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“Pediatric dermatology has seen such a rapid growth …it has truly been such an exciting time for our patients who have suffered with chronic conditions that previously had no treatments available.”
Shivani Patel, MD, fell in love with the field of pediatric dermatology during her residency training and went on to complete a one-year fellowship to specialize in the field. Today, the board-certified pediatric dermatologist treats a wide variety of skin conditions and also works with more specialized conditions such as infantile hemangiomas. Here she speaks with Baltimore about new developments in her field and how parents and caregivers can help young people have their healthiest skin.
What inspired you to pursue pediatric dermatology as a specialty?
There is so much breadth and depth to pediatric dermatology and working with kids brings me incredible joy. Kids will say the funniest and often most insightful comments during their visit, and it helps to ground and humble me. I also enjoy taking care of the family unit; when caring for a child you also have to navigate the needs of the caregiver, which can require patience and understanding but can also be very rewarding.
What are some of the pediatric dermatology services you offer?
We treat a wide variety of skin conditions in children and most commonly these include acne, eczema and other skin rashes, and birthmarks such as hemangiomas and port wine stains. We also provide treatment for warts and scars with injections, cryotherapy, and lasers. Although skin cancer is rare in children, we also specialize in procedures to remove and examine abnormal moles and skin growths.
How common are conditions such as infantile hemangiomas and other red birthmarks, and how are they treated?
Infantile hemangiomas, also called strawberry birthmarks, are common in newborns but they do not always require treatment. Larger infantile hemangiomas, particularly on the face, are at higher risk for scarring, vision issues, or breathing problems and need treatment with an FDAapproved therapy called propranolol. This medication is highly effective in shrinking the size of hemangiomas quickly to prevent any further damage. There are many other types of birthmarks including birthmark moles (also called congenital nevi), port wine stains, growths of fat or muscle cells, and many more. Pediatric dermatologists can help evaluate your newborn and differentiate between these different birthmarks.
How has the field of pediatric dermatology evolved in recent years and/or what are some of the latest developments in your field?
Pediatric dermatology has seen such a rapid growth in research and approved therapies over the last five years and it has truly been such an exciting time for our patients who have suffered with so many chronic conditions that previously had no treatments available. We now have FDA-approved therapies to treat atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, and even rare genetic disorders with so many new treatments on the horizon soon!
When should a parent or caregiver seek guidance from a pediatric dermatologist for their child?
Although all dermatologists have training to manage many common rashes seen in children, pediatric dermatologists complete an additional year of fellowship specifically in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions in patients aged 18 and under. Caregivers and parents should seek out pediatric dermatologists specifically if their pediatrician recommends it, their dermatologist refers them, or if they have a preference for a pediatric dermatologist to see their child.
What are some best practices you recommend for kids and adults to maintain healthy skin?
I always advise a “less is more” approach to healthy skin care. I will often see patients use too many skincare products, which can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, disruption in skin barrier, acne, and alteration in skin pH. I recommend simple practices with sun protection along with gentle cleansers and moisturizers with limited fragrances to keep their skin healthy.
SHIVANI PATEL, MD
Assistant Professor of Dermatology
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Locations: Baltimore City, Columbia & Lutherville
667-214-1171 | umfpi.org/dermatology