Dermatology

We provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for a broad range of skin conditions, including minor skin surgery.

As well as caring for existing conditions, we are committed to supporting long‑term skin health and protecting patients from skin cancer.

How the service works

Our dermatology service treats conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne and other inflammatory skin problems.

We also run specialist clinics, including a biologics service and a tele-dermatology clinic for fast, convenient assessment for suspected skin cancers.

Where we are

We are based in N Block at Royal Bolton Hospital, and deliver our tele-dermatology service from J Block.

What to expect at your appointment

Biologics screening appointments

Depending on your condition, your dermatologist may refer you to a specialist nurse or pharmacist for a screening appointment to see if you would be suitable for specific medications.

This appointment helps us make sure the treatment is safe and suitable for you and gives you the chance to learn more about how it works:

In the 1‑hour face to face appointment we will ask about your general health and discuss how the new treatment works, how to take it, and any important risks or side effects.
We will explain the monitoring and follow‑up checks you will need while on treatment.

To ensure the medication is safe for you, you will need blood tests to check your liver and kidney function, do a full blood count, any immunity to chicken pox, and screen for viruses including Hepatitis B and C and HIV.

Some patients may also need additional tests and/or a chest X‑ray depending on the treatment.

It will take about two weeks to get your test results, then if approved for treatment, it will take around 3-4 weeks to issue and supply the prescription through an external pharmacy delivery service. They will show you how to store, take and dispose of your medication safely.

There are eligibility criteria for certain medications such as biologic injections and oral JAK inhibitors.