Pediatric dermatologists specialize in skin care for children, offering a variety of services including identifying skin conditions, ordering tests, and making treatment recommendations. They may also communicate with patients and caregivers to ensure proper home care.
A pediatric dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin care for children. To become a pediatric dermatologist, a doctor receives training in dermatology, in the treatment of skin conditions and in pediatrics, a branch of medicine that aims to address the specific needs of children and young adults. Pediatric dermatologists can be found working in hospitals and clinics, as well as in private practices, and they offer a variety of services to their patients.
Patients often seek out a pediatric dermatologist when they are referred by their regular physicians. A consultation usually begins with a discussion of why the patient is present and, if the patient’s record has been transferred, the pediatric dermatologist will review the record to learn more about the patient and identify specific areas of concern. 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 to learn more about the condition.
Children are generally at greater risk for allergic reactions to things like oak and poison ivy because they are highly active, and sometimes these reactions require treatment. Allergen contact dermatitis can also be a problem, as can skin reactions associated with food and drug allergies. A pediatric dermatologist can inspect rashes, hives, sores, and other skin lesions, determine what is causing them, and make treatment recommendations.
Pediatric dermatologists can remove skin growths, discuss options for managing birthmarks, and offer patients treatments for skin breakouts ranging from acne to warts. Occasionally, other physicians may be consulted in order to provide the most complete care. For example, if a pediatric dermatologist suspects that a rash is allergic in nature, treatment for the rash may be provided and the patient may be referred to an allergy specialist who can run some tests to find out what the patient is allergic to.
Adherence can sometimes be an issue for young patients, who may not understand the need to complete a course of medication, avoid certain substances, or take other steps to facilitate treatment. Part of a pediatric dermatologist’s job includes communicating with the patient in a manner that is accessible and helpful to the patient, as well as relaying information to the patient’s caregivers so that they can ensure that the patient’s home care is performed correctly. Pediatric dermatologists may occasionally encounter vociferous objections from patients, especially young children who have been treated for a recurring skin condition and are tired of being poked and prodded. Skills that reassure young patients are critical for these physicians.
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