Dermatology

Dermatology

Introduction

The history of Dermatology departments in Malaysia traces back to its early concerns with infectious skin diseases. This led to the establishment of specialized clinics like the Seamen's clinic in Penang for Venereal diseases and the Leprosarium in Sungai Buloh. Initially, general practitioners, physicians, and surgeons managed other skin conditions.

The Department of Dermatology at Hospital Kuala Lumpur was inaugurated in 1969 under the leadership of Dr. Lee Kwok Ching. Subsequently, similar departments were established in Johor Baru, Ipoh, and Penang Hospitals by 1972. As of now, every state in Malaysia hosts its own Department of Dermatology.

The evolution of subspecialty services within dermatology began in 1989, covering areas such as Phototherapy, Infectious diseases including sexually transmitted diseases, Dermatosurgery, Contact dermatitis, and Pediatric dermatology. By 1989, the treatment of leprosy became decentralized and integrated into various Dermatology Departments across Malaysia. In October 1995, the sexually transmitted disease clinic, also known as the social hygiene clinic established in 1930, was incorporated into the Department of Dermatology at Kuala Lumpur Hospital, which was then renamed the Department of Dermatology and Genitourinary Medicine. Consequently, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) services in Malaysia officially came under the purview of the Department of Dermatology in every state.

Services

The Department of Dermatology offers a comprehensive range of services, including outpatient and inpatient consultations, daycare treatment, counseling, and medication dispensing through a satellite pharmacy within the same facility.

a) Outpatient Specialist Dermatology Clinic

- General Dermatology Clinic
- Special Care Clinic
- Pediatric Dermatology Clinic
- Hansen's clinic
- Allergy clinic
- Genitourinary Medicine Clinic
- Collagen Disease Clinic
- Leg Ulcer Clinic
- Phototherapy Clinic
- Intensive Skin Care Clinic (ISCC)
- Special counseling services for:
- Psoriasis
- Atopic eczema
- Sexually transmitted infections and HIV
- Hansen's disease
- Contact Dermatitis
- Group Counseling for Psoriasis, Hansen's disease, Atopic Eczema
- Individual counseling by doctors
- Patient information leaflets

b) Daycare Dermatology Service

- Contact & Occupational Dermatoses
- Photodermatology (UVB, PUVA & Topical PUVA)
- Dermatosurgery (Cryotherapy, Cautery, Biopsy, etc.)
- Laser (Pigment, CO2, and Vascular) Surgery

c) Inpatient Care in Dermatology Ward

The Dermatology Ward comprises male and female wards offering first class, second class, and third class accommodations. While most admissions involve skin disease cases, multidisciplinary care ensures optimal treatment for patients. For patients with extensive erosions and those requiring close monitoring, treatment is provided in the Burns ICU.

d) Genitourinary Medicine

The Genitourinary clinic operates from a separate building within the HKL compound, providing a more discreet and private environment for patients. Managed by an experienced senior medical officer, all relevant investigations are conducted onsite. Consultation with the Consultant Dermatologist is readily available for complex cases.

Contact Information

Tel : 603 - 2615 5250
Fax : 603 - 2698 5927
Email : derma@hkl.moh.gov.my