Systemic disease with skin components

Understanding how the skin reflects systemic health and wellness

Our skin is our most visible organ. As such, it provides clues as to what may be occurring inside the body. In addition to reflecting internal health and/or  underlying systemic disease, components of the skin may also influence the health of the “rest of us.” As a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, Dr. Susan Schroeder has both the specialized knowledge and technologies to accurately diagnose the root cause of skin conditions, which may be more than “skin deep.”

From her Perfect Skin MD office in Jupiter, Florida, she also has solid knowledge of medical conditions that may effect skin health. In addition to her extensive dermatology training, Dr. Schroeder has completed two years of internal medicine training. She has a solid base of medical knowledge to complement her dermatologic understanding and to put “all of the pieces together.” 

Reflecting internal disease in the skin

It is common for an underlying systemic disease to present with dermatologic findings. Many diseases that have seemingly nothing to do with the skin still manifest as dermatologic problems involving the skin, hair, nails, and mucus membranes. Just a few examples of this systemic disease-skin connection include:

• Recurrent itching and crusting at the hairline may be seborrheic dermatitis, better known as dandruff, or even an acne flare-up. If a sore fails to heal properly, it could indicate a pre-cancer (actinic keratosis) or a cancerous growth that requires immediate attention. 
• Dark circles under the eyes are associated with structural changes as we age; these seemingly cosmetic concerns may have an underlying cause that requires prompt treatment: systemic allergies. 
• Itchy skin may be brought on by the change of seasons, or it may actually be due to contact dermatitis caused by an irritant. It’s crucial for us to identify triggering substances. So they can be avoided. Itching is also a common complaint with myriad other diseases, from diabetes and lupus to thyroid and kidney problems.
• Blue or purple discoloration may be harmless yet cosmetically unappealing spider veins. Or, they could be indicative of more serious problems. For example, if the lines appear in a “net-like” pattern, circulatory disorders may be to blame. Skin problems can arise due to cholesterol being released into the bloodstream and obstructing distant blood vessels. 

Supporting Systemic Health 

The skin is responsible for a myriad of  functions. As the body’s largest organ, it serves as a barrier and shields the internal organs from external bacteria and environmental stressors. It plays an essential role in regulating body temperature and responses to heat, cold, and touch. When Dr. Schroeder partners with patients to restore and maintain  skin health, she is also addressing your overall health, well-being, and quality of life. Due to the many connections between the skin and internal systems, she can advise on nutrition and other factors that fuel an attractive, confident appearance as well as optimal health and wellness. Call Perfect Skin MD in Jupiter, Florida, at 561-462-1965 to schedule your one-on-one consultation.