Flashcards in Dermatology Deck (12)
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1
Q
What are the 6 signs of skin inflammation?
A
- Rubor (redness)
- Calor (heat)
- Tumor (swelling)
- Dolor (pain)
- Functio laesa (loss of function)
- Pruritus (itch)
2
Q
Name 3 inflammatory skin conditions.
A
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Acne
3
Q
What is the presentation of eczema?
A
Itchy red rash that favours the skin creases, e.g. Folds of elbows, behind the knees, fronts of ankles or around the neck (or cheeks in <18 months).
4
Q
What are the trigger factors for eczema?
A
- Irritants (e.g. Soaps and detergents)
- Skin infections (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus)
- Extremes of temperature and humidity (worse in winter)
- Abrasive fabrics (e.g. Wool)
- Dietary factors
- Inhaled allergens (e.g. Pollens and moulds)
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
5
Q
What therapies are recommended in eczema?
A
- Skin hydration - emollients and water (e.g. Baths)
- Topical steroids (corticosteroids)
- Antibiotics if bacterial infection
6
Q
What is the presentation of psoriasis?
A
- Itchy, well demarcated red plaques with overlying white scale.
- Distributed symmetrically over extensor body surfaces and scalp.
7
Q
What causes psoriasis?
A
- T-cell mediated autoimmune disorder (multiple genetic and environmental factors).
- T-cells induced to produce cytokines: stimulate keratinocyte proliferation (faster turnover of skin cells).
8
Q
What is acne?
A
- Disorder of the pilosebaceous follicles found in face and upper trunk.
- At puberty, androgens increase production of sebum from enlarged sebaceous glands that become blocked. Probionibacterium acnes is involved in lesion production although its exact role is unclear.
- Inflammation leads to papules, pustules and nodules.
9
Q
What do the terms papule, nodule, vesicle, bulla and pustule mean?
A
- papule = small lump (<5mm)
- nodule = larger lump (5-10mm)
- vesicle = small water blister
- bulla = large water blister
- pustule = puss-filled vesicle
10
Q
What do the terms macule, patch and plaque mean?
A
- macule = non-palpable area of discoloration
- patch = macule >2cm
- plaque = palpable, flat-topped area >2cm
11
Q
What do the terms erosion and ulcer mean?
A
- erosion = loss of epidermis (superficial)
- ulcer = loss of epidermis and dermis (deep)
12
Q
What is lichenification?
A
Thickening of skin with exaggerated skin markings.