Skin problems can range from the common — like acne or a birthmark — to more serious — like rare skin diseases or skin tumors. When your child experiences a skin, hair or nail problem, the pediatric dermatology team at MU Health Care is committed to providing state-of-the-art care.

pediatric dermatologist

Our team of dedicated physicians and health care experts work with children from infancy to age 18 to find the safest, most effective treatments for the health problems they face. We know kids have unique health care needs, so we always provide each of our young patients the best quality care in a fun, relaxed and child-centered atmosphere.

Leading-edge Pediatric Dermatology Care

Our team offers the only board-certified pediatric dermatologists in Missouri outside of St. Louis and Kansas City. Pediatric dermatology is an up-and-coming pediatric sub-specialty. The American Board of Medical Specialties began offering specific board certification for pediatric dermatology in 2004. We are extremely fortunate to be able to offer your child access to leading-edge specialists who are specifically trained to recognize, diagnose and treat children with a wide variety of skin conditions.

Pediatric teledermatology

We also offer one of the only live, interactive pediatric teledermatology services in the country. Teledermatology uses a network of video conferencing techniques that allows our specialists to see and even treat children who simply cannot make the trip to Columbia, Missouri. Using this technique, our team can see, treat and follow children in our teledermatology clinics around the state.

Skin care to address the unique needs of kids

Simply put, children's skin is different than that of adults, and children often have different skin disorders and issues than adults. That’s why it's important that children see a dermatologist who is experienced in recognizing and diagnosing skin disorders specific to childhood.

Kids also often have other health care concerns that can make certain skin treatments unsafe, even if those treatments are commonly used for adults. Our pediatric dermatologists know how to treat children in a way that takes their growth, hormonal changes and emotional concerns into account.

Additionally, each of our team members has many years of experience working with children. We offer understanding and sensitivity to the unique demands and challenges of treating children for skin disorders. We also offer a safe, relaxed and child-focused atmosphere with the goal of putting young patients at ease.

Patient-centered care

It is always important to our health care team that your whole family thoroughly understands your child's condition. That means our specialists welcome any questions you, your child or your family might have about either the condition itself or how to manage it. Our team strives to include the family and, whenever possible, the child in the discussions and decisions surrounding each diagnosis and treatment plan.

Skin conditions we treat

Our team treats any skin condition your child may have, such as:

  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • Acne
  • Allergic reactions
  • Birthmarks
  • Moles
  • Hemangiomas and vascular malformations
  • Inherited skin diseases
  • Lumps/bumps
  • Skin tumors
  • Blood vessel lesions and growths
  • Psoriasis
  • Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
  • Autoimmune skin disease
  • Skin infections: bacterial, fungal, viral, mites
  • Alopecia/hair loss
  • Nail dystrophy/nail disorders

Treatments for skin conditions

We offer expert management and treatment for skin conditions, including:

  • Botox and iontophoresis for hyperhidrosis
  • Comprehensive patch testing for skin allergies
  • Cryotherapy
  • Intralesional injections
  • Photodynamic therapy
  • Phototherapy
  • Pulsed dye laser therapy
  • Skin biopsy
  • Skin surgery and repair
  • Topical and systemic therapies for skin disease

Additional Services

Resource for parents

For more information, visit the Society for Pediatric Dermatology.