Skin Cancer

“Each year, over 3.5 million skin cancer cases are diagnosed in over 2 million people – that represents more cases than breast, prostate, colon, and lung cancer combined,” reports Dr. Rydzik.  “With such a high prevalence, it is crucial for patients to understand the steps they can take to prevent, detect, and treat this all-too-common disease.”

A topic often misunderstood, Dr. Rydzik offered some background on the different types of skin cancers men and women are susceptible to.  “Skin cancers can be generally broken down into two categories: melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers,” explains Dr. Rydzik.  “Melanoma accounts for less than 5% of skin cancer cases, but it represents the deadliest form of the disease.  While non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma tend to be less fatal, they still present a serious medical concern.”

Offering tips as to how patients can reduce their risk for developing skin cancer, Dr. Rydzik stated this: “While there are a number of risk factors involved in skin cancer, exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the biggest culprit.  Patients can minimize their exposure by avoiding the sun especially between the hours of 10AM to 4PM. If this cannot be helped be sure you wear sunscreen with an appropriate SPF. I recommend a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 40 and above. Reapplication after perspiration or swimming and every 2 hrs is also very important as no sunscreen that we put on in the morning lasts all day long.  Most definitely steer away from tanning beds which have the highest concentration of UVB radiation, more so than natural sunlight. You can also cover up with loose-fitting clothing and wear hats with a large brim. Patients need to understand that there is no benefit to “pre-tanning” before going on a tropical vacation. If you follow the steps of reapplication you will not sunburn. “Pre-tanning” amplifies the “UV-load” on your skin which then increases your risk of skin cancer and leads to premature aging.”

Emphasizing the importance of skin cancer detection, Dr. Rydzik had this to say: “In the end, one of the most important weapons against skin cancer is regular screenings from a dermatologist.  This is especially important for those who have a family history of skin cancer, those with a fair complexion, multiple moles and those who have noticed suspicious changes in their skin.”

Commenting on the importance of this month-long effort, Dr. Rydzik finished with this: “While skin cancer is certainly a serious condition, it is almost always treatable when caught early.  We encourage patients to take a proactive role in their skin health not only during the month of May but all year long and contact us directly to schedule regular skin exams.”

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“While rosacea is believed to affect more than 16 million Americans, the National Rosacea Society estimates that as few as 10% are actually being treated for it,” reports Dr. Gasch. “This is why Rosacea Awareness Month is so important – to encourage those living with Rosacea to seek treatment for the first time.”

“Rosacea is a condition that affects many patients both physically and emotionally. Beyond the hallmark symptoms of facial redness and swelling, rosacea can hinder a patient’s confidence and self-esteem.” Dr. Gasch went on to cite additional symptoms, including small bumps resembling pimples as well as a burning sensation on the face, among others.

Emphasizing the importance of seeking qualified dermatological care, Dr. Gasch explained how rosacea can be effectively treated today. “While there is currently no cure for rosacea, there are new ways to manage the condition. We begin by identifying a patient’s ‘triggers’, which are lifestyle factors that can cause a rosacea flare-up. Common triggers include stress, sun exposure, among others. “In terms of treatments for rosacea, many patients benefit from a combination of oral and topical medications, as well as laser and light treatments.”

The National Rosacea Society (NRS) released a statement on the importance of this month-long effort. “During Rosacea Awareness Month and throughout the year, the NRS conducts public education activities to reach the millions of rosacea sufferers who may not realize they have a medical condition that can be effectively treated, emphasizing the warning signs and urging those who suspect they may have rosacea to see a dermatologist”.

These sentiments are echoed by Dr. Gasch. “Patients living with rosacea need to understand that they are not alone, and that effective and innovative treatments are available to them. During this upcoming month, I encourage these patients to consult with a caring board-certified dermatologist to take a proactive role in managing their rosacea skin concerns and symptoms.”

“Melasma is a common skin condition, which usually presents as brown patches on the face, at times extending to the neck,” states Dr. Rydzik. “While often not a medical concern, it can play a distressing role on individual’s confidence and sense of self worth. The cause of melasma is not yet fully understood. It likely involves a complex interplay between melanocytes and UV light. For reasons not yet clear melanocytes which are the color producing cells in our skin end up producing too much pigment,” comments Dr. Rydzik.

