Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/70637
Referring Out Spotting the spots that need a doctor by John Otrompke Estheticians should always be on the watch for conditions that may signal an underlying disease. You may be the first and only person to notice symptoms that appear on a client's skin or nails—not only symptoms of skin cancer, but also problems as diverse as lupus or thyroid disease. While it's not an esthetician's role to diagnose any illnesses, being aware of the first signs of these conditions will help you know when it's time to suggest a doctor visit to your clients. Here is a short refresher on five of the most important signs you might see. 1. Butterfly Rash This is a facial rash characterized by its shape: the middle part of the butterfly is on the bridge of the client's nose, with "wings" extending onto the cheeks. "It can signify a range of diseases, from milder conditions like rosacea, significant acne, eczema, and psoriasis, all the way to serious autoimmune connective tissue disorders such as lupus," says Joseph Jorizzo, MD, professor and founding chair of the dermatology department at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Salem, North Carolina. 2. Infections "Estheticians should look for any sign of infection, such as a cold sore, which is characterized by a painful bump or blister on the face or nose," says Jill Weinstein, MD, clinical instructor of dermatology at Northwestern University in Chicago. "This may be caused by herpes simplex." 18 ASCP Skin Deep July/August 2012