Pediatric Dermatology

Inherited or genetic skin conditions are skin disorders that are caused by genetic mutations or abnormalities passed down from one or both parents. These conditions can affect various aspects of the skin’s structure, function, and appearance, and they often present with distinctive features that are characteristic of each condition. Some examples of inherited or genetic skin conditions include:

1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It often runs in families and is associated with a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever.
2. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by the rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to the formation of thick, red, scaly patches or plaques on the skin. It has a genetic component and tends to run in families.
3. Ichthyosis: Ichthyosis refers to a group of genetic disorders characterized by dry, scaly, or thickened skin. There are several types of ichthyosis, each with its own genetic cause and characteristic features.
4. Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB): EB is a group of rare genetic disorders characterized by fragile skin that is prone to blistering and tearing in response to minor trauma or friction. It is caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins that help anchor the layers of the skin together.
5. Albinism: Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by a lack of melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. Individuals with albinism have very light skin, hair, and eyes, and they are prone to sunburn and vision problems.
6. Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (HHT): HHT is a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal blood vessel formation, leading to the development of telangiectasias (small, dilated blood vessels) on the skin and mucous membranes. These blood vessels are prone to bleeding and can cause various complications.
7. Pachyonychia Congenita: Pachyonychia congenita is a rare genetic disorder characterized by thickened nails (pachyonychia), painful blisters and calluses on the hands and feet, and other skin and nail abnormalities.

These are just a few examples of inherited or genetic skin conditions, and there are many others with varying presentations and genetic causes. Schedule an appointment with Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth to get the expert treatment you deserve.

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Warts are benign skin growths caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infects the top layer of skin, causing the cells to grow rapidly, leading to the formation of a raised, rough, and often painless bump on the skin. These skin lesions can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, fingers, feet, and face.

There are several types of warts, each caused by different strains of HPV:

1. Common (verruca vulgaris): These warts typically appear as small, rough bumps with a grainy texture on the hands, fingers, or around the nails. They may have black dots (clotted blood vessels) in the center.
2. Plantar: These warts develop on the soles of the feet, often in areas subjected to pressure or friction. Plantar warts may appear flattened due to pressure from walking and can cause pain or discomfort when walking.
3. Flat (verruca plana): These warts are small, smooth, and flat-topped, often appearing in clusters on the face, neck, hands, or legs. They may be flesh-colored, pink, or light brown.
4. Filiform: These warts have a long, narrow, finger-like appearance and often develop around the mouth, nose, or eyes. They may also occur on the neck or under the chin.

Understanding Warts

These are small, noncancerous growths caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly appear on the hands, feet, and other areas that experience frequent friction or moisture. While warts are generally harmless, they can be uncomfortable, contagious, and cosmetically bothersome. Over-the-counter treatments often provide limited results, making professional care the most effective way to remove them safely and prevent recurrence.

Expert Wart Treatment in Fort Worth

At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, we offer multiple proven treatments for wart removal, including cryotherapy, laser therapy, topical medications, and minor surgical options when necessary. Our board-certified dermatologists evaluate each case to determine the most effective approach based on type, location, and skin sensitivity. Treatments are quick, precise, and designed to minimize scarring and discomfort. With expert care, patients can achieve clear, healthy skin and long-term relief from stubborn or recurring warts.

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Understanding Sunburn

Sunburn occurs when the skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. This exposure damages the outer layers of the skin, causing redness, pain, swelling, and sometimes blistering or peeling. Repeated sunburns not only accelerate visible aging but also increase the risk of developing skin cancer over time. Even mild burns can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to long-term sensitivity or discoloration if not properly treated.

Sunburn is a skin reaction that occurs when the skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to inflammation and the characteristic redness, pain, and tenderness associated with sunburn.

Symptoms of Sunburns

Symptoms of sunburn typically appear within a few hours of exposure to UV radiation and may worsen over the next 24-48 hours. Common symptoms of sunburn include:

1. Redness: The affected skin becomes red or pink in color, indicating inflammation.
2. Pain and tenderness: Sunburned skin may feel painful or tender to the touch.
3. Swelling: Inflammation may cause swelling in the affected area.
4. Warmth: Sunburned skin may feel warm or hot to the touch.
5. Blisters: In severe cases of sunburn, blisters may develop, indicating deeper damage to the skin.

Other symptoms of sunburn can include itching, peeling, and dehydration. In addition to the immediate discomfort, repeated sunburns can increase the risk of long-term skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.

