Seeking dermatologist specializing in "down there" problems

January 8, 2016 2:09 PM

I'm pretty sure this describes what I'm suffering from (genital psoriasis). How do I find a Seattle-area doctor who specializes in this?

I have been to multiple urologists and dermatologists over the years and confused and baffled them all – both at Virginia Mason and UW. I'm not opposed to re-visiting someone armed with new information, but if someone has a better recommendation I'd love to hear it. Ideally in-network (Cigna) but anyone who can save me from this hell gets my money.

posted by O9scar to Health & Fitness (5 answers total)

One approach to looking for a physician who is really interested in a particular phenomenon (and has seen a lot of it) is to look for people who are publishing on the topic, and hopefully find someone who is geographically accessible to you. For example, this paper seems to concern your issue, and if you were in Texas I would urge you to try to see one of the associated authors. In my cursory search I didn't find anyone who has published on genital psoriasis specifically who is located in Seattle -- my suggestion would be to contact the offices of physicians who have and ask if there are dermatologists in Seattle whom they would recommend.
posted by telegraph at 2:36 PM on January 8, 2016 [4 favorites]

Best answer: I have never been to her but Dr Paula Zook at Dermatology Associates specializes in gynecological dermatology. Perhaps she would also be able to work with male genital derm issues? There are several doctors at the practice so if she's not the one for you, someone else may be.
posted by joan_holloway at 2:54 PM on January 8, 2016 [1 favorite]

Also, ask if it might be hidradenitis

This is a tough one to get a diagnosis on.
posted by LauraJ at 3:30 PM on January 8, 2016

Response by poster: joan_holloway - I booked an appointment for Monday morning, so fingers crossed!
posted by O9scar at 5:03 PM on January 8, 2016

I've seen Paula Zook (not for gyno dermatology, just general skin cancer screenings and mole removals), and she's awesome! Sorta sarcastic, gets to the point quickly, doesn't sugarcoat things. I really liked her as a doctor though I think others could find her pretty abrupt. She does strike me as VERY smart, so I think you're on the right track with her! I hope you're able to get some relief.
posted by adiabat at 6:30 PM on January 8, 2016