The Four Distinct Branches of Dermatology

Dermatology involves the study of the skin, nails, hair, and related diseases, including acne, hives, eczema, skin cancer, and psoriasis. In addition, dermatologists are knowledgeable about particular skin remedies and medications that are effective for treating many different skin issues, which they often recommend to their patients.

There are also several distinct specializations within the field of Dermatology that patients should also be aware of. Some Physicians get comprehensive degrees in general Dermatology, while others opt to receive additional education to further specialize their knowledge and expertise within a more specific field area. For doctors seeking further specialization, there are four distinct specialized Dermatology branches to choose from: Cosmetic Dermatology, Pediatric Dermatology, Mohs Surgery, and Dermatopathology.

The field of Cosmetic Dermatology

A cosmetic dermatologist uses a variety of available treatments to improve the appearance of a person's skin. Maintaining good health is not a focus of a Cosmetic Dermatology specialist. Botox, dermal fillers used to smooth a patient’s fine lines and wrinkles or increase facial volumes, chemical peels, and laser therapy to diminish a patient’s appearance of scars and wrinkles are all common treatments provided to patients by a Cosmetic Dermatologist. A Cosmetic Dermatologist can essentially help patients appear younger, improve a patient’s self-esteem, and help patients find higher levels of self-confidence.

The field of Pediatric Dermatology

A Pediatric Dermatologist is trained to treat diseases that affect the nails, skin, and hair. Pediatric Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating these diseases in infants, newborns, and children, including proper pediatric medication management. If your pediatrician suggests that your child see a pediatric dermatologist, you can ensure that your child will receive the best possible medical care available. Atopic dermatitis is one of the primary diseases prevalently diagnosed in children and treated by a Pediatric Dermatologist.

The field of Mohs Surgery

When diagnosed with a form of skin cancer, you may likely be referred to see a Mohs surgeon for treatment. A Mohs surgeon is highly trained to perform a specialized type of surgery called Mohs Surgery. Mohs Surgery is only used in treating forms of skin cancer in patients. After completion of their residency, dermatologists can continue their studies and receive advanced training in Mohs Surgery. A select few may even move forward with completing a fellowship in this highly distinguished and critically necessary field.

The field of Dermatopathology

Dermatopathology is a sub-specialty of Dermatology and Pathology used to study and identify diseases using hair and skin samples. A trained Dermatopathologist examines hair and skin samples under a microscope inside of a laboratory. This subspecialty of pathology and dermatology allows the physician to study the causes and effects of diseases of the skin, hair, and nails and accurately diagnose these diseases in their earliest and latest stages of development.

If you seek services involving dermatopathology in Pittsburgh PA, we are here with the reliability and expertise required to process, study, and identify diseases in our laboratory setting. Contact us today for more information on the professional services we have to offer.