Professional Sunburn Care in Fort Worth

At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, we provide expert evaluation and treatment for sunburn to promote healing and minimize lasting damage. Our dermatology team may recommend prescription topical medications, cooling treatments, and advanced skincare products to reduce inflammation and restore hydration. For more severe or recurrent burns, we offer customized care plans to support skin recovery and prevent future damage. We also educate patients on sun protection strategies, including the use of medical-grade sunscreens and proper aftercare. With professional treatment and ongoing prevention, our goal is to help your skin heal comfortably while maintaining its long-term health and resilience.

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Understanding Moles

Moles are common skin growths formed by clusters of pigmented cells known as melanocytes. They can appear anywhere on the body and vary in color, shape, or size. Most moles are harmless, but changes such as irregular borders, rapid growth, or color variation may signal a more serious concern like melanoma. Because early detection is key to successful treatment, regular skin exams are essential for monitoring new or changing moles.

“Suspicious moles” typically refer to moles that exhibit characteristics that may indicate a risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop from abnormal growth of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin.

Some features of moles that may raise suspicion for melanoma include:

1. Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
2. Irregular Borders: The edges of the mole are not smooth and have irregular, jagged, or blurred borders.
3. Varied Colors: The mole has multiple colors or shades, such as brown, black, red, white, or blue.
4. Large Diameter: The diameter of the mole is larger than the size of a pencil eraser (about 6 millimeters or 1/4 inch) or is growing in size.
5. Evolution: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation over time, or it looks different from other moles on the body.
6. Symptoms: The mole is accompanied by symptoms such as itching, tenderness, pain, or bleeding.

Expert Mole Evaluation and Removal

At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive mole evaluations using advanced diagnostic tools to identify any abnormalities. If removal is needed for medical or cosmetic reasons, we offer safe, minimally invasive options such as surgical excision or shave removal with minimal scarring. Our team ensures every procedure is precise and comfortable, prioritizing both skin health and appearance. We also educate patients on self-monitoring and sun protection to prevent future concerns.

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Cradle Cap Treatment at Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth

Cradle cap, also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common and harmless skin condition that causes scaly, greasy patches on a baby’s scalp. While it can look concerning, cradle cap is not painful or contagious and often resolves on its own over time. At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, our dermatologists provide gentle, effective care to help soothe your baby’s skin and speed the healing process.

“Cradle cap,” also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that affects infants. It is characterized by greasy, yellow or brown scales or crusts on the scalp. It can also occur on other areas of the body, such as the face (especially around the eyebrows and behind the ears), neck, and diaper area.

What Causes It?

Cradle cap develops when excess oil production traps dead skin cells on the scalp, leading to flakes or crusts that may appear yellowish or white. It can sometimes extend to the eyebrows, behind the ears, or other areas of the body.

The exact cause of cradle cap is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from overactive sebaceous glands in the skin, which produce an excess of sebum (skin oil). This excess oil, combined with dead skin cells, can accumulate and form scales or crusts on the skin’s surface.

Our Approach and Expertise

Our dermatology team recommends gentle at-home care, such as washing the scalp with a mild baby shampoo and softly brushing away loose flakes. For more persistent cases, we may prescribe medicated shampoos, topical creams, or anti-inflammatory treatments that are safe for infants.

At Signature Dermatology, we provide personalized guidance to help parents manage cradle cap comfortably and effectively. With our expertise and compassionate care, we ensure your baby’s skin stays healthy, calm, and protected while the condition resolves naturally.

This condition is typically harmless and does not cause discomfort or itching for most infants. It usually appears within the first few months of life and tends to resolve on its own by the age of six to twelve months, although it can sometimes persist longer.

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Understanding Salmon Patches

Salmon patches, also known as “stork bites” or “angel kisses,” are common birthmarks that appear as flat, pink or reddish areas on a newborn’s skin. They typically occur on the forehead, eyelids, nose, or the back of the neck and are caused by dilated capillaries close to the skin’s surface. These marks are harmless and often fade naturally within the first few years of life.

“Salmon patches” and “stork bites” are both terms used to describe common types of birthmarks found in newborns. These birthmarks are typically benign and often fade or disappear as the child grows older.

