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Advanced Treatment-Based Dermatology
MidState Skin Institute
Expert Advanced Skin Treatments You Can Trust
At MidState Skin Institute, we provide advanced treatment-based dermatology services for certain skin cancers, precancerous lesions, and chronic skin conditions. With four convenient locations, Deerwood Office, Jasmine Office, and Paddock Park Office in Ocala, FL, and our Lutz Office in Lutz, FL, we are proud to serve patients throughout our community.
Founded in 2013 by Dr. Ashley Cauthen and her husband Thomas, our practice was built to provide professional, patient-focused care to the community they proudly call home. We believe strong doctor-patient relationships are the foundation of quality medical care. Our team listens carefully, explains conditions and procedures in simple terms, and creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, actinic keratoses, psoriasis, or vitiligo, we are here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Advanced Treatment Services We Offer
Superficial Radiation Treatment (SRT)
Superficial Radiation Treatment (SRT) is a non-surgical option for treating basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It works by delivering low-dose radiation directly to a defined treatment area on the skin’s surface. The radiation targets and destroys cancer cells while limiting exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. Because no incisions are made, no stitches are required.
SRT has a reported cure rate of 95–98%. Many patients appreciate that it is a non-surgical alternative, especially if surgery is not ideal due to medical reasons or the location of the skin cancer. It may also be considered for patients who prefer to avoid surgical procedures. Treatments are typically scheduled two times per week completing 17 sessions. Appointments are brief, and patients can generally continue their normal daily activities during treatment. A dedicated staff member assists you throughout the process to ensure comfort and support.
XTRAC® – Psoriasis & Vitiligo Treatment
XTRAC® is an FDA-cleared excimer laser used to treat psoriasis and vitiligo. It works by delivering a highly targeted beam of UVB light directly to affected areas of the skin. In psoriasis, this light helps slow the overproduction of skin cells that causes thick, scaly patches. In vitiligo, the targeted UVB light can help stimulate repigmentation in areas that have lost color. Because the laser focuses only on the treated spots, surrounding healthy skin is protected.
Treatment sessions are short, typically 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Many patients begin to see improvement in psoriasis symptoms within 10–12 treatment sessions. Relief may last for several months after a full course of treatment. XTRAC® does not require messy creams or daily regimens, and most major insurance companies cover it with a prescription. Your provider will determine the appropriate treatment schedule based on your specific condition and response.
Photodynamic Therapy (Blu-U® Blue Light)
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) using Blu-U® Blue Light is FDA-approved for the treatment of actinic keratoses (AKs), which are precancerous skin growths caused by long-term sun damage to the outer layer of the skin. AKs develop when ultraviolet (UV) exposure damages skin cells over time. PDT treats these damaged cells before they can potentially progress.
The treatment works in three steps. First, your provider applies aminolevulinic acid (ALA), a liquid solution that is readily absorbed by abnormal or sun-damaged cells. After an incubation period, the treated area is exposed to Blu-U® Blue Light. The blue light activates the solution, which helps destroy precancerous cells while limiting its impact on surrounding healthy skin. During treatment, patients may feel tingling or mild burning, but this usually stops once the session ends. Afterward, the skin may appear red and flaky for up to two weeks, and it is important to protect the treated area from light exposure for 48 hours. Most patients tolerate the procedure well with moderate downtime.
Benefits
Non-surgical options are available for certain skin cancers.
Targeted treatments that focus on affected areas.
In-office procedures are performed under professional supervision.
Short treatment sessions for many therapies.
Personalized treatment plans based on your diagnosis.
Clear communication so patients understand their care.
What Happens During an Advanced Treatment Appointment?
Your visit to MidState Skin Institute is thorough, professional, and centered around your needs.
- Comprehensive Consultation
- Skin Examination
- Clear Explanation
- Treatment Plan
- Aftercare Guidance
Ideal Candidates
Advanced treatment-based dermatology may be right for you if you:
Diagnosed with basal or squamous cell carcinoma.
Have actinic keratoses caused by sun damage.
Live with psoriasis or vitiligo.
Prefer a non-surgical treatment option when appropriate.
Want care from a trusted dermatology provider in Ocala or Lutz.
Why Choose MidState Skin Institute?
Dermatology expertise led by Dr. Ashley Cauthen.
Community-focused practice serving Ocala families since 2013.
Customized, patient-focused treatment plans.
Strong emphasis on patient education and clear communication.
Caring and attentive staff dedicated to your comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer non-surgical skin cancer treatments like SRT?
What conditions does XTRAC® Laser treat?
XTRAC® Laser is used to treat psoriasis and vitiligo. For psoriasis, it helps slow the rapid growth of skin cells that cause thick, scaly patches. For vitiligo, it delivers targeted UVB light that can help stimulate repigmentation in affected areas. Our treatment plans are tailored to your skin’s condition and response to treatment.
Do you offer Blue Light (PDT) therapy?
Yes. We offer Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) with Blu-U® Blue Light for the treatment of actinic keratoses, precancerous growths caused by sun damage. This treatment combines a topical solution with blue light to target and destroy damaged cells before they can progress. Your provider will explain the process and aftercare in detail during your visit.
Do you treat pediatric patients?
Schedule Your Appointment
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, actinic keratoses, psoriasis, or vitiligo, take the next step toward protecting your skin health. Call MidState Skin Institute in Ocala or Lutz for personalized, patient-focused dermatology care.