Medical Dermatology

Dr. Gilberto Alvarez del Manzano has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of dermatologic skin conditions. Dr. Alvarez del Manzano continues to serve as faculty at NYU, sharing his expertise with dermatology residents.

ACNE TREATMENT

acne treatment

As the most common skin condition in the US, acne can affect patients of all ages, not just teens. Our doctors understand the frustration caused by this condition, especially for adult patients, and are committed to treating each patient’s condition. While it is most common on the face, acne can also appear on the back, chest, neck, shoulders, upper arms, and buttocks. Acne can vary widely in its presentation, ranging from small clogged pores (whiteheads and blackheads) to large painful cysts. Numerous treatment options are available and our doctors will discuss and provide you an individualized regimen.

ACTINIC KARATOSES

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are lesions on the surface layer of the skin (epidermis) caused by chronic exposure to sunlight. They may appear anywhere on the skin surface exposed to sunlight, but common areas include the face, neck, arms, and hands. A small percentage may evolve into squamous cell carcinomas, and therefore treatment is needed for their complete removal. Our doctors can discuss with you different treatment options such as the use of various creams versus direct destruction of the lesions.

ATOPIC DERMATITIS

ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema, is a chronic skin disorder that causes dry, itchy skin and often results in a red rash. It is most common in babies and children, and tends to affect those with a family history of allergies and asthma, although the actual cause is unknown. Although atopic dermatitis cannot be cured, it can usually be treated and controlled simply through using moisturizing lotions, avoiding harsh soaps, and controlling scratching. Our dermatologists will discuss with you proper skin care and prescribe medications for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Treatment is important because it relieves symptoms of discomfort and prevents secondary skin infections that can result from scratching.

CONTACT DERMATITIS

Contact dermatitis involves an inflammation of the skin caused by contact with a foreign substance. Common triggers of contact dermatitis include poison ivy, fragrances, cleaning products, detergents, cosmetics, and latex rubber. Symptoms may include a red rash, blistering, itchiness, dryness, and more. While most cases of contact dermatitis resolve once the offending agent is removed, some patients experience blistering and significant discomfort requiring either topical and/or oral medications.

CONDYLOMA

Condyloma, commonly known as genital warts, is common type of human papilloma virus (HPV) that is spread through sexual contact with an infected person. It can spread regardless of whether or not warts are currently visible. HPV can often be asymptomatic, and therefore many people with HPV do not know they have the virus. It is a common type of sexually transmitted disease. There are over 100 strains of HPV, and only some of them cause warts. Genital warts can vary in their appearance. Some strains of HPV can cause cervical cancer, and women should be evaluated by their gynecologist if a history of HPV exists, or if her partner has HPV. Genital warts can be stubborn, and our dermatologists will discuss with you different treatment options.

ECZEMA TREATMENT

Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes. Different types of eczema include:

  • atopic darmatitis
  • contact dermatitis
  • dyshidrotic eczema
  • nummular eczema

Eczema Treatment TriBeCaAtopic eczema is the most common type of eczema and often runs in the family. People with eczema will often have asthma or hay fever as well. Eczema is most common in infants, and children often outgrow their eczema as they reach adulthood. Periodic flares or worsening of eczema may occur. Things which may worsen eczema include dry skin, contact with fragrances or rough materials, allergies, illnesses, and stress. Skin care at home is of primary importance in the management of eczema. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory products to reduce itching and alleviate symptoms.

EXCEESSIVE SWEATING

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where patients experience excessive sweating. Hyperhidrosis can affect the entire body, or isolated parts. While it is most common in the underarms, hyperhidrosis also typically affects the hands and feet. Excessive sweating can cause skin irritation from the constant increased moisture, and patients may also feel embarrassed or self-conscious by their condition. Treatment is available in the form of topical medications and injections.

FULL BODY SKIN EXAMS

FULL BODY SKIN EXAMS

Full-body skin exams are an important tool in screening patients for potentially dangerous skin growths. Our doctors offer complete and thorough examinations of the skin. Please let us know you need a full skin check so that we may provide you with a gown.

HAIR LOSS

Alopecia, the medical term for hair loss, can affect men and women of all ages. Alopecia areata specifically refers to a focal patch of hair loss, and is commonly seen in children. Generalized hair loss, where patients seem to be losing their hair “all over,” may be due to an underlying medical condition, medications, illnesses, or stress. While some amount of hair loss is expected as both men and women age, widespread and sudden hair loss can cause enormous anxiety. A thorough and complete history, physical examination, and blood tests are often done to assess a patient’s hair loss.

