05/02/2008

DISCOVERING THE CAUSE OF ROSACEA

Approximately 14 million Americans have the skin condition known as rosacea, which is often referred to as “adult acne.” Usually affecting people 30-60 years old with fair skin, rosacea is a chronic condition that gets worse over time and is generally cyclic— flaring up for a period of weeks to months, and then subsiding for a time. While rosacea is not associated with a skin infection caused by one type of bacteria, antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to treat its symptoms. Current treatments have not always been effective; however, recently, scientists have made a discovery that could change that. It was found that over-production of two interactive inflammatory proteins results in excessive levels of a third protein that causes rosacea symptoms.

Our skin is a delicate surface. In the event of a cut or scratch, washing the area and removing any dirt or other foreign material are important. Cellulitis is an infection of deep levels of the skin that may require antibiotics. Please call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to schedule a skin evaluation. Our services include diagnosis and the medical or surgical treatment of infections and inflammation, lesions, and growths. We are located at 242 N. York Road, Suite 101, Elmhurst. Most medical insurance, Visa, and MasterCard welcome.

P.S. Rosacea is characterized by redness on the cheeks, nose, and forehead, small visible blood vessels on the face, and bumps and/or pimples on the face.