Conventional skin treatment only targets the visible signs. Therefore, the need is to switch to novel ways for long-term results, says DR PRADEEP V Mahajan
Ask a person who suffers from any form of skin disease about the prolonged duration (sometimes for years together) of treatment and the dissatisfactory results achieved. They would probably tell you stories of how they have run from pillar to post in search of effective treatments. A cause for concern is the use of steroid medications for certain dermatological conditions, which as we know has long-standing systemic effects.
What then can be done to treat the myriad of skin conditions that affect populations across all age groups? For this, first we need to understand the different types of dermatological conditions. Here’s a look at some of the common skin conditions frequently encountered by medical practitioners.
Bacteria, virus, parasites, allergic reactions, and autoimmune conditions may cause skin lesions. Acne remains the most common skin disease among adolescents. The common occurrence in this age group is due to hormonal fluctuations combined with factors such as lifestyle and diet that facilitates growth of bacteria, leading to skin eruptions. Acne can be of different types-pustular (pus-filled pimples), papular, cystic and more. Oily skin and inadequate maintenance of personal hygiene can worsen the condition. Affected individuals usually undergo treatment for several months to years with antibacterial creams/lotions as well as oral medications.
Another common condition is dermatitis, which is a general term that describes skin irritation. Symptoms of dermatitis include itchy, dry skin or a rash on swollen, reddened skin. At times, the skin may blister and cause oozing, crusting, and flaking. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic condition that tends to flare periodically. As with acne, topical antibiotics, corticosteroids are advised for management of eczema.
The issue with management of skin conditions is that, conventional treatment only targets the visible signs and symptoms. Agreed that antibiotics and anti-fungal medications kill or inhibit the activity of the associated microorganisms; however, these are not definitive solutions to prevent recurrence. The need of the hour; therefore, is a natural and effective therapeutic alternative. Bring in cell and growth factor based therapy!
Cell-based therapy is creating ripples in the world of regenerative medicine. The aim is to harness the innate healing mechanisms of our body, target the core pathology of conditions, thereby, achieve tangible results. Growth factor and cell-based proteins can be used topically or be administered locally to provide effective results in a variety of skin conditions.
Lipodermatosclerosis: Skin and connective tissue disease that occurs due to inflammation of the layer of fat under the epidermis. The condition is associated with increased body weight and immobility, commonly in older women. The symptoms of the condition are swelling, pain, and plaques on the skin, which may ulcerate as the condition progresses.
Lichenplanus: Skin condition associated with immune system dysregulation. It causes purplish, itchy, flat rashes on the skin that develops over weeks. Swelling and skin irritation may also occur.
Results achieved through the are maintained over a long period of time, based on the overall health status of the patient. It is time to move over conventional, long-term treatments and discuss with us regarding this novel therapy for sustained results in dermatological conditions.
The writer is Regenerative Medicine Researcher