Blog Layout
Case of the Month February 2020
Feb 17, 2020
My fourth year of medical school, I was on a dermatology rotation and I had the pleasure of helping care for a female patient with a squamous cell carcinoma of her left index finger. She was sent to the hand surgeon for treatment and two weeks later she returned to the office for follow up. I was shocked to see that her finger had been amputated. It was completely gone! At the time I realized that although I had not thought about it prior, this was a high-risk tumor in a high-risk area and removing the finger was probably the best mode of treatment to ensure that the tumor was completely removed and to prevent metastasis.
Fast forward 14 years. A 71-year-old male patient presented to our office for the evaluation of a painful lesion under his right thumbnail. He had been treated for a fungal infection of the nail for the last 12 months with no improvement and he was seeking a second opinion. The nail plate and cuticle were elevated revealing an erythematous tumor (Figure 1). A biopsy of the lesion demonstrated a well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinomas involving this anatomical location are considered high-risk tumors and have the potential for metastasis.
Due to the aggressive nature of the lesion and in an attempt to save the thumb from amputation, Mohs surgery was performed. After 3 stages of surgery the final defect can be seen below (Figure 2).
Partial removal of the nail matrix (the portion of the nail that creates new cells and allows the nail to grow) was required to clear the tumor. This results in permanent loss of that portion of the nail.
Closure options for this defect included a skin graft, secondary intention healing, and local tissue flaps. The patient stated that he did not want a graft and he did not want to let it close on its own. Together with the patient and his family, we agreed upon a laterally based rotation flap. The final closure can be seen below (Figure 3).
Sutures were removed after two weeks at which time excellent early surgical results were noted. Normal anatomy was maintained with the exception of the partial nail loss. Overall, the thumb looked anatomically correct and was fully functional. He and his family were very happy with the results. At four years, no evidence of recurrence is noted, and the patient has a fully functioning and normal looking thumb (Figure 4).
Yeast infections on the skin can be uncomfortable and persistent if not properly managed. Medically known as cutaneous candidiasis, a yeast infection on the skin arises when a fungus called Candida albicans overstays its welcome.
As the spring season unfolds, many individuals eagerly anticipate spending more time outdoors, reveling in the beauty of blooming flowers and vibrant landscapes. However, for some, spring brings about a different experience—one characterized by itchy, irritated skin and uncomfortable allergic reactions. Skin conditions associated with allergies or heightened exposure to outdoor elements can significantly impact individuals' quality of life during this time.
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. The good news is that, with early detection, the majority of skin cancers are highly treatable. Regular skin cancer screenings play a crucial role in identifying potential issues before they escalate.
As winter blankets the world in a serene layer of snow and chilly temperatures, many of us tend to believe that the need for sunscreen diminishes along with the intensity of the sun's rays. The misconception that sunscreen isn’t essential during the winter can lead to unintended consequences for our skin.
We all love that golden glow from a day spent basking in the sun, but what about those days when the sun decides to take a break? That's where indoor tanning comes into play, right? Well, hold on to your tanning goggles because there’s more to this seemingly harmless activity than meets the eye.
Your skin is a window into the health and happiness of your whole body. As the body's largest organ, it plays a pivotal role in physical protection and shaping your identity and self-esteem. Seeking the guidance of a dermatologist is a wise decision when faced with skin issues, be it medical or cosmetic. However, the challenge lies in how to find the perfect dermatologist who can address your unique concerns and requirements.
The key to soft and radiant skin often lies in our daily routines. Home-based skincare goes beyond mere daily practice; it signifies a dedication to the well-being of your skin and a much-desired glow.
If you're like most people, you desire flawless skin that radiates confidence and natural beauty. We understand that achieving and maintaining healthy skin can be challenging, especially with the countless cosmetic skin treatments available and the staggering number of product reviews.
In the world of skincare, there are many myths and misconceptions that can make it difficult to tell what is true and what is not. From extravagant claims about miracle ingredients to misguided beliefs about skincare practices, these myths can hinder our journey towards healthy, glowing skin.
The warm embrace of the sun holds a hidden danger called skin cancer. This pervasive disease affects millions in the United States, with over 5.4 million cases diagnosed annually. As the numbers continue to rise, it's crucial to shed light on this menacing threat. Fortunately, with early detection and the right treatment, you can safeguard the well-being of your or a loved one’s skin.
Phone:
Address:
Hours of Operation:
Mon-Fri: 8:00am to 4:30pm
Phone:
Address:
Hours of Operation:
Mon-Fri: 8:00am to 4:30pm