Conditions we treat

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. A specialist skin check looks at moles and spots across your body, usually with a dermatoscope, a lit magnifier that shows structures below the skin surface.

If a spot looks suspicious, Dr Chitreddy may recommend a biopsy, removal or monitoring over time. Treatment of skin cancer depends on its type, size and position, and may include surgical removal, freezing or prescription creams.

Acne is common in teenagers and can continue into adulthood or start there, particularly in women, where hormones often play a part. Treating acne early lowers the risk of scarring.

Treatment is matched to the type and severity of acne. It may include prescription creams, medicines taken by mouth, and hormonal options for some women.

Rosacea causes facial redness, flushing, visible blood vessels and sometimes pimples. Treatment aims to reduce redness and flares, and combines gentle skin care, avoiding triggers, and prescription treatment.

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin and is common in both children and adults. Other forms of dermatitis are caused by irritants, or by allergy to something that touches the skin.

Management usually combines daily skin care, anti-inflammatory treatment and a plan for flares. For moderate to severe eczema there are further options, including phototherapy and newer medicines taken by mouth or injection. Dr Chitreddy will talk through which options suit you.

Psoriasis is a long-term immune condition that causes thick, scaly patches, often on the elbows, knees and scalp. It can also affect the nails and joints.

Treatment depends on how much of the skin is affected and how it affects your life. Options range from creams and phototherapy to medicines taken by mouth or injection, some of which only a dermatologist can start.

Hair loss has many causes, and the right treatment depends on the diagnosis. Dr Chitreddy has a particular interest in hair and scalp disorders, including alopecia areata, male and female pattern hair loss, scarring alopecia and complex scalp conditions.

Assessment may include a close look at the scalp with a dermatoscope (trichoscopy), blood tests, and sometimes a small scalp biopsy.

Some skin conditions affect women differently, or change with hormones through life. Dr Chitreddy has a dedicated interest in:

• hormonal acne
• female pattern hair loss
• melasma and pigmentation
• vulval skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosus and dermatitis
• psoriasis in women
• skin changes in perimenopause and menopause

Dr Chitreddy sees children and teenagers as well as adults. Common reasons for a visit include eczema, acne and hair loss.

Hyperhidrosis is sweating well beyond what the body needs to cool down, most often of the underarms, hands, feet or face. Treatment options include strong antiperspirants, medicines and other treatments.

Hidradenitis suppurativa causes painful lumps, abscesses and scarring in areas such as the armpits and groin. Specialist management can combine medicines, wound care, lifestyle measures and procedures.

Nail changes can be caused by fungal infection, psoriasis, eczema and injury, and rarely by skin cancer under the nail.