Dr. Alexandra Christine Kuzyk – Dermatologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Alexandra Christine Kuzyk is a dedicated Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails in adult patients, and may see older children for certain conditions. Practicing at a dermatology clinic in Calgary, AB, she is a key member of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) to ensure safe, effective, and ethical care. She provides comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care for a variety of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer detection. Her approach is patient-centered, aiming to deliver evidence-based care in a supportive and professional environment, utilizing modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipment.

Dr. Kuzyk graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Manitoba in Canada. She has completed extensive post-graduate training in dermatology and holds the necessary certifications to practice as a Dermatologist in Alberta. Her certification ensures she is qualified to provide specialized care for skin, hair, and nail conditions, including advanced dermatological procedures and treatments.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes evidence-based skin care, patient education on skin health and prevention, early detection of skin cancer, and personalized treatment planning. Dr. Kuzyk is committed to providing compassionate care to her patients in Calgary, communicating effectively in English, and ensuring each individual receives tailored, comprehensive dermatological services.

Dr. Alexandra Kuzyk diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:

Nail Disorders (Onychopathies)

• Lichen Planus of the Nails: Nail involvement in lichen planus, which can cause thinning, ridging, splitting, pterygium formation (scarring from nail fold to bed), or even nail loss.
• Beau's Lines & Other Nail Dystrophies: Transverse depressions in the nails (Beau's lines) or other changes in nail texture or appearance that can indicate systemic illness, trauma, or nutritional deficiencies.
• Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis): A condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh, causing pain, redness, swelling, and potential infection.

Hair & Scalp Disorders

• Alopecia Areata (Patchy, Totalis, Universalis, Ophiasis): An autoimmune disorder causing hair to fall out, often in round patches. Can affect scalp, beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, or entire body.
• Telogen Effluvium: A type of temporary, diffuse hair shedding often triggered by significant stress, illness, surgery, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes (e.g., postpartum).

Inflammatory & Immune-Mediated Skin Conditions

• Lichen Planus: An inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes (mouth, genitals), causing purplish, itchy, flat-topped bumps on the skin or lacy white patches in the mouth.
• Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (Discoid, Subacute, Acute): Skin manifestations of lupus, an autoimmune disease, which can range from scaly, disc-shaped lesions to widespread rashes triggered by sun exposure.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Alexandra Kuzyk.

• Excision of Benign Lesions (Moles/Nevi, Cysts, Lipomas, Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses): Surgical removal of non-cancerous skin growths for medical reasons (e.g., irritation, inflammation) or cosmetic purposes, with pathological examination if indicated.
• Acne Vulgaris & Acne Rosacea Treatment (Topical, Oral, Systemic, including Isotretinoin): Management of acne and rosacea, including blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, and facial redness, using a range of treatments from topical creams and gels to oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and isotretinoin for severe or recalcitrant acne.
• Sclerotherapy for Spider & Small Varicose Veins: Injectable treatment (e.g., with polidocanol or hypertonic saline) to eliminate small, unsightly veins (telangiectasias and reticular veins) primarily on the legs.
• Scar Revision Surgery & Keloid Treatment (Surgical, Intralesional Injections): Procedures to improve the appearance of scars or treat problematic keloid scars, which may involve surgical excision, steroid injections, or other modalities.
• Diagnostic Mycology (Fungal Scrapings & Cultures): Collecting skin, hair, or nail samples to identify fungal infections through microscopic examination (e.g., KOH prep) or fungal culture.
• Cyst Excision and Drainage of Abscesses: Surgical removal of various types of skin cysts (e.g., epidermoid, pilar) and incision and drainage for skin abscesses.
• Cosmetic Mole Removal & Skin Tag Removal: Removal of benign moles or skin tags for aesthetic reasons, typically after dermatoscopic confirmation that the lesion is not suspicious for cancer.

Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Kuzyk for care relevant to your specific condition. Coverage for services varies; medically necessary treatments are typically covered by provincial health plans, while cosmetic procedures are usually self-pay.

All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant dermatological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Kuzyk's practice is situated within a dermatology clinic in Calgary's SE: Southwood, Canyon Meadows neighbourhood. The facility is housed in a historic building, offering a welcoming environment for patients. Easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services, the location is convenient for public transportation users. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring ease of access for those arriving by vehicle. The setting combines historic charm with modern amenities, providing a comfortable space for comprehensive dermatological care.

Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Kuzyk, a Dermatologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Kuzyk, diagnostic procedures (e.g., skin biopsies), and treatments for provincially insured skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, severe eczema, skin cancer, infections) are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor is in place. Purely cosmetic procedures (e.g., Botox for wrinkles, most laser hair removal, fillers for aesthetic enhancement) are typically not covered and are self-pay. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment with Dr. Kuzyk's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Kuzyk, a Dermatologist?

Yes, for medically necessary dermatological care covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an ER doctor for an acute issue) is almost always required to see a Dermatologist such as Dr. Kuzyk. This ensures coordinated care and that your visit is appropriate for specialist assessment. Some dermatologists may offer consultations for uninsured cosmetic services without a referral, but these would be a direct cost to you. Always check with the clinic regarding their specific referral policy.

If Dr. Kuzyk recommends phototherapy, what does that involve?

Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, is a medical treatment where your skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light under strict medical supervision. Dr. Kuzyk might recommend it for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Treatments are typically given 2-3 times a week in a specialized light cabinet or with a handheld device for smaller areas. The type of UV light (e.g., Narrowband UVB, PUVA) and treatment duration are carefully controlled. It works by reducing inflammation and slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. You'll be given specific instructions, including eye protection.

How often should I see a Dermatologist like Dr. Kuzyk for skin cancer screening?

The recommended frequency for skin cancer screenings by a Dermatologist like Dr. Kuzyk varies based on your individual risk factors. These include a personal or family history of skin cancer (especially melanoma), having many moles (e.g., >50) or atypical moles, fair skin that burns easily, a history of excessive sun exposure or tanning bed use, or a suppressed immune system. Your family doctor can assess your risk, or Dr. Kuzyk can provide a personalized recommendation after an initial consultation. Regardless of professional check-ups, performing monthly self-skin exams to monitor for any new or changing lesions (using the ABCDEs of melanoma as a guide) is crucial for early detection.

What are some common medical procedures a Dermatologist like Dr. Kuzyk performs?

Dermatologists like Dr. Kuzyk perform a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Common medical procedures include skin biopsies (punch, shave, or excisional) to diagnose conditions, cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen) for warts or precancerous spots (actinic keratoses), surgical excision of skin cancers or benign lesions like cysts and atypical moles, intralesional injections (e.g., for keloids or alopecia areata), and prescribing specialized topical or oral medications (including biologics or immunosuppressants for complex conditions). Many dermatologists also offer phototherapy. Dr. Kuzyk can discuss specific procedures relevant to your condition and may have subspecialty interests influencing the range of procedures offered.

How should I prepare for my first dermatology appointment with Dr. Kuzyk?

To make the most of your first visit with Dr. Kuzyk, it's helpful to: 1. Make a list of your skin concerns, symptoms (e.g., itch, pain, duration), and any treatments you've already tried (both prescription and over-the-counter). 2. Bring a list of all your current medications, including vitamins and supplements. 3. Be prepared to discuss your personal and family medical history, including any history of skin cancer or significant skin conditions. 4. For a full skin exam, it's best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and avoid wearing makeup or nail polish. 5. If your concern involves a rash that comes and goes, taking clear photos when it's visible can be very helpful. 6. Write down any questions you have for Dr. Kuzyk.

When should someone consider seeing a Dermatologist like Dr. Kuzyk?

A referral to a Dermatologist like Dr. Kuzyk is often recommended by a family physician for: any new or changing moles or skin growths; persistent or severe skin rashes (e.g., eczema, psoriasis) not responding to initial treatments; severe or cystic acne; chronic hives; significant hair loss or scalp disorders; problematic nail conditions (e.g., persistent fungal infections, unusual changes); suspected skin infections; or for expert skin cancer screening, especially if you have risk factors like a personal or family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or significant sun exposure. Early consultation can be key for effective management and diagnosis.

350-8500 Blackfoot Trail SE
Calgary, AB T2J 7E1

Phone: (203) 264-7546

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kuzyk is a licensed Dermatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Kuzyk for medically necessary services covered by the provincial health plan. Cosmetic consultations may have different requirements.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=f39e0f9a-bb16-4ab3-ac9e-0bae3937bfe3&i=801