Dr. Gina Brown is a board-certified dermatologist and is the only board-certified pediatric dermatologist in the state of Alaska. Along with completing a fellowship in pediatric dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University, Gina has also spent time as a Pediatrician in Lesotho working with Pediatric HIV patients, received a resident international grant to practice dermatology in Botswana, and observed dermatology clinics in Guatemala. These positions have provided Gina with the experience to deal with conditions in a variety of environments.
Infantile Hemangiomas
Infantile hemangioma is a type of birthmark that is made up of blood vessels that form incorrectly and multiply more than they should under the baby’s skin. This condition becomes visible in the first few days to weeks after a baby is born.
In most cases, they stop growing and begin to shrink by the baby’s first birthday. It will begin to flatten and appear less red. This phase, called involution, continues from late infancy to early childhood.
In most cases, most infantile hemangiomas grow larger for several months and begin to shrink by the baby’s first birthday. The fastest growth is usually in the first three months. The condition may persist to age 7 and sometimes older.
If you suspect Infantile hemangiomas, please Contact Us.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks are colored skin spots present at birth or that develop shortly after birth. They are common and most are harmless and go away as time passes and the child grows. Birthmarks can come in many different colors, including pale blue, tan, brown, black, pink, white, or red. Birthmarks can be colorations of the surface skin or also tissues raised above the surface. The exact cause of most birthmarks remains unknown.
If you have concern about a birthmark on your child, , please Contact Us
Congenital nevi
A congenital nevus, also known as a mole, is a type of pigmented birthmark frequently found on the trunk or limbs, although they can appear anywhere on the body. They usually look like light to dark brown spots on the skin.
This skin condition usually does not need treatment. However, all congenital nevus can carry a small risk for the development of melanoma, a very type of skin cancer.
If you suspect Infantile hemangiomas, please Contact Us.
Genetic skin conditions
If you suspect any of the conditions presented on this page, please Contact Us.
Diaper rashes
Diaper rash is a common condition of inflamed skin (dermatitis) that appears as a sore, red, scaly, and tender on babies. Most cases can be treated with changes in diapering. More severe cases may occur.
Diaper rash can be caused by many things including:
- Irritation. Irritation can be caused by many things including a diaper being on for too long, the diaper material or skin abrasions
- Infection. pH levels can affect the skin and can let bacteria/fungi grow more easily. Diapers can also create an environment for infections to thrive.
- Allergies. Skin with sensitivities to detergent, soaps, diapers (or dyes from diapers), or baby wipes can result in a rash.
We can help you navigate diaper issues at Alaska Family Dermatology, please Contact Us.
Congenital ichthyosis
Ichthyosis is characterized by scaly and dry skin usually over large areas of the body that can be inherited at birth, other types are acquired during adulthood.
There are 20 or more types of this skin condition. With no cure, a daily skincare routine can help keep symptoms mild and manageable.
If you suspect Ichthyosis, please Contact Us.
Morphea
Morphea is a rare condition that affects the skin, underlying tissue and sometimes even the bone. Morphea may disappear and may recur in rare cases. patches of discolored or hardened skin on the torso, face, neck, hands, or feet may be signs of Morphea.
Schedule a visit with us if you suspect Morphea or notice reddish patches of hardening or thickening skin.
If you suspect Morphea , please Contact Us.
Mastocytosis
Mastocytosis is a condition where certain immune cells, called mast cells, build up under the skin and/or in the bones, intestines, and other organs. When triggered, this condition will release substances that can cause signs and symptoms similar to those of an allergic reaction and worse severe inflammation that may result in organ damage. You can’t prevent it, but you can avoid triggers like alcohol, spicy foods, insect stings and certain medications and get treatment.
If you suspect your or another have Mastocytosis, please Contact Us.