Comprehensive Pediatric Dermatology Care at MU Health Care

Skin disorders in children can range from common issues like acne and birthmarks to serious conditions such as rare skin diseases and skin tumors. When your child faces a skin, hair, or nail problem, the pediatric dermatology team at MU Health Care is dedicated to providing advanced, compassionate care tailored to young patients.

Innovative Pediatric Dermatology Services

MU Health Care boasts the only board-certified pediatric dermatologists in Missouri outside of major metropolitan areas like St. Louis and Kansas City. Pediatric dermatology has become a crucial specialty since the establishment of specific board certification in 2004 by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Our specialists are trained to diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of skin conditions affecting children from infancy through age 18.

Teledermatology: Access from Anywhere

Our facility is among the few nationwide to offer live, interactive pediatric teledermatology. This service utilizes advanced video conferencing technology that allows our experts to consult with children unable to visit our Columbia, Missouri clinic. With this innovative approach, we can effectively assess, treat, and monitor our patients remotely, ensuring that quality care is accessible even in remote areas.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Children’s Skin

Children’s skin is fundamentally different from that of adults. This distinction means that pediatric dermatologists must be experienced in recognizing and addressing childhood-specific skin disorders. For example, conditions like atopic dermatitis (eczema), psoriasis, and alopecia require specialized approaches that consider a child’s growth and emotional well-being.

Why Choose Pediatric Dermatology?

• Health Concerns: Treatments safe for adults may not be suitable for children due to their differing physiology. Pediatric dermatologists are trained to navigate these complexities.

• Child-Centered Environment: We prioritize a fun, relaxed atmosphere that reduces anxiety for both kids and their families.

• Family Involvement: Our practice emphasizes understanding all aspects of your child’s condition, encouraging questions and involving family members in treatment discussions.

Conditions We Treat

Our expert team is equipped to manage an extensive range of skin conditions, including:

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
• Acne
• Allergic Reactions
• Birthmarks
• Skin Tumors
• Psoriasis
• Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)
• Alopecia (Hair Loss)
• Nail Disorders
• Skin Infections (bacterial, fungal, viral)

To learn more about childhood skin disorders, visit the Society for Pediatric Dermatology.

Effective Treatment Options

We offer a variety of expert management and treatment plans, such as:

• Therapies:

  • Botox and iontophoresis for hyperhidrosis
  • Phototherapy
  • Cryotherapy
  • Photodynamic therapy

• Procedures:

  • Skin biopsies
  • Surgical repairs
• Comprehensive Allergy Testing: We conduct thorough patch tests to identify skin allergies and tailor treatments accordingly.

Additional Services and Resources for Parents

For parents navigating skin conditions affecting their children, we provide extensive resources and educational materials. Understanding your child’s skin issues is crucial, and our team is always ready to assist. For more information on pediatric dermatology resources, visit KidsHealth.org.

Whether your child is dealing with a routine skin issue or a more complex condition, the pediatric dermatology team at MU Health Care is here to help every step of the way. With state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care, we ensure your child’s skin health is in good hands.