Childhood Conditions

Children have specific dermatologic needs

Whether your child develops a temporary rash or a chronic skin condition, you need to know that help is available. Alta Vista Dermatology in Highlands Ranch treats patients of all ages. More than offering a standard of care across the board, we recognize that our young patients are more than pint-sized adults; they are individuals with developing systems that require specialized care. Our team offers diagnosis and treatment for numerous pediatric conditions, including allergic contact dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, eczema, and more.

Childhood dermatologic conditions can have an enormous impact on your child. Children who visit our practice enter into a welcoming environment with friendly staff who listens to concerns and answers questions in a way that is easily understood.

Acne

Acne is one of the primary dermatologic concerns that may occur during childhood. Boys and girls from pre-teen all the way through their twenties may struggle with issues such as enlarged or clogged pores, widespread inflammation, blackheads, whiteheads, and other distressing symptoms. Our experienced staff offers solutions to patients based on their age, their type of acne, its severity, and other factors. We understand the need for resolution due to the emotional toll acne can have on a young person, and we provide care with the goal of prompt results and the prevention of scarring.

Birthmarks

Small spots or blotches may be noticed on a newborn’s skin. In many cases, pigmentation lasts only for a short time, a few weeks to a few months. Birthmarks are spots that are noticed within the first few weeks of life. These spots, instead of fading away, may become larger and more noticeable with time. Birthmarks are not the result of foods consumed during pregnancy nor from abnormal fetal development or birth trauma. In most cases, the cause of a birthmark is never determined. What your physician can do is identify whether your baby’s birthmark is pigmented or vascular in nature, devising a plan for treatment if necessary.

Eczema

Eczema is far different from the occasional rash. Children affected by eczema may suffer chronic irritation marked by periods of flare-up, in which itching and redness become prominent issues. Eczema is often associated with atopic dermatitis, an irritation that develops from extreme sensitivity to an environmental allergen. Common triggers include animal dander, pollen, mold, dust, and certain foods. There are also ties to family genetics, stress, heat, and general allergies. Eczema may be treated with topical corticosteroid medication as well as support for the identification of triggers and the avoidance of them.

Keratosis Pilaris

This non-contagious condition is commonly referred to as “chicken skin.” As much as 80 percent of the pediatric population, including teens, is affected by this condition. Keratosis pilaris most often has no symptoms other than rough texture. Patients may seek treatment, however, due to the emotional discomfort they feel because of their appearance.

Molluscum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral condition in which small pink, white, or flesh-toned bumps develop on the skin. Though not painful, the rash may cause itchiness. Children, teens, and even adults may experience this condition, especially if they engage in sports such as gymnastics, wrestling, or swimming, which may be played where the molluscum contagiosum virus lives. This rash can develop on areas such as the face, legs, groin, arms, chest, stomach, or genital area, and may appear as only a few bumps or as a cluster or row. Early treatment is most effective in resolving this condition.

Warts

Warts develop when the human papillomavirus enters the skin through a small cut or scrape. We often see these fleshy growths on the fingers or hands, though they may occur elsewhere. Many patients visit their dermatologist for wart treatment to improve their appearance or minimize the risk of spreading infection to other parts of the body or other individuals.

Alta Vista Dermatology provides children and parents from Highlands Ranch and surrounding areas with the treatments they need to gain comfort and peace of mind. Schedule your visit with us today.