Medical dermatology includes the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of conditions that can affect the skin, hair, and nails. These range from common concerns like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis to issues such as hair loss, warts, and moles. Medical dermatology also plays a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of skin cancer, helping to protect both health and quality of life. In addition, dermatopathology—the microscopic study of skin conditions—supports accurate diagnosis and ensures patients receive the most effective care.

Acne

Whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules are all forms of acne, the most common dermatological condition worldwide. Breakouts due to specific bacteria multiplying in pores blocked by skin cells and other debris can impact people of all ages—women and men alike. Even smaller bumps may be visibly noticeable for a time, but more severe outbreaks can also cause scarring due to the development of deep lesions. Some patients ask, “Is acne cosmetic or medical dermatology?” Acne is primarily treated as a medical dermatology concern, with effective therapies available to control breakouts, prevent scarring, and maintain healthy skin. We provide a range of medical dermatology treatments for this condition.

Rosacea

Chronic redness due to persistent blushing and flushing may be a sign of rosacea, which can also create telangiectasias, papules and pustules, and hypersensitive skin. The condition does not have a cure, but the Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute medical dermatology team can help patients manage and tone down the redness of flare-ups, as well as help mitigate triggers with dermatology treatments for rosacea.

Eczema

The itchy, red patches caused by eczema can appear virtually anywhere on the body. This chronic condition, like many others diagnosed by the Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute medical dermatology team, can be managed so that symptoms of atopic dermatitis and other forms of eczema are less severe. It is also possible to determine potential triggers—such as certain fabrics or chemicals—in an effort to reduce the number and severity of flare-ups.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis causes fast-growing skin cells to accumulate in thick, silvery plaques on various parts of the body. Though skin changes are the most visible sign of this chronic condition, it can also cause pain and destruction of joints. Possible medical dermatology treatments include topical, oral, and injectable medications.

Hair Loss

An effective hair restoration strategy depends on first determining the cause of a patient’s hair loss, whether the problem is hereditary or an abnormal blood test result. Determining a diagnosis may involve the medical dermatology team taking a complete medical history, running blood tests, or performing a scalp biopsy. We offer state-of-the-art treatments for hair loss.

Warts and Moles

Although warts and moles are both harmless growths, a medical dermatology team can treat contagious warts with various therapies and examine moles to make sure they are benign. Moles that change in size, shape, or color need to be biopsied for further evaluation. Thus, it is important to watch for any changes in existing moles and to get regular skin checks from a trusted dermatologist.

In addition to common dermatological concerns, Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute treats a variety of other skin conditions through expert medical dermatology. These include lipomas, which can be removed surgically, as well as rashes and skin reactions from pityriasis rosea, poison ivy, oak, sumac, and ringworm. We also manage conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and seborrheic keratoses, providing accurate diagnosis and effective treatment to support overall skin health and comfort. Other medical dermatology services address athlete’s foot, folliculitis, contact dermatitis, and cold sores, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care for a wide range of skin concerns.

Skin Cancer

Prevention, early detection, and early treatment are the best lines of defense against skin cancer. The medical and surgical dermatology teams at Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute are experienced in identifying and diagnosing cancers, as well as determining the most suitable treatment.

Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is an incredibly effective surgical treatment for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common forms of skin cancer. The sophisticated technique is known for its ability to maximize tumor removal while simultaneously minimizing cosmetic impact when used for the treatment of skin cancer.

At Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute, surgical dermatology is a cornerstone of our comprehensive medical dermatology services. Our experienced team specializes in the removal of various skin lesions, including cysts, moles, and lipomas, to enhance both the health and appearance of your skin. Whether the procedure is medically necessary, such as the excision of skin cancer, or performed for cosmetic reasons, our approach is tailored to meet your individual needs. We utilize advanced techniques to minimize scarring and ensure optimal outcomes. Most procedures are conducted in-office under local anesthesia, allowing for a swift recovery. Post- procedure, the excised tissue is sent to a dermatopathology lab for detailed analysis, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning. Our commitment to excellence in surgical dermatology reflects our dedication to providing comprehensive care that prioritizes both the health and aesthetic considerations of our patients.

This subset of medical dermatology focuses on physicians studying and interpreting skin biopsies under the microscope to render an accurate diagnosis. Dermatopathology plays a crucial role in medical dermatology by providing precise, microscopic analysis of skin, hair, and nail samples. In medical dermatology, dermatopathology helps accurately diagnose conditions ranging from rashes, cysts, and eczema to moles, lesions, and skin cancer. By supporting medical dermatology with detailed insights, dermatopathology ensures patients receive the most effective, personalized care for their skin health.

Beyond medical dermatology, you can learn more about our other surgical services at Cirillo Center for Plastic Surgery and our non-surgical cosmetic services at Cirillo Cosmetic Dermatology Spa.