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[MOHS_01]

I have to believe that I would have a very hard time doing my job should I develop a tremor; that is not intended as a discouragement, just an honest opinion. Good luck with everything.

 

[asmallchild]

Hello all,

I'm very interested in dermatology, and strongly considering contacting my home department to set up research for this summer. I do have mild essential tremor that seems to respond somewhat well to low-dose propanolol. I'm concerned about pursuing a procedural field, like derm, with ET given that it is a progressive condition. I was wondering if anyone could comment on my situation and the impact that ET could have on the career of a dermatologist. Everyone I talk to says, "Don't let a tremor determine what you choose." But, obviously this is not always sound advice given the amount of surgeons that have to retire earlier than expected due to this condition.

Thanks for your time.

Similar link you may be interested in: Essential Tremor and Dermatology

My experience has been similar to @MOHS_01 's. For most gen derm procedures, I don't think an essential tremor is a big deal (obviously dependent on how bad the tremor is). My practice is fairly high volume Mohs and a tremor would inhibit both the ability to do my job as well as the ability to do it quickly.

 

[JonathanHusky]

I was about to start a similar thread.. I also have ET resulting in shaky hands when I try to do simple things, starting med school this August and was wondering what some of the specialties are that I should stay away from? Surgery is obviously not on my radar...

 

[asmallchild]

I was about to start a similar thread.. I also have ET resulting in shaky hands when I try to do simple things, starting med school this August and was wondering what some of the specialties are that I should stay away from? Surgery is obviously not on my radar...

I wouldn't rule anything out this early. Keep an open mind and I would worry about your tremor later if you find yourself leaning towards a more procedural / surgical field.

 

[dermie1985]

You'll be fine. Derm is a procedural field but once you're practicing you can pick and choose how much procedure dermatology you want to do (and/or are capable of doing). I know providers who don't even do excisions, just all clinic patients. It's a nice field because it's pretty flexible in terms of practice scope, etc.