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Frequently Seen Conditions

There are some skin conditions that require our patients to attend more frequent and regular follow up appointments. These conditions include:

  • Psoriasis
  • Eczema
  • Acne

 

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that causes skin to appear red and scaly. It is a long term condition that is found in males and females of all ages.

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To treat and manage Psoriasis we offer the following services:

  • Outpatient appointments with doctors or Clinical Nurse Specialists
  • Topical treatments (creams, gels, ointments)
  • Tablets
  • Phototherapy
  • Biologic injections

There are a number of environmental factors that may cause psoriasis to change over different periods of time. For example, during times of good weather, our patients may find that their skin improves and they do not require an appointment.

If your psoriasis has improved you may be discharged back to your GP. You will be provided with information so you can access our services if your symptoms return.

We offer a Psoriasis Direct Service which allows patients to contact us directly when they experience a flare up. The details are given to patients already known to the department who have been diagnosed with psoriasis

 

Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema is a condition where patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, red, cracked and rough. Blisters may sometimes occur.
 

Causes

Eczema is caused by a combination of factors that include:

  • Genetics
  • Environmental factors
  • Dysfunction in the skin barrier
  • Dysfunction in the immune system

 Treatments
  • Barrier repair moisturisers: these reduce water loss and work to repair the skin
  • Topical calcineurin inhibitors: creams and ointments that suppress your immune system, such as Pimecrolimus and Tacrolimus. They decrease inflammation and help prevent flare-ups.
  • Topical corticosteroid creams and ointments
  • Bandages or wet wraps
  • Antibiotics: these are prescribed if eczema occurs alongside bacterial skin infection
  • Antihistamines: These can help relieve the itching associated with eczema.
  • Phototherapy: this involves exposure to ultraviolet A or B light.
  • Systemic treatments: these include oral corticosteroids and non-steriodal immunosuppressant agents such azathioprine, ciclosporin, methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil.
  • Retinoids: These are derived from vitamin A and regulate cell growth
 
Care Pathways for the Management of Children's Eczema

 

For more information and advice, you can visit the following websites:

 
     

    Acne

    Acne is a very common skin condition which usually starts at puberty and varies in severity from a few spots for most teenagers. It can however be a significant problem causing scarring and can have an impact on self-confidence. Acne does not only affect teenagers, it can develop in the late twenties or even the thirties and, more rarely in young children.

    The sebaceous (oil-producing) glands in the skin can be particularly sensitive to hormones and can produce excess oil and skin cells can clog up the follicles.  Propionibacterium acnes lives on skin from the time of puberty, usually without any problem. If the environment is ideal, the bacteria can multiply. This triggers inflammation and the formation of red or pus-filled spots. Some acne can be caused by medication.

    Your GP can diagnose and treat Acne. If necessary you will be given an appropriate type oral antibiotic and / or a cream or lotion. These should be taken for up to 4 months to take effect. If they are not effective your GP can refer you to the Dermatology Department for specialist help.

    Isotretinoin (also known as Roaccutane) is a hospital only prescribed drug used in some cases to treat severe or scarring acne. This is a course of treatment that usually lasts for 4-6 months and is effective for acne.

    For more information and advice, you may visit the following websites: