A Patient Who Cried

One routine Monday morning, I came into Examination Room 5 to perform a full skin exam on Bob, the father of a young former patient I treated a decade ago for Morphea – a skin hardening condition. Prior to beginning, Bob thanked me for diagnosing his daughter’s condition, and I expressed my appreciation for his gratitude.

During the exam, we discovered a few suspicious moles, but thankfully, no skin cancers were detected. Nevertheless, he did request the removal of a fatty skin deposit that had grown and become more painful, so my nurse scheduled him for that procedure.

At the conclusion of the appointment, I intended to rush out to see the next patient. However, before I could leave the examination room, Bob became noticeably emotional and began to cry, reiterating his thankfulness over my accurate diagnosis of his daughter’s condition. He also appreciated my referral to have his daughter treated at the Department of Dermatology at Seattle Children’s Hospital where she was put on methotrexate shots weekly (instead of pills, which she threw back up due to a reflux issue).

This appointment was a reminder to me and my staff that we must always do our best for our clients because of the possible long-term impact we can make in their lives.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is morphea and how does it affect the skin?

Morphea is a rare skin hardening condition where patches of skin become thickened, tight, and sometimes discolored. It can cause discomfort, cosmetic concerns, and, in some cases, limited movement in the affected area.

How is morphea treated in children?

Morphea in children is often treated by a pediatric dermatologist with medications that calm the immune system, such as methotrexate. Treatment may be given as weekly shots instead of pills if a child has stomach or reflux issues.

When should I see a dermatologist about suspicious moles?

You should see a dermatologist if a mole changes in size, shape, or color, or becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding. A full skin exam helps detect skin cancer early and identify any suspicious moles that may need monitoring or removal.

What is a fatty skin deposit and does it need to be removed?

A fatty skin deposit, often called a lipoma, is a benign lump of fat under the skin that usually grows slowly. It may be removed by a dermatologist if it becomes painful, enlarges, or causes cosmetic or functional concerns.

Why is it important to have a long-term relationship with your dermatologist?

A long-term relationship with your dermatologist allows them to track changes in your skin and your family’s skin health over time. This continuity of care can lead to earlier diagnoses, more personalized treatment, and better long-term outcomes.