Dr. Carlos Leon, MD

About Dr. Carlos Leon, MD

Dr. Carlos Leon, MD is a Gastroenterology physician practicing at HCA Florida Palm Beach Gastroenterology - Atlantis in Atlantis, FL. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Gastroenterological care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). He provides comprehensive medical care for patients with disorders of the digestive system, encompassing the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. He serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (561) 794-4171 to schedule an appointment. This physician is accepting telehealth visits.

Dr. Leon brings over two decades of experience in gastroenterology, having joined the Digestive Disease Center in 2010. He has a strong background in the field, having built a successful practice on the west coast of Florida before relocating to Palm Beach County. Born in Spain, raised in Puerto Rico, and trained in the U.S., Dr. Leon speaks fluent English and Spanish. His extensive training includes a residency in internal medicine at the Medical College of Pennsylvania Hospital and a fellowship in gastroenterology and hepatology at Hahnemann University Hospital. He is board certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology, and is a member of several prestigious gastroenterological organizations. Dr. Leon's expertise includes diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, and ERCP, which he performs regularly in both inpatient and outpatient settings. He is actively involved in the care of complicated inflammatory bowel disease and chronic liver diseases, with a future focus on establishing an esophageal assessment center.

Dr. Leon's commitment to patient care is deeply rooted in his rigorous medical training from recognized institutions. He completed a comprehensive medical education, followed by specialized training in gastroenterology at the Medical College of Pennsylvania Hospital and Hahnemann University Hospital. He is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Leon offers consultations in Spanish, demonstrating his dedication to providing care in a culturally sensitive manner. He is passionate about providing the best possible care to patients of all ages, with a focus on digestive health.

Gastroenterological Conditions Addressed

Dr. Carlos Leon addresses a wide range of Gastroenterological health concerns, including:

• Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Symptoms of gas-bloat syndrome include abdominal distention, flatulence, and feelings of fullness, often impacting quality of life.
• Barretts Esophagus with Dysplasia: You have Barrett's esophagus, a condition where the lining of your esophagus is damaged from acid reflux, and these changes include abnormal cell growth (dysplasia) that could potentially become cancerous.
• Autoimmune Hepatitis: Autoimmune hepatitis is a condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks your liver, causing inflammation and damage.
• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Gastrointestinal malabsorption means your body isn't absorbing nutrients from food properly.
• Roundworm: A roundworm infection happens when you ingest the eggs of these parasites, often found in contaminated food or water.
• Pancreatic Pseudocyst: The pancreas can develop a pseudocyst, a fluid-filled sac without a true wall, usually following inflammation of the pancreas.
• Ileus: Ileus is a blockage in your intestines that prevents food and stool from moving through normally.
• Secondary Biliary Cholangitis: Secondary biliary cholangitis is a condition where bile ducts become damaged and inflamed, often due to a blockage.
• Bile Duct Obstruction: A blockage in the bile ducts prevents bile from reaching the intestines, causing symptoms like jaundice and abdominal pain.
• Hernia: A hernia is a bulge in an area of weakened muscle or tissue.
• All Types of Food Poisoning: Food poisoning can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Heartburn: Heartburn feels like a burning pain behind your breastbone, and it can sometimes extend up into your throat.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Carlos Leon addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Gastroenterology manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how he can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Gastroenterological Services Provided

Dr. Carlos Leon offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy involves bowel preparation to cleanse the colon, followed by insertion of a scope to visualize the inner lining.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: If a polyp is found in your duodenum, a procedure called a duodenal polypectomy can be used to safely take it out.
• Endoscopy: During an endoscopy, a doctor uses a small camera to examine your esophagus, stomach, intestines, or other digestive organs.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): During an ERCP, a doctor uses a scope to view the bile and pancreatic ducts, allowing for the removal of gallstones or placement of stents.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, a doctor uses a lighted, flexible scope to visualize the sigmoid colon and rectum, checking for abnormalities.
• Liver Biopsy: Doctors perform a liver biopsy to get a tissue sample from your liver, which is then analyzed to detect liver damage or disease.
• Manometry: Manometry helps doctors assess problems with swallowing, stomach emptying, or bowel movements by measuring pressure changes.
• Pancreas Surgeries: Our pancreas surgery service provides expert care for conditions affecting the pancreas.
• Proctosigmoidoscopy: Proctosigmoidoscopy allows doctors to visualize the lower part of your large intestine (rectum and sigmoid colon) to detect polyps, bleeding, or inflammation.
• Removal or Destruction of Rectal or Intestinal Tumor (incl. Colonoscopy: This service provides treatment for tumors in your rectum or intestines, including colonoscopy procedures.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: During a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy, a doctor uses a firm, lighted instrument to visually inspect the lower part of your large intestine for polyps, inflammation, or bleeding.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into your rectum to examine your lower colon.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Carlos Leon. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Gastroenterology can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterologies in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Carlos Leon:

What is Gastroenterology?

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty focusing on the health of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. A gastroenterologist diagnoses, treats, and prevents a wide range of digestive diseases.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Carlos Leon?

Your first visit with Dr. Leon will involve a detailed review of your digestive health symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will follow, and we'll discuss potential diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Please bring a list of all medications and any prior test results for Dr. Leon's review.

Does Dr. Carlos Leon accept my insurance?

Dr. Leon's office accepts a variety of insurance plans. Please call our office directly to verify your insurance coverage before your appointment.

Does Dr. Carlos Leon treat liver conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease?

Dr. Leon is experienced in treating liver conditions like hepatitis and fatty liver disease. He utilizes a comprehensive approach, including blood tests, imaging, and potentially liver biopsies, to accurately diagnose and develop personalized treatment plans to maintain optimal liver health.

What is the approach to treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

Dr. Leon's approach to Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is multifaceted, encompassing dietary strategies like the low-FODMAP diet, lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and, when necessary, targeted medications to address symptoms such as pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.

What treatments does Dr. Carlos Leon offer for acid reflux and GERD?

Dr. Leon offers a comprehensive approach to GERD management, encompassing lifestyle and dietary modifications, medication options, and diagnostic testing, such as upper endoscopy or pH monitoring, to precisely tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

Does Dr. Carlos Leon manage conditions of the pancreas, like pancreatitis?

Dr. Leon is experienced in diagnosing and managing pancreatic conditions, including pancreatitis. He can investigate potential causes, manage symptoms, and monitor for complications of acute or chronic pancreatitis. He is equipped to provide comprehensive care for your pancreatic health.

What non-surgical treatments does Dr. Carlos Leon offer for hemorrhoids?

Dr. Leon offers several effective, minimally invasive non-surgical options for internal hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoid banding and infrared coagulation. These procedures are performed in the office and are generally well-tolerated. They are highly effective in relieving hemorrhoid symptoms.