When asked to explain who may be at risk for developing the condition, Dr. Rydzik offered this: “While melasma can affect nearly anyone, we see it more in female patients, especially those on oral contraceptive pills or those who are pregnant.” Dr. Rydzik’s assertion confirms data published by the AAD, which explains that, “Just 10% of people who get melasma are men.”

“What is important for patients to understand is that melasma can be managed. The first step is identifying and minimizing triggers such as overexposure to the sun or oral contraceptive pills. The appearance of existing brown spots can be diminished. This can often be accomplished by some combination of topical medications and cosmetic procedures followed by intense sun protection” states Dr. Rydzik. “Popular treatments include creams such as Hydroquinone and Tretinoin, usually available at your dermatologist’s office or at the pharmacy. Depending on the type of melasma, chemical peels and some laser procedures can be safe and effective.”

Speaking on how patients can take a “first step” in managing their melasma, Dr. Rydzik concluded with this: “While dealing with melasma can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, understand that you do not have to take the journey alone. I encourage anyone dealing with melasma to first consult with a board certified dermatologist in their area and learn more about getting a handle on their symptoms.”

Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy

“Photodynamic therapy has changed the way we can manage mild to severe acne without the use of oral medications,” explains Dr. Gasch.  For mild to moderate acne, Blue Light Therapy alone is administered in quick, 16-minute sessions, once or twice weekly for a total of 8 treatments”  During the treatment, patients sit in front of special blue light that works to kill propionibacterium acnes, the skin bacteria which is implicated in causing acne.

Dr. Gasch explains that “Blue Light Therapy is non-invasive and pain-free.  “Also, besides being effective in treating mild to moderate acne  patients love the quick and simple nature of the treatment sessions.”

For more severe forms of acne, Dr. Gasch utilizes a unique topical solution called Levulan which is usually applied for 2 hours prior to the Blue Light treatment.  “This not only increases the effectiveness of the Blue light treatments in targeting deeper and more inflamed acne lesions, but also helps the appearance of scarring resulting from acne.”  With this augmented Blu Light treatment patients usually trade an enhanced result for a mild sunburn-like redness lasting up to a week, as well as some mild tingling sensation during the treatment.  “It has been suggested that four of these treatments is equivalent in effectiveness to a 5-month course of Accutane, with long-lasting benefits,” reports Dr. Gasch.

Speaking on the growing popularity of Photodynamic Therapy, Dr. Gasch offered this: “Since we introduced the treatment in our practice, the response we’ve been seeing has been very positive.  Patients are reporting significant improvement and new patients to our practice are now requesting the treatment first-line, especially those who cannot or do not want to take oral medications.”

Offering insight into the underlying causes of psoriasis, Dr. Rydzik postulates: “There is no simple answer when it comes to what’s behind psoriasis. Many believe that the condition occurs due to a complex interplay between individual’s genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and environmental triggers. Known triggers include both emotional stress, infection (such as strep), injury to the skin, weather (cold, dry), certain kinds of medications (such as Lithium and some beta blockers).”

Dr. Rydzik also elaborated on the approach her practice takes when it comes to treating psoriasis: “Since there are several forms of psoriasis, it is crucial that we treat each patient as a unique individual. Although there is no known cure, we make sure that patients understand that psoriasis can be managed.”

When asked to offer advice to those recently diagnosed, Dr Rydzik says: “It is important that those who have been diagnosed recently as well as in the past know that they are most certainly not alone. The National Psoriasis Foundation is a great resource for our patients to visit and get valuable information from. Although a cure is currently not available, there are numerous ongoing studies looking at this complex far reaching condition.”

“There is hope for a cure on the horizon. Although you have psoriasis it does not mean it has you! What patients need to understand is that psoriasis can be managed. Today we can offer so much more to our patients with psoriasis.” Dr. Rydzik adds: “Patients with psoriasis should also understand the association between psoriasis and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a name for a group of risk factors that occur together and increase our risk for coronary artery disease, stroke, and type II diabetes. That is why each patient with psoriasis should not only see their dermatologist but also have regular checkups with their primary care provider.”

“You can think of intrinsic aging as natural or ‘genetic’ aging,” explains Dr. Gasch.  “As we grow older, it’s common to see a thinning of the skin, a reduction in collagen and a noticeable change in skin elasticity.”  Dr. Gasch described these as natural – and in many ways, inevitable – components of the normal aging process.

