The_Real_Dermatologist.sg

The_Real_Dermatologist.sg

Another doctor has been misrepresented as a Dermatologist, yet again. Be it either in print or on the internet, these actions confuse patients and deceive readers. Was it a case of careless misreporting or deliberate mischief?

For the benefit of my readers, I would like to set the record straight.

1. An Aesthetic Doctor Is NOT A Specialist

The self-titled "aesthetic doctor" is a common sight, on social media and Google search ads. This term has been loosely used to refer to general practitioners (GPs) who provide aesthetic treatments. What you may not know is that, "aesthetic medicine" is NOT a recognised medical specialty. An aesthetic doctor is not a specialist, and would not be listed on the Register of Specialists in Singapore. 

2. An Aesthetic Doctor Is NOT A Dermatologist

On the other hand, a Dermatologist is a specialist doctor who has undergone formal post-graduate training which spans a period of 6 to 8 years. This is known as the Advanced Residency Programme in Dermatology. Doctors who meet the high standards of the program would become board-certified Dermatologists. Only doctors registered as dermatologists by the Ministry of Health are recognised Dermatologists. 

The study of Dermatology encompasses all aspects of the skin. From the neonatal period and infancy, through adulthood, into old age. From molecular biology to histopathology. From eczema to skin cancers. From procedural dermatology (surgery and lasers) to cosmetic dermatology (botulinum toxin and filler injections; anti-aging and skincare). 

Dermatologists are undoubtedly the doctors with the most thorough understanding of the skin, hair and nails, both in disease and in health. These are honed from years of clinical experience, caring for patients with complex conditions. We are actively involved in research and advancements in the field. This wealth of training would naturally translate into more effective and safe treatments for our patients.

3. A Diploma In Dermatology Is NOT A Dermatologist

A doctor with a "Diploma in Dermatology (Dip Derm)", or the "Graduate Diploma in Family Practice Dermatology (Dip FP Derm)", does not qualify as Dermatologist. This is a certification course for general practitioners to equip them with basic skills in managing patients with skin diseases in the primary care. The course is based on distance-learning modules and a one-week clinical attachment. Patients who require specialized care should still be referred to a Dermatologist.

A doctor with a 'Diploma in Dermatology' is not a Dermatologist. He or she will not be registered on the Singapore Medical Council list of specialists. (Reference: Dermatological Society of Singapore)

Look It Up

Don't be misled again. Check out your doctor's credentials on the Singapore Medical Council Professional Registration System.

Feeling The Heat - Recovering From Burns

Healing Skin Burns

Published: ShinMin Daily News 3 April 2016

A 66-year-old man makes a stunning recovery from burns to his face and neck, which he sustained two months ago in a kitchen fire.

"Dr Jean Ho explains...
Burns are classified into:

• First degree. A sun burn is an example of a first degree burn,
• Second degree. Scalding injuries are examples of second degree burns. The damage to the skin may result in none to mild scarring.
• Third degree. Chemical and electrical burns would fall into this category. As there is significant damage to vital structures in the skin including the hair follicles and glands, these burns frequently cause permanent scarring.   

With the exception of first degree burns, specialist treatment and early attention to burn wounds are crucial for improving outcomes. "

Healing By Nature - Honey

Wound Healing By Nature - Honey

Before the discovery of antibiotics, honey was used on wounds to prevent and treat wound infection. You probably already have this botanically derived therapy right in your kitchen cupboard too!

The use of honey in wound healing dates back to the Sumerians in 2000 B.C.. The high sugar content can dehydrate bacterial cells, while acidity can inhibit growth and division of many bacteria. Honey also has an enzyme, glucose oxidase, that reduces oxygen to hydrogen peroxide, which kills bacteria.

The most potent naturally occurring honey is thought to be Manuka honey. It is derived from the flower of the tea tree bush which has additional antibacterial properties.

More recently, widespread prescription of antibiotics have resulted in the problem of antibiotic resistance and the emergence of hard-to-kill super-bugs such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus).  The use of honey as a wound antiseptic is not only desirable, but highly preferable (Journal of Wound Care, 2004).This is because, since honey is technically not an antibiotic, the use of honey on wounds does not contribute to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

Be Skin Smart

Learn to recognise the early signs of skin cancer.

• Examine your skin regularly at least once a month. All areas of the skin should be inspected, including the hands and feet, genital areas, eyes and mouth.

• Learn the danger signs of skin cancer and see a dermatologist early if you detect ay new or changing moles, freckles or skin growths.

• Go for regular skin checks by a Dermatologist at least once a year.

• If you have risk factors for melanoma or skin cancer, you may require more frequent monitoring.

• Your Dermatologist will use a special tool called the Dermoscope to detect early changes in your skin.

• Consider the use of photography as an aid to track your moles or skin lesions.

• Teach your children about the risks of sun exposure and sun burns. Encourage them to apply sunscreen regularly when they are outdoors.

Beware Of The Stubborn Rash - It Could Be Skin Cancer!

Have you noticed a stubborn scaly rash that simply refuses to go away?

It is important to take note that not all skin cancers are pigmented like moles. Non-pigmented skin cancers such as squamous cell cancer and basal cell cancer are in fact more common than mole cancers.

In the early stages, these cancers may not appear alarming at all. They have been mistaken for eczema or a case of skin allergy.

These skin cancers are linked to chronic or intense overexposure to ultraviolet rays. Some patients who are on long term medications which suppress the body's natural immunity (immunosuppressants) also have increased risk of developing skin cancers.

Thankfully, these cancers are highly curable when detected and treated at the early stage. Therefore, it is very important that any new growth or unusual-looking rash be promptly evaluated by a dermatologist.