Skin Conditions

What are skin conditions?

Skin conditions are disorders and diseases that affect the skin (the body’s largest organ). They clog the pores, trigger inflammation, or cause irritation. 

Skin conditions affect all people, but they’re especially common in children and teens. There are several reasons for this. For example, young people have thinner skin, developing immune systems, and a larger skin-to-body ratio. They’re also more likely to experience hormone fluctuations – all of which can trigger skin problems.

What are some common skin conditions in children and teens?

The team at Dewi S. Sudjono-Santoso, MD, PA, diagnoses and treats several common skin conditions, including:

Acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Acne is especially common in adolescents and teens. Often, it’s characterized by whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes the skin cells to divide and multiply rapidly. It causes inflamed, scaly patches of skin, called plaques, that typically develop on the elbows, knees, and scalp. 

Eczema

Eczema is a type of dermatitis (skin inflammation). It affects the skin’s ability to retain moisture and causes the skin to become dry, irritated, and bumpy. 

Warts

Warts are hard, round growths that typically form on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They’re caused by a strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Kids and teens are especially susceptible to warts because of their growing immune systems.

How are skin conditions diagnosed?

To diagnose skin conditions, the team reviews your child’s medical records and examines your child’s skin. Certain skin conditions, like warts, are easy to diagnose visually. But if an exam doesn’t provide enough information, your child’s provider might order additional tests, such as a biopsy or skin culture.

A biopsy removes a piece of skin so it can be examined under a microscope, while a skin culture assesses your child’s skin for the presence of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

How are skin conditions treated?

The Dewi S. Sudjono-Santoso, MD, PA, team treats skin conditions using a conservative approach. They might suggest:

• Antibiotics (if your child has a bacterial infection)
• Antihistamines to reduce inflammation and prevent allergic reactions
• Skin moisturizers
• Medicated creams, ointments, or gels
• Steroid pills, creams, or injections
• Cryotherapy (if your child has warts)