“What patients need to understand, however, is that when someone looks old for their age, it’s not just because of these intrinsic factors, but largely as a result of their environmental and lifestyle choices,” explains Dr. Gasch. “In reality, patients have a great deal of control over their appearance.”

Asked to list some of the most damaging extrinsic factors, Dr. Gasch offered this:  “When it comes to premature aging, the biggest culprits tend to be overexposure to the sun and smoking.”  Dr. Gasch explained that both UV radiation and tobacco use can damage the skin’s elastin and collagen, proteins that keep it looking smooth and youthful.

“Thankfully, for patients already seeing lines, wrinkles and other signs of premature aging, cosmetic dermatology offers several solutions for turning back the clock,” explains Dr. Gasch.  “For example, our practice offers BOTOX®, soft tissue fillers, and resurfacing options like microdermabrasion.”

Asked what patients can do about inevitable skin changes like sagging, loss of facial fat and changes in skin texture, Dr. Gasch concluded with this:  “While older patients may assume that facelift surgery is their only real option, understand that there are several effective, minimally-invasive alternatives available. One of the most popular is undeniably laser rejuvenation.  It’s helping our patients lift, tighten and most importantly, restore a more youthful appearance.”

“While spider veins don’t usually present a medical concern, many patients find them unappealing and embarrassing,” explains Dr. Gasch.  “Thankfully, cosmetic dermatology offers a simple and effective solution – sclerotherapy.”  A proven treatment since the 1930s, sclerotherapy remains the primary effective treatment for spider veins.

Previously thought to be an inevitable part of aging, Dr. Gasch is seeing a growing number of his patients inquiring about sclerotherapy for the first time.  “Now, more than ever, patients are realizing that they don’t have to live with spider veins,” explains Dr. Gasch.  “A quick, simple and minimally-invasive solution, patients love that they can begin to see results immediately following the procedure.”

Describing the procedure as “the gold standard in treating people with spider veins,” the American Academy of Dermatology explains the science behind a sclerotherapy treatment: “This procedure allows large areas of the veins to be treated efficiently with hair-thin needles containing a sclerosing solution, which irritates the lining of the vessel causing it to swell, stick together and the blood to clot,” explains the AAD.  “In a matter of weeks, the vessel turns into scar tissue that eventually fades and becomes barely noticeable.”

Speaking on the causes behind these unsightly blood vessels, Dr. Gasch offered a few suggestions.  “There are several factors that can account for the development of spider veins,” explains Dr. Gasch.  “However, we most commonly see the condition in patients who are on their feet for a greater part of the day, following pregnancy and in patients with a genetic predisposition.”

Asked to speculate on the future of spider vein treatment, Dr. Gasch concluded succinctly.  “For years, our practice has been using sclerotherapy to help patients look their best and more importantly, feel their best.  A proven way to deal with spider veins once and for all, we are confident that even more patients will begin exploring this procedure going forward.”

According to the National Eczema Association about 31.6 million people in the United States may have eczema, including children.  Eczema is a term used to describe a group of inflamed skin conditions that results in chronic itchy red rashes all over the body.  For many people, eczema appears on the front of the arms and behind the knee.  Children have eczema on their face and neck.  Symptoms vary from person to person but often include sometimes dry, scaly, red patches or even tiny fluid-filled blisters which often worsens with scratching.  If you think you have or know you have eczema, then you should see a dermatologist who can provide the most up-to-date treatment strategies that are most appropriate for you.

October is Eczema Awareness Month.  The National Ezcema Association, a non-profit organization advocating eczema awareness, education, and research, is committed to improving the lives of people affected by eczema.  To get involved and help to raise awareness of the challenges of living with eczema, visit the National Eczema Association’s Eczema Awareness Month website for more information.

Join Dr. Rydzik’s team (Center for Derm Laser) for the Walk to Cure Psoriasis on September 23rd at the Rose Quarter Plaza. The Walk to Cure Psoriasis is a one-day, family-friendly event that raises awareness about psoriasis and money for psoriasis research, advocacy, and education. Psoriasis is a chronic disease of the immune system that affects more than 7.5 million Americans. To join the team and help make a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease click here.