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Find Your Nearest APDerm CenterAncillary Services
Beyond routine dermatological exams, APDerm offers a comprehensive suite of ancillary services designed for accurate diagnosis and highly targeted treatment of complex skin conditions. These specialized procedures utilize advanced technology, covering everything from precise light therapy for chronic diseases to detailed patch testing for hidden allergens. This depth of care ensures you receive the most effective and personalized treatment available for persistent rashes, precancerous spots, and autoimmune conditions.
Patch Testing
Patch testing is a vital diagnostic tool used by our dermatologists to detect the specific substances responsible for chronic skin irritation and allergic contact dermatitis. Unlike common blood or skin prick tests, the patch test focuses specifically on identifying everyday items that cause skin contact reactions, pinpointing allergens found in common products like shampoos, cosmetics, metals, fragrances, and fabrics.
The test involves applying small amounts of these suspected allergens via adhesive patches, which are then evaluated over several days for reactions. This essential insight enables patients to effectively avoid triggers and manage their condition. Patch testing helps diagnose:
- Persistent, itchy rashes
- Eczema-like skin conditions
- Dermatitis that is resistant to standard treatment
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive medical treatment that utilizes a two-step approach to treat abnormal skin cells. The treatment begins by applying a photosensitizing agent (a light-activated solution) to the damaged skin. This medication is absorbed more readily by abnormal cells, such as those found in precancerous lesions.
After the medication is absorbed, the targeted area is exposed to a specific wavelength of light, which activates the photosensitizer. This activation process destroys the abnormal cells while leaving surrounding healthy tissue largely unharmed. This process not only treats lesions like actinic keratoses but can also rejuvenate skin texture. PDT is ideal for patients with:
- Multiple actinic keratoses (precancerous spots) on the face or scalp
- Areas needing broad, uniform treatment beyond spot therapy
- Certain types of early-stage skin cancer
UVB Therapy
UVB phototherapy is a non-invasive and relatively painless way to treat and manage certain chronic skin conditions using medical-grade UV light administered in a controlled environment. The treatment works by emitting specific wavelengths of light that slow down the excessive production of new skin cells, which in turn reduces the formation of plaque and scales.
It is also highly effective at reducing inflammation and itching associated with flare-ups. This targeted approach typically involves multiple short sessions over several weeks to maximize the therapeutic effect. UVB therapy is commonly used for:
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Vitiligo
- Other inflammatory skin conditions
XTRAC® Laser Therapy
XTRAC® Laser Therapy is an advanced, non-surgical treatment that uses a carefully focused beam of UVB laser light to target specific patches of skin affected by chronic conditions. This high degree of precision allows the laser to deliver therapeutic light doses to the abnormal cells without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue, making it ideal for localized relief.
XTRAC® is often considered when topical medications or traditional light therapies have proven ineffective. Most patients find the treatment painless, and sessions are quick, typically requiring less than 20 minutes, with no required recovery time. XTRAC® laser therapy is effective for:
- Psoriasis
- Vitiligo
- Alopecia Areata
- Certain types of Eczema
