General Dermatology in Elkhart & Michiana with Roger Moore, MD

Acne is the term used to describe blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, minor lumps or any plugged pores that occur on the face or upper torso. While most major acne problems occur during adolescence, this condition can occur before and after the teenage years. While acne can affect males and females, males tend to have more severe, longer lasting types of the condition and many females will have frequent flare-ups of acne during hormonal shifts (such as their menstrual cycle). Dr. Moore offers several treatments to help reduce and prevent mild to severe acne, as well as methods for scar reduction.

Actinic Keratosis - Overexposure to the sun and genetics can cause actinic keratosis to develop. Characterized by rough, red scaly patches, crusts or sores on the face, lips, neck or back, if left untreated, actinic keratosis can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a potentially fatal form of skin cancer. As a board certified dermatologist, Dr. Moore specializes in treating this condition. Following careful diagnosis, he offers various methods to restore the health of your skin.

Aging of the skin is a natural part of the human cycle. Over time, collagen production slows down and elasticity of the skin decreases. Coupled with natural aging, other factors, such as overexposure to the sun and smoking, can cause premature aging. As a skincare professional, Dr. Moore specializes in cosmetic rejuvenation. Botulinum Toxin (Botox), Hyaluronic Acid Fillers and sapphire abratism (the advanced alternative to microdermabrasion) are a few options Dr. Moore provides to reduce unsightly fine lines and wrinkles.

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a group of skin conditions that can affect you at any age. It is not contagious but can be uncomfortable as it causes the skin to become hot and itchy. In severe cases, it can even cause bleeding. Eczema can occur because of irritation, allergic reaction or hereditary conditions. As a board certified dermatologist, Dr. Moore can correctly diagnose and analyze your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan for your individual case.

Psoriasis is a chronic disorder that creates itchy, red marks on the body. These areas form multi-layered “scales” that vary in severity. Basically, the skin is replacing itself at a rate of up to 10 times faster than normal. Psoriasis can occur at any age in both males and females. It is not contagious or life threatening. Dr. Moore can diagnose you merely by examining your skin, but a biopsy may be necessary for further evaluation. Dr. Moore may suggest such treatment methods as steroids, sprays, vitamins or light therapy.

Rosacea is a chronic skin and eye condition. Symptoms include redness and pimples in the early stages and thickened skin and sometimes an enlarged nose in the advanced stages. People with this condition experience frequent facial flushing, accompanied by swelling or burning. Although doctors are still exploring the cause for this condition, it is clear that the blood vessels in afflicted people dilate far more easily than normal, which stimulates many of the symptoms. After Dr. Moore’s diagnosis, he may recommend antibiotics or laser surgery depending on the severity of your condition.

Skin Cancer
There are three basic forms of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Anyone can be diagnosed with cancer at any age. Doctors link these forms of cancer to overexposure to the sun. Tanning booths can also increase your risk, as can exposure to radiation or high altitude. Because each type of skin cancer has a different look, effect and treatment, it is important to alert Dr. Moore if you notice unusual changes in the size and shape of spots, the coloration of your skin or the sensitivity and comfort of your body. Time is of the essence, and when caught early, many forms of skin cancer can be successfully treated.

Warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts are infections that can grow on virtually any part of your body and they can be contagious. Some people have a stronger natural resistance to warts, and in some cases, warts will disappear on their own over a period of months or years. However, when warts cause pain, embarrassment or bother, your doctor can offer you a variety of treatment options.

Warts can be very sensitive and can ache or even bleed if irritated. In such cases, especially when they grow on areas where they are aggravated by clothing or jewelry, many people choose to have them removed. Warts that grow in highly visible areas of the body, such as the face, are often removed. In addition, because there is the chance that they could spread to other parts of the body or to other people, many people decide to have them removed.

Warts can be removed in a variety of ways. If you are considering wart removal, Dr. Moore and his team should discuss your options with you so that you can achieve your goal safely and effectively.

Seborrheic Keratosis is a raised, waxy, oval-shaped growth that appears on the epidermal (outer layer) of the skin. Similar in appearance to warts, these growths are not cancerous and have a scaly surface. Seborrheic keratoses are usually brown, black or pale and can develop on the face, back, shoulders or chest. They are not contagious and do not spread, although some people may develop more as they get older.

Genetics plays a big role in the development of seborrheic keratosis. The growth may also erupt following pregnancy or as a result of a medical problem. Although seborrheic keratosis is not a serious condition, removal may be necessary if they become large, itch or bleed. People may also choose to remove the growth for cosmetic purposes, especially if it is on the face. Dr. Moore provides various treatment options to rid the skin of this condition.

Basal Cell Carcinoma - The most common type of skin cancer, Basal Cell Carcinoma, is slow growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, the cancer can extend below the surface of the skin into the bone and nerves and cause severe damage to the surrounding tissue. Utilizing comprehensive, cutting edge technology, Dr. Moore can diagnose the cancer early and perform immediate treatment to remove it.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma - Squamous cell carcinoma spreads more quickly and can be fatal. Tumors appear on the face, neck, back and can spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Dr. Moore can carefully diagnose the cancer and perform an advanced surgical technique to rid the skin of the cancer before it becomes more difficult to cure.

Melanoma - The most lethal form of skin cancer, melanoma spreads rapidly to the lymph nodes and internal organs. Melanoma can appear as a new mole or grow gradually in or near an existing mole. As a trained dermatologist, Dr. Moore provides comprehensive, advanced methods to successfully treat melanoma during its early stages.

Moles/Nevi vary in size, shape and pigmentation. In addition, some moles are harmless while others can be very dangerous. They can occur singly or in groups, as freckles do.

For moles that are not cancerous, treatment is only necessary if you feel that they are in an uncomfortable position or you feel that they are unattractive. In such cases, Dr. Moore can perform a simple excision biopsy to remove the mole. If you do not want to remove the mole, you may choose to conceal it with cosmetics or enjoy it as a unique beauty mark.

However, dangerous moles can develop into melanoma, a form of skin cancer. People who have a large number of moles tend to have a greater chance of this occurring. Knowing the warning signs of problem moles is the first step to making sure you stay healthy. For suspect moles, Dr. Moore will perform a skin examination and will monitor the mole for any abnormalities. If your mole is found to be cancerous, he will remove it as a safety measure and will suggest regular testing to make sure that the cancer does not recur or spread.

You can help prevent skin cancer. When you are outside, especially in the summer, apply sunscreen on exposed areas. Cover up by wearing hats, long sleeves and pants. Remember: regular testing and consultations with Dr. Moore, especially if you are in a high-risk group, will keep you informed and healthy.