DOCS - Dermatologists Of Central States (DSWO) - Dent

Avoid Southwest Dermatologists unless you already have a diagnosis from a doctor of dermatology and you need only routine treatment.

I had a skin condition, mostly on one hand. My primarily care physician recommended seeing a doctor who was certified in dermatology. I went to Southwest Dermatology because of the convenience of their location and readily available appointments.

I was seen only by someone who was not a doctor and who had no certification in dermatology. This person, a physicians assistant, quickly diagnosed my condition and quickly sent me on my way with a prescription. (Physician assistants have no specialization, such as, pediatrics, orthopedics, or dermatology. I really would have been better off with my primary care doctor.)

The non-physician, non-dermatology specialist's diagnosis was eczema. A corticosteroid cream was prescribed. The condition accelerated, covering more of my hand, and developed red bumps and pustules.

So, I read up on eczema which occurs mostly in people with asthma and allergies. Never had either. And, eczema itches, usually serverely. My hand did not itch at all.

I went to UC's dermatology practice next and was seen by a doctor of dermatology. She looked not only at my hand, but my whole body. This is important because the condition it turned out to be often, strangely appears on both feet and one hand, as is the case with mine. The feet condition was minor and took a doctor to notice it's significance. She also scraped of some skin from the affected area to look at the sample under a microscope.

Diagnosis...fungal. Guess what a corticosteroidal cream to a fungal infection? It accelerates the condition.

This writing is little more than 48 hours after my UC appointment and the condition is already visibly abating.

Was a new patient and was extremely pleased with the practice. My former dermatologist retired and I love that I found a great replacement. Kind gentle and thorough. Definitely recommend.