Dermatology

Pediatric dermatology is a subspecialty of dermatology focusing on the treatment of diseases affecting the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes of children. Pediatric dermatologists care for children from birth through early adulthood. They provide diagnosis and treatment for common skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (eczema), acne, warts, molluscum, and moles, as well as birthmarks such as congenital moles, hemangiomas, and port wine stains (capillary malformations). Additionally, they evaluate children with more complex disorders including genetic and autoimmune conditions. Our pediatric dermatologists have completed residency training in dermatology followed by specialized (fellowship) training in pediatric dermatology. With this foundation, they offer unique skills and experience to provide outstanding medical and surgical care for your child’s skin condition.

In pediatric dermatology, your child’s skin health is our main concern! Please let our Loyola team of pediatric dermatology specialists and nursing personnel tend to the needs of your family.

Common conditions we treat

Atopic dermatitis (eczema)

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common skin disorder that first appears in infants or young children and may continue through adolescence or even adulthood. It causes the skin to become red, itchy and flaky. Most children with eczema will show signs before the age of 5, and they are more likely to develop this condition if there is a family history of eczema, asthma or seasonal allergies. The location of the rash often changes as the child becomes older. Treatment of eczema is aimed at reducing itching, inflammation and skin dryness, as well as preventing infection.

Genetic or autoimmune skin disorders

If your child was born with a genetic, or inherited, skin condition, you may feel overwhelmed. Together with your pediatrician or family doctor, we will make sure that you and your child understand this skin condition and the care that it requires. In some children a skin disorder may be the result of their body’s altered immune response. The good news is that there are treatments available for many autoimmune conditions that may help.

Infantile hemangiomas and other vascular growths

An infantile hemangioma, or a “strawberry birthmark,” is a common type of birthmark that is made up of cells that line the walls of blood vessels. These benign birthmarks can be large or small; some of them cover a large area of the body. Their cause is unknown, but studies show that there are several common characteristics among infants who are affected. Most hemangiomas do not require intervention. However, due to their location and potential complications, some do require treatment.

Port wine stains

Port wine stains (capillary malformations) are present at birth and tend to persist throughout life. Laser therapy may be available for certain port wine stains.

Moles, lumps and bumps

Moles may be acquired over time or may be present around birth or shortly after. Though melanoma (a potentially deadly type of skin cancer) is fortunately rare in kids, detecting an unusual or changing mole early before it turns cancerous can save a life. Our pediatric dermatologists are well-equipped to diagnose many types of “lumps and bumps” in children.

Skin infections: Warts, molluscum, ringworm, impetigo and viruses

Warts, molluscum, ringworm, impetigo and viruses are among the many infections children will encounter. From cradle cap in your baby to a lingering case of warts in your teen, your pediatric dermatologists can help. Making the correct diagnosis is the first step. Often pediatric skin infections are challenging because they may be complicated by other underlying skin conditions. During your child’s visit with us, we will focus on healing the infection and preventing future outbreaks.

Faculty

Wendy Schumacher, DO

Lily Uihlein, MD, JD