Diagnosing Children with Congenital and Genetic Skin Conditions
Our specialists are well-known for giving patients and families the answers they have searched for so long. It’s challenging to precisely diagnose complex congenital and genetic skin conditions in children. We often see patients through referrals from pediatricians, dermatologists or geneticists in Arizona and throughout the Southwest.
Making an Appointment
If your insurance doesn’t require a referral please contact our office to make an appointment at (602) 933-2053
Once an appointment is scheduled, you will receive a packet of forms in the mail. Please complete these forms as completely as possible and bring to your first visit.
What to Expect
Treating your child’s condition begins with:
- Interviewing you and your child
- Reviewing your family’s medical history
- Conducting a full-body exam
Your child’s first visit to the Congenital and Genetic Skin Disease Clinic at Phoenix Children’s may take an hour or more. A clinical exam may be sufficient to diagnose a child’s condition if it fits a common mold, but most often genetic testing is needed to find the exact sub-type of a condition.
Tests for congenital and genetic skin conditions
A child and their biological parents may be referred for genetic testing. Genetic tests can confirm a diagnosis and determine if the parents can pass it on to future children.
Genetic testing includes:
- Pre-test counseling
- Genetic test authorization
- Genetic test results
Additional tests may include:
- Biopsies
- Blood tests
- CAT scans
- MRI scans
After the tests are complete, the team reviews your case and determines the diagnosis. You and your child will return to the clinic for the test results and to discuss treatment options and ongoing care.
Resources
Physician Referral Form (PDF)
New Patient Questionnaire (PDF)
Contact Us
(602) 933-2053
