Skin care and dermapathology

Every time the word dermatologist is mentioned, what comes to mind is a physician catering only to the rich, whose services are not within reach of ordinary folk who have at one time or another suffered from various skin problems like acne, eczema, boils or rashes.

"This is a misconception that has to be corrected. Most often than not, dermatologists deal with cases that are not cosmetically related but need the immediate attention of properly trained medical personnel," said Dr. Patricia Astorga-Chavez, head of the newly opened Dermapathology Unit of the Dermatology Center of St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Together with three other dermapathologists all trained in the United States, the Dermapathology Unit team intends to provide a team approach in signing out skin biopsy specimens, especially puzzling cases for dermatologists, surgeons, family physicians and general practitioners submitting their specimens for interpretation.

The high quality of processing is assured with results guaranteed within three to five days from the time the specimens are received at the Dermatology Center.

Referrals from the provinces who would like to get the results immediately could receive them via e-mail or fax.

What are the cases usually referred to the Dermapathology Unit?

The unit normally receives skin specimens of skin tumors, rare diseases or problematic skin disorders unresponsive to conventional medications.

It takes some figuring out when the skin specimen is obtained from a patient who has self-medicated for sometime. The cell composition and appearance might have undergone changes at the time of biopsy.

Most skin diseases of children are easier to detect since concerned parents immediately take the kids to the nearest skin clinics. Eight out of 10 patients are adults who have done self-medication, have wasted precious time with the disease progressing before consulting a physician.

Take the case of moles or so-called beauty marks. They are tumors that can be benign or malignant. Chavez pointed out that ordinarily Filipinos do not have malignant ones. Unlike foreigners who prefer that they be taken out, Filipinos are quite unmindful of moles which, for some, are even considered lucky charms.

But once there is a change in color, size or texture and at times painful, the next best thing to do is to see a doctor immediately before it becomes cancerous.

Being the biggest organ of the body, the skin is susceptible to various injuries like bruises, wounds and boils. Especially for kids, it is better to leave the wounds uncovered for faster healing as long as they are often washed and an antiseptic is applied afterwards.

Boils or pigsa are first loaded with antibiotics, left to "ripen" or mature for sometime before being lanced by a qualified medical practitioner.

Skin diseases that come with the change of weather like psoriasis (scaling of the skin) and urticaria (formation of hives as a reaction to certain stimuli) should be immediately referred to a dermatologist for proper care. These diseases flare up for unknown reasons whenever there is a change in temperature.

Like the saying "Cleanliness is next to Godliness," there is nothing like practicing total hygiene in caring for the skin. It need not be expensive. Ordinary water and a mild soap will do the job.

(For more information, call St. Luke’s Dermatology Center at 723-0101 local 5208. Dr. Patricia Astorga- Chavez trained with Dr. Bernard Ackerman of the Ackerman Academy of Dermapathology, New York, and has published articles here and abroad.)