Examination of skin and approach to dx of skin Flashcards
(21 cards)
What factors complicate the diagnosis of skin disorders?
Age, ethnic, genetic makeup, risk factors, body habits, skin surface, and self-care practices
These factors can alter the appearance and distribution of lesions.
What are the complications of making a skin diagnosis?
Genetic and ethnic variations, underlying pathological conditions
These can lead to difficulties in achieving a definitive diagnosis.
What is the primary function of the skin?
Acts as a protective layer against microorganisms and infections, aids in thermoregulation, waste removal, and injury prevention
Additionally, it serves as a peripheral sense receptor.
What are the three layers of the skin?
- Epidermis
- Dermis
- Hypodermis
What is contained in the stratum corneum of the epidermis?
Keratinocytes
An intact stratum corneum prevents bacterial access through the skin.
What role do Langerhans cells play in the skin?
They are antigen-producing cells associated with allergic reactions.
What is the function of melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis?
Provide UV protection.
What components are found in the dermis?
- Connective tissues
- Blood supply
- Lymphatic vessels
- Peripheral nerves
- Eccrine sweat glands
- Sebaceous glands
What happens to Langerhans cells as a person ages?
There is a decrease in their numbers.
What are some effects of aging on the skin?
- Changes in size, shape, and staining of keratinocytes
- Decreased number of glands
- Thinning and drier skin
- Decreased inflammatory response
- Increased time for wound healing
Which medications can cause photosensitivity?
- Tetracyclines (doxycycline/sulfa antibiotics)
- Hydrochlorothiazide
These can increase the risk for sunburn.
What are some skin conditions that can be influenced by family history?
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Eczema
What is the importance of self-care practices in skin examination?
Understanding the products used for skin care and any environmental changes
This includes shampoos, body washes, and household cleaners.
What are the key elements of a physical skin examination?
- Inspection
- Direct light
- Palpation
What is the significance of using a Woods lamp during skin examination?
It can reveal color changes associated with conditions like tinea versicolor and vitiligo.
What are the hallmark signs for palpation in skin examination?
- Fitzpatrick sign
- Dermatographia
Fitzpatrick involves indenting a nodule, while dermatographia causes raised, red skin upon light palpation.
What are some dermatologic conditions associated with health disparities?
- Melanoma
- Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
- Kaposi sarcoma
What recommendations were made by the Health Disparities Task Force in 2007?
Providers should acquire skills to communicate effectively across cultures, languages, and literacy levels.
True or False: Individuals with darkly pigmented skin are more likely to develop melanomas in sun-exposed areas.
False
They tend to develop melanomas in non-sun-exposed sites.
What is a common issue faced by individuals with T-cell lymphoma and Kaposi sarcoma?
They often present at advanced stages of the disease.
What should be directed at improving survival rates for skin cancers among minorities?
Diagnosing skin cancers at earlier stages, improving access to care, and providing culturally appropriate health education.
