Hong Kong Children's Hospital

Genodermatosis Clinic

Genodermatosis Clinic

Genodermatosis Clinic is a one-stop combined clinic for patients and families with genetic skin diseases or inherited disorders with skin manifestations. In this clinic, patients would be jointly assessed and consulted by dermatologists, clinical geneticists, genetic counsellors and nurses. Referrals are welcomed from physicians in both private and public sectors for complex and / or undiagnosed skin diseases. Genetic testing will be arranged where appropriate. The multidisciplinary team will discuss the result and formulate subsequent management plan.

Are skin diseases genetic?

Genetic factors play a major role in the development of a wide range of skin disorders, especially disturbances in the structure or function of the skin, and may be associated with multi-organ involvement. Some skin diseases are present at birth, while others develop later in life. It is possible for these disorders to run in families or to be unique to a single member of the family. Although we may not always be able to pinpoint a specific genetic cause, our understanding continues to improve. The Genodermatosis Clinic is dedicated to expanding our knowledge and optimizing the subsequent management of genetic skin conditions. Upon attaining a molecular diagnosis of the respective skin condition, disease prognostication, family cascade screening, reproductive planning, surveillance and target therapy may be possible.

Skin conditions with possible genetic causes include:

• Albinism
• Dyskeratosis congenita
• Ectodermal dysplasia
• Epidermolysis bullosa
• Gorlin syndrome
• Ichthyosis
• Incontinentia pigmenti
• Multiple hamartoma syndrome (e.g. PTEN)
• Palmoplantar keratoderma
• Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
• Tuberous sclerosis
• Vascular anomalies
• Xeroderma pigmentosm
• Or other known genetic skin conditions

*This list is not exhaustive. If you have any skin conditions with suspected genetic cause, please contact your doctor.

Specialist medical team includes:

• Dermatologists
• Clinical Geneticists
• Paediatricians
• Genetic Counsellors
• Nurses

Seeking professional evaluation

Before and / or during your consultation at our Genodermatosis Clinic, our dermatologist and paediatrician will conduct a thorough skin examination, with appropriate tools or instruments, which is essential for determining which genetic tests are appropriate. Genetic assessments and genetic counselling are provided by a team of specialized healthcare professionals. Together, these professionals provide information and support to individuals and families affected by genetic skin conditions. Genetic counselling helps you with information about genetic conditions that may affect your child, as well as other members of the family.

Preparation for the appointment

1. It is recommended that both you and your partner (or legal guardian if applicable) accompany your child to the appointment if he or she is under 18
2. Gather your personal and family medical history related to skin diseases
3. Bring along any medical records related to your concerns (may bring past photos of your child’s skin issue, if applicable)
4. Bring a list of questions and concerns
5. Bring personal identification document of the patient (e.g. HKID card, HK birth certificate or passport). If the patient is under 18, personal identification documents of the parents / guardians (e.g. HKID card or passport) are required

For further enquires, you may contact us.
Department of Clinical Genetics 　Department of Dermatology
Address: Specialist Outpatient Clinic, 1/F, Tower B, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, 1 Shing Cheong Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Office Tel: 5741 3186

DCG and HKCH Dermat – GGJ1
AUG 2024