Skin checks and risk factors
Skin checks are highly recommended for people with:
- A prior melanoma.
- More than 50 moles, or moles that are dysplastic or atypical.
- Light skin, light-colored eyes, and blond or red hair.
- A first-degree relative with a melanoma.
- Low defences due to a health issue or medication.
- A history of sunburns during childhood, especially if they resulted in blisters.
- A history of using UV tanning beds.
Dermatologic surgery
Surgery is one of the most prominent procedures conducted by Hospital Ochoa’s team of dermatologists. It may be used for treating skin cancers and other skin issues, including cosmetic ones. Local anesthesia is typically used.
Due to its gravity, skin cancer is of paramount concern for dermatologists, who are involved with both cancer studies and clinical oncology. A multitude of treatments exist, including surgery, photodynamic therapy, chemotherapy and biological response modifiers.
Dermatologists also carry out important work in the prevention and early detection of skin cancer.
Cryosurgery (liquid nitrogen)
Cryosurgery uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue. It can be used to treat a number of disorders, especially benign or malignant skin conditions. Liquid nitrogen is often used on warts, molluscum, blemishes and tumors.
Laser hair removal
Our team of dermatologists also perform hair removal treatment with the help of the best laser equipment on the market. The procedure provides maximum safety and optimum results for the permanent removal of body hair.
Dermojet needless injections
The Dermojet is a special device for rapidly injecting medication into the skin without the use of needles. They have many uses, such as treating alopecia areata and keloid scars with corticosteroids, for applying bleomycin to warts and some types of cancers.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
PDT usually employs methyl aminolevulinate acid together with a specific type of light to elicit cell death. This treatment is typically used against skin cancer, and consists of applying a cream onto the skin that is not activated until exposed to light. Aside from tumors, PDT has also been used for other dermatological disorders such as acne, psoriasis and herpes.
Diagnostic tests
A skin biopsy consists on removing a skin fragment and examining it under a microscope in order to establish an accurate diagnosis. It is performed under local anesthesia.
There are three types of skin biopsy:
- Shave biopsy: A razor-like tool is used to cut a tiny part of the upper layers (epidermis and dermis).
- Punch biopsy: A doctor uses a circular tool to remove a fragment of skin in which the deepest layer (superficial fat) is included.
- Excision biopsy: Using a scalpel, a doctor removes the entire abnormal skin area or lump.
There are a variety of allergy tests, including skin puncture tests and patch tests. As the body comes into contact with a potential allergen, swelling or hives will appear if the patient has a positive reaction to the substance.
Also known as Epiluminescence microscopy, dermatoscopy examines skin lesions, especially moles and cancers, with a special optical equipment called a dermatoscope. This device is able to show anatomical structures that are not visible to the naked eye, thereby aiding physicians in their diagnostics.
