Dermatology

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, with 50 million Americans impacted yearly. The AADA also notes that psoriasis occurs in about 7.5 million people in the United States, with treatment costs reaching $63.2 billion. They estimate over 9500 people being diagnosed with cancer everyday, making skin cancer the most common cancer in the US.

The National Institutes of Health deems that most skin conditions are caused by allergies, genetics, certain illnesses, and immune system issues (such as with psoriasis). Certain skin conditions have been linked to increased prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, and depression and anxiety disorders.

Dermatology focuses on health and wellness conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails, and supporting individuals living with related conditions such as psoriasis or melanoma. The skin is known to be the largest organ of the body making up one-seventh of its weight, and is important in temperature regulation and protection from pathogens and physical insults. It is known to be an active immune organ, and contains immune cells which can help prevent infection and promote tissue healing when injury occurs.

What do dermatology tests measure?

Dermatology tests focus on identifying factors that can have an impact on skin, hair, and nail health such as biotin, micronutrients, food allergies, and the gut microbiome. There are various types of testing panels available through Rupa Health.

Some helpful dermatology tests include:

• Access Medical Labs' Vitamin B7 (Biotin): A blood sample is processed for assessment of Vitamin B7 to determine deficiency or adequate levels.
• Diagnostic Solutions GI-MAP + Zonulin: A stool sample is evaluated for parasites, bacteria, and fungi to determine gut functioning. The leaky gut marker, Zonulin, is also tested for.

A physical examination and health history are important in addition to the results of the dermatology tests. Depending on the outcome, additional tests or skin biopsies might be necessary.

Treatment Plans

Functional medicine recognizes the importance of nutrition in health, thus diet has a significant role in the health of skin, hair, and nails. Certain physical manifestations of symptoms on the skin, hair, and nails may be associated with poor diets or stress. Depending on the assessment and dermatology tests results, treatments may include surgical procedures or cancer therapies.

Some treatment plans can include:

• Optimizing diet to decrease inflammation by avoiding certain foods such as refined sugars, gluten, saturated fats
• Diet to restore gut microbiome including low fat and high fiber foods
• Supplements to restore deficiencies such as biotin
• Light therapy and topical creams if applicable, depending on diagnosis