MEDICAL DERMATOLOGY I PAEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY
Paediatric dermatology encompasses the diagnosis, management and treatment of different skin conditions that may affect children. As a dermatologist, Dr Tarryn Jacobs treats a variety of patients of all ages and has specialised formulated treatments for the little ones. She treats skin conditions and disorders, including:
- Molluscum contagiosum - this is a common and generally harmless condition that affects children who are 1 to 10 years old. Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a poxvirus and causes small bumps on the skin that tend to clear with time. There are a few treatments that may help to speed up the process of clearing these spots, but this depends on the patient's age. Many of these treatments are painful, which must be taken into consideration because molluscum contagiosum is a harmless condition that resolves on its own. Dr Jacobs will assess clinically, and if active treatment is needed, then a range of topical therapies and in-office therapies are available.
- Warts – warts are caused by an infection in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) with a virus called the "human papillomavirus". Wart viruses are contagious and can spread by contact. Warts are often skin-coloured and feel rough, but they can be dark (brown or grey-black), flat, and smooth. Warts often go away without treatment. This is especially true when children get warts. Although most warts are harmless, the treatment used depends on the patient's age and health as well as the type of wart.
- Atopic eczema – this is a common skin condition that occurs at any age, but the onset is often in childhood. It is estimated that up to 1 in 5 children will be affected by eczema at some point which is caused by environmental and genetic factors. Patients typically have alterations in their skin barrier and increased inflammatory and allergy responses. Dr Tarryn Jacobs will recommend the right skin regimen, frequent and liberal use of moisturisers, and intermittent use of prescription medications that can help clear up flares and help your child with itching and to rest easy.
- Birthmarks – these are congenital skin conditions that are caused by an overgrowth of pigmentation or blood vessels. Birthmarks come in many shapes and colours. You may see flat or raised birthmarks. They may be small or cover a large area of your child’s skin. Birthmarks can be pink, red, tan, brown, or any other colour. If you notice a birthmark on your child’s skin, it’s wise to have a dermatologist examine it to see if monitoring or treatment is recommended.
