Topic 2 - Integumentary System & Dermatology (Part 2) - Tutor Flashcards
(47 cards)
What is the integumentary system?
The integumentary system includes the skin and its appendages, functioning to protect the body, regulate temperature, and provide sensory information.
The integumentary system plays a crucial role in overall health and is the body’s first line of defense against environmental hazards.
What is eczema also known as?
Atopic dermatitis
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by intense itching and inflammation.
What are the hallmark symptoms of eczema?
- Dry skin
- Pruritus (itching)
- Redness
- Swelling
- Eruptions of pimple-like bumps (rash)
- Feeling of warmth to the touch
- Weeping rash (liquid bumps or blisters that break)
These symptoms can vary in severity and may disrupt the patient’s quality of life.
What is the atopic triad?
- Atopic dermatitis
- Asthma
- Allergic rhinitis
The atopic triad refers to the common co-occurrence of these allergic conditions.
What percentage of school children and teenagers in Singapore are affected by eczema?
Up to 20.8%
This statistic highlights the prevalence of eczema among younger populations.
What are common trigger factors for eczema?
- Excessive heat and sweating
- Exercise
- Infections
- Rough fabrics
- House dust mites
- Stress
- Allergens
- Irritants (medicated soaps, detergents, bubble baths, grass)
Identifying and managing these triggers is essential for effective eczema treatment.
What are the treatment goals for eczema?
- Control of symptoms
- Maintain skin hydration
- Reduction of flares
- Prevent future exacerbations
- Improvement in quality of life (QOL)
Achieving these goals helps manage eczema effectively and improves the patient’s daily life.
What types of medications are used in the pharmacology of eczema treatment?
- Moisturisers
- Topical corticosteroids
- Antihistamines
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors
- Systemic immunosuppressants
- Interleukin 4 receptor antagonists
- Tar preparations
Each class of medication serves a specific purpose in managing eczema symptoms.
Fill in the blank: Eczema is a chronic skin disorder involving inflammation associated with intense _______.
pruritus
What is the initial mechanism that triggers inflammatory changes in eczema?
Unknown
The pathophysiology of eczema involves complex genetic interactions and environmental factors leading to skin barrier dysfunction.
What is the recommended frequency for applying moisturizers in eczema management?
A minimum of twice a day; optimal is 3-4 times a day
Regular application helps lock in moisture and prevent flare-ups.
What are non-pharmacological advice for managing mild eczema symptoms?
- Continue non-pharmacological advice
- Apply low to medium potency topical corticosteroids
- Use antihistamine as needed for itch
Non-pharmacological approaches are essential for comprehensive eczema management.
True or False: Topical corticosteroids can be used for more than 2 weeks without medical supervision.
False
High potency topical corticosteroids should not be used for more than 2 weeks without supervision due to potential side effects.
What are the side effects of long-term use of topical corticosteroids?
- Thinning of skin
- Easy bruising
- Reddish stretch marks
- Acne
Awareness of these potential side effects is important for safe corticosteroid use.
What is the role of antihistamines in eczema treatment?
Intermittent use may help with sleep loss due to itching, particularly sedating antihistamines.
Antihistamines alone have little evidence for controlling pruritus in eczema.
What factors determine the choice of moisturizer for eczema?
- Dryness of the skin
- Area of skin involved
- Patient comfort and acceptability
Selecting the right type of moisturizer is crucial for effective eczema management.
What is the main action of topical corticosteroids in eczema management?
Exert anti-inflammatory effects to manage symptoms like itch, redness, and swelling.
These medications help reduce the inflammatory response associated with eczema.
What is the recommended application frequency for topical corticosteroids?
Twice daily, but once daily application of moderate-to-potent TCS can be effective.
Proper dosing is critical to maximize benefits while minimizing side effects.
What should be avoided when using topical corticosteroids?
- Applying on broken or infected skin
- Long-term use without supervision
These precautions help prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.
What is the risk associated with paraffin-based moisturizers?
They are flammable and should be used with caution near open flames.
Awareness of this risk is important for safe usage in everyday settings.
What is the evidence regarding antihistamines in controlling pruritus in eczema?
There is little evidence that antihistamines alone are beneficial in the control of pruritus in eczema.
Which sedating antihistamines may be beneficial for sleep loss due to itch in eczema patients older than 6 months?
- Hydroxyzine
- Chlorpheniramine
What is a potential negative effect of sedating antihistamines like hydroxyzine and chlorpheniramine?
They may negatively affect school performance due to hangover effect.
What is a less sedative antihistamine that may be warranted for patients experiencing sleep loss due to itch?
Cetirizine