1. Salmon patches (nevus simplex): Salmon patches are flat, pink or red patches of discoloration that are present at birth or appear shortly thereafter. They are caused by dilated blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. Salmon patches can occur on various parts of the body but are most commonly found on the back of the neck (“angel kisses”) or between the eyebrows (“glabellar hemangioma”). They are typically not raised or palpable and usually fade within the first year of life, although some may persist into adulthood.
2. Stork bites (nevus flammeus): Stork bites are another type of birthmark characterized by flat, pink or red patches of discoloration. They are caused by an overgrowth of blood vessels in the skin. Stork bites are often found on the nape of the neck (“nuchal salmon patch”) or on the upper eyelids (“eyelid hemangioma”). They are so named because they were traditionally believed to be caused by the “stork” delivering the baby and leaving a mark. Like salmon patches, stork bites usually fade over time, although those on the nape of the neck may persist into adulthood.

Diagnosis and Monitoring

At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, our dermatologists evaluate your child’s skin to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other vascular birthmarks. Most salmon patches require no treatment, but we closely monitor their progress to ensure healthy skin development.

Treatment and Care

In rare cases where patches persist beyond early childhood, laser therapy may help reduce visible redness. Our gentle, patient-centered approach ensures your child’s comfort while achieving natural, healthy-looking skin.

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Understanding Severe Diaper Rash

Severe or chronic diaper rash occurs when irritation, moisture, and friction in the diaper area cause ongoing redness, inflammation, and discomfort. Unlike mild diaper rash, which clears up with basic care, chronic cases can persist for weeks or repeatedly return. At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, we help parents identify the underlying causes and provide effective treatments that restore comfort and protect their baby’s delicate skin.

This condition refers to persistent or intense irritation and inflammation of the skin in the diaper area. While occasional mild diaper rash is common in babies, severe or chronic cases can be more challenging to manage and may require medical attention.

Common Causes and Symptoms

Several factors can contribute to this, including:

1. Prolonged exposure to wetness: Leaving a wet or soiled diaper on for too long can irritate the skin, leading to diaper rash.
2. Friction: Rubbing and chafing from the diaper against the skin can exacerbate irritation, especially if the diaper is too tight.
3. Irritants: Contact with irritants such as soaps, lotions, fragrances, or certain diaper materials can trigger or worsen this.
4. Fungal or bacterial infections: Yeast infections (such as candidiasis) or bacterial infections can develop in the moist environment of the diaper area, leading to more severe diaper rash.
5. Sensitivities or allergies: Some babies may have sensitivities or allergies to certain diapering products, wipes, or foods, which can contribute to this.

Chronic conditions may be triggered by yeast or bacterial infections, sensitive skin, or reactions to certain diapers or wipes. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, blisters, or oozing areas that make diaper changes painful. If the rash spreads beyond the diaper area or does not improve with over-the-counter creams, professional care is recommended.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Our dermatologists carefully examine the affected skin to determine the cause and prescribe appropriate therapies, such as antifungal creams, mild corticosteroids, or barrier ointments. We also provide guidance on diapering techniques, gentle cleansers, and preventive care to avoid recurrence.

At Signature Dermatology, our goal is to relieve irritation quickly and help your baby’s skin heal naturally with safe, effective, and compassionate care.

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Understanding Baby Eczema

Baby eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dryness, redness, itching, and inflammation. It often appears on the face, hands, arms, and legs but can affect any area of the body. Eczema can occur at any age, though it often begins in childhood. At Signature Dermatology in Fort Worth, we understand how frustrating and uncomfortable eczema can be, and we provide comprehensive care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Baby eczema, also known as infantile eczema or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that typically appears in the first few months of life. It’s characterized by red, dry, itchy patches on the skin. These patches can occur anywhere on the body but are often found on the cheeks, scalp, arms, and legs.

Causes and Triggers of Baby Eczema

The exact cause of baby eczema is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Babies with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies are more likely to develop it. Environmental factors like dry skin, irritants, and allergens can also trigger or exacerbate flare-ups.

Eczema develops from a combination of genetic factors, immune system overactivity, and environmental triggers. Common irritants include soaps, detergents, certain fabrics, and changes in weather. Stress and allergies can also worsen flare-ups. Our dermatologists work closely with each patient to identify personal triggers and create a plan that minimizes irritation while protecting the skin barrier.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation to determine the type and severity of eczema. Depending on your needs, we may recommend prescription topical medications, oral therapies, or light treatments to reduce inflammation and restore balance.

Ongoing Management and Support

We emphasize long-term skin care through moisturizing routines, gentle cleansing, and lifestyle adjustments. Our compassionate team provides education and personalized strategies to prevent flare-ups and maintain clear, comfortable skin.

At Signature Dermatology, we are dedicated to helping patients achieve lasting relief from eczema through expert care tailored to their skin’s unique needs.

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