Skin diseases

Question 1

what are some of the functions of normal skin? (8)

Answer 1

• flexible, mechanical barrier
• temperature control
• immune functions
• protection against light
• vitamin D metabolism
• nerve endings
• aesthetics
• absorption

Question 2

what are the 2 cells of the skin?

Answer 2

basal keratinocytes
melanocytes

Question 3

what is a mole? - melanotic macule

Answer 3

benign proliferating of melanocytes

Question 4

what are non-melanoma skin cancers?

Answer 4

basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma

Question 5

what are the concerning features to be aware of?

Answer 5

• Concerning features:
  → Getting bigger
  → Change in shape especially if the edge is becoming irregular
  → Changing colour - getting darker, becoming patchy or variegated (multiple shades in one lesion)
• Moles with 3+ shades of brown or black are particularly likely to be melanoma
  → Itching or pain
  → Bleeding or crusting
  → Inflammation locally
  → Nail lesions (dark patches under the nail not due to injury = see a doctor urgently)

Question 6

which cancer can present on the lower lip?

Answer 6

SCC

Question 7

what is the management of SCC?

Answer 7

→ Sun protection
→ Surgical excision
→ Radiotherapy
→ Topical chemotherapy or immunotherapy

Question 8

what is impetigo?

Answer 8

loss of the physical barrier leads to an easy portal for access of pathological organisms
* May be infected by normal skin flora
* S. Aureus skin infection

Question 9

how is dermatitis managed?

Answer 9

• pt education
• emollients
• corticosteroids
• wet wraps