I’m excited to be one of the newest members of the Bothwell Regional Health Center medical team offering a new specialty … dermatology, which is the medical and surgical care of skin.
As a general dermatologist, I am formally trained to conduct skin checks, as well as to surgically remove skin cancers on the trunk, arms and sometimes legs. I can also identify, manage and treat various types of skin rashes.
A skin check is an in-person evaluation of the skin for any possible skin cancers or skin damage and generally takes 10 to 15 minutes. Full skin body exams are recommended; however, they are optional.
For those without any history of skin cancer, a skin check is generally recommended every two to three years, in addition to regular skin self-exams. A referral from a primary care provider may be needed to see a dermatologist depending on insurance coverage.
It is recommended to see a dermatologist if a mole or spot is changing in color, size or shape. Additionally, it’s important to have a spot examined if it is tender, itchy or bleeding. Other common reasons to visit a dermatologist are for acne, any type of rash, including eczema and psoriasis, warts, skin irritation or any concern for skin cancer.
How frequently someone should see a dermatologist depends on a patient’s risk of developing skin cancer and their medical history. Patients with a history of skin cancer are advised to follow up with a dermatologist at least once a year, although they could be seen more frequently depending on when the skin cancer was diagnosed and treated, as well as the type of skin cancer involved.
Individuals with an immediate family member – such as a parent, child or sibling – who has been diagnosed with melanoma, are recommended to have an annual skin check as they are considered higher risk because of their family history.
Skin checks are important because skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5 people will have skin cancer at some point in their life. Every day in the United States, about 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer. The two most common skin cancers, squamous cell cancer and basal cell cancer, are very responsive to treatment when caught early and managed appropriately.
Although not as common, melanoma is more dangerous as it is responsible for most skin cancer-related deaths. Survival rates for melanoma have increased in recent years due to new treatments, but the importance of skin exams to detect melanoma early is also crucial.
I’m excited to bring dermatological care to this area so people don’t need to travel far for their skin care health. I chose dermatology for the long-term aspect of a patient-physician relationship, and I believe in having people feel they are heard and part of the decision making about their care.
I chose Bothwell because I identified with their pursuit of excellent health care for patients, and I appreciated the authenticity of the staff and others on the medical team. I’ve already found people in Sedalia to be down-to-earth and friendly, and I feel a real sense of belonging in this medical community.
Dr. Christopher Dallo is a board-certified dermatologist. He’s originally from Texas and completed his medical residency at University of Kansas Medical Center. He will see patients at Bothwell Specialty Services beginning July 25. To make an appointment, call Centralized Scheduling at 660.829.8888. In his free time, Dr. Dallo enjoys spending time with his family who lives in Texas, being outdoors, road trips and two-step.