HIVES

HIVES

Hives appear as red bumps and welts on the skin, causing a very itchy or burning sensation. Hives are caused by an allergic reaction to medication, food, an insect bite, or infection. While most cases of hives go away on their own, oral medications can provide prompt relief of symptoms.

MELANOMA TREATMENT

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It occurs when the cells that make melanin (brown pigment) stop behaving like normal cells and became cancerous. The most common sign of a melanoma is a changing mole. Any pigmented lesion that changes over time or bleeds should be immediately evaluated by a dermatologist for biopsy and surgical removal if necessary. Later stages of melanoma treatment may also include chemotherapy or radiation therapy to destroy all cancer cells.

MOLES AND BROWN SPOTS

Brown spots on the skin vary from ordinary moles and freckles to dangerous skin cancers. Moles and brown spots should be routinely evaluated by a dermatologist for signs of skin cancer. They can also be removed for cosmetic reasons. Development of brown spots increases with age, as long-term sun exposure begins to take its toll on the skin.

PSORIASIS TREATMENT

PSORIASIS TREATMENT

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes skin redness and scaling, typically on the elbows, knees and scalp. Some people will also have lesions all over the body, while others will experience a type of psoriasis limited to the hands and feet only. Most people with psoriasis have thick, red skin with flaky, silver-white patches called scales. The disorder may affect people of any age, but it most commonly begins between ages 15 and 35. Psoriasis cannot be cured. Treatments are aimed at reducing the appearance of lesions and reducing symptoms such as itching and cracking. Our doctors can discuss treatment options including topical medications, oral medications, phototherapy, and injectable medications.

RASHES

Rashes are common in children and adults. Rashes may or may not itch. Exposure to vaccines, infections, foods, and medications can all lead to various changes in skin color and texture. Children with atopic eczema are more likely to have rashes that are itchy and scaly. While most rashes go away on their own, those that persist or cause significant itching or discomfort should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Rashes that cause blisters or wet weepy skin need to be evaluated immediately for signs of skin infection.

ROSACEA TREATMENT

ROSACEA TREATMENT

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness to the face, often with small bumps and broken blood vessels. Symptoms range from red pimples, lines, and visible blood vessels to dry or burning skin and a tendency to flush easily. Although it can affect anyone, rosacea typically appears in light-skinned, light-haired adults aged 30-50. Rosacea can be treated with topical and oral medications. The redness and broken blood vessels of rosacea can also be treated with a laser.

SKIN CANCER

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and anyone can get it. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Most of the time, skin cancer is caused by sun exposure and use of tanning beds. Any new growth or change in the skin should be carefully evaluated by a dermatologist.

If a diagnosis of skin cancer is made, our dermatologists will recommend the best treatment for you, depending on the type and location of the skin cancer, and your medical history. Surgical excision remains the most common method of skin cancer removal. This method is done in our surgical suite, under local anesthesia. Other surgical methods of removing or destroying skin cancers include ED&C (electrodessication and curettage), cryotherapy, and Mohs surgery. In addition to the above surgical options, application of certain medications can, in some instances, also be used to treat skin cancer.

SKIN INFECTIONS

Bacterial skin infections occur when a break in the skin allows surface bacteria to enter the skin and cause harm. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and drainage. Left untreated, the bacteria can extend beyond the skin and into the blood, leading to fevers and fatigue. The source of the infection is often obvious (e.g., a bite or injury), although sometimes the break in the skin can be can also be hard to see. Prompt treatment is necessary.

WARTS

WARTS

Warts are skin growths caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). While there are many strains of HPV, those that cause common warts (typically on the hands and feet) are very different from the strains that cause genital warts. Different warts respond to different treatments, and some go away on their own. Because they can cause pain, discomfort, and be unsightly, warts can be treated using various methods. Over-the-counter salicylic acid products are often effective; however, nitrogen, acids, or electrodessication may be required. Surgery may be recommended for painful or large warts that do not respond to these treatments.

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Office Hours for Dr. Alvarez

Monday:

10:00 am-5:30 pm

Tuesday:

10:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

Closed

Friday:

By Virtual Appointment Only 12:30PM - 3:30PM

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Office Hours for Dr. Marchbein

Monday:

10:00 am-4:30 pm

Tuesday:

Closed

Wednesday:

10:00 am-4:30 pm

Thursday:

9:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

DOWNTOWN DERMATOLOGY