the body. Some people can have moles which are more atypical in appearance - commonly referred to as atypical moles or dysplastic nevi.
Acne — Pittsburgh, PA — South Hills Dermatology, PC

Acne

March 29, 2024
Acne is a common skin condition caused by the blockage of hair follicles by sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria. The blocked pores lead to whiteheads, blackheads, inflammatory papules or nodules (red, tender bumps), pustules (pus-filled bumps), and even cysts. Acne breakouts can occur at any age but are most common during the teenage years. Hormonal changes, certain medications, and the use of oily or greasy products are some factors that can contribute to breakouts. Acne breakouts most typically occur on the face, chest, back, and shoulders. Numerous treatment options are available, including but not limited to: over-the-counter products, prescription topical medications, oral prescription medications, photodynamic therapy, chemical peels, and laser therapy.
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